Living in Cairo

It’s entirely feasible to arrive in Cairo with little more than the clothes you’re wearing and manage to get by. Almost anything you might need is now available locally, provided you’re willing to pay the price. To protect local industries and balance trade, Egypt levies high duties on most imported consumer goods, which means imported items often cost more than those produced domestically.

Here, we highlight some items you might consider bringing from home. While it’s impossible to carry a full year’s supply of favorite consumables, having a small stash for special occasions can make adjusting easier. Bringing along a few personal touches—such as photos, posters or meaningful keepsakes—can help you and your family feel more at home right away. Keep in mind that if you import large amounts of food, toiletries or cosmetics via air freight, these will be subject to Egyptian customs duties.

Packing Suggestions

This basic packing list is designed to help you prepare for your time at AUC, but be sure to tailor it to your personal preferences and needs. Most essential items are available in Cairo, so avoid overpacking things you can easily buy locally. Remember that Cairo’s climate and culture differ significantly from what you might be used to, so researching Egypt beforehand will help you decide what to bring. This list serves as a starting point—you know best what you’ll need!

Essentials

• Airline tickets
• Passport
• Driver’s license
• Student ID from your home institution (in addition to the AUC Student ID you will receive, as it can help secure discounts at many Egyptian tourist sites)
• Credit/debit card
• Photocopies of important documents (passport, credit cards, medical records, immunization certificates, birth certificate and others)
• Important phone numbers (bank, study abroad advisor, family contacts)
• Travel itinerary
• Guidebooks on Egypt and Cairo
• Money belt or secure pouch

Clothing and Supplies

Be mindful of cultural norms when selecting your wardrobe. If you feel uncomfortable or think an outfit might make you stand out, others will likely notice as well. Layering clothes is practical since Cairo’s weather can vary throughout the day. Pack light, as you can easily buy clothes locally.

Toiletries

Most toiletries are readily available in Cairo, so bring only brand-name items that might be difficult to find abroad. A good approach is to carry small or travel-sized toiletries initially and purchase more once you arrive.

Historic View

Cairo is undoubtedly a populous urban center; however, the majority of Egyptians inhabit rural areas. These are mostly the fellahin (farmers) whose way of life has centered in villages and the fields surrounding them. The construction of the High Dam in Aswan ended the flood cycle of the Nile and drew the fellahin even further into the world economic system. Other elements of the Egyptian population traditionally rooted in non-urban areas are the Bedouin and the Nubians, people who lived in an area south of Aswan along the Nile. When the rising water behind the High Dam displaced the Nubians, the Egyptian government relocated them to new villages, mainly north of Aswan. Cities like Cairo and Alexandria are a blend of many peoples and cultures resulting from successive invasions and migrations since pharaonic times. Greeks, Romans, Jews, Armenians, Arabs and Italians, among others, came from outside Egypt. Some groups formed their own communities and others mixed more readily with the local population. Today’s migration to the urban centers is composed mainly of Egyptians from rural areas who swell the ranks of the urban poor — people beginning the transition from an agricultural economy to the industrial and service sectors. The urban middle class is growing as the modern economic sector expands; it includes businessmen, educators, government officials and other professionals. The urban upper class consists of families that have been prominent for generations as landowners and the educated elite, as well as newly arrived members from the middle class who achieved prosperity during and since the Nasser and Sadat eras.

Climate

Cairo experiences hot summers and cool winters, with an average annual rainfall of just 1.6 inches, mostly during brief winter showers. Winter days tend to be sunny, but temperatures often drop sharply at night, sometimes down to 45°F (8°C). Spring can bring the khamaseen, a hot, dry southern wind that carries fine dust for about fifty days. Newcomers often expect the heat but may be unprepared for the cold desert nights.

Environment

Living near the Sahara Desert and in a major city means dust and pollution are common. Those with respiratory conditions should consult a doctor. Air pollution from industry and vehicles is persistent year-round. Smoking is widespread and socially accepted, unlike in many Western countries, though AUC campuses maintain smoke-free zones.

Traffic

Traffic congestion is a significant challenge in Cairo, with heavy traffic and constant car horns contributing to noise pollution. Some AUC faculty own cars, while others avoid driving due to traffic and parking difficulties. Public transportation options include taxis, buses, minibuses, and the Cairo metro, which offers affordable travel but can be crowded during peak hours.

