Pros and Cons of Living in Egypt
Last updated on Oct 23, 2023
Summary: The pros of living in Egypt include its rich cultural heritage, its diverse landscape, and its vibrant cities. Additionally, the cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. On the other hand, the political and economic instability in the country can be a source of concern for some. Additionally, the climate can be extreme, with hot summers and cold winters. Finally, the infrastructure in some areas can be lacking, making it difficult to access certain services.
What are the pros and cons of living in Egypt?
Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Egypt responded:
"Expats and digital nomads living in Egypt often appreciate the country's rich culture and history, as well as its vibrant cities and stunning landscapes. They also enjoy the low cost of living, which allows them to stretch their budget further. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the bureaucracy and paperwork involved in living in Egypt to be a challenge. Additionally, the lack of reliable internet access can be a major issue for digital nomads," explained one expat in Egypt.
MOVEX Connect
As a member of the International Association of Movers (IAM) with a vast global network, MovEx handles relocations to and from any country with ease. We offer comprehensive door-to-door international moving services, ensuring a smooth transition as you start your new life abroad. We understand that we’re not just moving your furniture; we’re helping you change your life in a new country with different customs & possibly a different language & culture. Our highest priority is to ensure having a smooth transition to your new home – no matter where that might be. Our knowledgeable personnel ensure the most effective advice in choosing the appropriate mode of Air or sea freight.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
MOVEX As a member of the International Association of Movers (IAM) with a vast global network, MovEx handles relocations to and from any country with ease. We offer comprehensive door-to-door international moving services, ensuring a smooth transition as you start your new life abroad.
We understand that we’re not just moving your furniture; we’re helping you change your life in a new country with different customs & possibly a different language & culture. Our highest priority is to ensure having a smooth transition to your new home – no matter where that might be. Our knowledgeable personnel ensure the most effective advice in choosing the appropriate mode of Air or sea freight.
Connect
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
What do expats in Egypt appreciate most about the local culture?
"Expatriates in Egypt appreciate the country's rich cultural heritage, which includes ancient monuments, vibrant festivals, and a diverse range of traditional music and dance. They also enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals, who are known for their generosity and friendliness. Additionally, expats appreciate the country's vibrant nightlife, with its many bars, clubs, and restaurants. Finally, expats enjoy the country's diverse cuisine, which includes a variety of delicious dishes from all over the world," explained one expat living in Egypt.
"The people are very friendly and try and help wherever they can. The sense of safety is also a surprise. The delight in finding things that I am looking for is wonderful," said one expat in Alexandria.
As a member of the International Association of Movers (IAM) with a vast global network, MovEx handles relocations to and from any country with ease. We offer comprehensive door-to-door international moving services, ensuring a smooth transition as you start your new life abroad. We understand that we’re not just moving your furniture; we’re helping you change your life in a new country with different customs & possibly a different language & culture. Our highest priority is to ensure having a smooth transition to your new home – no matter where that might be. Our knowledgeable personnel ensure the most effective advice in choosing the appropriate mode of Air or sea freight.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
As a member of the International Association of Movers (IAM) with a vast global network, MovEx handles relocations to and from any country with ease. We offer comprehensive door-to-door international moving services, ensuring a smooth transition as you start your new life abroad. We understand that we’re not just moving your furniture; we’re helping you change your life in a new country with different customs & possibly a different language & culture. Our highest priority is to ensure having a smooth transition to your new home – no matter where that might be. Our knowledgeable personnel ensure the most effective advice in choosing the appropriate mode of Air or sea freight.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
What do expats find most challenging?
"Very dirty, smelly, busy, noisy place. Nothing is the way you would expect it to be, and it's difficult to get many things done," said a person living in Alexandria.
"Expats in Egypt often find the local culture to be quite different from their own, which can be challenging to adjust to. Many expats find the language barrier to be a major challenge, as English is not widely spoken in Egypt. Additionally, the conservative nature of the culture can be difficult to navigate, as certain behaviors and dress codes are expected in public. Expats may also find the bureaucracy and paperwork involved in living in Egypt to be overwhelming. Finally, the hot climate and lack of air conditioning can be difficult to adjust to for those coming from cooler climates," explained one expat living in Egypt.
About the Author
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.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Egypt?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Egypt?
- Will I be able to find a job in Egypt?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Egypt appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Egypt?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Egypt accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Egypt like?
- How are healthcare services in Egypt?
- What are medical services in Egypt like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Egypt?
- What are emergency services like in Egypt?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Egypt?
- How are local medical facilities in Egypt?
- As a foreigner living in Egypt, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?