Moving to a new country is an exciting yet challenging endeavor, and Egypt offers a unique blend of experiences for expatriates. To help prospective expats make an informed decision, we've compiled a comprehensive list of the pros and cons of living in Egypt.
Accommodation in Egypt
Pros: Diverse Housing Options
Egypt's property market caters to a wide range of preferences, from sprawling villas to upmarket studio apartments. Expats, whether families or individuals, will find options that suit their needs and budgets, particularly if they receive their income in foreign currency, such as US dollars.
Cons: Limited Nightlife
Due to Egypt's prevailing conservative culture, the nightlife scene is not as vibrant as in some other countries. While there are nightclubs and bars to be found, they are relatively scarce, making it necessary for those seeking a lively night out to put in some effort to discover the ideal spot.
Lifestyle in Egypt
Pros: Incredible Sightseeing Opportunities
Egypt boasts an abundance of world-renowned tourist attractions, including the iconic pyramids of Giza and the awe-inspiring Sphinx. Expats residing in Egypt have the privilege of exploring these remarkable landmarks.
Cons: Limited Nightlife
Egypt's conservative culture also impacts its nightlife. While there are nightclubs and bars, they are relatively few in number, necessitating some effort to find the right spots for those seeking a vibrant nightlife.
Culture in Egypt
Pros: Welcoming Locals
Egyptians are renowned for their hospitality and willingness to engage with newcomers. Expats who approach interactions with an open and kind demeanor are likely to establish quick and lasting friendships with locals.
Cons: Cultural Adjustment
The patriarchal nature of Egyptian society can be challenging for expats, especially Western women who may find themselves the subject of unwanted attention in the form of stares and catcalls. Coping with this may involve developing strategies to ignore such behavior or seeking assistance from local women when feeling unsafe.
Getting Around in Egypt
Cons: Chaotic Driving
Egypt is known for having one of the highest road accident casualty counts globally. Local drivers often exhibit unpredictable behavior and frequently fail to signal, making it difficult for other drivers to respond promptly. Expats are advised to consider alternative transportation options like taxis, public transport, or hiring personal drivers to navigate the chaotic roads.
Pros: Efficient Cairo Metro
While many aspects of Egypt's public transport system may be less than ideal, the Cairo metro stands out as an efficient, fast, and reasonably priced option. It should be noted that this convenient mode of public transport is limited to Cairo and unavailable in other parts of the country.
Education in Egypt
Cons: Local Education Challenges
Public education in Egypt generally suffers from low quality, and the primary language of instruction is Arabic. Consequently, most expat families opt to enroll their children in international schools.
Pros: International School Options
Egypt's major cities, such as Giza and Cairo, host a variety of international schools, providing parents with the opportunity to choose the curriculum that best suits their preferences.
Cons: Financial Considerations
In addition to the already substantial annual school fees, parents often face additional expenses for items like uniforms, extracurricular activities, textbooks, and school excursions.
In conclusion, Egypt offers a wide array of experiences and opportunities for expatriates, but it also presents its share of challenges. By carefully considering the pros and cons outlined in this article, individuals and families contemplating a move to Egypt can make informed decisions that align with their priorities and expectations.
