Greetings and Everyday Manners
"As-salamu alaykum" (peace be upon you) is a universally appreciated greeting, and a simple "shukran" (thank you) goes a long way. A handshake is the standard greeting between men, but it's respectful to wait and see whether a woman offers her hand first rather than initiating. The right hand is traditionally used for eating, giving, and receiving — the left is considered less polite for these purposes. Egyptians are famously warm and hospitable; accepting an offer of tea or coffee, even briefly, is a genuine social courtesy rather than a sales tactic in most everyday settings.
Dress and Photography
Modest dress — covering shoulders and knees — is appreciated at religious sites and in more conservative towns outside the big tourist resorts, where swimwear and shorts are entirely normal. Always ask before photographing people directly, especially women, and be aware that some archaeological sites restrict photography or charge a separate camera fee. Mosques generally welcome respectful visitors outside prayer times, but shoes come off before entering and women typically cover their hair with a scarf, often available to borrow at the entrance.
Tipping and Everyday Courtesy
Baksheesh — small tips for everyday services — is a deeply embedded part of Egyptian daily life, not optional politeness. Bathroom attendants, bag handlers, and anyone who offers a small service or piece of information generally expect a few Egyptian pounds. Tour guides and drivers are typically tipped at the end of a trip, with reasonable guideline amounts usually suggested by your tour operator. None of this is about being taken advantage of — it reflects an economy where many service jobs are structured around these small payments, and a little generosity, offered with a smile, is always warmly received.
