Doing business in
Egypt
UK Trade & Investment Doing business in Egypt
Are you a UK company wishing to export overseas?
Interested in entering or expanding your activity in the Egyptian
market? Then this guide is for you!
The main objective of this Doing Business Guide is to
provide you with basic knowledge about Egypt; an
overview of its economy, business culture, potential
opportunities and an introduction to other relevant
issues. Novice exporters, in particular will find it a useful
starting point.
Further assistance is available from the UKTI team in
Egypt. Full contact details are available at the end of this
guide.
Important Information - Sanctions and Embargoes
Some countries maybe subject to export restrictions due to sanctions and embargoes
placed on them by the UN or EU. Exporting companies are responsible for checking that
their goods can be exported and that they are using the correct licences.
Further information is available on the Department for Business, Innovation & Skills (BIS)
The purpose of the Doing Business guides, prepared by UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) is to provide information to help
recipients form their own judgments about making business decisions as to whether to invest or operate in a particular
country. The Report’s contents were believed (at the time that the Report was prepared) to be reliable, but no
representations or warranties, express or implied, are made or given by UKTI or its parent Departments (the Foreign and
Commonwealth Office (FCO) and the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS)) as to the accuracy of the
Report, its completeness or its suitability for any purpose. In particular, none of the Report’s contents should be construed
as advice or solicitation to purchase or sell securities, commodities or any other form of financial instrument. No liability is
accepted by UKTI, the FCO or BIS for any loss or damage (whether consequential or otherwise) which may arise out of or
in connection with the Report.
UK Trade & Investment Doing business in Egypt
Content
INTRODUCTION.................................................................................................................... 4
PREPARING TO EXPORT TO EGYPT ................................................................................... 7
HOW TO DO BUSINESS IN EGYPT ................................................................................... 10
BUSINESS ETIQUETTE, LANGUAGE AND CULTURE ...................................................... 13
CONTACTS ........................................................................................................................... 16
RESOURCES/USEFUL LINKS ............................................................................................. 17
UK Trade & Investment Doing business in Egypt
Introduction
If you are a UK company wishing to do business overseas then perhaps Egypt may offer opportunities for you.
Alternatively, you may already be interested in entering or expanding your activity in the Egyptian market.
Either way, this guide is for you.
This document is designed to provide an overview of the Egyptian market, including general information on the
legal and regulatory environment for conducting business in Egypt. We recommend that companies seriously
interested in investing in Egypt or signing agreements with partners or distributors should seek professional
legal advice before signing contracts. We can provide contact details of lawyers operating in the Egyptian
market.
Additional detailed information on Egypt, and advice on how to access our market intelligence and services, can
be obtained from the UK Trade and Investment Team in Egypt. Full contact details are available at the end of
this guide.
Whilst we make every effort to ensure that the information is accurate, UK Trade & Investment can accept no
responsibility for any errors, omissions or misleading statements.
Market Strength
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Egypt is an emerging market offering a multitude of business opportunities for UK Companies; it is an
attractive location for foreign companies keen to enter the market or expand their business in the
region for a number of reasons:
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It offers a stable environment in terms of infrastructure, climate, costs, language and geographical
location
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Egypt’s strategic geographical location in the centre of MENA region (800 million people) bridges the
continents of Asia, Africa and Europe and makes it a hub for international trade between Europe and
Middle & Far East. The Suez Canal links the Red Sea to the Mediterranean - a connection vital not just
to Egypt but to the world. Approximately, 12% of the world’s trade and 22% of global container
transport pass through the Suez Canal each year. Egypt earned $5.13 billion in tolls from the canal in
2012
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Egypt has access to large key markets in the region and globally through multilateral and bilateral trade
agreements with the USA, European, Middle Eastern and African countries; this benefits Egypt-based
producers supplying these markets
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It is a highly accessible country through 83 airports, 15 commercial ports and a well-established railway
and road network. The movement of goods has speeded up with an improved transport system and
modernized ports.
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The cost of doing business in Egypt is favourable, particularly with regard to labour and land costs.
