Cairo
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🌍 Capital of Egypt · Africa's Largest City · Mother of the World
Al-Qahirah — القاهرة Cairo
One of the world's great cities — where 5,000 years of history meet 22 million lives. Ancient pyramids cast shadows on glass towers. The Nile runs through it all, as it always has.
22.6MMetro Population
10.4MGovernorate
969 ADFounded
3,085 km²Total Area
Capital
of Egypt
GMT+2
Eastern European
+202
International Code
EGP
Egyptian Pound
Arabic
+ English widely spoken
14–36°C
Annual Range
CAI
IATA Airport Code
89%
Muslim · 10% Christian
Cairo — A City in Images
Cairo panorama — the eternal city where antiquity meets modernity
The Nile at Zamalek — Cairo's island of elegance
Islamic Cairo — a forest of minarets above a thousand-year-old city
The Giza Pyramids at sunset — visible from the city skyline
Downtown Cairo at night — the city never sleeps
+7 More Photos
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Cairo — The City at a Glance
Cairo is simultaneously the oldest and the newest — a city where you can stand at the foot of a 4,500-year-old pyramid in the morning and dine in a rooftop restaurant overlooking the Nile at night.
22.6M
Metro Population (2024)
Largest city in Africa and the Arab world. Cairo Governorate: 10.4M. Greater Cairo (incl. Giza): 22.6M — source: CAPMAS 2024
3,085
Area (km²)
One of the most densely populated urban areas on Earth — 19,376 people per square kilometre in the historic core
969 AD
Founded
By the Fatimid general Jawhar al-Siqilli. But the site has been inhabited continuously since at least 4000 BC — ancient Memphis lay 25 km south
#1
Africa's Largest City
The largest city in Africa and the Middle East. 17th largest metropolitan area in the world
23°C
Average Annual Temperature
Hot desert climate (BWh). January average 14°C, July average 35°C. Less than 25mm annual rainfall
99
Metro Stations
3 metro lines serving 1.5 million daily passengers — the only metro system in Africa and the Arab world
Umm al-Dunya — Mother of the World
The ancient Egyptian name for Cairo's region was Memphis — the first great city of the ancient world. What stands today as Cairo was founded in 969 AD by the Fatimid Caliphate, on a site already 5,000 years old when they arrived.
The city's Arabic name al-Qahirah means "The Vanquisher" or "The Victorious" — named after the planet Mars, which was rising at the time of the city's foundation, according to the astrologers of the Fatimid court. Egyptians themselves simply call it Masr — the same word they use for Egypt itself. The city and the country are, in the Egyptian mind, the same thing.
When Alexander the Great conquered Egypt in 332 BC, Cairo's region was already 3,600 years old — older to him than he is to us. It has been capital, provincial city, and capital again. Every conquering civilization — Pharaonic, Persian, Greek, Roman, Arab, Ottoman, British — has left a layer. Cairo is a city of layers, and you can see them all simultaneously.
The "Greater Cairo" Distinction
When Egyptians say "Cairo" they typically mean the entire Greater Cairo conurbation — which includes Cairo Governorate, Giza Governorate, and Qalyubia Governorate. With a combined population of 22.6 million (CAPMAS 2024), it is the 5th largest metropolitan area in the world after Tokyo, Jakarta, Delhi, and Shanghai. The administrative city of Cairo has a governorate population of 10.4 million.
A Brief History
c. 3100 BC
Memphis founded — Narmer unifies Egypt and chooses the site 25 km south of modern Cairo as the world's first great capital city
642 AD
Arab conquest — al-Fustat founded by Amr ibn al-As, the first Islamic city in Egypt. The site of Coptic Cairo and Old Cairo today
969 AD
Cairo founded — Fatimid general Jawhar al-Siqilli establishes al-Qahirah as the royal capital. Al-Azhar mosque and university founded the same year — still the oldest continuously operating university in the world
1171
Saladin (Salah al-Din) takes power, builds the Cairo Citadel, and begins fortifying the city as capital of the Ayyubid Sultanate
1250–1517
Mamluk golden age — Cairo becomes the largest city in the world west of China. The great mosques, madrasas, and markets of Islamic Cairo are built in this period
1805–1848
Muhammad Ali Pasha modernizes Cairo — wide European-style boulevards, a new palace, the great mosque of Muhammad Ali on the Citadel
1952
Egyptian Revolution — the Free Officers overthrow the monarchy. Cairo becomes capital of the new Egyptian Republic under Naguib and then Nasser
2011
Tahrir Square — the Egyptian Revolution of 2011. Millions gather in downtown Cairo, changing the country's political trajectory
2025
New Administrative Capital opens — Egypt's government begins transferring to a new purpose-built capital 50 km east of Cairo. Cairo remains the economic and cultural heart of Egypt
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Cairo's Neighbourhoods & Districts
Cairo is not one city but many — each neighbourhood a different world. From the medieval lanes of Islamic Cairo to the leafy boulevards of Zamalek, here is a guide to where to stay, live, and explore.
🕌 Historic
Islamic Cairo
القاهرة الإسلامية
A UNESCO World Heritage Site — the world's largest concentration of medieval Islamic architecture. Over 600 listed monuments within walking distance. Al-Azhar, Khan el-Khalili, the Citadel.
🌿 Upscale
Zamalek
الزمالك
Cairo's most elegant neighbourhood — an island in the Nile lined with embassies, boutique restaurants, art galleries, and shaded streets. The address of choice for expatriates and diplomats.
🏡 Residential
Maadi
المعادي
A leafy southern suburb favoured by foreign families — tree-lined streets, international schools, and a relaxed pace. Home to the largest expat community in Cairo. Road 9 is its commercial heart.
🏛️ Heritage
Heliopolis
مصر الجديدة
Built by Belgian Baron Empain in 1906 as Egypt's first planned suburb. Beautiful Moorish and Byzantine architecture, wide boulevards, and the famous Baron Empain Palace — now a museum.
🏙️ Central
Downtown Cairo (Wust el-Balad)
وسط البلد
The Haussmann-style heart of modern Cairo — Tahrir Square, the Egyptian Museum, and Talaat Harb Street. Undergoing rapid gentrification with new cafes, galleries, and restored Art Deco buildings.
🏗️ Modern
New Cairo & Fifth Settlement
القاهرة الجديدة · التجمع الخامس
Cairo's fastest-growing area — gated communities, international schools, massive malls, and Cairo's tech hub. Less history, more comfort. Cairo Festival City and Citystars Mall are here.
⛪ Heritage
Coptic Cairo (Old Cairo)
مصر القديمة · القاهرة القبطية
The oldest continuously inhabited part of Cairo — a walled Roman fortress that became the first Christian community in Egypt. The Hanging Church, Coptic Museum, and the site of the Holy Family's flight to Egypt.
🏘️ Popular
Shoubra
شبرا
One of Cairo's most densely populated and historically Muslim-Christian coexistence neighbourhoods. Famous for its food culture, the historic Shoubra Palace gardens, and its vibrant street life.
🏛️ New Capital
New Administrative Capital
العاصمة الإدارية الجديدة
Egypt's brand-new purpose-built capital, 50 km east of Cairo. Government ministries are transferring here from 2025. Home to the world's tallest obelisk, Africa's tallest tower, and the iconic mosque and cathedral.
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Getting Around Cairo
Cairo has one of the most complex — and surprisingly comprehensive — public transport systems in the developing world. Knowing how to use it transforms the experience of the city.
Cairo Metro — المترو
Africa's only metro system · 3 lines · 99 stations
Fastest Option
The Cairo Metro is the most reliable way to cross the city — the only transport that is unaffected by Cairo's legendary traffic. Opened in 1987, it carries approximately 1.5 million passengers per day. Clean, safe, and remarkably affordable. Women have dedicated cars in the middle of each train (first two cars are mixed; the third and fourth are women-only — marked in pink).
Operating hours: Daily 5:30 AM – 12:00 AM (midnight). Friday hours may vary.
Ticket prices: 8–20 EGP depending on number of stations (as of 2024). Monthly passes available for frequent users.
Operating hours: Daily 5:30 AM – 12:00 AM (midnight). Friday hours may vary.
Ticket prices: 8–20 EGP depending on number of stations (as of 2024). Monthly passes available for frequent users.
