10 Cultural Faux Pas to Avoid While Living in Egypt

Adjusting to a new culture can be both exciting and challenging. When moving to Egypt, it's important to be aware of local customs and traditions to avoid cultural misunderstandings. Here are 10 tips to help expats navigate the cultural landscape of Egypt and foster positive relationships with the locals.

1. Dress Conservatively

In Egypt, modesty in dress is highly valued, especially for women. It's advisable to cover shoulders, knees, and avoid tight-fitting clothing. In more conservative areas and when visiting religious sites, women may need to cover their hair. Observing these customs shows respect for local traditions and can help expats avoid drawing unwanted attention.

2. Understand the Concept of 'Insha'Allah'

The term 'Insha'Allah', meaning 'God willing', is commonly used in Egypt and reflects the cultural attitude towards time and promises. Plans are often made with the understanding that they may not come to fruition. Expats should be patient and flexible, recognizing that a meeting scheduled for a specific time might start later than expected.

3. Use Your Right Hand

In Egypt, as in many Middle Eastern cultures, the left hand is considered unclean because it is associated with personal hygiene. Always use your right hand for eating, greeting, and giving or receiving items to show respect and maintain cleanliness.

4. Respect Religious Practices

Islam plays a central role in the daily lives of Egyptians. Be mindful of prayer times, especially during the call to prayer, and avoid scheduling meetings during these times. During the holy month of Ramadan, be considerate of those fasting by not eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours.

5. Learn Basic Arabic Phrases

While many Egyptians speak English, especially in tourist areas, learning a few basic Arabic phrases can go a long way in showing respect for the local culture. Simple greetings, expressions of thanks, and apologies can help build rapport with Egyptians.

6. Be Cautious with Gestures

Some hand gestures that are benign in other cultures may be offensive in Egypt. For example, the thumbs-up gesture can be considered rude. It's best to observe locals and use gestures sparingly until you understand their meanings within the cultural context.

7. Avoid Public Displays of Affection

Public displays of affection between couples are frowned upon in Egypt. Holding hands may be tolerated, but hugging, kissing, or other intimate gestures should be kept private to respect local sensibilities.

8. Be Discreet with Photography

Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially women. Some Egyptians may find it intrusive or disrespectful to be photographed without consent. Additionally, avoid taking pictures of military or government buildings, as this can be prohibited.

9. Navigate Bazaar Bargaining

Bargaining is an integral part of shopping in Egyptian bazaars. It's expected that you will haggle over prices, but it should be done respectfully. Start by offering a lower price than what you're willing to pay, and enjoy the process as a cultural exchange.

10. Accept Hospitality Graciously

Egyptians are known for their hospitality. If you're invited to someone's home, it's polite to bring a small gift, such as sweets or pastries. Also, be prepared to remove your shoes before entering, and accept refreshments offered to you as a sign of respect.

Adapting to a new culture takes time, and making mistakes is part of the learning process. By following these tips, expats can minimize cultural faux pas and enjoy a smoother transition to life in Egypt. Share your experiences and seek advice on Expat Exchange's Egypt forum to connect with fellow expats and learn from their insights.

Expats Confess Their Cultural Faux Pas in Egypt

"It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions when visiting Egypt. It is considered rude to show too much skin in public, so it is best to dress modestly. It is also important to be aware of religious customs, such as avoiding eating pork or drinking alcohol in public. Additionally, it is important to be respectful of local religious sites, such as mosques, and to avoid taking photographs without permission. Finally, it is important to be aware of local taboos, such as avoiding discussing politics or religion in public," commented an expat living in Egypt.