Basic Etiquette in Egypt:
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Wear suit and tie for men and for women, suits or any smart and MODEST
clothing
 Let the other party initiate the greeting style first
 Business cards should be printed in English on one side and arabic on the other
Eating/visiting:
 When visiting a mosque or someone’s home, it is important to take your shoes
off.
 When visiting someone’s home, brining good quality sweets like chocolates is
always a good option.
 Do not bring your spouse to a business meeting at a restaurant and only bring
your spouse if they are invited.
 Tips are usually around 10 percent and may or may not be included in your
check.
 For business meetings, be on time but locals may show up late but don’t be
offended
 Unless clearly invited to do so, do not offer to shake the other person(s) (of a
different sex) hand or hug.
Basic Etiquettes
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It is impolite if you point toes or heels or any part of the foot towards another
person.
It is also impolite to show the sole of one’s shoe to another.
It is important to dress modestly.
Be respectful to those that are older than you and make sure to refer to them in
respectful terms and manners.
Pointing can be considered rude.
Do not be surprised if other party raises their voice(s) it is pretty normal
Do not cross you legs while sitting
“Thumbs up” sign is offensive in Egypt
Eating
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Wait for the host or hostess to seat you and wait for them to serve the guests
rather than serving yourself.
It can be polite to leave a small bit of food on your plate after eating because it
indicates that you have been fed well.
Do not salt your food when you receive it because it may seem impolite.
Compliment the food and do not question the method of cooking.
Do not eat with your left hand when it comes to communal food because left
hand is generally used for personal hygiene. Hold utensils in right hand! Do not
pass food or place your left hand on the table.
Only offer alcohol if you know that they consume it.
Do not offer pork or products that relates to pigs (high Muslim population)
Meat must be halal and do not eat in front of others during Ramadan.
Always accept offers for coffee and teas and do not pour your own drink and be
aware of others’ glasses during meal to make sure they aren’t empty and pour
them a drink if they are. Do not refill your own drinks.
Do not fill your plate full at first because it is polite to go back for seconds.