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Egypt’s economy is one of the most diversified in the Middle East and has an area four times the size of
the UK. It is the third largest economy in the Arab world after Saudi Arabia and the UAE. The economy
has been moving from central command and control to a more free market based system with the
private sector increasingly asserting leadership. The state is being modernized; increasingly efficient
public administration methods and sound business management practices are being introduced.
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Egypt’s young dynamic population of over 85 million provides both latent productive capacity and
increasing consumer demand. It is the largest Arab country (one in every four Arabs is Egyptian), and
the middle class is expanding.
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Underpinning this are positive demographics: 50% of Egyptians are between the age of 15 and 44
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Egypt is rich in natural resources, chief amongst which are oil, natural gas, iron ore, phosphates and
gold. In general, Egypt´s mineral wealth is under-exploited.
UK Trade & Investment Doing business in Egypt
Bilateral Business Relations
The January 25, 2011 “Arab Spring” revolution and the subsequent political transition towards democracy have
affected the political, economic, commercial and security environment in Egypt. Nonetheless:
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Egypt remains the fourth largest export market for UK products and services in the region.
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Egypt will remain heavily import-dependent for the foreseeable future and Egypt-UK business relations
are very healthy.
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The UK is Egypt’s largest foreign investor based on cumulative FDI figures since 1970. Cumulative UK
investments in Egypt are estimated at over US$30 billion, and continue to increase.
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According to GAFI, the Egyptian General Authority for Investment there are over 900 UK-invested
companies operating in Egypt including companies such as British Gas, BP, Shell, Vodafone, Barclays,
HSBC, GSK, AstraZeneca, IHG, G4S and Unilever. The UK’s investment portfolio is therefore diverse
including major UK multinationals in the oil & gas, financial services, pharmaceuticals and
telecommunications sectors amongst others.
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UK exports of goods to Egypt continue to suffer the effect of the continuing disruptions that started in
2011, falling by 11% to £921m year-on-year in 2012 whilst UK imports of goods dropped by 21% to
£624m over the same period. Prior to the revolution, bilateral trade figures increased yearly since 2000
and continued on the upward trend through the financial crisis. The UK’s top exports in 2012 to Egypt
were metalliferous ores & metal scrap, fruit & vegetables, general industrial machinery & equipment,
and medicinal & pharmaceutical products.
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Egypt was added to the list of high priority markets in UKTI’s new five year strategy in May 2011 which
demonstrated the commitment of the UK to the promotion of trade links with Egypt.
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During the years prior to the global downturn in 2009, Egypt experience economic growth rates of
between 7% and 8%. The fundamental advantages of the economy have not changed. There is every
reason to believe that once political, economic and social stability return to the country these growth
rates can and will be achieved again. UK companies already doing business in or with Egypt will then be
well placed to benefit.
Market Challenges
Although regulatory reform had developed considerable momentum prior to the 2011 revolution, red tape and
inefficiency remain major challenges to doing in Egypt. For example:
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Multiplicity of regulations and regulatory agencies
Excessive bureaucracy
Slow and cumbersome customs procedures
Limited access to credit
Non-tariff trade barriers
Arbitrary decision-making
High market entry transaction costs
Unresponsive commercial court system
Corruption: In 2012, Egypt was ranked 118 out of 183 countries on Transparency International’s Global
Corruption Perception Index
Protectionist policies through price controls, non-issuance of new insurance & banking licences and the
requirement forcing foreign operators to acquire stakes in an existing company in these sectors.
Restrictions on foreign property ownership
More recently, limited access to hard currency and exchange controls
Nevertheless, the many UK companies invested in and trading with Egypt bear testament to the fact that these
challenges can be and are being overcome.
UK Trade & Investment Doing business in Egypt
Opportunities in Egypt
Egypt is a challenging market with significant developmental needs, and therefore enormous opportunity in the
following sectors:
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Retail
Education & Training
Infrastructure (Rail, Ports & logistics, Airports)
Environment & Water
Construction & Engineering
Energy (oil & gas, power & renewable)
ICT
Life sciences
Security
The Suez Canal corridor project, identified as a UKTI high value opportunity, should present UK companies with
significant commercial opportunities to participate in the development of Egypt both as individual contractors
and subcontractors, as well as through third country collaboration within international consortia.
