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Moving to Egypt | Expat Exchange
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Moving to Egypt

William Russell
William Russell
William Russell
William Russell

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Aug 24, 2023

Summary: Many expats and digital nomads move to Egypt for its rich culture, history, and affordable cost of living. The most popular cities for expats and digital nomads in Egypt are Cairo, Alexandria, and Hurghada. People looking for a place to live in Egypt can search online for rental listings, contact real estate agents, or look for postings on expat forums. Additionally, many expats and digital nomads find housing through word of mouth from other expats and digital nomads already living in Egypt.

What do I need to know before moving to Egypt?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Egypt, they said:

"Egypt is a culturally rich and diverse country with a long and fascinating history. It is important for expats to research the local customs and culture before moving to Egypt. Expats should also be aware of the political situation in the country and the potential security risks. Additionally, expats should familiarize themselves with the local language, as English is not widely spoken. It is also important to research the cost of living in Egypt and the availability of housing. Finally, expats should make sure to obtain the necessary visas and permits before moving to Egypt," said one expat in Egypt.

How do I find a place to live in Egypt?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One way to find a place to live in Egypt is to search online for rental listings. Websites such as Expat.com, Nestpick, and Housing Anywhere offer a variety of rental options in Egypt. Additionally, you can search for rental listings on social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter. You can also contact local real estate agents who specialize in rental properties in Egypt. Additionally, you can ask friends and family who live in Egypt for recommendations. Finally, you can look for rental listings in local newspapers and magazines," replied a member in Egypt.

What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Egypt?

"Expat homes and apartments in Egypt tend to be modern and comfortable, with amenities such as air conditioning, internet access, and satellite television. Many expats choose to live in gated communities, which offer additional security and access to amenities such as swimming pools, gyms, and tennis courts. Expat homes and apartments in Egypt are typically spacious and well-furnished, with plenty of room for entertaining guests," commented one expat who made the move to Egypt.

What is the average cost of housing in Egypt?

If you are thinking about moving to Egypt, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Egypt varies depending on the location and type of property. Generally, housing in Egypt is relatively affordable compared to other countries, with prices ranging from low-cost apartments to luxury villas. On average, a one-bedroom apartment in a city center can cost around $200 to $400 per month, while a three-bedroom apartment in a suburban area can cost around $400 to $800 per month," said one expat who made the move to Egypt.

Should I buy or rent a home in Egypt?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Egypt, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Egypt can be a great investment, as the country has a strong economy and real estate market. However, it is important to consider the cost of living in Egypt, as well as the availability of financing options, before making a decision. Renting a home in Egypt can be a great option for those who are not ready to commit to a long-term purchase, as it allows for more flexibility and can be more affordable in the short-term. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Egypt should be based on individual needs and preferences," explained one expat living in Egypt.

What should I pack when moving to Egypt?

We asked people living in Egypt to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"When moving to Egypt, it is important to pack items that will help you adjust to the climate and culture. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing that is appropriate for the hot and dry climate. Bring a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. Bring comfortable shoes for walking and exploring. Pack a few items of formal clothing for special occasions. Bring a few items of traditional clothing to show respect for the culture. Bring a few books or magazines to help pass the time. Don't forget to bring any necessary medications and toiletries. Finally, make sure to bring a valid passport and any other important documents," said one expat in Egypt.

What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Egypt?

We asked people in Egypt if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"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," remarked one expat in Egypt.

"I was in the mobile shop and after arranging our cellphone airtime etc. was asked for the visa, whereupon I pulled out my husband's passport and pointed to our visa. Much to the shop assistant's amusement he pointed out that he wanted the Visa credit card," said one expat in Alexandria.

Why do people move to Egypt?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Egypt, they responded:

"Egypt is an attractive destination for expats due to its rich culture, diverse landscape, and vibrant cities. The country offers a unique blend of ancient and modern, with a variety of attractions and activities to explore. Expats can enjoy the warm climate, beautiful beaches, and the Nile River. The cost of living in Egypt is relatively low, making it an attractive option for those looking to stretch their budget. Additionally, the country is home to a large expat community, providing a great opportunity to meet new people and make friends," wrote one expat living in Egypt.

How are healthcare services Egypt?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Egypt, they replied:

"Healthcare services in Egypt are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is available to all citizens. The quality of public healthcare varies depending on the region, but generally it is considered to be of a lower standard than private healthcare. Foreign residents in Egypt have access to the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay for some services. Expats in Egypt can use the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay for some services. In addition, they may need to obtain a health insurance policy to cover any additional costs," wrote one expat living in Egypt.

"Get recommendations for doctors from other expats. Meet them, check them out and see if you like them or not. Most doctors for expats will speak good English, but some doctors in Egypt are pretty arrogant and it may make for a more difficult situation when it comes to getting information out of him/her. Find one you like, get his/her phone number (mobile-cell number) and use it when needed as most doctors do not hire receptionists that speak English well enough to make appts for you," commented one expat who moved to Cairo.

What are medical services in Egypt like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Egypt, they replied:

"Egypt has a well-developed healthcare system, with a wide range of medical services available. The country has a network of public and private hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide a range of medical services, including primary care, specialty care, and emergency care. The public healthcare system is largely free, while private healthcare is available at a cost. Egypt also has a number of specialized medical centers, such as cancer treatment centers, fertility clinics, and mental health facilities. In addition, Egypt has a number of medical universities and research centers that are dedicated to advancing medical knowledge and providing quality healthcare," replied one expat when asked about moving to Egypt.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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