• Banque Misr inaugurated its new branch in Djibouti on November 5, 2025.
• The move aligns with its African expansion strategy and Egypt’s trade ambitions.
• Djibouti was chosen for its strategic location and growing financial sector.

Banque Misr, Egypt’s second-largest bank by assets, inaugurated its new subsidiary in Djibouti on November 5, 2025. The state-owned bank said the opening is part of its broader expansion strategy across Africa and supports Egypt’s goal of deepening economic and trade ties with the continent.

“Djibouti was selected as our gateway to East Africa because of its strategic position linking Africa, Asia, and the Arab world, as well as its political stability and strong infrastructure in logistics, technology, and communications,” the bank said in a statement.

During the inauguration ceremony, CEO Hisham Okasha stated that Banque Misr Djibouti will go beyond traditional banking activities to promote trade, investment, and sustainable development in East Africa, offering a full range of financial solutions.

Founded in 1920, Banque Misr already operates subsidiaries in the United Arab Emirates, Lebanon, France, and Germany, along with representative offices in China, Russia, South Korea, Kenya, and Italy.

Djibouti currently has 12 active banks, including three Islamic institutions—Saba African Bank, Salaam Bank, and East Africa Bank—according to data from the Central Bank. The country’s banking penetration rate has risen from 7% in 2005 to about 32% today, with most banks being foreign-owned following the liberalization of the financial sector in 2006.