Practical Information in Cairo
You'll need an empty suitcase to haul home those miniature pyramids you swore you'd never buy. Add bags of patience, a handful of cheery Arabic greetings and comfortable shoes.
GMT
GMT +2 (+3 in summertime)
Money
Egyptian pound (£ or EGP) is the currency.
Visas
Each country has its own regulations and restrictions for its visitors. Find specific visa information for your destination.
Health
Travelling to (sub) tropical destinations means taking care of your health. Read more about health issues for the area you're visiting.
Electricity
220V AC, 50 Hz, two-pin round plugs are standard.
Dialling Code
+20 (national), (0) 2 + 8-figure number (Cairo).
Cairo Tourist Info
Travel Insurance
Read more and open a travel insurance policy straightaway .
Fit In
Muslim Cairo may be conservative but it doesn't stop the in-crowd dressing up for a night out. For daytime sightseeing, stick to loose cotton clothing, with long trousers or skirts, covering upper arms. Women should bring a headscarf for mosque visits.
Public Holidays 2011-2012
- Moulid el-Nabi (Prophet's anniversary) 15 Feb
- Sham El Nessim 25 Apr
- Sinai Liberation Day 25 Apr
- Labour Day 1 May
- Evacuation Day 18 Jun
- Revolution Day 23 Jul
- Eid al-Fitr (end of Ramadan) 30 Aug-2 Sep
- Armed Forces Day 6 Oct
- Eid al-Adha (Feast of Sacrifice) 6-9 Nov
- Ma'al Hijra (Islamic New Year) 26 Nov
- Victory Day 23 Dec
- Coptic Christmas 7 Jan
- Egypt Police Day 25 Jan
