The most severe penalties under Egyptian criminal law are reserved for felony-level offenses. Article 15 states that capital punishment is carried out by hanging. While this may seem stark, it is reserved for the most serious crimes such as premeditated murder, terrorism-related offenses, and certain drug trafficking cases.
Article 16 describes hard labor as requiring convicts to perform the most arduous work designated by the government — either for life (permanent hard labor) or for the duration of a fixed sentence (temporary hard labor). Article 18 outlines imprisonment as confinement in a general jail with compulsory work inside or outside the facility, as determined by the government.
There is a notable provision in Article 17 that offers some protection: men over 60 years of age and all women sentenced to hard labor serve their time in a general jail rather than a hard labor facility. Article 19 also allows judges some discretion in felony cases — for example, replacing a capital punishment sentence with permanent hard labor if the circumstances warrant leniency. As an expat, understanding the gravity of felony charges should underscore the importance of securing qualified legal representation immediately if you face serious criminal allegations.
This is general legal information, not legal advice. For advice on your specific situation, consult a lawyer licensed in Egypt.