3Lines
99Stations
1.5MDaily Passengers
8–20EGP per Trip
1987Year Opened
Line 1
Helwan – New El-Marg
35 stations · 44 km · The oldest line — runs north-south along the eastern bank of the Nile through central Cairo
Line 2
Shubra – El-Mounib
20 stations · 21.6 km · Crosses under the Nile — the first underwater metro tunnel in Africa
Line 3
Adly Mansour – Kit Kat
34 stations · 41.2 km · Newest line — links Cairo Airport to central Cairo. Phase 4 under construction
Cairo Metro Network Map — Lines 1 (Red), 2 (Blue), 3 (Green). Updated 2024. Line 3 Phase 4 extension under construction.
Cairo Monorail — المونوريل
Two lines · 2023 · Links new suburbs to central Cairo
Newest System
Cairo's monorail system — one of the longest in the world — was inaugurated in 2023. Two separate lines connect the rapidly expanding suburbs of October 6 City and New Administrative Capital to central Cairo. Each line operates independently.
6 October Line: Connects October 6 City to the Nile. 54 km, 21 stations.
New Capital Line: Connects New Administrative Capital to Nasr City. 57.5 km, 22 stations.
6 October Line: Connects October 6 City to the Nile. 54 km, 21 stations.
New Capital Line: Connects New Administrative Capital to Nasr City. 57.5 km, 22 stations.
2Lines
43Total Stations
111.5 kmTotal Length
2023Year Opened
Cairo Monorail Network Map — October 6 Line (West) and New Administrative Capital Line (East).
Public Bus — الأتوبيس العام
Cairo Transport Authority · Extensive network · Low cost
Cheapest Option
The Cairo Transport Authority (CTA) operates an extensive bus network across the city. The system can be confusing for visitors but is invaluable for reaching areas not served by the metro.
CTA Buses: Numbered routes, fares from 3–10 EGP. Stops are marked but schedules are informal.
Air-Conditioned Buses (AC): Higher-quality service on main routes. Fare 7–15 EGP.
Minibuses (Microbus): Small private buses operating on fixed routes. Extremely cheap (2–5 EGP) but crowded. Ask locals — no formal stops.
CTA Buses: Numbered routes, fares from 3–10 EGP. Stops are marked but schedules are informal.
Air-Conditioned Buses (AC): Higher-quality service on main routes. Fare 7–15 EGP.
Minibuses (Microbus): Small private buses operating on fixed routes. Extremely cheap (2–5 EGP) but crowded. Ask locals — no formal stops.
2–15EGP per Trip
CTAMain Operator
5:00amFirst Service
12amLast Service
Taxi & Ride-Hailing Apps
Uber · Careem · inDrive · Official Taxis
Most Flexible
Ride-hailing apps have transformed Cairo transport. Uber and Careem are the most popular — fixed prices, reliable, and tracked. For budget riders, inDrive allows price negotiation. All accept card and cash.
White Taxis (official): Use the meter — insist on it. Starting fare EGP 5, then per km. White taxis are the official metered cabs.
Black & White Taxis (old): Older unmetered cabs — negotiate price before entering. Around EGP 30–80 for most city trips.
Typical fares (2024): Airport to downtown ~EGP 250–350 (Uber) · Zamalek to Maadi ~EGP 80–120 · Within downtown ~EGP 30–50.
White Taxis (official): Use the meter — insist on it. Starting fare EGP 5, then per km. White taxis are the official metered cabs.
Black & White Taxis (old): Older unmetered cabs — negotiate price before entering. Around EGP 30–80 for most city trips.
Typical fares (2024): Airport to downtown ~EGP 250–350 (Uber) · Zamalek to Maadi ~EGP 80–120 · Within downtown ~EGP 30–50.
UberMost Used App
CareemAlso Popular
inDriveNegotiate Price
24/7Available
Nile Ferry & River Transport
The world's oldest commuter route
Most Scenic
The Nile remains a functional transport corridor through Cairo — operated by the Nile Ferry Authority. Affordable and scenic, the ferries connect both banks at several crossing points and are used by thousands of daily commuters.
Major ferry routes: Maspero (downtown) ↔ Imbaba · Giza ↔ Rawda Island · Maadi ↔ Giza.
Operating hours: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily.
Fare: 2–5 EGP per crossing.
Felucca (traditional sailboat): For tourists and leisure — hire from any Nile corniche. Typically EGP 100–200/hour. Best at sunset between Zamalek and Giza.
Major ferry routes: Maspero (downtown) ↔ Imbaba · Giza ↔ Rawda Island · Maadi ↔ Giza.
Operating hours: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily.
Fare: 2–5 EGP per crossing.
Felucca (traditional sailboat): For tourists and leisure — hire from any Nile corniche. Typically EGP 100–200/hour. Best at sunset between Zamalek and Giza.
2–5EGP Crossing
6am–10pmFerry Hours
FeluccaTourist Boats
Cairo International Airport (CAI)
3 terminals · 22 km northeast of downtown · Busiest airport in Africa
3 Terminals
Cairo International Airport is Africa's busiest airport — serving over 30 million passengers annually. Located 22 km northeast of downtown Cairo in Heliopolis.
Terminal 1: Older terminal — EgyptAir regional flights, charter flights, some Arab carriers.
Terminal 2: EgyptAir international flights, most major European and Gulf carriers.
Terminal 3: Newest terminal — Nile Air and several low-cost carriers.
Getting to the city:
• Metro (Line 3): New El-Marg / Cairo Airport station — cheapest option (EGP 20), ~35 min to Tahrir. Station is a short walk or shuttle from terminals.
• Uber/Careem: EGP 250–400 depending on destination. Most reliable for first-time visitors.
• Official Airport Taxi: Fixed price (EGP 350–500 downtown). Available at taxi desks in arrivals.
Terminal 1: Older terminal — EgyptAir regional flights, charter flights, some Arab carriers.
Terminal 2: EgyptAir international flights, most major European and Gulf carriers.
Terminal 3: Newest terminal — Nile Air and several low-cost carriers.
Getting to the city:
• Metro (Line 3): New El-Marg / Cairo Airport station — cheapest option (EGP 20), ~35 min to Tahrir. Station is a short walk or shuttle from terminals.
• Uber/Careem: EGP 250–400 depending on destination. Most reliable for first-time visitors.
• Official Airport Taxi: Fixed price (EGP 350–500 downtown). Available at taxi desks in arrivals.
30M+Passengers/Year
22 kmFrom Downtown
3Terminals
35 minMetro to Tahrir
Cairo on the Map
Explore Cairo's geography — from the Nile Delta in the north to the Giza plateau in the west. Key landmarks, districts, and transport hubs all at a glance.
📍 Greater Cairo — Cairo Governorate (east bank) · Giza Governorate (Pyramids, west bank) · New Administrative Capital (50 km east, not shown)
Tourism & Heritage
Cairo contains more history per square kilometre than almost any city on Earth. Three great civilisations — Pharaonic, Coptic, and Islamic — each left a visible, visitable layer. Here is where to find them.
⭐ Must Visit
📍 Giza Plateau · 20 km from downtown
The Giza Pyramid Complex
The last surviving Wonder of the Ancient World. Three pyramids — Khufu (146m original), Khafre, and Menkaure — plus the Great Sphinx, three queens' pyramids, and the Solar Boat Museum. The Great Pyramid can be entered with a separate ticket (limited daily slots — book online).
🎟️ EGP 600+ adults
🕐 7am–5pm daily
⏱ Full day
⭐ Must Visit
📍 Giza Plateau · Included with Pyramid ticket
The Great Sphinx
73 metres long and 20 metres high — the world's largest monolithic statue, carved from a single limestone outcrop c. 2530 BC. The face is believed to represent Pharaoh Khafre. For most of its history it was buried to the neck in sand. Best viewed at sunrise from the eastern approach.
🎟️ Included with Giza ticket
🕐 7am–5pm daily
⏱ 30–60 min
⭐ World's Largest
📍 Giza · Adjacent to Pyramids
Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM)
The world's largest archaeological museum, opened November 2025. All 5,398 objects from Tutankhamun's tomb displayed together for the first time. The Grand Staircase offers a panoramic view of the Giza Pyramids from inside the building. Book tickets online — sells out.