Travel Within Egypt

Traveling inside Egypt is generally easy and affordable, with options like air-conditioned buses, first-class sleeper trains, and domestic flights. However, for security reasons, some remote areas away from main roads and tourist spots require police escorts, and it’s common to see police escorting tourist buses.

The Arabic Language

Arabic has evolved differently in its spoken and written forms due to historical and regional influences.

Colloquial Arabic refers to the various dialects used in everyday speech, differing widely across regions. It is usually not written, although some modern literature and plays use local dialects.

Classical Arabic includes Quranic, literary, and modern standard forms. Modern standard Arabic, used by educated Arabs for reading and writing, has evolved from earlier forms, much like modern English evolved from older variants. A simplified version called media Arabic is used in broadcasts and influenced by local dialects.

When studying Arabic, clarify your goals. Learning colloquial Arabic and the script isn’t mandatory, but it helps newcomers communicate and feel more independent. It aids in reading signs and daily conversation. Those committed to reading standard Arabic will later study modern standard Arabic. Egyptians appreciate any effort foreigners make to learn Arabic, so beginners should feel encouraged.

Social Perceptions and Customs

Professional and collegial interactions in Egypt largely resemble those elsewhere, though the personal lives of Egyptian friends and colleagues may be more conservative. Tradition, family, religion, paternal authority, and social class are highly valued, so it’s important to respect Egyptian social protocols. Key areas to be mindful of include ethnic identity, dress, gender relations, drugs, alcohol, gambling, and religion.

Ethnic Identity

Though Egypt is geographically in Africa (except the Sinai Peninsula), most Egyptians identify more with Mediterranean and Arab heritage than with sub-Saharan Africa. Egyptians often see themselves as descendants of the pharaohs, distinguishing their identity from other Arabs and African peoples. This sometimes surprises African and African-American visitors. Regardless of religious affiliation, foreigners are primarily seen as outsiders who should respectfully adapt to local customs.

Male-Female Relations 

Family is central to most young Egyptians’ lives, with many living in close-knit households and fulfilling family obligations. Major decisions, like choosing a school or spouse, are typically made collectively by the family, often considering social reputation. Although co-education at universities allows more interaction between genders without parental supervision, social activities usually happen in groups, often at home gatherings. Dating before engagement is uncommon. Friendly greetings often include a light kiss on both cheeks, but some religious men may avoid shaking hands with women. Public displays of affection, even between married couples, are generally viewed as inappropriate and embarrassing.

Safety and Harassment

Egypt’s crime rate is relatively low, and violent crimes are rare compared to other large cities. Social norms encourage community assistance, especially if a woman is in distress. General safety tips include avoiding crowded places and exercising caution when walking alone.

Drugs, Alcohol, and Gambling

Egypt enforces strict penalties for illegal drug use and trafficking. Alcohol consumption is restricted to licensed venues such as hotels, restaurants, and clubs. Locally produced beer and wine are sold in shops, while imported alcoholic beverages can be purchased at duty-free stores within 48 hours of arrival, requiring a passport. Gambling is prohibited under Islamic law, but casinos serving foreigners with non-Egyptian passports exist. All foreigners are subject to Egyptian law.

Religion

Religion strongly influences Egyptian life for both Muslims and Christians. Most Egyptians take religion seriously and find it difficult to conceive of agnosticism or atheism. Expressions like “enshallah” (God willing) and “il-ham-du lil-leh” (thanks be to God) are commonly used sincerely in daily conversation. Respect local religious sensitivities and avoid initiating discussions that compare Islam or Coptic Christianity unfavorably to your own beliefs. Proselytizing is illegal and can result in visa issues, deportation or imprisonment.

While you are in Egypt, you may require assistance from the consular section of your embassy. We recommend visiting your embassy’s website beforehand to familiarize yourself with the services they offer in Cairo. To avoid potential complications, it’s a good idea to bring original copies of important official documents (including the examples below) when you move to Cairo.

Medical Documents

If you have a specific medical condition, carry a card outlining your condition and any medications that should or should not be administered. The World Health Organization immunization card, which records your immunizations, blood type and other health information, is especially useful and may be required when traveling to certain regions with endemic diseases.

International Identity Cards

International identity cards for high school or college students and faculty members can be very helpful. These cards serve as the only internationally recognized proof of student or faculty status, granting access to discounts in many countries, including Egypt. These cards are valid for one year. You can find organizations in your home country that issue these cards by searching online and many offer applications online as well.

