The Bible Society of Egypt was established in 1883. It remained a foreign mission in Egypt until it was organized as a National Entity in 1966. In 1990 Ramez Atallah became the General Secretary. The main change that took place over the last forty years has been moving from a Western Mission to an indigenous movement run and funded to a large part by Egyptians. The Bible Society of Egypt, serving the largest and oldest Christian community in the Middle East, is dedicated to strengthening and facilitating the growth of the local Church. The BSOE is the largest Arabic Bible publishing operation in the world. The operation is trans-denominational and the BSOE is considered the Bible publisher for all the churches of Egypt. 

Our ministry partners are all the Churches in Egypt and all Christian organizations, ministries, groups and individuals who are using the Scriptures. We also cooperate with all other Scripture publishers, such as Biblical, Gideons, Bible League, etc.

With the increasing marginalization of the Christian faith, there is a pressing need to equip Christians with the Scriptures in a format relevant to the existing world situation, and which helps to interpret the Christian faith in a positive and affirming way within the dominant context. The organization has developed from simply a distribution ministry to a full orbed publishing, distribution and Bible engagement ministry. 

Each year, dozens of creative Scripture materials are published in a variety of formats and media, each product designed for a particular social, economic, age, and cultural interest group. These Scriptures are promoted and distributed through numerous and creative outlets and programs of engagement. Annual Distribution for 2023 was 2.5 million units of Scripture, serving both the church and the majority population through various distribution projects and programs, both free and subsidized.

Our main country of focus is Egypt, while all Arabic speaking countries are also using our products. Our recipients are all Arabic speakers, and in particular, the Churches of Egypt. As our country continues to evolve, we desire even more impact in the public sphere, working towards improved attitudes and perceptions in regards to coexistence, trust building and appreciation and respect for diversity. 

With “Atheism” and secularism growing on one side, and radicalism and polarization on the other, the BSOE seeks the stability and prosperity of our country, promoting common-held principles and values, through relevant Bible-based publications and a safe space for engaging with others. The Bible Society network of 19 bookshops all across the nations are essential, not only for providing these activities and distributions, but as interface for maintaining good relationships with the community.