🎟️ $24 foreign / EGP 200 Egyptian
🕐 9am–6pm daily
⏱ 4–6 hours min
📍 Tahrir Square · Downtown Cairo
Egyptian Museum, Tahrir
The original Egyptian Museum — 120,000 artifacts in a magnificent 1902 building. Now partly transferred to GEM but still houses major treasures including the Royal Mummy Room (separate ticket). Not air-conditioned — visit early morning or in winter.
🎟️ EGP 550 adult
🕐 9am–5pm daily
⏱ 2–4 hours
📍 30 km south of Cairo · Day trip
Saqqara & Step Pyramid
The world's first stone building — Djoser's Step Pyramid (c. 2667 BC), designed by the legendary Imhotep. The pyramid of Unas contains the Pyramid Texts: the world's oldest religious literature. Combine with Memphis Open-Air Museum nearby.
🎟️ EGP 450 adult
🕐 8am–5pm daily
⏱ Half to full day
🕌 Islamic Cairo
📍 Islamic Cairo · Al-Hussein district
Khan el-Khalili Bazaar
Cairo's great medieval market — established by the Mamluk emir Jarkas al-Khalili in 1382. Narrow lanes packed with goldsmiths, spice merchants, perfumers, papyrus sellers, and antique dealers. The Naguib Mahfouz Café is here. Best visited in the morning before tour groups arrive.
🎟️ Free entry
🕐 9am–11pm (closed Fri morning)
⏱ 2–3 hours
🕌 Oldest University
📍 Islamic Cairo · Founded 970 AD
Al-Azhar Mosque & University
Founded in 970 AD — the oldest continuously operating university in the world, and one of the most important mosques in Sunni Islam. The interior courtyard is one of Cairo's most beautiful spaces. Non-Muslims may enter outside prayer times. Abaya available to borrow at entrance.
🎟️ Free
🕐 9am–9pm (closed prayer times)
⏱ 30–60 min
🕌 Saladin's Fortress
📍 Al-Qal'a district · Views over all Cairo
The Cairo Citadel
Saladin's 12th-century fortress, seat of Egyptian government for 700 years. Contains the stunning Mohamed Ali Mosque (1830s, Ottoman style with Ottoman blue interior), the National Military Museum, and the Police Museum. The views over Cairo from the battlements are the best in the city.
🎟️ EGP 450 adult
🕐 8am–5pm daily
⏱ 2–3 hours
🕌 Inside Citadel
📍 Cairo Citadel · Included with Citadel ticket
Mohamed Ali Mosque (Alabaster Mosque)
Built between 1830 and 1848 by Muhammad Ali Pasha — Egypt's great modernizer. Inspired by the Blue Mosque in Istanbul but built from Egyptian alabaster. The interior is dominated by a single immense dome surrounded by four semi-domes. Magnificent at night when lit from within.
🎟️ Included with Citadel
🕐 8am–5pm (closed Friday noon)
⏱ 30–45 min
🌿 Green Oasis
📍 Darb al-Ahmar · Adjacent to Islamic Cairo
Al-Azhar Park
Created by the Aga Khan Trust in 2005 on a 500-year-old rubbish heap — one of the great urban transformation stories of the 21st century. 30 hectares of gardens with views over the minarets of Islamic Cairo. The Lakeside Café has the finest panorama in the city.
🎟️ EGP 25 adult
🕐 9am–10pm daily
⏱ 1–2 hours
📍 Bab el-Khalq · Downtown edge
Museum of Islamic Art
One of the world's finest collections of Islamic art — over 100,000 objects spanning 14 centuries. Mamluk metalwork, Fatimid woodcarving, Ottoman textiles, and Quranic manuscripts. Essential context for a visit to Islamic Cairo.
🎟️ EGP 340 adult
🕐 9am–5pm daily
⏱ 1.5–2 hours
✝️ 3rd Century AD
📍 Coptic Cairo (Old Cairo) · Mar Girgis metro
The Hanging Church (Al-Muallaqah)
One of the oldest churches in Egypt — built over the south gate of the Roman fortress of Babylon in the 3rd–4th century AD. "Hanging" because its nave is suspended above a passageway. The interior is exquisite: 13 columns representing Christ and the Apostles, ivory screens, ancient icons.
🎟️ Free
🕐 9am–5pm daily
⏱ 30–45 min
✝️ World's Largest
📍 Coptic Cairo · Founded 1908
Coptic Museum
The world's largest collection of Coptic art and artifacts — textiles, icons, manuscripts (including the Nag Hammadi Gnostic library), and wooden screens spanning the 1st–19th centuries. Two wings: the old (built 1908) and the new (1947). Beautiful garden courtyard.
🎟️ EGP 280 adult
🕐 9am–5pm daily
⏱ 1.5–2 hours
📍 Coptic Cairo · 5th century
Church of St Sergius & Bacchus (Abu Serga)
One of the oldest churches in Egypt — built in the 4th–5th century AD over a crypt where, according to tradition, the Holy Family rested during their flight to Egypt. The crypt (sometimes flooded by the water table) is one of the most ancient Christian sites in the world.
🎟️ Free
🕐 8am–4pm daily
⏱ 20–30 min
The Holy Family in Egypt
According to Christian tradition, the Holy Family (Mary, Joseph, and the infant Jesus) fled to Egypt from Herod's persecution and spent several years in the country. The traditional route — from the Mediterranean coast through the Delta, down to Cairo, and then into Upper Egypt — passes through many of the churches and sites of Coptic Cairo. The church of Abu Serga marks their resting place. This "Holy Family Trail" is a significant pilgrimage route for Christian visitors to Egypt.
🏙️ Modern
📍 Zamalek Island · Nile
Cairo Tower
At 187 metres, Cairo Tower was the tallest structure in Africa when built (1961). The revolving restaurant at the top gives 360° views of the entire city — Nile, pyramids, desert, and urban sprawl. Built with American aid money given to Nasser, which he used to build this instead of what was requested.
🎟️ EGP 200 adult
🕐 9am–1am daily
⏱ 1 hour
🏯 Restored 2020
📍 Heliopolis · Al-Ouruba Road
Baron Empain Palace
The extraordinary Hindu-temple-inspired palace of Belgian industrialist Baron Edouard Empain, who built Heliopolis as Egypt's first planned suburb in 1906. Abandoned for decades and the subject of countless ghost stories, it was spectacularly restored and opened as a museum in 2020.
🎟️ EGP 220 adult
🕐 9am–6pm daily
⏱ 1–1.5 hours
🎭 Culture
📍 Gezira Island · Zamalek
Cairo Opera House Complex
Egypt's premier cultural venue — opened 1988 on Gezira Island. Three theatres (Main Hall, Small Hall, Hanager Arts Centre), a museum of modern Egyptian art, and beautiful Japanese-garden-inspired grounds. Season runs October–June. Check the programme — quality international and Egyptian performances year-round.
🎟️ EGP 50–500 (performance)
🕐 Grounds open 10am–10pm
⏱ Evening programme
Suggested Itineraries
Cairo rewards time. Here are four carefully planned days — each building a different understanding of the city.
Day One
The Ancient City — Giza & GEM
6:30 AMGiza Pyramids at sunrise — the light is extraordinary and crowds are minimal
9:30 AMGrand Egyptian Museum — Tutankhamun Galleries first, then Solar Boat
1:00 PMLunch at Zooba inside GEM or restaurant on Pyramids Road
3:00 PMGEM main galleries — 12 chronological galleries of Egyptian history
6:00 PMGiza Sound & Light Show (seasonal — book ahead)
Day Two
Islamic Cairo — The Medieval City
8:30 AMAl-Azhar Mosque — before the crowds. Breakfast at a local ahwa (coffeehouse)
10:00 AMKhan el-Khalili — explore the medieval lanes at their quietest
12:30 PMLunch at Naguib Mahfouz Café — Egyptian food in the heart of the bazaar
2:30 PMCairo Citadel — Mohamed Ali Mosque + views over the city
5:30 PMAl-Azhar Park — sunset from the Lakeside Café terrace
Day Three
Coptic Cairo & The Nile
9:00 AMCoptic Museum — allow 2 hours for the full collection
11:30 AMHanging Church + Abu Serga + Ben Ezra Synagogue — all walkable
1:30 PMLunch on the Corniche — Maadi waterfront
4:00 PMZamalek — galleries, boutiques, Cairo Tower sunset view
7:30 PMFelucca on the Nile — 1 hour from Zamalek bridge
Day Four
Saqqara, Memphis & Dahshur
8:00 AMDepart Cairo — hire a driver (EGP 400–600 for the day, all three sites)
9:00 AMSaqqara — Step Pyramid, Unas pyramid (Pyramid Texts inside), Imhotep Museum
12:30 PMMemphis Open-Air Museum — colossal Ramesses II statue + alabaster sphinx
2:00 PMDahshur — Bent Pyramid + Red Pyramid interior (best pyramid interior in Egypt)
5:00 PMReturn to Cairo — almost certainly Dahshur entirely to yourself
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Food & Dining in Cairo
Cairo's food culture is one of the great unsung pleasures of travel — ancient recipes, extraordinary street food, and a restaurant scene that has exploded in sophistication since 2015. Here is where to eat.
