Travel Overview

Full Country Name: Arab Republic of Egypt

Capital: Cairo

Time: GMT plus two hours

Language: Arabic is the official language, while English and French are also widely understood, especially in the hospitality industry.

Entry Visas: Visitors to Egypt must obtain a visa and hold a passport that is valid for at least six months. Entry Visas can be arranged through Egyptian embassies worldwide. Visitors from USA, Canada, the European Union and Gulf Cooperation Council countries may be able to purchase an entry visa upon arrival at the main airports in Egypt. (Regulations are subject to change and should be checked prior to travel).

Currency: Egyptian Pound. 1 Egyptian pound = 100 piasters. 1 US Dollar = 5.6 Egyptian Pounds (rate of exchange varies).

Electricity: 220v, 50 Hz.

Taxes: Generally, taxes are applied to any service. Restaurants add 10% sales tax in addition to a 12% service charge, while luxury hotels can add around 2-4% to bills.

Tipping: Tipping is done at the customer's discretion (not compulsory), usually 10-15% of the total bill.