In 2011/2012 the Industrial Sector accounted for 16.16% of GDP while CIT, tourism and financial services
accounts for 9.63% from GDP and retail accounts for 11.27% and 14.79 % for agriculture. (Source: Ministry of
Planning)
Economic Overview
Egypt from 2004 to 2008 aggressively pursued economic reforms to attract foreign investment and facilitate
GDP growth. These reforms centred around four main areas: reforming the tax system, transforming the
customs administration, improving the business climate, and reforming the monetary and banking sector. As a
result of these reforms, the country’s economic growth rate rose substantially.
However, this growth failed to benefit the majority of Egyptian, nor did the ruling oart address repression,
corruption, poverty and high unemployment. This led to protests that toppled Egypt’s long-time ruler President
Hosni Mubarak in 2011. The Muslim Brotherhood won the Presidency in July 2012, but due at least partly to its
ability to manage the economy effectively and deliver growth and prosperity was ousted a year later, once
again through mass uprisings.
The 2011 uprising and the subsequent continuing political tensions have created a number of economic
vulnerabilities. The Egyptian Government backtracked on economic reforms, drastically increasing social
spending to address public dissatisfaction; this, plus political uncertainty caused economic growth to slow
significantly, reducing the government's revenues. Tourism, manufacturing, and construction were among the
hardest hit sectors of the Egyptian economy as a result of perceptions of insecurity; high levels of economic
growth may take some time to return. Real growth, which had averaged over 7% in 2006-2010, dropped to
1.8% in the financial year that ended in June 2011, but rebounded to 2.2% in 2011/2012, evidencing the
underlying strength and potential of the economy even in difficult circumstances. Growth is expected to remain
below potential in 2013-17 as a result of continued domestic political upheaval, macroeconomic imbalances and
financial constraints (Source: Economic Intelligence Unit). But the economy is nevertheless expected to grow
over this period, by up to 4% annually according to some analysts.
As a result of the recent instability, many foreign and Egyptian firms have adopted a “wait and see” attitude,
whilst others are taking under a “business as usual” mentality. Longstanding UK investors, many of whom have
been very successful here in Egypt, have stayed the course and are continuing to invest and be extremely
successful; others remain committed to the marked, but have delayed planned investments.
There is no doubt that Egypt faces significant short-term challenges that have inevitably increased uncertainty
among foreign investors. However, these challenges are part of the transition process that Egypt is undertaking
towards greater democracy and respect for individual rights. And at the same time, Egypt´s large population
UK Trade & Investment Doing business in Egypt
and development needs make it an excellent export market for UK businesses today and in the foreseeable
future.
The UK remains committed to a strong partnership with Egypt. Egypt’s demographics, natural resources, and
strategic location make it an attractive market over the medium to long term. British business still sees Egypt as
a natural hub for regional trade, positioned at the crossroads of Europe, Middle East and Africa.
The new technocratic government nominated after the fall of the Muslim Bortherhood led government has
placed a real emphasis on the need to accelerate economic reform alongside democratic developments and
improve further the climate in Egypt for international investment. Analysts are predicting a period of economic
uncertainty for the next 6-9 months with a return to higher growth depending on stability and a return to
civilian government.
Although the Egyptian economy will is not likely to achieve potential economic growth rates in the very short
term, its position at the heart of the Middle East and North Africa and its strong fundamentals will continue to
present opportunities to UK businesses.
Key Economic Indicators
Population:
85 million (CIA Fact-book, July 2013 est.)
Area:
1 million sq km (386,874 sq miles)
Capital City:
Cairo
Official Language:
Arabic
GDP per capita:
US$6,544 (EIU 2012 est.)
