Despite recent improvements, Egypt's female labor force participation remains persistently low, hindering economic growth and gender equality. A report by the World Bank reveals that higher education for women in Egypt is more significant in marriage prospects than in career opportunities.

The report highlights that women in Egypt are disproportionately represented in low-wage or informal employment, with fewer opportunities in professional, management, or technical roles. This talent misallocation is a significant concern, as highly educated women are either underemployed or forced into industries that do not match their abilities.

The findings suggest that cultural and societal norms play a significant role in female labor engagement, and that economic position alone is not the sole determinant. The report also notes that female labor force participation rates are lower than expected in several South Asian and MENA states.