If you are planning a trip to Egypt for business, study abroad, or a vacation, it is important to understand the culture and customs of the country you are traveling to. Egypt often considers their country to be a bridge between the Egyptian West and Arab East. Some business practices may resemble European or Arabic customs. What should you know about etiquette and customs before you travel?  The following is a brief guide to Egyptian etiquette and customs. 

Meeting and Greeting

Greetings are based on the class or religion of the person. Therefore, it is wise to follow the lead of the person you are greeted by. Handshakes are the customary greeting among individuals of the same sex. Also, handshakes are limp and prolonged, given with a smile and direct eye contact.   

When men and women greet each other, the women should extend her hand first. If she does not extend her hand, men must bow his head in greeting.

Gift-Giving

It is appropriate to bring gifts to the home of your host. Acceptable gift ideas include good quality chocolate, sweets, or pastries. It is not appropriate to bring flowers unless you know that your host will appreciate them. Flowers are reserved for weddings or the ill. When giving a gift, you should give it with your right hand or with both hands if the gift is heavy. It is a good gesture to offer a small gift to children. This is a sign of affection. 

Dining Etiquette

If you are invited to an Egyptian home for a meal, you should remove your shoes when entering the home. Appearance is important in Egyptian culture; therefore you should dress conservatively. In addition, compliment your host on their home. 

When invited to an Egyptian home for dinner, you should not begin eating until your host or hostess tells you when to eat. When eating, you should only eat your food with your right hand. In addition, Egyptians consider salting your food to be unnecessary. It is also important to show appreciation to your host or hostess for the meal. 

Business Etiquette and Customs

When traveling to Egypt for business, it is important to understand proper etiquette and customs of the business culture. Appointments are taken seriously in Egyptian business culture. If you have a business appointment, make sure that you confirm your appointment one week in advance through written correspondence or by telephone. You should also reconfirm your meeting 1-2 days before the day of your meeting.

Business dress is formal and conservative in Egyptian culture. If you want to make a good impression, make sure to dress well and conservatively. Men should wear dark colored suits. Also, men should avoid wearing visible jewelry around their face and neck. Women should remember to make sure that their clothing covers them appropriately. For instance, skirts should cover the knee and jackets should cover most of their arm. 

Another important custom to remember when exchanging business cards is to make sure that your information is translated in Egyptian Arabic on one side of the card. You should also make sure that to study the card before putting it away in your business case.