Political Overview
On 25 January 2011, Egypt suffered a popular uprising, which ultimately toppled President Hosni Mubarak,
whose nearly 30-year rule was marked by economic reform, public investments, and increasing levels of growth
on the one hand, but political oppression, inequitable distribution of wealth, and allegations of corruption and
growing poverty on the other. The Islamist Muslim Brotherhood party won elections in July 2012 but was
ousted in July 2013 by popular mass protests.
On 3rd July 2013 the head of the armed forces, General Abdul Fattah Al-Sisi, announced that the constitution
had been suspended and that the Head of the Supreme Constitutional Court, Adly Mansour would oversee an
interim period with a technocratic government until presidential and parliamentary elections are held. Mr
Mansour issued a constitutional declaration (the “road map”) outlining the different phases of the transitional
period, starting by amending the 2012 constitution followed by parliamentary elections in 2013, then
presidential elections in early 2014.
Preparing to Export to Egypt
For companies looking to invest in Egypt, now is a time for assessing, and looking closely at market
developments in relation to your particular sector. The business to business trading relationship will be less
affected by recent events and will continue throughout the period of political uncertainty, though instruments
such as letters of credit will gain in importance as a higher risk profile is encountered in the market.
Egypt has a large domestic market of over 85 million people with a broad-based industrial economy. It will
remain a heavily import-dependent economy for the foreseeable future. British goods and services are held in
high regard in Egypt and the UK enjoys a good reputation in the market.
UK Trade & Investment Doing business in Egypt
Egypt continues to honour its pre-revolution laws, international treaties, and trade agreements. These
agreements give Egypt certain customs and access advantages when trading with surrounding markets, namely
all Arab, EU, Mediterranean Sea and African countries. It is party to 111 bilateral investment treaties and is a
member of the World Trade Organization (WTO), the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa
(COMESA), and the Greater Arab Free Trade Area (GAFTA). In most sectors, there is no legal difference
between foreign and domestic investors. There are, however, special requirements for foreign investment in
particular sectors, such as upstream oil and gas development, where joint ventures are required.
For goods sourced from the UK or the EU, the Egyptian Customs Authority accepts the EUR1 certificate of origin
form (under EU rules of origin), and applies preferential import duties. This gives exporters from the UK a
competitive advantage in the Egyptian market.
The General Authority for Investment (GAFI) implements Egypt’s policies and procedures to facilitate doing
business, including maintaining Egypt’s one-stop shop for investors. GAFI's one-stop shop, which aspires to
process approvals for new investments within 72 hours, brings together several of the major government
ministries needed to establish a new investment. According to the World Bank’s Doing Business Index for 2013,
Egypt (ranked 109 out of 185 countries, up one position from 2012) made significant progress prior to the
revolution in easing the procedures for opening a business. GAFI operates an “Investor Hot-Line” to support
companies invested in the country with issues they may have with regard to their investments and operations in
the country.
The 2013 edition of Ernest & Young’s annual report for attractiveness of investments in Africa has placed Egypt
as the second most attractive country in the continent for direct investment since 2003. Also, Egypt stands at
26 in the ranking of 185 economies on the ease of starting a business (Source: IFC Doing Business Database).
Foreign direct investment accounted for less than 25% of all investment in Egypt prior to the revolution and has
fallen tremendously since. Significant impediments to investment currently exist. Following the revolution, Egypt
put into place capital transfer restrictions that prevent foreign companies from sending more than $100,000 per
year out of Egypt without a valid commercial purpose, original documentation, and approval by the Central
Bank of Egypt. Daily withdrawals are limited to $30,000 for corporations. In 2012, Egypt announced further
capital controls that would limit the amount of money that could be taken out of the country to $10,000 and
instituted a new hard currency auction system that has led to a gradual depreciation of the pound. Investors
report that it can take several weeks for legitimate transfers to be executed. Labour rules prevent companies
from hiring more than 10% non-Egyptians (25% in Free Zones), and foreigners are not allowed to operate sole
proprietorships or simple partnerships. Egypt’s trade regulations prohibit foreigners from acting as importers for
trading purposes and allow them to act solely as commercial agents. A foreign company wishing to import for
trading purposes must do so through an Egyptian importer.