The Essentials — What Cairo Eats
Cairo's food identity is built on a handful of dishes so deeply embedded in daily life that they function almost as civic institutions. Eating them is not tourism — it is participation.
- Koshary — Egypt's national dish. Lentils, rice, macaroni, chickpeas, fried onions, and two sauces (tomato and vinegar-chilli). A complete meal for EGP 15–40. Koshary Abou Tarek in downtown Cairo is the temple of the dish — three floors, thousands of customers daily since 1950.
- Ful Medames — Slow-cooked fava beans with olive oil, lemon, and cumin. Egypt's breakfast for 5,000 years. Best from street carts in the early morning, before 9 AM.
- Ta'amiya (Falafel) — Egyptian falafel is made from fava beans, not chickpeas — greener inside, more delicate than the Lebanese version. Sold from small shops everywhere.
- Hawawshi — Spiced minced meat baked inside crispy flatbread. Cairo's great street sandwich — best from Hawawshi El-Maadawi in Maadi or neighborhood bakeries throughout the city.
- Om Ali — Egypt's bread pudding: layers of pastry, milk, cream, raisins, and nuts baked until golden. The national dessert. Available everywhere but best homemade-style.
Koshary — Egypt's national dish. The version at Koshary Abou Tarek in downtown Cairo is considered definitive — served since 1950, unchanged.
🕐 When Cairenes Eat
Breakfast: 7–10 AM — ful, eggs, cheese, bread
Lunch: 2–4 PM — the main meal of the day
Dinner: 9 PM–midnight — restaurants fill after 9
Ramadan: Iftar (sunset) and Suhoor (2–4 AM) — the city transforms entirely. Street food and tent dining everywhere. One of the world's great food experiences.
Lunch: 2–4 PM — the main meal of the day
Dinner: 9 PM–midnight — restaurants fill after 9
Ramadan: Iftar (sunset) and Suhoor (2–4 AM) — the city transforms entirely. Street food and tent dining everywhere. One of the world's great food experiences.
Koshary
كشري
Lentils, rice, pasta, chickpeas, crispy onions, tomato and chilli sauces. Egypt's national dish. EGP 15–40 per serving.
📍 Best: Koshary Abou Tarek, Downtown
Ful & Ta'amiya
فول وطعمية
Slow-cooked fava beans and Egyptian green falafel. The classic Cairo breakfast — eaten by 3 million Cairenes every morning.
📍 Best: El-Shabrawy chain, everywhere
Nile Dining
مطاعم النيل
Restaurants on the Nile — either floating on boats or with Nile-facing terraces. Seafood and grilled meats while watching Cairo's skyline at night.
📍 Best: Maadi and Agouza corniche
Naguib Mahfouz Café
مقهى نجيب محفوظ
Historic café in the heart of Khan el-Khalili — named after Egypt's Nobel laureate. Traditional Egyptian dishes in a beautifully restored medieval setting.
📍 Khan el-Khalili bazaar
Recommended Restaurants by Neighbourhood
Zooba
Multiple locations — Zamalek, GEM, New Cairo
Egypt's most celebrated modern food concept — elevated koshary, ful, ta'amiya, and shawarma in a vibrant street-food-meets-design-restaurant setting. The best place to experience Egyptian food for first-time visitors.
Sequoia
Zamalek · Abu el-Feda St · Nile terrace
Cairo's most beautiful outdoor restaurant — a long terrace at the tip of Zamalek island, right on the Nile. Lebanese and international menu. Best at sunset. Very popular — book ahead for weekends.
Koshary Abou Tarek
Downtown · Champollion Street
The definitive koshary experience. Three floors of communal eating, deafening noise, extraordinary efficiency, and the best koshary in Cairo. Since 1950. Always a queue — worth it. The bill will be under EGP 50.
Bab El Sharq
Islamic Cairo · Khan el-Khalili area
Rooftop restaurant with extraordinary views over the minarets of Islamic Cairo. Traditional Egyptian food — grilled meats, mezze, and clay-pot dishes. The sunset view is among the finest in the city.
La Bodega
Zamalek · Ismail Mohammed Street
Housed in a 1920s Art Deco building — one of Cairo's most beautiful interiors. Excellent Mediterranean and Egyptian menu. The wine list is among the best available in the city. Effortlessly stylish.
El Abd Patisserie
Downtown · Multiple branches
Cairo's most beloved bakery — established 1953. The best Om Ali in Cairo, extraordinary basbousa, and the definitive konafa. Also a good place for breakfast. Every Cairene has an El Abd memory.
𓊹
Shopping in Cairo
Cairo is one of the great shopping cities of the Middle East — from the medieval lanes of Khan el-Khalili to world-class modern malls, there is something for every budget and taste.
What to Buy in Cairo
- Papyrus — Real papyrus (not banana-leaf imitation) from Dr. Ragab's Papyrus Institute or reputable shops in Khan el-Khalili. Ask the seller to demonstrate the papyrus's flexibility — real papyrus doesn't crack.
- Spices & Perfumes — Khan el-Khalili's spice market sells everything from saffron to karkadeh (hibiscus). Attar shops sell traditional Egyptian perfume oils at a fraction of Western prices.
- Galabiya (traditional robe) — The classic Egyptian robe in cotton or silk. Available in Khan el-Khalili and in the fabric markets of the old city. EGP 200–800.
- Gold & Silver Jewellery — The gold market (souk al-dahab) in Khan el-Khalili. Gold is sold by weight at the daily price — check the global price before buying. Quality is generally high.
- Egyptian Cotton — Among the world's finest. Towels, bed linen, and garments from El-Chorbagy or department stores in Heliopolis are excellent value.
- Alabaster — Hand-carved alabaster vases, canopic jars, and statues from workshops near the Pyramids. Bargain firmly — the first price is never the real price.
The Art of Bargaining
In traditional markets (Khan el-Khalili, Attaba, Wikalat al-Balah), prices are negotiated. The first price quoted is almost always 2–4 times what the seller expects to receive. This is not dishonesty — it is the expected opening of a social ritual that both parties understand.
Rules: start at 30–40% of the asking price, be friendly and patient, be prepared to walk away (this often produces the best offer), and never name a price you aren't prepared to pay. In fixed-price shops and malls, no bargaining is expected or appropriate.
Avoiding Tourist Traps
The most common tourist trap in Cairo is "papyrus shops" that sell banana-leaf reproductions as genuine papyrus. Genuine papyrus is flexible and won't crack when rolled. The second most common is perfume shops that claim celebrity endorsement — ignore all such claims. In Khan el-Khalili, be cautious of anyone who approaches you uninvited and insists on showing you their shop — this usually leads to high-pressure selling.
Traditional Bazaar
Khan el-Khalili
📍 Islamic Cairo · Since 1382
Cairo's great medieval bazaar. Gold, spices, perfumes, papyrus, galabiya, carpets, and antiques. Best for souvenirs, jewellery, and the experience of a medieval market unchanged in 600 years.
Mega Mall
Citystars Mall
📍 Heliopolis · Near Airport
Cairo's most visited mall — 600+ shops across three phases, 17 cinema screens, and a comprehensive food court. International brands, Egyptian chains, and electronics. Open until midnight.
Mega Mall
Mall of Egypt
📍 6 October City · West Cairo
Home to Africa's first indoor ski slope — a full ski resort inside the mall. 350+ stores, IMAX cinema, hypermarket. The ski slope alone is worth the trip for visitors who want to experience this extraordinary juxtaposition.
