The most interesting shopping area for tourists in Cairo is the old
bazaar, Khan-el-Khalili, specializing in reproductions of antiquities. Jewelry, spices, copper utensils and Coptic cloth are some of the many special items. There are also modern
shopping centers available, particularly near Tehrir Square.
Haggling is expected, and sometimes encouraged, as a way of communication and human contact.
Shopping hoursWinter
: Tues, Wed, Fri and Sat 0900-1900, Mon and Thurs 0900-2000. During Ramadan, hours vary, with shops often closing on Sunday. Summer
: Tues, Wed, Fri-Sun
0900-1230 and 1600-2000.
Currency Information:CurrencyEgyptian Pound (EGP; symbol E£) = 100 piastres. Notes are in denominations of E£200, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 1, 50 piastres and 25 piastres. Coins are in denominations of 25, 20, 10 and 5 piastres.
Currency ExchangeAvailable at banks, official bureaux de change and most hotels. Banks often have better exchange rates than bureaux de change or hotels. All common international currencies are accepted.
Credit/Debit Cards and ATMsAmerican Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are accepted, but generally only in bigger hotels or restaurants in Cairo and restaurants in tourist areas.
Traveller's ChequesTo avoid additional exchange rate charges, travelers are advised to take traveller's cheques in US Dollars, Euros or Pounds Sterling.
Currency RestrictionsRestrictions apply.
Banking HoursSun-Thurs 0830-1400.
Exchange Rate Indicators| Date | Jan 09 |
| £1.00= | E£8.09 |
| $1.00= | E£5.49 |
| €1.00= | E£7.39 |
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