Traveling to Alexandria, Egypt: Cultural Etiquette and Essential Tips

Alexandria, a vibrant city on the north coast of Egypt, offers a unique blend of ancient history, rich culture, and Mediterranean charm. As a tourist, it’s essential to respect local customs and etiquette to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience. Here are some key tips to help you navigate this amazing destination:

1. Dress Respectfully

• Modesty is important in Egypt, particularly for women. Avoid wearing revealing clothing, such as short dresses, shorts, or tank tops. It’s best to cover your arms and legs.
• When visiting religious sites (e.g., mosques), it is required that you wear long pants and cover your head with a scarf.

2. Greetings and Gestures

• Egyptians generally greet each other with an “assalamu alaikum” (peace be upon you) followed by the response “wa’alaikum as-salam” (and upon you peace). This is usually reserved for Muslims, and tourists can simply say hello.
• Avoid using gestures that might be considered offensive in Egyptian culture, such as pointing with your index finger or showing the sole of your foot. Instead, use an open hand or your whole arm to indicate direction.

3. Gift-Giving and Hospitality

• Egyptians value hospitality, so you may be offered tea or coffee when visiting someone’s home. Accepting these offers is a way of showing respect.
• If invited to a local home, it’s customary to bring small gifts such as sweets, chocolates, or flowers for the hostess. Avoid giving alcohol if they are Muslim.

4. Photography and Respecting Local Customs

• When taking photographs of people, always ask permission first and be respectful. In some cases, you may need to pay a small fee.
• Be aware that some areas or monuments (especially inside mosques) prohibit photography. Always check before snapping any shots.

5. Street Vendors and Negotiating Prices

• When shopping at markets or dealing with street vendors, remember that bargaining is expected. Start by offering a lower price than what you are willing to pay, and work from there.
• Avoid confrontations and be patient – the vendor will appreciate your interest in their products and may offer a better deal as a result.

6. Tipping and Taxi Rides

• Tipping is customary in Egypt and can make a significant difference to workers’ incomes. In restaurants, it’s common to leave around 10% of the bill total; for taxi drivers, round up the fare or tip according to the length of the ride.
• When using public transportation, such as buses or microbuses, passengers often pass a hat around to collect tips for the driver at the end of the journey. It’s optional but appreciated if you choose to contribute.