Lifestyle Mall
Cairo Festival City
📍 New Cairo · 5th Settlement
A premium open-air and indoor mall with IKEA, Carrefour, and upscale dining. The most comfortable shopping experience in Cairo — spacious, well-designed, and with excellent parking. Popular with the city's professional class.
Popular Market
Attaba & Wikalat al-Balah
📍 Downtown · Near Egyptian Museum
Cairo's vast popular market — second-hand clothes, vintage goods, electronics, fabrics, and household items at the lowest prices in the city. Authentic Cairo at its most unfiltered. Early morning is best.
Boutique Shopping
Zamalek Boutiques
📍 Zamalek Island
Cairo's design district — independent Egyptian fashion designers, jewellers, ceramicists, and galleries concentrated on Brazil Street and 26 July Street. The best place to find distinctive, high-quality Egyptian-made gifts and fashion.
Emergency Numbers
Keep these numbers saved in your phone from day one. In Egypt, the emergency services are divided — there is no single universal emergency number like 999 or 911.
🚨 Critical Emergency Numbers — Cairo
123
Ambulance & General Emergency
122
Police
180
Fire Department
126
Tourist Police
108
Traffic Police
16000
Child Helpline
Complete Phone Directory — Essential Cairo Numbers
🏥 Medical & Health
As-Salam International Hospital
02-27920200
Maadi · 24hr emergency
Dar Al Fouad Hospital
19123
6th October · International
Cairo Specialist Hospital
16161
Nasr City · Multi-specialty
Cleopatra Hospital
02-24140214
Heliopolis · Private
Anglo-American Hospital
02-27358179
Zamalek · Near embassies
El-Salam Hospital (Govt)
02-25249777
El-Agouza · Public
🚌 Transport & Services
Cairo Metro (CTA)
02-25745555
Information & lost property
Cairo Airport
02-24182230
General inquiries
EgyptAir
090000900
Reservations & info
Uber Egypt
App only
Uber / Careem apps
Cairo Taxis (white)
19155
Radio dispatched taxis
Road Rescue
122
Traffic police / breakdown
🏛️ Government & Utilities
Passport & Immigration (Mogamma)
02-27962122
Tahrir Square
Electricity (CAIRO)
121
Faults & emergencies
Water & Sewage
125
Emergency line
Natural Gas (Faults)
129
Gas leak emergency
Cairo Governorate
02-25796000
General inquiries
Tax Authority (ETA)
16395
Tax inquiries
🌐 Telecoms & Internet
Vodafone Egypt
888
From Vodafone number
Etisalat (e&)
333
From Etisalat number
Orange Egypt
110
From Orange number
We (Telecom Egypt)
111
Landline & fibre
WE Internet Support
19700
Home internet faults
National ID (NIDA)
19789
ID inquiries
𓀭
Embassies & Consulates in Cairo
Cairo hosts over 100 diplomatic missions — one of the highest concentrations in Africa and the Middle East. Most are concentrated in Zamalek, Garden City, and Maadi.
Where Are the Embassies?
The majority of embassies are in three areas: Garden City (historic diplomatic quarter, south of Tahrir — US, UK, Germany, France), Zamalek (island embassies — Italy, Spain, Japan, many others), and Maadi (newer embassies — several Gulf states and African missions). Some embassies have relocated to Heliopolis near the airport.
🇺🇸
United States of America
5 Tawfik Diab Street, Garden City, Cairo
Tel: +20 2 2797-3300
Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00am–4:30pm
Services: Visa interviews by appointment (ustraveldocs.com)
Website: eg.usembassy.gov
Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00am–4:30pm
Services: Visa interviews by appointment (ustraveldocs.com)
Website: eg.usembassy.gov
Emergency: +20 2 2797-3300
🇬🇧
United Kingdom
7 Ahmed Ragheb Street, Garden City, Cairo
Tel: +20 2 2791-6000
Hours: Sun–Thu 8:00am–4:00pm
Services: Consular appointments, passport renewal
Website: gov.uk/world/egypt
Hours: Sun–Thu 8:00am–4:00pm
Services: Consular appointments, passport renewal
Website: gov.uk/world/egypt
Emergency: +20 2 2791-6000
🇫🇷
France
29 Charles de Gaulle Street, Giza
Tel: +20 2 3567-3200
Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00am–4:00pm
Services: Visa section, cultural services (Institut Français)
Website: eg.ambafrance.org
Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00am–4:00pm
Services: Visa section, cultural services (Institut Français)
Website: eg.ambafrance.org
Emergency: +20 2 3567-3200
🇩🇪
Germany
2 Berlin Street, Zamalek, Cairo
Tel: +20 2 2728-2000
Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00am–4:00pm
Services: Visa & consular services, Goethe-Institut
Website: kairo.diplo.de
Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00am–4:00pm
Services: Visa & consular services, Goethe-Institut
Website: kairo.diplo.de
Emergency: +20 2 2728-2000
🇮🇹
Italy
15 Abdel Rahman Fahmy Street, Garden City
Tel: +20 2 2794-3194
Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00am–1:00pm
Services: Visa, consular services, Italian Cultural Institute
Website: ambcairo.esteri.it
Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00am–1:00pm
Services: Visa, consular services, Italian Cultural Institute
Website: ambcairo.esteri.it
Emergency: +20 2 2794-3194
🇨🇦
Canada
26 Kamal el-Shenawi Street, Garden City
Tel: +20 2 2791-8700
Hours: Sun–Thu 8:00am–4:30pm
Services: Consular services, immigration inquiries
Website: canada.ca/egypt
Hours: Sun–Thu 8:00am–4:30pm
Services: Consular services, immigration inquiries
Website: canada.ca/egypt
Emergency: +20 2 2791-8700
🇳🇱
Netherlands
18 Hassan Sabri Street, Zamalek
Tel: +20 2 2739-5500
Hours: Mon–Fri 8:30am–5:00pm
Services: Visa & consular services
Website: netherlandsworldwide.nl
Hours: Mon–Fri 8:30am–5:00pm
Services: Visa & consular services
Website: netherlandsworldwide.nl
Emergency: +20 2 2739-5500
🇪🇸
Spain
41 Ismail Mohammed Street, Zamalek
Tel: +20 2 2735-6461
Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00am–1:30pm
Services: Visa, Instituto Cervantes nearby
Website: exteriores.gob.es/el-cairo
Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00am–1:30pm
Services: Visa, Instituto Cervantes nearby
Website: exteriores.gob.es/el-cairo
Emergency: +20 2 2735-6461
🇨🇭
Switzerland
10 Abdel Khalek Sarwat Street, Downtown
Tel: +20 2 2575-8284
Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00am–noon
Services: Consular services, visa applications
Website: eda.admin.ch/cairo
Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00am–noon
Services: Consular services, visa applications
Website: eda.admin.ch/cairo
Emergency: +20 2 2575-8284
🇸🇦
Saudi Arabia
2 Ahmad Nessim Street, Giza
Tel: +20 2 3748-0660
Hours: Sun–Thu 9:00am–3:00pm
Services: Hajj & Umrah permits, visa section
Website: mofa.gov.sa
Hours: Sun–Thu 9:00am–3:00pm
Services: Hajj & Umrah permits, visa section
Website: mofa.gov.sa
Emergency: +20 2 3748-0660
🇦🇪
United Arab Emirates
4 Wahran Street, Dokki, Giza
Tel: +20 2 3335-0200
Hours: Sun–Thu 8:00am–2:30pm
Services: Visa, consular services
Website: uae-embassy.ae
Hours: Sun–Thu 8:00am–2:30pm
Services: Visa, consular services
Website: uae-embassy.ae
Emergency: +20 2 3335-0200
🇯🇴
Jordan
6 Al-Jahedh Street, Dokki, Giza
Tel: +20 2 3749-9912
Hours: Sun–Thu 9:00am–2:00pm
Services: Visa, consular services
Hours: Sun–Thu 9:00am–2:00pm
Services: Visa, consular services
🇰🇼
Kuwait
12 Nabil el-Wakkad Street, Dokki
Tel: +20 2 3760-2661
Hours: Sun–Thu 9:00am–1:00pm
Services: Visa, consular services
Hours: Sun–Thu 9:00am–1:00pm
Services: Visa, consular services
🇱🇧
Lebanon
22 Mansour Mohammed Street, Zamalek
Tel: +20 2 2738-2823
Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00am–2:00pm
Services: Visa, consular services
Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00am–2:00pm
Services: Visa, consular services
🇮🇶
Iraq
23 El-Hegaz Street, Heliopolis
Tel: +20 2 2415-4447
Hours: Sun–Thu 9:00am–2:00pm
Services: Visa, consular services
Hours: Sun–Thu 9:00am–2:00pm
Services: Visa, consular services
🇯🇵
Japan
81 Corniche el-Nil, Maadi
Tel: +20 2 2528-5910
Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00am–noon
Services: Visa, Japan Foundation
Website: eg.emb-japan.go.jp
Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00am–noon
Services: Visa, Japan Foundation
Website: eg.emb-japan.go.jp
Emergency: +20 2 2528-5910
🇨🇳
China
14 Bahgat Ali Street, Zamalek
Tel: +20 2 2736-8219
Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00am–noon
Services: Visa, consular services
Website: eg.china-embassy.gov.cn
Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00am–noon
Services: Visa, consular services
Website: eg.china-embassy.gov.cn
Emergency: +20 2 2736-8219
🇮🇳
India
5 Aziz Abaza Street, Zamalek
Tel: +20 2 2736-3051
Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00am–5:00pm
Services: Visa, OCI services
Website: indianembassycairo.in
Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00am–5:00pm
Services: Visa, OCI services
Website: indianembassycairo.in
Emergency: +20 2 2736-3051
🇰🇷
South Korea
3 Boulos Hanna Street, Dokki
Tel: +20 2 3761-1234
Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00am–noon
Services: Visa, consular services
Website: eg.mofa.go.kr
Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00am–noon
Services: Visa, consular services
Website: eg.mofa.go.kr
🇹🇷
Turkey
25 Felaki Street, Bab el-Louk
Tel: +20 2 2392-3723
Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00am–1:00pm
Services: Visa, consular services
Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00am–1:00pm
Services: Visa, consular services
🇦🇺
Australia
World Trade Centre, Corniche el-Nil, Boulak
Tel: +20 2 2770-6600
Hours: Sun–Thu 8:00am–4:30pm
Services: Consular, visa (online mainly)
Website: egypt.embassy.gov.au
Hours: Sun–Thu 8:00am–4:30pm
Services: Consular, visa (online mainly)
Website: egypt.embassy.gov.au
Emergency: +20 2 2770-6600
🇿🇦
South Africa
21-23 Giza Street, Orman, Giza
Tel: +20 2 3571-7234
Hours: Mon–Fri 8:30am–4:30pm
Services: Visa, consular services
Website: dirco.gov.za
Hours: Mon–Fri 8:30am–4:30pm
Services: Visa, consular services
Website: dirco.gov.za
🇳🇬
Nigeria
13 Gabalaya Street, Zamalek
Tel: +20 2 2736-4013
Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00am–3:00pm
Services: Visa, consular services
Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00am–3:00pm
Services: Visa, consular services
🇪🇹
Ethiopia
Midan Al-Messaha, Dokki
Tel: +20 2 3335-3695
Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00am–2:00pm
Services: Visa, consular services
Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00am–2:00pm
Services: Visa, consular services
🇸🇩
Sudan
4 Ibrahim Street, Garden City
Tel: +20 2 2794-9661
Hours: Sun–Thu 9:00am–2:00pm
Services: Visa, consular services
Hours: Sun–Thu 9:00am–2:00pm
Services: Visa, consular services
𓏁
Healthcare in Cairo
Cairo has an extensive healthcare system ranging from world-class private international hospitals to large public teaching hospitals. For expatriates, private hospitals are strongly recommended.
The Two-Track System
Egypt has a two-tier healthcare system. The public system — run by the Ministry of Health — provides care free or at very low cost but suffers from overcrowding, underfunding, and variable quality. The private system ranges from international-standard hospitals (As-Salam, Dar Al Fouad, Cairo Specialist) to small private clinics.
For expatriates and tourists, private hospitals are strongly recommended. Always carry comprehensive travel or health insurance — most international hospitals require payment upfront or insurance documentation before treatment.
Health Insurance
Egypt has no reciprocal health agreements with most countries. All visitors should carry comprehensive travel insurance that explicitly covers medical evacuation. Most premium international hospitals accept international insurance directly — bring your card and policy number. Costs at international hospitals: consultation EGP 600–1,500, full bloodwork EGP 800–2,000, minor procedure EGP 3,000–15,000+.
Pharmacies — Cairo's Secret Healthcare
Egyptian pharmacists are legally permitted to dispense many medicines that require a prescription in Western countries — antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, some blood pressure medications. Pharmacies are everywhere and open late (many 24/7). For minor ailments, going to a pharmacist first is normal practice and the pharmacist will often diagnose and recommend treatment effectively.
24-Hour Pharmacy Chains
- El-Ezaby Pharmacy — the largest chain, 400+ branches across Cairo. Most branches 24/7. App available.
- Seif Pharmacy — major chain with many 24-hour locations. Good stock of international brands.
- El-Dawliya (International) Pharmacy — specialises in imported medications not always available in standard pharmacies. Zamalek branch is the go-to for expats.
- Cairo Medical Centre Pharmacy — attached to major hospitals, full range of medications.
Medical Specialties — Best Hospitals by Specialty
- Cardiology: Ain Shams University Cardiac Centre (world-class, public), As-Salam International
- Oncology: National Cancer Institute (public · largest in MENA), Cleopatra Hospital
- Maternity: Nile Badrawi Hospital (Maadi), As-Salam International
- Paediatrics: Cairo University Children's Hospital (public), 57357 Children's Cancer Hospital
- Eye: Memor El Bassar Eye Hospital · Research Institute of Ophthalmology
International
As-Salam International Hospital
📍 Corniche el-Nil, Maadi
Cairo's premier international hospital — full-service acute care, 24-hour emergency, all major specialties, ICU, and maternity. JCI accredited. Accepts most international insurance plans.
Emergency: 02-27920200
Appointment: 02-27921222
Hours: 24 hours, 7 days
Appointment: 02-27921222
Hours: 24 hours, 7 days
International
Dar Al Fouad Hospital
📍 6th October City, Giza
One of Egypt's most advanced private hospitals — internationally accredited (JCI), specialising in cardiology, oncology, and orthopaedics. Newer facility with state-of-the-art equipment.
Emergency: 19123
Appointment: 19123
Hours: 24 hours, 7 days
Appointment: 19123
Hours: 24 hours, 7 days
Private
Anglo-American Hospital
📍 Zamalek · Near embassies
Small but highly regarded private hospital popular with the diplomatic community — proximity to embassies, English-speaking staff throughout, and a personal service standard. General medicine, surgery, and emergency.
Emergency: 02-27358179
Hours: 24 hours emergency
Note: Cash or insurance required upfront
Hours: 24 hours emergency
Note: Cash or insurance required upfront
Private
Cairo Specialist Hospital
📍 Nasr City, East Cairo
Large multi-specialty private hospital serving East Cairo — cardiology, neurology, orthopaedics, and full emergency services. Popular with the Nasr City and Heliopolis expat communities.
Emergency: 16161
Appointment: 16161
Hours: 24 hours, 7 days
Appointment: 16161
Hours: 24 hours, 7 days
Private · Oncology
57357 Children's Cancer Hospital
📍 Sayida Zeinab, Cairo
One of the world's largest dedicated children's cancer hospitals — built through private donations and international support. Treats children regardless of ability to pay. Internationally recognised as a model healthcare institution.
Tel: 02-25320000
Hours: 24 hours emergency
Note: Free treatment for Egyptian children
Hours: 24 hours emergency
Note: Free treatment for Egyptian children
Government
Qasr Al-Aini University Hospital
📍 Garden City · Cairo University
Egypt's oldest hospital (1827) and largest teaching hospital — attached to Cairo University Medical School. Provides low-cost care across all specialties. Used by millions of Egyptians. Not recommended for urgent expat care due to overcrowding.
Tel: 02-23628000
Hours: 24 hours emergency
Note: Free / very low cost for Egyptian nationals
Hours: 24 hours emergency
Note: Free / very low cost for Egyptian nationals
𓆈
International Schools in Cairo
Cairo has one of the largest concentrations of international schools in Africa — serving the diplomatic community, expatriates, and Egyptian families seeking international education.
