Time Difference
Egyptian time is two hours ahead of GMT. As they do not observe daylight saving time, during our summer, the time difference is only one hour ahead.
Money
Banks typically operate from Sunday to Thursday, opening between 8:30am and 2:00pm. However, during Ramadan, hours may be limited to 10:00am to 2:00pm. Banks close on Fridays and Saturdays, but most hotels can assist with currency exchange throughout the week. ATMs are widely available and accept major credit cards. It's important to note that currency cannot be taken out of Egypt, so ensure you exchange it before departing the country.
Power Plugs and Electricity
Egypt uses 220 volts and uses plugs with two round pins, so be sure to pack a European adapter.
Local Amenities
Shops generally operate from 10:00am to 9:00pm, but on Fridays, they may close between 11:00am and 1:00pm for prayers. Sundays often see the closure of many shops. Museums maintain daily opening hours from 9:00am to 4:00pm, except on Fridays when they close between 11:00am and 1:00pm. During Ramadan, businesses may close early, with shops shutting down from 3:00pm until 7:00pm for the evening fast.
Media
El Ahram (The Pyramids) is a widely read daily newspaper, available online in English weekly. For English-speaking readers, The Daily News Egypt is a popular newspaper. Many hotels offer access to English news channels such as CNN, BBC World and Al Jazeera English.
Post
Post can be sent from hotels or main post offices in major city centres, although smaller post offices may be less reliable. Delivery to the UK typically takes at least five days. Except on Fridays (when they are closed) post offices are open every day from 8:30am until 3:00pm.
Phone
To call Egypt from the UK, dial 00 20, followed by the area code and contact number. To call the UK from Egypt, dial 00 44, followed by the contact number.
Internet and Mobile Coverage
Most Egyptian hotels have free Wi-Fi, though connections may be somewhat slow. Numerous cafes and public places also offer complimentary Wi-Fi. Mobile coverage is generally reliable, particularly in urban areas.
Currency
The local currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP).
