Egyptians are proud, hospitable and curious about visitors. A few simple customs help you blend in: greet people warmly, dress modestly, use your right hand and respect religious practice. This guide covers Egyptian culture and customs for travellers: greetings, religion, dress, hospitality, eating, photography and Ramadan.
A warm handshake and a smile are normal. Between men and women, wait for the other person to offer a hand. Try a few words from our Egyptian Arabic greetings guide.
Most Egyptians are Muslim, and a large Christian minority, mainly Coptic, lives across the country. Prayer calls are part of daily life. Remove your shoes in mosques and cover your shoulders and knees. Women may be asked to cover their hair in some places.
Dress modestly, especially outside resorts: light, loose clothes that cover shoulders and knees. See our packing list.
You may be invited for tea or a meal. Accepting is polite, and declining kindly is fine. Use your right hand to eat, give and receive. See eating and drinking in Egypt.
During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset. Avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public during the day. Sights stay open, but hours can change, and evenings are lively. Check the dates for your trip.
Ask before photographing people, especially women and children. Avoid public displays of affection, and keep voices and tempers calm. Haggling is part of shopping; see our haggling guide.
Respect, patience and a smile go a long way. Most Egyptians are happy to help a visitor who follows these basic customs.
Book a nearby tour: Giza Pyramids and Egyptian Museum Day Tour from $30.
Light, modest clothes that cover shoulders and knees.
Wait for the other person to offer their hand.
Yes. A small tip is customary for guides, drivers and restaurant staff. Ask your guide about amounts.
A smile and a handshake, and a few Arabic words.
Avoid public eating and drinking in the day and be considerate.
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