This study examines the theoretical contributions of Iranian sociologist Asef Bayat to our understanding of social and political change in Middle Eastern societies. It centers on his concepts of “quiet encroachment” and “non-movements,” which offer novel lenses through which to interpret the everyday practices of marginalized groups acting outside traditional forms of collective mobilization. The research poses a core question: how can we conceptualize the political and social agency of unorganized actors who do not conform to conventional models of protest or resistance? Employing a descriptive-analytical approach, the study explores how Bayat’s framework helps decode informal, decentralized actions that may, over time, lead to shifts in power dynamics and reconfigurations of public space. A comparative dimension is also incorporated, situating Bayat’s thought in dialogue with other critical perspectives on social change. The significance of this research lies in its contribution to rethinking the boundaries of political engagement in contexts where overt activism may be constrained. It highlights how everyday, seemingly apolitical acts can accumulate into meaningful forms of resistance and transformation. At the same time, the study critically reflects on the limitations of Bayat’s theory, particularly in repressive settings such as Egypt, where the capacity of non-movements to challenge entrenched authoritarianism remains contested. Ultimately, this work underscores the importance of recognizing informal and often invisible modes of activism, broadening our understanding of how change unfolds beyond the spotlight of organized movements.