In a statement, the Egyptian cabinet said the decision applies to ministries, governmental bodies, public facilities, municipalities, public enterprises, and public and private companies.

Moulid El-Nabi, commemorated on 12 Rabi Al-Awwal (the third month of the Islamic calendar), falls this year on 15 September of the Gregorian calendar.

The Islamic year is based on a lunar system with months lasting for 30 or 29 days, thus making the Islamic year shorter than years based on the Gregorian calendar.

Muslims across Egypt and the Islamic world celebrate the day of Prophet Muhammad's birth.

In Egypt, colourful displays cover the sides of sweets shops and bakeries, with sweets shaped like horses and dolls sold and consumed to commemorate the anniversary.