International Driver’s License

You must obtain an international driver’s license from your home country before arriving in Egypt. This license, along with your home driver’s license, allows you to drive in Egypt until you receive a temporary residence visa, after which you can obtain an Egyptian driver’s license. Once you have an Egyptian license, you can also get an international license issued by the Automobile and Touring Club of Egypt.

International Credit Cards

For information about using credit cards, refer to the money matters section of this document.

Marriage License

Married couples may find it necessary to carry their original marriage license when traveling in the Middle East. If spouses have different family names, this certificate is also required in Cairo when applying for a spouse’s residence visa.

Birth Certificate

This document is essential for passport renewals and can serve as additional proof of age.

Academic Credits and Transcripts

If you or your dependents plan to enroll in undergraduate, graduate or Arabic courses at AUC, bring any relevant academic transcripts.

Voting Registration

If you are an American planning to vote in a federal election while in Cairo, check with your hometown election board before departing to confirm your registration and apply for an absentee ballot. This advice also applies to citizens of other countries.

Tax Documents

Bring any necessary tax documents with you. You may want to arrange for a professional to file your taxes while you are in Egypt or gather detailed information on how to file taxes from abroad. Note that neither AUC nor the U.S. or other embassies in Cairo offer tax services, so plan accordingly.

Clothing

Cairo offers a wide variety of ready-made clothing styles, including many international brand names. Socks and underwear for men, women and children are easily found in department stores and specialty shops.

Shoes

Locally made sandals and shoes come in many sizes and styles, while imported shoes are available but often very expensive. Narrow widths and half sizes can be difficult to find, even among imports. It’s wise to bring durable everyday walking shoes for each family member and parents might consider packing larger shoes for children to grow into. Specialty sports shoes, such as those for baseball or track, should also be included if needed.

Sporting Clothing and Equipment

High-quality sportswear and gear can be costly or hard to find locally, so bringing specialty items is recommended. Tennis balls, wooden racquets and nylon strings are available but tend to be expensive. For snorkeling in the Red Sea, rental and sales of good equipment are common, but if you own scuba gear, it’s best to bring it along. A mask, lightweight wetsuit and dive computer are usually sufficient.

Kitchen Equipment and Household Supplies

AUC housing comes equipped with basic kitchen utensils, linens and tableware, which you can supplement with items from local markets. Paper products, cleaning supplies and laundry essentials are readily available. You can check the AUC housing office website for a detailed inventory.

Cookware and Electrical Appliances

Cookware and appliances are widely available in Cairo, but if you have small kitchen appliances you prefer, consider bringing them. Keep in mind that appliances imported under temporary admission must be taken out of Egypt when you leave, even if they no longer work. Specialty kitchen tools that make you feel at home—like baking tins, paring knives, meat thermometers or holiday cookie cutters—are good to bring.

Computers and Printers

AUC provides faculty with modern computing facilities and services. Computers, laptops and printers are available locally at various price points depending on features.

Small Electrical Appliances

Items such as radios, TVs, satellite receivers, audio/video equipment, vacuum cleaners and microwaves are plentiful in the local market. Consider your family’s needs and balance convenience against cost. If you bring these under temporary admission, you must take them with you when you leave, regardless of condition. Small radios and regular cameras are generally not problematic. However, photographing airports, bridges, military sites and other sensitive locations is prohibited in Egypt.

Washing Machines

Not all apartments include washing machines, but AUC New Cairo housing offers shared laundry rooms accessible to tenants. Laundry and dry-cleaning services are affordable compared to Western standards. Washing machines, new or used, can be purchased locally and resold when leaving Egypt. Many departing residents sell appliances they no longer need.

Medical Supplies and Toiletries

Toiletries, cosmetics and medications are available in Cairo, though not always in familiar brands. Bringing an extra supply of your preferred items can help while you find local alternatives. Sunscreen is available and if you wear contact lenses, bring cleaning supplies. Tampons and panty liners are sold in pharmacies and supermarkets. If you use contraceptives, bring enough of your preferred brand. The university clinic advises those on long-term prescription medications to bring at least a three-month supply in original labeled containers with prescriptions to avoid customs issues. Knowing the generic drug names is helpful. While most prescriptions are available locally, pharmacies may not always stock your specific brand and quality control can occasionally be a concern. Good-quality eyeglasses, including bifocals and multifocals (but not trifocals), can be made affordably in Egypt. Contact lenses are available, but dust may cause irritation or infections, so bring regular glasses as a backup.