🇺🇸
Cairo American College (CAC)
American Curriculum · Maadi
The largest and most established international school in Cairo — founded 1945. American curriculum, accredited by NEASC. PK–Grade 12. Strong college counselling, extensive extracurricular programmes.
🇬🇧
British International School Cairo (BISC)
British Curriculum · Compound School · New Cairo
British National Curriculum, GCSE and A-Levels. Part of the Nord Anglia Education group. Modern facilities in New Cairo. Very popular with British and Commonwealth families.
🇩🇪
Deutsche Schule Kairo
German Curriculum · Maadi
German language school from Kindergarten through Abitur — one of the oldest foreign schools in Cairo (founded 1900). Fully accredited by German education authorities. For children of German-speaking families.
🇫🇷
Lycée Français du Caire
French Curriculum · Multiple Campuses
The French school system in Cairo with three campuses — Boulac, Maadi, and Héliopolis. French Baccalaureate. Operated under the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Accepts French and non-French children.
🌐
Cairo English School (CES)
British Curriculum · Maadi
One of Egypt's most established private schools following a British curriculum — IGCSEs and A-Levels. Excellent reputation for academic results and university placement. Strong Arabic programme alongside English.
🌐
International School of Egypt (ISE)
IB Curriculum · New Cairo
International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum — PYP, MYP, and Diploma Programme. Modern campus in New Cairo. Good option for families who may be relocating internationally — IB is recognised globally.
School Admission — Important Notes
Most international schools in Cairo have waiting lists — especially CAC and Deutsche Schule. Apply as early as possible, ideally 6–12 months before the intended start date. School fees are typically paid in Egyptian Pounds (except some German and French schools). Many schools require an entrance assessment. Contact schools directly for current fee schedules as they change annually, especially given currency fluctuations.
𓂉
Living in Cairo — The Practical Guide
Cairo is one of the most affordable major cities in the world for expatriates — but navigating it requires knowing the system. Here is what you need from day one.
Neighbourhood Guide for Expats — Where to Live
| Neighbourhood | Expat Rating | Rent (2-bed apt) | International Schools | Transport | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maadi | ★★★★★ | EGP 25–60K/mo | ● CAC, Deutsche, CES | ● Metro Line 1 | Families, long-term residents |
| Zamalek | ★★★★★ | EGP 30–80K/mo | ● Some nearby | ● Bus + taxi | Diplomats, young professionals |
| New Cairo (5th Settlement) | ★★★★☆ | EGP 20–50K/mo | ● BISC, ISE, many | ● Car required | Families with children, gated living |
| Heliopolis | ★★★★☆ | EGP 15–40K/mo | ● Citystars nearby | ● Metro Line 3 | Near airport, business travellers |
| Downtown Cairo | ★★★☆☆ | EGP 10–25K/mo | ● Limited | ● Excellent (all lines) | Budget expats, short-term |
| 6th October City | ★★★☆☆ | EGP 12–30K/mo | ● Some options | ● Monorail + car | Lower budget, spacious living |
Banking & Money
1
Opening a Bank Account
Most international banks allow expats to open accounts. Required documents: Passport, residence visa (or proof of application), proof of address in Egypt (utility bill or tenancy agreement), employer letter. Best banks for expats: CIB (Commercial International Bank), QNB Egypt, HSBC Egypt, Banque Misr.
2
Currency & Exchange
The Egyptian Pound (EGP) floated in 2022 — exchange rates fluctuate. Best rates: Bank branches and licensed exchange offices (avoid airport and hotel exchange). Bring USD or EUR for best rates. ATMs (Banque du Caire, CIB) are widely available but limit withdrawals.
3
Mobile Payments
InstaPay — Egypt's instant payment platform, linked to all major banks. Vodafone Cash, Orange Money, Etisalat Cash — mobile wallet services for transfers without a bank account. Widely accepted for rent, utilities, and everyday payments.
Visa & Residency
1
Tourist Visa (30 days)
Available on arrival for most nationalities — $25 USD, paid in foreign currency only (USD, EUR, GBP). Also available online via visa2egypt.gov.eg. Valid 30 days, extendable once at Mogamma (Tahrir Square).
2
Residency (Iqama)
For stays over 30 days, apply at Mogamma el-Tahrir (Tahrir Square) or Passport & Immigration Office (Al-Abbaseya). Work residency: employer-sponsored · Investor residency: through GAFI · Property owner residency: for property worth $100,000+. Annual renewal required.
3
Mogamma el-Tahrir — The Building
Egypt's legendary bureaucratic mega-building at Tahrir Square — home to passport, visa, and residency services for all of Cairo. Arrive early (before 8am) and bring photocopies of everything. The first floor issues queue tickets. Services Mon–Thu and Sat, 8am–2pm. Some services now available online.
SIM Cards & Mobile
Available at airport and any telecom shop with passport. Vodafone, Etisalat (e&), Orange — all offer tourist SIMs with data. Recommended: Vodafone prepaid with unlimited data bundles (EGP 50–150/month). Registration requires passport. eSIM available on Vodafone and e& for compatible phones.
Renting an Apartment
Most rentals are through brokers (semsars) who charge 1 month's rent as commission. Platforms: Aqarmap, Property Finder Egypt, OLX Egypt. Leases typically 1 year, paid 3–6 months in advance. Furnished apartments are common and practical for new arrivals. Negotiate — especially in slower market periods.
Driving in Cairo
International driving licences are valid for 3 months. After that, convert to Egyptian licence at the Traffic Directorate (Dokki). Traffic: Cairo's traffic is legendary — avoid peak hours (7–10am, 2–5pm, 8–11pm). Apps: Waze works well in Cairo. Parking: valet (EGP 20–50) is universal in malls and restaurants.
Internet & Connectivity
Home internet: WE (Telecom Egypt) fibre is the most reliable — packages from 200 Mbps at EGP 350/month. Vodafone DSL also widely available. VPN: Some social media platforms and VoIP services may be restricted — many expats use a VPN. Speed: 100–500 Mbps fibre widely available in Maadi, Zamalek, New Cairo.
Utilities
Electricity: 220V, 50Hz (European plugs). Power cuts (load-shedding) occur, especially in summer — UPS devices recommended for sensitive electronics. Water: Tap water is technically drinkable in Cairo but most residents use bottled water. Large 19L water dispensers (EGP 20–30 per refill) are universal. Gas: Piped natural gas in most buildings.
Expat Communities
Facebook Groups: "Expats in Cairo", "Cairo Expats Buy & Sell", "Americans in Cairo" — active communities for advice, housing, and social events. Internations Cairo: Regular social events for internationals. Cairo Hash House Harriers: Weekly runs/walks + social. Rotary Club Cairo: Networking and community service.
Cairo's Economy
Cairo is the economic engine of Egypt — generating approximately 40% of the country's GDP from a metropolitan area containing 22% of the population. It is one of the most economically significant cities in Africa and the Arab world.
~40%
Share of Egypt's GDP
Greater Cairo generates roughly 40% of Egypt's total economic output — the highest concentration of any single city in the MENA region
$375B
Egypt GDP 2024 (USD)
Egypt's total GDP — Cairo's share approximately $150 billion. One of Africa's largest economies
#1
African Stock Exchange
The Egyptian Exchange (EGX) — founded 1883, one of the oldest in the world — is among Africa's largest by market capitalisation
30M+
Airport Passengers/Year
Cairo International Airport — Africa's busiest airport and the main aviation hub connecting Africa and the Arab world
Smart Village
Egypt's Tech Hub
90+ multinational tech companies including Microsoft, IBM, Oracle, and Vodafone in a purpose-built campus 25 km west of Cairo
$14B+
Annual Tourism Revenue
Tourism — much of it funnelled through Cairo — is Egypt's single largest foreign currency earner and growing rapidly post-2023
Key Economic Sectors
Cairo's economy is dominated by services, but several industrial and manufacturing clusters remain significant. The city is in the middle of a major economic transition — driven by the New Administrative Capital project and a push to develop a technology and knowledge economy.
Tourism & Hospitality 18%
Egypt's largest hard-currency earner. Cairo and Giza alone host over 60% of Egypt's hotel capacity and the majority of heritage sites.
Real Estate & Construction 16%
The New Administrative Capital — a $58 billion project — is the largest construction project in the world. Cairo's property market is one of the most active in Africa.
