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Living in Egypt

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Mar 17, 2023

Summary: The approximate population of Egypt is 100 million people. The largest cities in Egypt are Cairo (the capital), Alexandria, Giza, Port Said, Suez, and Luxor. Expats love living in Egypt for its rich culture, history, and friendly people. Life in Egypt is often described as vibrant, exciting, and full of opportunity. Popular foods in Egypt include koshari (a dish of rice, lentils, and macaroni), ful medames (a dish of mashed fava beans), and kabab (grilled meats). The cons of living in Egypt include the lack of infrastructure, the high levels of pollution, and the occasional political unrest. The average cost of living for an expat is around $1,000 to $2,000 per month, depending on lifestyle and location. This includes rent, utilities, food, transportation, and entertainment.

What do I need to know about living in Egypt?

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

"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," remarked one expat living in Egypt.

"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," wrote one member in Alexandria.

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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," explained one expat living in Egypt.

"The British Club and read the free newspapers for groups that meet once a week or so," said one expat 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:

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Egypt can be both exciting and challenging. The country offers a unique cultural experience, with its ancient monuments, vibrant cities, and stunning landscapes. Expats and digital nomads can find a wide range of activities to explore, from exploring the pyramids and ancient temples to taking a cruise down the Nile. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. However, the language barrier and cultural differences can be a challenge for some. Additionally, the political situation in Egypt can be unpredictable, so it is important to stay informed and take necessary precautions," said one expat in Egypt.

"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," said one expat who made the move to Alexandria.

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Is there a lot of crime in Egypt?

We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:

"Crime is a problem in Egypt, with reports of theft, assault, and other criminal activities occurring in both urban and rural areas. The government has taken steps to address the issue, including increasing police presence in public areas and introducing tougher penalties for certain crimes. However, the country still faces a high rate of crime, particularly in areas with high levels of poverty and unemployment," remarked one expat who made the move to Egypt.

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Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Egypt accepting of differences?

"Egypt is a Muslim country and there is a large percentage of christens as well. They live in harmony for the most part. Most people like expects and as long as you don’t offend any one you will be fine," explained one expat living in Alexandria, Egypt.

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What are the schools in Egypt like?

"It's a good school. The principal knows each child by name and somehow knows each family and its situation. She is very caring and demands that her staff educate the whole child. She defends the children as if they were her own and makes sure they get what they need in the way of growth and development. I really like her alot," explained one expat living in Alexandria, Egypt.

"My advise is to go and see it for yourself, and you will be able to judge from the satff, academic directors and school facilities. You will like it..," said one parent with children at Heritage Canadian International School in Giza.

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Is the cost of living in Egypt high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Egypt, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Egypt is generally quite affordable. Prices for basic necessities such as food, transportation, and housing are generally lower than in many other countries. However, the cost of living can vary significantly depending on the city and lifestyle. For example, living in Cairo is more expensive than living in smaller cities. Additionally, the cost of living can be higher for those who prefer a more luxurious lifestyle," commented one expat who made the move to Egypt.

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"The cost of living in Egypt is generally quite affordable, with prices for basic necessities such as food and transportation being quite low. However, the cost of living in major cities such as Cairo and Alexandria is higher than in other parts of the country. The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Egypt is typically around $400 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment is around $600 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Egypt will usually cost around $10 USD per person," said an expat in Egypt.

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What type of recreational facilities are in Egypt?

When we asked people living in Egypt about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"In Egypt, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as beaches, parks, and gardens. The beaches offer a great opportunity to relax and enjoy the sun and the sea. Parks provide a great place to take a walk, have a picnic, or just relax and enjoy the scenery. Gardens are also popular, offering a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. Other recreational facilities include sports centers, amusement parks, and cinemas. There are also a variety of cultural and historical sites to explore, such as the Pyramids of Giza and the Valley of the Kings," said one expat.

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What is the weather like in Egypt?

"The weather in Egypt is generally hot and dry, with temperatures ranging from mild to very hot. The summer months are usually the hottest, with temperatures often reaching over 40 degrees Celsius. The winter months are milder, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius. Rainfall is rare in Egypt, with most of the country receiving less than 100mm of rain per year," said an expat in Egypt.

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Are there good restaurants in Egypt?

"One of the most popular restaurants in Egypt is El-Abd, located in Cairo. El-Abd is known for its traditional Egyptian cuisine, such as koshari, a dish made of rice, macaroni, and lentils. The restaurant also serves a variety of grilled meats, such as kofta and shish taouk. The atmosphere is casual and the prices are reasonable. Another popular restaurant in Egypt is Felfela, located in Cairo. Felfela is known for its traditional Egyptian dishes, such as koshari, falafel, and shawarma. The restaurant also serves a variety of grilled meats, such as kofta and shish taouk. The atmosphere is casual and the prices are reasonable. Finally, El-Tabei El-Domyati is a popular restaurant in Cairo. El-Tabei El-Domyati is known for its traditional Egyptian dishes, such as koshari, falafel, and shawarma. The restaurant also serves a variety of grilled meats, such as kofta and shish taouk. The atmosphere is casual and the prices are reasonable," commented one expat who moved to Egypt.

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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 expat living in Egypt.

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What are the visa & residency requirements in Egypt?

"In order to visit Egypt, foreign nationals must obtain a visa prior to arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, and a passport-sized photograph to the nearest Egyptian embassy or consulate. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. In order to obtain residency in Egypt, foreign nationals must first obtain a residence permit. This can be done by submitting an application form, a valid passport, a passport-sized photograph, and proof of financial means to the nearest Egyptian embassy or consulate. Depending on the purpose of the residency, additional documents may be required. Once the application is approved, the applicant will receive a residence permit, which must be renewed every year," mentioned one expat inEgypt.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Egypt?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Egypt can be expensive, depending on the type of care and coverage needed. Private healthcare is generally more expensive than public healthcare, and health insurance plans can vary in cost depending on the type of coverage and the provider. In general, health insurance plans in Egypt tend to be more expensive than in other countries, and the cost of medical care can be high. However, the government does provide some subsidies for healthcare, which can help to reduce the cost of care for those who qualify," commented one expat living in Egypt.

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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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