Transportation

A wide range of new and used cars is available locally, often purchasable on installment plans. For short-term needs, cars can be rented—with or without drivers—from international agencies. Cairo’s transportation options include taxis, buses and a metro system. First-class buses and trains serve well for travel outside the city. Ride-sharing apps like Uber, Careem, inDrive and Didi are popular, affordable and convenient.AUC offers free bus transportation for employees from various neighborhoods to the New Cairo campus. Visit AUC’s transportation website for routes and schedules.

Electricity in Cairo, like in Europe, operates at 220 volts, whereas the United States and Canada use 110 volts. Additionally, the 220V outlets in Egypt may differ in style from European ones and are definitely different from the 110V outlets in the U.S., featuring round prongs that can vary in size. All electrical devices display their power ratings, for example:

• A/C adapter labeled 110 V 60 Hz 50W is designed for use only in the U.S.
• A/C adapter labeled 110/220 V 50/60 Hz 10W can be safely used in Egypt.

Most laptops and notebooks have power supplies rated for 100-240 V 50/60 Hz, allowing safe use in Egypt without issue. 

Plug Adapters and Voltage Transformers

To connect a 110V appliance with flat prongs to Egyptian sockets that require round prongs, you will need a plug adapter. Various adapters are widely available in Cairo. However, simply using a plug adapter without a voltage transformer or regulator can damage your appliances. It’s especially important to ensure proper voltage regulation when using household devices. A voltage transformer converts Egypt’s local 220V electricity to 110V. However, Cairo’s voltage can fluctuate, sometimes rising as high as 320V or dropping to 160V, which can harm sensitive electronics like computers, printers, TVs and stereos. Voltage regulators or stabilizers help maintain voltage within safe limits. These transformers and stabilizers are readily available in Cairo in capacities ranging from 50 to 2500 watts. For example, a 500-watt transformer works well for a computer, printer and stereo, while a 1000-watt model may be needed for laser printers or microwaves. The AUC housing office can provide relocated faculty, upon request, with one voltage transformer and plug adapters for their apartment. An AUC electrician will assess the specific appliance and arrange for the appropriate transformer.

Power Strips

You may also need a power strip alongside a voltage transformer for 110V electronics. Keep in mind that power strips are not transformers and most power strips sold in Cairo do not have built-in surge protection. Be sure to purchase a high-quality power strip with an appropriate power cord and adapter for your needs. If unsure, contact the AUC housing office for guidance once you arrive.

Buying Electrical Appliances

Although electrical appliances tend to be more expensive in Cairo, it is generally advisable to purchase them locally—especially if you come from a country using 110V power. The convenience of simply plugging in local appliances often outweighs the cost. Plus, you can usually resell these items quickly when you leave Egypt.

Seasonal Suggestions

During the summer, lightweight, loose-fitting cotton clothing is the coolest and most comfortable choice. Cotton-synthetic blends work well in spring and fall. Breathable fabrics are ideal for the hottest days. Keep in mind that many places in Cairo—such as cinemas, restaurants and the AUC New Cairo campus—are air-conditioned, so dressing in layers or having a light cover-up is advisable. In winter, some buildings have central heating while others do not, so layering your clothing is essential. Mornings and evenings can be chilly, while midday temperatures may be quite warm, making layers the best option for outdoor wear. Wool and wool-blend fabrics (preferably washable) are great additions to your winter wardrobe. Cotton turtlenecks are excellent for layering under sweaters,and a sturdy, versatile winter jacket is a must, along with lightweight long underwear. For women, cardigans, shawls or scarves are very useful. For young children, heavy winter sleepers are recommended to keep them warm.

The AUC Clinic is staffed with doctors and nurses who are available around the clock. When needed, university physicians can refer patients to specialists outside the clinic. Throughout Cairo and other major cities, there are both government and private hospitals, as well as numerous health clinics.

Pharmacists typically speak English. Below is a brief list of commonly available Egyptian over-the-counter medications for ailments such as diarrhea, sore muscles, insomnia, headaches, gas, heartburn, colds and seasonal allergies.

It is advisable to consult a doctor for any health concerns. AUC clinic doctors are available at both the Tahrir Square and New Cairo campus clinics. After clinic hours, you can contact them via their mobile phone numbers, which will be provided to you upon your arrival in Cairo.

