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!...
"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," mentioned another expat when asked about moving to Alexandria, 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 one expat who made the move to 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.
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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.
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 in Egypt?
- 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?
- What are healthcare services like 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?
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Egypt?
If you live in Egypt, newcomers to Egypt would love to hear your answer to this question.
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.