Financial Services 14%
Cairo hosts the headquarters of all major Egyptian banks, the Egyptian Exchange, and the Central Bank. Growing FinTech sector with 200+ startups.
Retail & Trade 13%
One of the Arab world's largest retail markets. Over 50 major shopping malls plus the historic khan el-khalili and Attaba trading districts.
Telecommunications & Tech 10%
Smart Village houses 90+ multinationals. Egypt has 107 million mobile subscribers. Growing tech startup ecosystem — Egypt is Africa's #3 tech startup hub.
Manufacturing & Industry 9%
Concentrated in 10th of Ramadan City (satellite city), Shubra el-Kheima, and the industrial zones of Giza. Food processing, textiles, chemicals, and engineering.
Business Districts
- Smart Village (6th October Road, 25 km west) — Egypt's premier tech campus. Microsoft, IBM, Oracle, Vodafone, Orange, Ericsson, and 90+ others. 50,000 employees across 200 hectares.
- Maadi — Traditional home of multinational corporations, NGOs, and international organisations. USAID, UN agencies, and most foreign chambers of commerce are here.
- New Cairo / 5th Settlement — Egypt's fastest-growing business zone. New headquarters for Egyptian banks, insurance companies, and legal firms moving out of downtown.
- New Administrative Capital — the future seat of all government ministries and many state corporations. The Central Business District includes Africa's tallest tower (385m).
- Downtown Cairo — Still home to the Egyptian Exchange, major law firms, and the headquarters of Banque Misr and National Bank of Egypt.
Doing Business in Cairo
GAFI (General Authority for Investment) operates a one-stop shop for business registration at its Cairo headquarters and online (investinegypt.gov.eg). Egypt offers free zone status, special economic zones, and investment protection agreements with 100+ countries. The Golden Licence system (2022) fast-tracks investment approvals for strategic projects.
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Cairo's Climate — Month by Month
Cairo has a hot desert climate (Köppen BWh) — one of the sunniest cities on Earth with less than 25mm of annual rainfall. But it is far from uniform: the difference between January and July is dramatic.
Spring
March · April · May
Warm and pleasant — 22–32°C. Beware the Khamsin: hot, dusty desert winds that arrive suddenly in March–April, reducing visibility and coating everything in fine sand. Can raise temperatures by 10°C in hours. Generally excellent for outdoor sightseeing.
Summer
June · July · August
Very hot — 35–40°C by day, rarely below 25°C at night. Low humidity (unlike Alexandria). Outdoor sightseeing before 10am or after 5pm. Indoor attractions (GEM, museums) are ideal. Many Cairenes leave for the North Coast and Red Sea. Longest queues for pyramid sound & light shows.
Autumn
September · October · November
Excellent — 25–33°C. October and November are arguably Cairo's finest months: warm enough to enjoy the city, cool enough to walk comfortably. This is peak tourism season — book accommodation well in advance. October is also peak flooding season in the Eastern Sahara (rare in Cairo itself).
Winter
December · January · February
Mild and manageable — 14–22°C by day, but can drop to 8–10°C at night (and Cairenes consider this very cold). Occasional rain (rare — perhaps 3–5 rainy days total in winter). The best season for outdoor archaeology. Egyptian homes are not centrally heated — bring layers.
Best Time to Visit Cairo
Optimal: October–November and February–March — warm days, cool evenings, manageable crowds.
Avoid for outdoor sightseeing: July–August (extreme heat at the pyramids).
Special experience: Ramadan (dates vary by Islamic calendar) — the city transforms completely. The nights are extraordinary — street food, entertainment, communal meals. But expect reduced hours at government offices and some attractions.
Quietest crowds: January–February (post-Christmas, pre-spring peak).
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Day Trips from Cairo
Cairo's position at the centre of Egypt makes it the perfect base for exploring the country's greatest sites — from the Mediterranean to the Red Sea, from the ancient Delta cities to Upper Egypt.
20–30 km
Giza, Saqqara & Dahshur
🔺 Pyramid Circuit — The Essential Day
Three pyramid sites in one day — the most rewarding day trip from Cairo. Giza (the Great Pyramid, Sphinx, GEM), then south to Saqqara (Step Pyramid, Pyramid Texts), then Dahshur (Red Pyramid interior — best pyramid you can enter). Hire a driver for the day (EGP 500–800).
⏱ Full day🚗 Driver recommended💰 EGP 1,000–1,500 all tickets
225 km · 2h by train
Alexandria
🌊 Egypt's Mediterranean Capital
The most popular day trip from Cairo — take the early morning train (6am, EGP 80–150 first class) and return by evening. Visit the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, the Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa, the Citadel of Qaitbay, and eat the finest seafood in Egypt along the Corniche.
⏱ Full day🚂 Train from Ramses Station💰 EGP 150–300 tickets
100 km · 1.5h
Al-Fayoum Oasis
🌴 Egypt's Green Oasis & Birding Heaven
Egypt's largest natural depression — fed by a branch of the Nile since antiquity. Lake Qarun (a saltwater lake home to 300 species of birds), Wadi el-Rayan waterfalls, whale fossils at Wadi el-Hitan (UNESCO), and the ancient city of Medinet Madi. Dramatically different landscape from Cairo.
⏱ Full day🚗 Car or organised tour💰 EGP 200–400 entry
130 km · 1.5h
Ain Sokhna & Red Sea
🏖️ Cairo's Weekend Escape
The nearest Red Sea coast to Cairo — a 90-minute drive via the Suez Road. Crystal-clear warm water year-round, excellent snorkelling, and a string of resort hotels. Very popular with Cairenes on weekends and holidays — go on a weekday for a quieter experience. Porto Sokhna resort is the most accessible.
⏱ Full day or overnight🚗 Car or minibus💰 EGP 150–300 resort entry
160 km · 1.5h
Suez Canal — Ismailia
🚢 Watch the World's Ships Pass
Ismailia — the most charming of the Canal cities — sits at the midpoint of the Suez Canal. Watch massive container ships and tankers pass at eye level from the canal bank (a surreal sight). The Ismailia Museum has significant archaeological finds. Beautiful French colonial architecture from the Canal Company era.
⏱ Full day🚂 Train or car💰 Very affordable
110 km · 1h
Wadi Natrun — Desert Monasteries
✝️ The Ancient Christian Desert
Four Coptic monasteries in the Western Desert — some founded in the 4th century AD, still active, still inhabited by hundreds of monks. Deir Anba Bishoi and Deir El-Suriani are the most accessible and visually striking. A profoundly peaceful alternative to Cairo's intensity. Closed Friday mornings.
⏱ Half or full day🚗 Car via desert road💰 Free entry (modest dress)
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Test Your Cairo Knowledge
10 questions covering Cairo's history, geography, culture, and daily life — from beginner to expert.
Question 1 of 10
Score: 0
Difficulty: Beginner
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Complete Cairo Guide — Full Index
Everything in the Egypedia Cairo Guide — all four parts, every section, with direct links.
1
The City — Overview, Districts & Transport
Cairo's identity, history, neighbourhoods, and how to get around
2
Tourism, Food & Shopping
Heritage sites, restaurants, markets, malls, and itineraries
3
Living in Cairo — The Expat Guide
Embassies, hospitals, schools, banking, housing, visas
4
Economy, Climate, Day Trips & Quiz
Economic overview, weather guide, excursions, and knowledge test
🌍 Explore Egypt's Cities
CairoCapital · 22M people
AlexandriaMediterranean · 5.6M
LuxorValley of the Kings
AswanNubian · Abu Simbel
HurghadaRed Sea · Diving
Sharm el-SheikhSinai · Coral Reefs
DahabBlue Hole · Sinai
Siwa OasisWestern Desert
Port SaidSuez Canal · North
SuezCanal · Red Sea
IsmailiaCanal · Colonial
MinyaMiddle Egypt · Amarna
CairoCapital · 22M people
AlexandriaMediterranean · 5.6M
LuxorValley of the Kings
AswanNubian · Abu Simbel
HurghadaRed Sea · Diving
Sharm el-SheikhSinai · Coral Reefs
DahabBlue Hole · Sinai
Siwa OasisWestern Desert
Port SaidSuez Canal · North
SuezCanal · Red Sea
IsmailiaCanal · Colonial
MinyaMiddle Egypt · Amarna