At-Home Childcare

Nannies in Cairo are available for part-time, full-time or live-in positions. They may be Egyptian or come from countries such as Sudan, Ethiopia, Nigeria, the Philippines or Indonesia. Salaries vary depending on nationality and demand, as there is no fixed standard wage. Full-time nanny salaries (typically five or six days per week) depend on factors including working hours, education, language skills, literacy, previous experience and references, driving ability and knowledge of safety or first aid. Finding the right nanny, as anywhere, can be a time-consuming process requiring you to interview multiple candidates until you find a good match. Most nannies are hired through word of mouth, though some people have success with classified ads. Departing faculty or those no longer needing childcare often provide reference letters to the AUC Faculty Services Office, which can help you start your search. Other AUC parents are also valuable sources of recommendations.

Preschool Nursery/Daycare Centers

Cairo has several English-language and multilingual nursery or daycare centers, typically operating from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., five days a week. Recommendations from other AUC parents are available upon request. A private daycare center on the AUC New Cairo campus prioritizes AUC employees. Interested parents can visit the center’s website to reserve a spot before arriving in Cairo.

Equipment

Most childcare equipment, like strollers and walkers, can be purchased locally, but items not made in Egypt tend to be significantly more expensive. Limited retail competition keeps prices high, especially for specialty products.

Sundry Items

Many essentials such as disposable diapers, baby bottles and bottle warmers are available, but some items may be harder to find. Children’s clothing and toys for all ages are widely sold. Locally made products vary in quality and imported items usually come at a premium price. Diaper services are not offered in Cairo, but cloth diapers are available. The well-known U.S. brand bumGenius even manufactures some products in Egypt. If these are unavailable locally, they can be purchased directly from the manufacturer online.

Baby Food

Packaged and prepared baby foods, although produced locally, are considerably more expensive than in the U.S. Many parents opt to prepare homemade baby food using food processors, taking advantage of the plentiful, affordable and high-quality local fruits and vegetables.

Family Health Care

Upon arrival, you will receive a list of recommended child health care providers. The AUC clinic can provide pediatrician recommendations. While physicians generally speak some English, clinic staff may not. Vaccines are available but may need to be ordered in advance, so it’s important to keep a vaccination schedule handy, as doctors may not always proactively recommend necessary shots.

Parks and Recreational Facilities

Public parks in Cairo are scarce. Recreational options mainly include private sports and social clubs, which require membership and are popular gathering places for Egyptian families in the evenings and weekends. These clubs often feature restaurants, pools, sports facilities and children’s playgrounds, with some offering temporary or annual memberships for foreigners. Hotels may also offer day-use rates. Additionally, family-friendly amusement parks and playgrounds such as Kidzania, Bounce and Billy Beez are scattered throughout Cairo.

Registering a Child’s Birth in Egypt

The AUC Office of Business Support assists non-Egyptians with registering their child’s birth in Egypt. It’s advisable to contact them before your baby’s due date to learn which documents you’ll need before leaving the hospital. These documents are necessary for Egyptian birth registration. Once you have the official birth certificate, you can proceed to obtain the child’s passport from your embassy.

Full-time local employment opportunities are limited. Spouses of new faculty members who wish to work at other K-12 schools should apply well in advance of their arrival in Cairo. If full-time positions are not available, qualified individuals often find substitute teaching roles at various private English-language schools.

At AUC, the Department of Rhetoric and Composition, the English Language Institute and the English Studies division of the School of Continuing Education occasionally seek English language or writing instructors. These positions require a master’s degree and applications must be submitted ahead of time. Additionally, other AUC departments may hire local instructors for short-term assignments lasting a semester or two.

Egyptian Currency

The official currency of Egypt is the Egyptian pound (EGP). Hard currencies can be exchanged through banks or licensed dealers. It is also possible to open a U.S. dollar bank account in Egypt for transferring funds.

International Credit Cards

ATMs in Cairo and other major cities accept most major international credit cards. Withdrawals are debited in Egyptian pounds, often with an additional foreign transaction fee. International and national banks in Cairo, such as Commercial International Bank (CIB) and Citibank, issue Visa and MasterCard credit cards, though some may require a deposit. If you plan to travel internationally while living in Egypt, obtaining an international credit card from your home country is advisable. CIB also offers a debit card usable abroad.

Tipping in Egypt

Many people in Cairo supplement their income through tips, which are customary for a wide range of services. Common tipping practices include:

• Delivery personnel: EGP 10–20
• Laundry or ironing with home delivery: EGP 5–10
• Parking attendants: EGP 5–10
• Hairdressers: Typically EGP 50 for the main stylist and EGP 20 for assistants (for example, washing or styling)
• Butchers or produce helpers: EGP 20–30
• Waitstaff: 10% tip in addition to the 12% service charge

Postal Service

The postal service generally handles regular letters adequately. Mail to and from the United States and Canada usually takes a few weeks. However, disruptions such as censorship or complete loss of mail are not uncommon. For this reason, sending personal mail—like credit cards or bills—via a traveling colleague, courier or through the AUC mailing address is recommended. Online banking is strongly advised. For more details, check here.

