Few places in the world balance ancient charm and modern energy like Egypt as an Expat. From the timeless pyramids of Giza to the busy streets of Cairo and the beaches of the Red Sea, Egypt offers expats an incredible mix of culture, affordability, and opportunity.
In recent years, Egypt has become a top destination for expatriates — professionals, teachers, digital nomads, and families looking for adventure and a lower cost of living. Whether you’re relocating for work, retirement, or lifestyle, this guide covers everything you need to know before moving to Egypt in 2025.
Visa & Residency Requirements
Most foreigners can easily enter Egypt with a tourist visa, and many choose to extend or convert it to residency after arrival.
Types of Visas for Expats
- Tourist Visa: Valid for 30–90 days. Can be extended in Egypt.
- Work Visa: Required if you’re employed by an Egyptian company or international organization.
- Resident Visa: For long-term stays — often tied to employment, marriage, or property ownership.
Tip: Always check the latest regulations through the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or your local embassy, as visa rules can change.
Cost of Living in Egypt (2025)
Egypt is known for its affordability compared to most expat destinations in the Middle East or Europe. Your expenses will depend on your lifestyle and location — Cairo and New Cairo are more expensive than smaller cities or coastal towns.
| Expense | Average Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (2-bedroom, Cairo) | $400–$800 |
| Rent (compound, New Cairo) | $800–$1,500 |
| Groceries & dining | $200–$600 |
| Utilities & internet | $50–$150 |
| Transportation | $30–$150 |
| International school fees | $15,000–$35,000 per year |
On average, expats can live comfortably on $1,500–$2,500 per month, depending on family size and neighborhood.
Best Places to Live as an Expat in Egypt
Choosing the right area makes all the difference. Cairo, Alexandria, and Red Sea resorts like Hurghada and El Gouna are the most popular expat spots.
Cairo
The capital is Egypt’s business and cultural hub — full of international schools, embassies, and global companies.
Best Areas in Cairo for Expats:
- Maadi: Green, quiet, and family-friendly.
- New Cairo: Modern compounds, close to embassies and schools.
- Zamalek: Trendy, central, and full of cafes, art galleries, and expats.
- Sheikh Zayed / 6th of October: Peaceful suburban feel with modern amenities.
Red Sea Coast
If you prefer coastal living:
- Hurghada: Great for divers and retirees.
- El Gouna: A luxury resort town with villas, lagoons, and a strong expat community.
- Sharm El Sheikh: Ideal for hospitality and tourism professionals.
Healthcare in Egypt
Healthcare in Egypt is a mix of public and private systems. While public hospitals are inexpensive, most expats prefer private clinics and international hospitals, especially in Cairo and Alexandria.
Recommended Hospitals & Clinics for Expats
- As-Salam International Hospital (Cairo)
- Cleopatra Hospital (Heliopolis)
- Nile Hospital (Maadi)
- Dar El Fouad (6th of October City)
Tip: Always get comprehensive international health insurance — it covers private care and emergencies.
Education & International Schools
Egypt has a wide network of top-tier international schools, particularly in Cairo. You can find American, British, French, German, Canadian, and IB programs.
Some popular choices include:
- Cairo American College (Maadi)
- British International School in Cairo (BISC)
- Lycée Français du Caire (LFC)
- Malvern College Egypt (New Cairo)
- BCCIS (British Columbia Canadian International School)
For detailed school comparisons, read our full guide:
Best International Schools in Cairo for Expats
Commute Around Cairo
Traffic in Cairo can be intense — but once you get used to it, it’s manageable.
Transportation Options:
- Uber & Careem: Reliable and affordable ridesharing.
- Metro: Covers key parts of Cairo and is cheap.
- Taxis: Widely available but always agree on the fare first.
- Private drivers: Common for expats, especially families.
Driving Tip: You can use your international license for up to six months, after which you’ll need to convert it to an Egyptian one.
Culture & Lifestyle
Egyptians are famously warm, generous, and family-oriented. Expats often find themselves quickly welcomed into local communities.
What to Expect
- Language: Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken in cities.
- Religion: Predominantly Muslim, but diverse and tolerant.
- Dress Code: Modest attire is appreciated, especially outside tourist areas.
- Social Life: Vibrant — expect lots of coffee, food, and friendly conversation.
Fun Fact: Egyptians love to help foreigners — don’t be surprised if strangers offer directions or advice.
Safety and Security
Egypt is generally safe for expats, especially in areas like Maadi, New Cairo, Zamalek, and El Gouna. Petty theft is rare, but it’s wise to take basic precautions.
Tips for Staying Safe
- Avoid isolated areas late at night.
- Register with your embassy upon arrival.
- Use licensed taxis or apps like Uber.
- Respect local customs and laws.
Note: Tourist and expat areas are heavily policed and well-protected.
Working in Egypt
Egypt’s economy is growing fast, especially in education, tourism, real estate, and technology. Expats work mainly in international companies, embassies, NGOs, and schools.
Work Essentials
- A valid work permit (sponsored by your employer).
- Contract signed and registered with the Ministry of Manpower.
- Basic Arabic helps, but English is enough for most international roles.
Networking tip: LinkedIn and local expat groups on Facebook are great places to find job leads.
Everyday Life for Expats
Life in Egypt is a blend of old-world charm and modern convenience. You’ll find:
- Affordable domestic help
- Fresh local produce and international brands
- Shopping malls, cinemas, and cafés everywhere
- Weekend getaways to the Red Sea or the Pyramids
Most expats say the same thing: Egypt feels chaotic at first — but you quickly fall in love with it.
Quick Tips for a Smooth Relocation
- Learn a few basic Arabic phrases — locals will love you for it!
- Carry cash — not every shop accepts cards.
- Dress modestly, especially in rural areas.
- Always negotiate prices in markets and taxis.
- Be patient — Egypt runs on its own relaxed schedule.
Conclusion
Moving to Egypt as an expat is more than just a relocation — it’s an adventure filled with culture, warmth, and opportunity. From its affordable lifestyle and rich history to its growing international communities, Egypt truly has something for everyone.
Whether you’re planning to work, retire, or raise a family, you’ll find Egypt to be one of the most welcoming and fascinating places in the world to call home.