The Central Bank of Egypt is the government regulatory body responsible for setting and co-ordinating
monetary, credit and banking policies. Its firm supervision of all foreign and local banks working in Egypt helps
to explain how this sector managed to escape the worst impact of the global financial crisis. All bank
transactions (letter of credit or transfers) related to commercial deals are secured and guaranteed
internationally.
Egypt is a signatory to the main Intellectual Property Conventions (Rome, Paris, Berne & Washington). Egypt
passed a new IPR law in June 2002, bringing practices in line with WTO Law 82 of 2002 covering patents,
copyrights and trademarks.
If disputes arise, the Cairo Regional Centre for International Commercial Arbitration applies the rules of the
United Nations Commission on International Trade Law, unless the parties agree to use different rules.
Domestic arbitration awards are enforceable through Egyptian courts, and foreign arbitration awards can be
enforced under one of the international conventions to which Egypt is a signatory. We recommend that
professional legal advice is taken before commencing court or arbitration action.
UK Trade & Investment Doing business in Egypt
British companies wishing to develop their business in the Egyptian market are advised to undertake as much
advance market research and planning as possible.
Guide to Our Services
As a developing market with a large, young population, a diversified economy, significant natural resources, a
strategic geographical location, and many development and procurement needs, Egypt offers great potential
business opportunities for both trade and investment. The UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) Egypt Team can help
you take advantage of these exciting opportunities. Our objective is to showcase the strength and expertise of
UK products and services in the market, identify specific business opportunities, and help companies to take
advantage of these opportunities. So, if you are looking to make that next move into overseas markets – in
terms of export, setting up an office, finding manufacturing partners or agents, developing a network to identify
opportunities, or even investment, we can help.
The UKTI Egypt Team can provide a range of services to British-based companies wishing to enter or to grow
their business in the Egyptian market. We can also organise seminars and workshops, product launches or
other events for you to meet contacts or promote your company in the Egyptian market. We tailor our services
to your needs and requirements.
There is great market advantage and enhanced credibility in Egypt in being associated closely with the
Embassy. You will be seen as having seal of approval from the UK government.
Our Services:
We can help you understand the Egyptian market and get to grips quickly with regulations and business
practice through a range of unique services, including participation at selected trade fairs, outward missions and
providing bespoke market intelligence. For example:
Pre-market Visit:
• Market intelligence and information
• Pre-visit briefing
• Advice on the best market entry strategy, local regulations/standards & overcoming barriers
• Assessing the level of interest of potential customers in UK product or service
• Detailed sector/market analysis
• Validated contact lists of agents/distributors
• Contacts of lawyers and or translators
In-market Support:
• Access to key government officials and players
• Arranging visit programmes. A member of our team can accompany you to facilitate any local cultural
or Arabic language issues
• One-to-one mentoring and in market support to help raise company profile and credibility in the market
• Exhibiting UK company literature at UKTI stands in local exhibitions
• Promoting your participation in local and regional exhibitions
• Commercial publicity
• Strategic Partnership Service
• Business Partnership Service
Organizing Events:
• Seminars, conferences, exhibitions, workshops & training sessions
• Product launches and networking receptions
• Business lunches and dinners
• Round-table meetings
You can commission our Overseas Market Introduction Services to assist your company to enter or expand your
business in Egypt. Under this service, the Embassy’s Trade & Investment Advisers, who have wide local
experience and knowledge, can identify business partners and provide the support and advice most relevant to
your company's specific needs in the market. To find out more about commissioning work, please contact your
UK
& Investment
Doing business in Egypt
localTrade
UKTI office.
See also: www.ukti.gov.uk
How to do business in Egypt
Market Entry
Egypt is an attractive market that can offer major business opportunities to informed traders and investors.
Trade and investment between the UK and Egypt has great potential. However it is not always an easy market.
A successful entry into Egypt will be determined by the quality of the information and advice upon which the
decision to enter is based. Continued success is also dependent upon the ability to navigate the laws and
practices of Egypt.