Personal Mail Address in Egypt

In addition to your personal home address in Cairo, you may use the following addresses:

It is recommended to have your personal mail (excluding professional periodicals and books—see below) sent to the University, where it will be delivered to your office via campus mail. Mail for family members should be addressed in care of the primary employee:

The American University in Cairo
[Name of faculty/department]
P.O. Box 74, New Cairo 11835, Egypt

For courier deliveries, which do not accept P.O. Box addresses, use the street address below and include your department’s phone number:

The American University in Cairo
Office of Mail Services
90 Street
New Cairo

Important Documents (Paper Only)

Documents such as marriage and birth certificates, driving licenses, credit cards and bank statements may be sent to the AUC mailing address in New York to be delivered to Cairo via the weekly courier pouch. The address to use is:

The American University in Cairo
[Name of faculty/department]
420 Lexington Ave., Suite 1644,
New York, NY 10170

Address for Professional Periodicals Subscriptions

Faculty members may receive professional periodicals and books through the AUC US mailing address. Only one copy per book is allowed, as multiple copies of the same book will not be forwarded. The New York Office ships these items twice a month, with delivery typically taking about 15 days. Publishers should send materials to the address below:

The American University in Cairo
[Name of faculty/department]
1321 Upland Dr., no. 9009, Houston, TX 77043 USA.
“American University in Cairo” must appear in the address; otherwise, the item will be returned to the sender.

Note: Non-printed materials are not accepted at the AUC US mailing address for shipment to Cairo.

Packages

Most agree there is no reliable or affordable way to mail packages to Cairo. Air or surface mail packages often arrive irregularly and face long customs delays. Customs duties are high and claiming packages usually requires spending several hours at the post office. Essential packages can be sent via courier services such as Federal Express or DHL. Couriers require a street address and phone number (a P.O. Box is not sufficient). It is strongly advised to use your AUC address, including your department and office number, along with the phone number of your department’s assistant chair, in case you are unavailable. The courier company will provide the sender with a list of prohibited or restricted items for shipping to Egypt. The sender should also mail or fax the recipient a list of contents and shipping documents. While couriers may offer customs clearance, the recipient must pay any assessed duties. Courier shipping is expensive and combined with high customs fees, it is generally best to discourage family and friends from sending packages.

Courier Mail Pouch to the U.S. via AUC Faculty Services

The Office of Business Support organizes a bi-weekly courier pouch from AUC New Cairo to the AUC New York Office for printed materials only and regular envelopes only (packages are not accepted). Once received in New York, the mail is deposited in a U.S. mailbox. To use this service, you need sufficient U.S. postage on each item. If you run out of stamps, you can purchase them from the office of Business Support until you can restock from the U.S.

Calling Egypt from Abroad

Family and friends can directly call any landline or mobile phone in Cairo. To do so, they must dial their country’s international access code (for example, 011 for the USA and Canada), followed by Egypt’s country code 20, then Cairo’s city code 2 and finally the local number. The format for calling a Cairo landline is: 011-20-2-xxxxxxxx (where xxxxxxxx is the 8-digit landline number). To reach a mobile phone in Cairo, the format is slightly different. Most Cairo mobile numbers begin with 010, 011, 012, and others, which correspond to mobile operators and do not require the city code. Therefore, to call a Cairo mobile, dial 011-20-10x-xxxxxxx (where 10x is the mobile operator code).

Bringing or Buying a Mobile Phone

If you want to use your mobile phone both in the U.S. and Egypt, ensure it is a GSM phone with tri-band or quad-band capability. This will allow you to buy and use a local SIM card in Cairo. Without this, your phone may not work while in Egypt or during international travel. If you plan to buy a phone in Egypt but want to make international calls while in the U.S., you should choose a tri-band or quad-band model.

In Cairo, most faculty members use prepaid cell phone services from providers like Orange, Vodafone, Etisalat and We. AUC staff and faculty also have the option to subscribe to a monthly plan with Orange, with payments conveniently deducted from their Egyptian pound salary. Upon request, AUC can provide the necessary contact details to help you set up this service.

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