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Cairo Dress Code
Casual clothing is standard wear in Cairo, with few places insisting upon formal attire. Egyptians are used to visitors removing layers in the heat of the sun and although they feel disapproval there is rarely any manifestation of it. However, if visitors would like to respect their hosts there are certain constraints that should be observed. Islam teaches that displaying the human body is not acceptable. Tight clothing, shorts, strappy tops and miniskirts would not be suitable, particularly when visiting mosques. Long, loose clothing that covers the arms and legs will be cooler, keep the sun from burning and gain respect from the Muslim population.
Greeting Someone in Cairo
Shaking hands upon greeting someone in Egypt is perfectly acceptable. However, there are a few important points to note. Although a left-handed greeting is not the norm anywhere, here in Egypt it is actually deemed offensive. It is also better to accept gifts and eat with the right hand rather than the left. Sitting down with the soles of the feet facing another person is considered impolite. To show respect for Egypt's religious sensibilities, refrain from public displays of affection, particularly between opposite sexes.
Cairo Business Hours and Banking
Government offices are open from 09:00 to 14:00, except on Fridays and sometimes Saturdays. Business hours for the private sector are generally 09:00 to 14:00 in winter (13:00 in summer); most open again in the evening from 17:00 to 20:00. Muslim businesses may be closed on Thursday afternoons and Fridays; Christian businesses on Saturday afternoons and Sundays.
Cairo Smoking
Restaurants cater for both smokers and non-smokers, but there is a ban on smoking on public transport and the visitor should observe this. In business, it is advisable to refrain and take cues from the host.
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Cairo City Facts
Cairo Population: 11,146,000 (Source: UN Population Estimate Revision 2003)
Egypt Population: 74,878,000 (Source: UN Population Estimate Revision 2003)
Currency: Egyptian Pound (EGP)
Time Zone: GMT plus two hours, Eastern Standard Time plus seven hours, Pacific Standard Time plus ten hours
Language: Arabic
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| Weather |
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Cairo - Five-Day Weather Forecast
Cairo Climate
Although warm all year round, with temperatures ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 36°C (100°F), it can feel cold at night during March and April. From February to April, a hot sandstorm called a khamsin blows intermittently, although never for more than eight hours at any one time.
Cairo Climate Chart
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Cairo Tipping Advice
Tipping in Egypt is called baksheesh. In hotels and restaurants a gratuity of between 10% and 15% is the acceptable norm. However, baksheesh is expected for every service. Attendants at Cairo's historical buildings, footwear supervisors in mosques, taxi and camel drivers, baggage handlers and tour assistants will all ask for something extra from those who can afford it. Low wages necessitate this requirement and the working people of Egypt rely on the generosity of visitors. The equivalent of between USD 1.00 and USD 2.00 is an appropriate amount each time.
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| Maps |
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Cairo Street Maps
Choose a sector to view by clicking on the overview map.
Cairo Area Map
32 kilometres (20 miles)Return to Top
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Cairo Transportation
Cairo is easy to reach by road, rail and air. Be prepared for delays if you travel during the annual pilgrimage to Mecca as Cairo's airport becomes extremely busy at this time.
Arriving by Air
Cairo is served by the popular and efficient Cairo International Airport (CAI).
Getting Around Cairo
Public transport is the wisest way to get around Cairo rather than hiring a car and attempting to drive yourself. Taxis are a legendary part of life in Cairo and are good, safe methods, but you should always agree a fare with the driver before the journey.
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