As of 2024, Egypt hosts over 800,000 registered refugees and asylum-seekers from 62 countries, with Sudanese nationals now comprising the largest group due to the ongoing conflict in Sudan. Syrians make up the second-largest group, followed by refugees from South Sudan, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Yemen, Somalia, and Iraq. Most refugees and asylum-seekers reside in urban centers, particularly Cairo and Alexandria, as well as in regions near Egypt’s borders.
Palestinian refugees in Egypt have a complex and challenging status. Historically, Egypt has avoided formally integrating Palestinian refugees, preferring to classify them as “guests” rather than refugees. This is partly to avoid undermining their right to return to Palestine, a stance established since the 1948 and 1967 refugee waves. This policy also affects those who arrived after recent conflicts, including the ongoing Gaza crisis, and places them under an ambiguous legal status that restricts their access to services, employment, and education.
In the current Gaza crisis, an estimated 100,000 Palestinians have entered Egypt, many of whom are in urgent need of humanitarian aid. Many of these refugees face considerable obstacles in accessing employment, healthcare, and schooling.
Goodwill Caravan has expanded its initiatives into Egypt to support refugees, including Palestinians and Sudanese. In collaboration with the Egyptian Federation for Development and Social Protection Policies, GWC provides essential aid, education, and integration support to refugees.
A newly opened Cairo-based headquarters, Sallam Centre, will serve as a hub for ongoing distributions and additional services. Through Sallam Centre, GWC aims to empower these communities and foster their integration into Egyptian society through education and social services, which are essential for creating stability and hope among displaced populations.