Egypt is a fascinating blend of ancient history and modern vibrancy, where navigating currency and payments is key to a smooth trip. Whether you’re bargaining in a traditional souk, dining in a luxury restaurant, or tipping for excellent service, understanding how to pay is essential. This guide covers everything you need to know—what currency to bring, the best ways to get money and currency in Egypt (Egyptian Pounds (EGP)), cash safety tips, and important dos and don’ts. With these insights, you’ll avoid unnecessary fees and enjoy a hassle-free experience while exploring Egypt’s wonders.
How to pay in Egypt – cash or card?
In Egypt, while digital payment methods are gaining traction, cash stays a dominant form of transaction. Nearly 70% of point-of-sale transactions in Egypt are conducted using cash, showing a gradual shift towards digital payments.
You can use cash for:
- Public Transportation: Buses, local trains, and microbuses usually need cash.
- Street Vendors and Markets: Local markets, bazaars, and food stalls mostly accept cash.
- Small Businesses: Many small shops and eateries prefer cash.
- Tips and Gratuities: Tourists used cash for tipping for dining, tour guides, and hotel staff.
You can use card for:
- Hotels: Prominent hotels, particularly in tourist destinations, accept credit and debit cards.
- Restaurants: Upscale and chain restaurants found in urban centers often accept card payments.
- Retail Stores: Shopping malls, branded stores, and supermarkets in larger cities typically accept cards.
- Car Rentals and Travel Agencies: Established agencies accept card payment options.
- Online Bookings: Reservations for flights, hotels, and tours are generally available using cards.
- Entry Fees: Some museums, temples, and historical sites.
What’s the best currency to take to Egypt
Egyptian Pounds are typically the best currency to take if you are travelling to Egypt. Paying or withdrawing money in the local currency comes with the least amount of fees, sometimes fee-free too.
Many tour operators and hotels quote rates in Euros and Dollars, sometimes only accepting Euros. Paying in USD or Euros often results in poor exchange rates, so it’s best to pay in Egyptian Pounds (EGP) to avoid losing money.
Where to get currency in Egypt
There are 3 main ways to get currency in Egypt. They are:
ATMs,
Currency exchange, or
Money transfer & local pick-up
Types of cards to swipe in Egypt
Visa and Mastercard transactions are commonly accepted for swiping. You might also find some places that accept Amex and other cards, albeit less often.
Types of cards at ATMs in Egypt
If you’re withdrawing money in Egypt from an ATM, ATMs in Egypt commonly accept Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, and Cirrus cards. American Express, Diners Club, JCB UnionPay, Discover or Rupay cards are not accepted.
Should I exchange money before travelling to Egypt
It may be a good idea to bring a small amount of Egyptian Pounds (EGP) before traveling for immediate expenses like taxis, tips, or small purchases. However, exchange rates outside Egypt are often less favorable, and some banks may not stock EGP.
So, a practical approach is to withdraw EGP from ATMs in Egypt soon as you arrive, as they are widely available in airports, cities, and tourist areas. Most accept Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus, Plus, and Maestro cards. Of course, check your bank’s currency conversion fees to withdraw cash abroad.
If you wish to exchange currency in Egypt, ideally do it in the city at licensed exchange bureaus. Only if you prefer convenience or need local cash urgently, you can exchange a small amount of money upon arrival in Egypt at the airport. Be cautious of airport exchange offices, as they may have higher fees.
Carrying a mix of cash and cards ensures flexibility, and if you bring USD, EUR, or GBP, you can exchange them at local banks or bureaus for better rates banks, exchange bureaus, or ATMs, which offer better rates than foreign banks.
Where to withdraw currency in Egypt
The best ATMs for foreigners to use in Egypt are those owned by popular banks such as:
National Bank of Egypt (NBE)
Banque Misr
QNB Alahli
CIB
Faisal Bank
There are other banks with ATMs that also accept international debit and credit cards. Some international banks also have their ATMs in Australia, namely HSBC and Credit Agricole.
Where to exchange currency in Egypt
Usual places to exchange currency in Egypt are licensed exchange bureaus or banks. You can also use the currency exchange ATMs available in some locations.
In Egypt, currency exchange offices, known locally as saraafi, are widely available in tourist areas, shopping malls, and airports, providing competitive rates comparable to those offered by banks. In major cities like Cairo, exchange offices are prevalent in areas such as Downtown, Dokki along Tahrir Street, and within hotels like the Hilton Ramses. Other tourist destinations like Luxor, Aswan, Alexandria, Sharm El Sheikh, and Hurghada also have many exchange offices. Most exchange offices run from around 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, though hours can vary depending on the location and city.
Banks: Major banks such as the National Bank of Egypt, Banque Misr, and Commercial International Bank (CIB) offer currency exchange services. You’ll find these banks throughout cities and airports.
You can find good currency exchanges using the ATM Fee Saver app – it will guide you to the nearest currency exchange on the map. The App helps you with forex places in 100+ countries including Egypt.
Avoid Airport Exchanges and no-fee exchange offices: They have the highest fees and poorest exchange rates. Wait to get to the city to exchange cash.
Safety of carrying cash in Egypt
Carrying a large amount of money in Egypt is not recommended, especially in crowded areas where pickpocketing can occur. Carry only what you need for the day or a few hours. To keep your cash safe:
- Distribute your cash across multiple pockets, wallets, or bags.
- Use a money belt or fanny pack for added security.
- Avoid displaying large sums of money in public places.
- Be discreet when making payments, especially in markets or street stalls.
- Keep your wallet in your front pocket or a secure crossbody bag.
- Stay alert in crowded areas like tourist attractions, bazaars, and public transportation.
By following these precautions, you can minimize the risk of theft and keep your money secure while traveling in Egypt.
Is it better to use debit or credit cards or pay by cash in Egypt
Use a card if it is fee-free i.e. your bank does not charge any fees to swipe the card, when the merchant / POS also does not impose any extra charge to use a card, you need to use the insurance of the card, don’t want to block cash of large purchases and card’s swipe fees are lower than withdrawal fees.
Pay by cash by withdrawing cash from ATM or exchanging currency where – fees on ATM withdrawals are lesser than fees on swiping cards, you don’t want to leave any digital footprint of your expenses, it is convenient and easier to conduct transactions.
