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Retiring in Egypt | Expat Exchange
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Retire in Egypt

William Russell
William Russell
William Russell
William Russell

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Jul 10, 2023

Summary: Retirees are often attracted to Egypt for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant cities, and stunning landscapes. Egypt is also known for its warm and sunny climate, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-90s Fahrenheit throughout the year.

What is it like to retire in Egypt?

"Life for a retiree in Egypt and its surroundings can be quite enjoyable. There is an active expat community, with many retirees from Europe and North America living in the area. There are plenty of cultural attractions to explore, such as the ancient pyramids, the Great Sphinx, and the Valley of the Kings. There are also plenty of recreational activities to enjoy, such as swimming, sailing, and desert safaris. For those looking for a more active nightlife, there are plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore," said one retiree in living in Egypt.

What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Egypt?

"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Egypt is the cost of living. Prices for basic necessities such as food, housing, and healthcare can be quite high, making it difficult to maintain a comfortable lifestyle. Additionally, the language barrier can be a challenge for those who do not speak Arabic, as English is not widely spoken in Egypt. Furthermore, the political and social climate in Egypt can be unpredictable, making it difficult to plan for the future. Finally, the lack of reliable public transportation can make it difficult to get around, especially for those who are not used to driving in the country," said one retiree in living in Egypt.

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What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Egypt?

"Retiring in Egypt offers a variety of rewarding experiences. One of the most rewarding aspects is the opportunity to explore the country's rich cultural heritage and ancient monuments. Egypt is home to some of the world's most iconic sites, such as the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Valley of the Kings. Retirees can also enjoy the country's stunning natural beauty, from the Red Sea to the Mediterranean coast. Additionally, Egypt is known for its friendly people and vibrant cities, making it a great place to meet new people and experience a different way of life. Finally, the cost of living in Egypt is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for retirees on a budget," explained one retiree living in Egypt.

What are healthcare services like in Egypt?

We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Egypt. They wrote:

"Egypt has a public healthcare system that provides basic medical services to its citizens. The public healthcare system is supplemented by a number of private hospitals and clinics that offer more advanced medical services. The quality of healthcare services in Egypt varies depending on the region and the type of facility. Generally, the public healthcare system is considered to be of lower quality than the private healthcare system. In recent years, the government has made efforts to improve the quality of healthcare services in Egypt, including increasing access to healthcare and investing in medical infrastructure," remarked one retiree in Egypt.

How do I meet people in Egypt?

When we asked people living in Egypt about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Egypt often join clubs and activities such as sports teams, book clubs, and language classes. Expats can also meet people by attending local events such as concerts, festivals, and art exhibitions. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups related to their interests. This can be a great way to connect with other expats and locals in the area," said a retiree who moved to Egypt.

"There is Alexandria American ladies group. It is unofficial social gathering for the American women’s who live in Alex. They meet once a month for coffee and planning events. The group is involved with the American center as well. There is another group called Alexandria women association. They meet every Monday for coffee and they do mostly charity work around Alexandria and it is open for all expects not just Americans," said one retiree in Alexandria.

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What is life like in Egypt?

When we asked people living in Egypt what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"In Egypt, Family is number one but going for coffee is right up there as well. Going to the mall (Carfor) seems to be a big deal here," explained one retiree living in Alexandria.

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What do I need to know before retiring in Egypt?

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

"Be very prepared not let the backward ways and slowness and unorganized ways get to you. Relax and take it for what this country is great for which is cultural, beauty, great food and fun in the sun," commented one retiree living in Alexandria, Egypt.

"Before retiring in Egypt, expats should research the cost of living in the area they plan to live in. They should also familiarize themselves with the local culture and customs, as well as the language. It is important to understand the healthcare system and to make sure that they have access to quality medical care. Additionally, expats should research the visa and residency requirements for living in Egypt. Finally, it is important to understand the local laws and regulations, and to make sure that they are compliant with them," explained one retiree living in Egypt.

What type of recreational activities are there in Egypt?

"In Egypt, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as beaches, parks, and gardens. The beaches offer a variety of activities, such as swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Parks provide a great place for outdoor activities, such as picnics, jogging, and playing sports. Gardens are also popular, offering a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere for relaxation and contemplation. Additionally, there are many cultural attractions, such as museums, monuments, and archaeological sites, which provide a great opportunity to learn about the country's history and culture," said one member in Egypt.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Egypt?

"People living in Egypt typically buy groceries from local markets, supermarkets, and convenience stores. Other shopping can be done at malls, department stores, and specialty shops. Additionally, many people in Egypt shop online for items such as clothing, electronics, and home goods," said one retiree in 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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