How to Avoid a Cultural Faux Pas in Cairo

Cairo is the capital city of Egypt, and a city with an amazing history. From the medieval buildings of the Islamic City to the Coptic sites in Old Cairo, thousands of years of stories are waiting to be discovered by the adventurous traveller. The city is also within a short trip to the Pyramids of Giza and the Saqqara Pyramid Complex. As well as having a fascinating past, Cairo also has a modern and thriving nightlife scene and excellent shopping.

Before travelling to Egypt, take the time to learn a bit about Egyptian culture. If you can have an understanding of the customs and etiquette of Egyptians you will have an easier time getting around Cairo, making friends, and will be treated with more respect.

Here are a few things to remember while in Egypt:

• Always remove your shoes when entering a mosque, as to leave them on would be a great sign of disrespect. When you place your shoes down, lay them so that the soles are facing together, because it is considered back luck for the soles of the shoes to point at someone. Remember to keep your feet flat on the floor so that you do not point the bottoms of your feet at someone.
• Don’t give anyone the “thumbs up” sign. This is actually a rude gesture in Egypt.
• You should also remove your shoes if you are entering someone else’s house.
• Do not use your left hand to eat, gesture or shake hands. It is considered unclean.
• Especially if you are a woman, dress modestly while in Egypt.  Keep your cleavage, shoulders and knees covered and avoid tight, skimpy clothing. This will help avoid stares or catcalls from men who are not used to the revealing dress of Western society. Showing that you respect Egyptian culture by dressing conservatively will command more respect and positive treatment.
• The common greeting when meeting someone new is a handshake, but it is best to follow the lead of the Egyptian person you are meeting. People who know each other well might kiss on the cheek. When a man and a woman meet, she should extend her hand first, and if she does not the man will bow his head.
• If you are invited to an Egyptian home, don’t bring flowers as a gift. They are usually only given at weddings or to very ill people. Instead, bring chocolate, pastries, sweets, and a small gift for the children. It is not customary to open a gift right after receiving it, so don’t be offended if your host sets your gift aside and doesn’t open it right away.

It can be difficult to adjust to another culture while travelling but as long as you keep the Egyptian culture and traditions in mind when in Cairo, your efforts will be respected by the locals and you won’t have trouble making friends and creating warm travel memories.