Egypt’s famous sites and reasonably priced lifestyle draw in a lot of foreign nationals. They might, however, have difficulties adjusting to cultural differences, negotiating governmental procedures, and coping with traffic jams.
In this post, we’ll discuss what’s it like living in Egypt as an expat. We’ll cover:
- is living in Egypt good?
- is living in Egypt expensive?
- is Egypt safe to live in?
- how to move to Egypt
- advantages and disadvantages of living in Egypt
- best areas to stay in Egypt
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Some of the facts might change from the time of writing, and nothing written here is formal advice.
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Is Egypt a good country to live in?
Egypt living standards are marked by hardships, especially in regards to poverty and economic circumstances. High rates of inflation, which reportedly peaked at roughly 26% in early 2023, have made matters worse by exacerbating poverty and lowering household spending.
While there have been improvements in household consumption growth from 2017 to 2019, the COVID pandemic and subsequent challenges have hindered recovery efforts. This underscores the necessity of better employment prospects and economic security.
To gauge whether moving to Egypt is right for you, it’s better to look into a few other things, such as estimated expenses, how to relocate, and top places, among other considerations.
Cost of living in Egypt
In Egypt, the anticipated living expenses of a single individual are approximately 16,100 Egyptian pounds without rent, while the cost of living for a family of four is expected to be 57,021 pounds per month.
An affordable restaurant dinner will set you back about 200 pounds, while a mid-range restaurant would be about 800 pounds for a meal for two.
Considering that a one-way ticket costs 10 pounds and a monthly pass costs 300 pounds, public transportation is reasonably inexpensive.
Roughly 786 pounds is spent per month on basic services.
In terms of rentals, about 8,481.5 pounds is expected for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center and 10,327 pounds for a three-bedroom apartment located outside the city center.
Egypt Safety
Egypt’s main cities like Cairo are typically seen as safe, with cops conspicuously present in tourist areas.
Even with the government’s stringent security protocols, foreign nationals are advised to remain aware of travel warnings and steer clear of high-risk regions.
It is crucial to drive and cross streets with caution since inadequate driving standards and infrastructure frequently result in traffic accidents too.
Sexual harassment is still a serious issue that might pose difficulties for women, so it’s better to travel in groups particularly at night.
How to move to Egypt
Ascertain whether you require a work or tourist visa before proceeding. Applying can be done online, in person at the Egyptian embassy in your area, or when you come for a quick visit.
If you intend to work, make sure your employer gets a work visa for you because you can’t do so while in the country on a tourist visa. A work visa can be renewed for up to five more years after the first year.
For those engaging in business-related activities, a business visa is required.
You must get a resident visa if you plan to remain longer than three months.
A 30-day stay is allowed for citizens of several countries with a visa on arrival, which may be obtained at major entry ports like Cairo International Airport.
Furthermore, since public healthcare might not live up to your standards, it’s critical to have extensive health insurance.
Take your budget and lifestyle into account when deciding where to stay in Egypt.
Living in Egypt Pros and Cons
Benefits of living in Egypt
- In comparison to many Western nations, Egypt has a comparatively lower living cost. With reasonably priced accommodation, food, and transportation, it is easy to afford necessities, especially for those who earn foreign money.
- The nation offers its citizens exceptional chances for travel and education because it is rich in cultural legacy and is home to some of the most well-known historical landmarks in the world.
- Another attraction is the warm, dry climate, which offers year-round sunshine and gentler temperatures toward the shore. It’s also a friendly country for tourists and expats alike because Egyptians are known for their warmth and kindness.
Disadvantages of living in Egypt
- Although English is frequently spoken in metropolitan areas, communication can still be difficult in Arabic, which is the official language of Egypt.
- Cairo and other large cities have a high overpopulation, which causes a number of urban problems.
- Since the public education system is frequently criticized for its shortcomings, many foreigners choose to send their children to expensive international schools.
- Even while many places are quite safe, worries about crime and unstable political environments still exist.
- Public healthcare is sometimes inadequate and could not be up to par with international norms, so private treatment should be sought.
Best places to live in Egypt for foreigners
Alexandria
Situated along the Mediterranean coast, it is renowned for both its rich past and its stunning beaches. In contrast to Cairo, the city offers a more laid-back vibe with its blend of modern and antique attractions. The vibrant cultural scene is highly valued by foreigners.
While Alexandria’s coastal position offers options for recreation and water sports, the Old Town is a hive of activity on its own.
For those seeking a beachside lifestyle, it’s a tempting alternative because of the affordable cost of living.
Cairo
It is Egypt’s largest metropolis and a popular destination for foreigners because of its rich cultural heritage and wide range of facilities. The city has a rich past and is home to famous sites like the Giza Pyramids.
There are many diverse communities that cater to different lifestyles and a welcoming community for expats. One district that gives a quieter suburban vibe is Maadi, which also has a lot of international schools.
Many find it to be an appealing alternative because of the comparatively inexpensive cost of living.
Giza
It’s another popular choice among expatriates, especially because of the Great Pyramids. It provides an exceptional fusion of contemporary living and cultural importance.
Housing and amenities are reasonably priced in Giza, which is among the world’s most cheap cities. Cairo is close by, so people may live in a more tranquil setting and still take advantage of all the amenities of the capital.
Giza is an ideal destination for individuals seeking a slower pace of life because its districts are family-friendly and have parks and leisure spaces.
New Cairo
This planned metropolis is modern and has grown quickly in the last several years. It’s a great option for families, with large residential neighborhoods, commercial centers, and foreign schools.
The city is known for its lush areas and modern facilities, which offer cozy living conditions.
New Cairo has a lot of services, such as cafes and restaurants, and is home to many expats. For those looking for a more tranquil living close to the city, its separation from the bustle of downtown Cairo is enticing.
Sheikh Zayed City
A good standard of living is provided in this carefully designed neighborhood of Cairo.
Popular with families and foreigners because of its top-notch schools, retail malls, and recreational amenities, this region is well-known for its sleek residential compounds.
Parks and green areas for outdoor recreation are features of the family-friendly neighborhood design.
For individuals considering settling in Egypt, Sheikh Zayed is a desirable alternative because it offers a feeling of safety and security.
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