The Egyptian market requires careful study and a sustained sales effort. There is strong competition from other
exporting countries. Price and credit terms are a deciding factor when obtaining contracts, though quality is
increasingly important. Back-up servicing facilities and the supply of spare parts is also important.
Having a local partner is often vital to successful penetration of this market. There are several reasons for this.
Firstly, given the continuing bureaucracy, a local partner can shepherd the foreign business through the delays
and obstacles. Secondly, foreign companies require a local agent to bid for government tenders. Thirdly, as the
Egyptian market becomes more sophisticated there is a growing demand for after sales service, which a local
agent can convincingly provide.
In general, British products and services are very highly regarded in Egypt for their quality. The main obstacle
facing the growth of British involvement in the Egyptian market is that British products have a reputation as
being expensive compared to some foreign products, though this has lessened slightly over the past year as
exchange rate fluctuations have moved in favour of UK exporters.
Getting here and advice about your stay
FCO Travel Advice
The FCO website has travel advice to help you prepare for your visits overseas and
to stay safe and secure while you are there.
For advice Please visit the FCO Travel Advice Section for Egypt
Getting here
Visa Regulations
British passport holders travelling to Egypt normally require a visa.
British nationals travelling to Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba and Taba resorts for up to 15 days receive a
free entry permission stamp upon arrival. If you intend to travel out of the mentioned areas or stay longer than
15 days, you must obtain a visa.
Official visitors to Egypt have previously been able to purchase a visa on arrival at Cairo airport. This procedure
has been stopped by the Egyptian authorities and, with immediate effect, all visitors travelling to Egypt on
diplomatic passports or official business must obtain a visa from their local Egyptian Embassy before travelling.
Visas can be obtained from the Egyptian Embassy in UK, or on arrival at the airport by payment in Sterling, US
Dollars or Euros, for stays of up to a month. Your passport should be valid for at least six months. For further
information contact the Egyptian Embassy in London: http://egyptian.embassy.uk.com/
UK Trade & Investment Doing business in Egypt
Customs Regulations
The maximum amount of local currency you are allowed to bring in or take out of Egypt is 5,000 Egyptian
pounds. There is no limit to the amount of hard currency that you may bring in, but sums that exceed USD
10,000 should be declared on arrival. Certain valuables such as electrical equipment, video cameras etc must be
declared on arrival. Satellite phones and radio communications equipment brought into Egypt without prior
clearance from the Ministry of Telecommunications are likely to be confiscated.
Your stay
The Egyptian Official Tourism Website can help you plan your trip.
Transportation
Air and Sea
Egypt is an important air hub for the Middle East. Cairo is served by airlines such as British Airways, Egypt Air,
Air France, KLM, Lufthansa and other major carriers. Easyjet flies to Sharm El Sheikh, Hurgada and Luxor. Many
other major other Airlines also fly into Egypt.
Local
*Taxis in Cairo
Taxis are widely available. After hailing a taxi, you should tell the driver the area to which you wish to go. Most
taxi drivers do not know the street names and it helps if you have a general idea of where you wish to go and
mention a nearby landmark. For example, if you want to go to the Embassy you can mention Garden City, the
Semiramis Hotel, Kempinski Hotel or the Corniche. It is strongly recommended that you use the new white cabs
(with black chequered stripes) as they are comfortable, air conditioned, and have working meters. Some taxi
drivers do not speak English, so it is always useful to have an Egyptian contact write down the address to which
you wish to go in Arabic.
If you choose an older black and white cab, you should either agree a fare with the taxi driver beforehand or,
AFTER you have got out of the taxi, you can hand him the fare that you consider reasonable and then walk
away. However, beware that these cabs are often in very poor condition and may be unsafe.
City Cabs
For longer journeys the yellow City Cabs or Blue Cabs (www.thebluecab.com) can be pre-booked and work out
cheaper.
You can also pre-book London cap taxis available in Egypt just dial: 19670, or contact Renasa:
T: +2 0122 397 2517
*Taxis in Alexandria
In Alexandria there are many black and yellow taxis which can be hired on the street. The price of the journey
has to be negotiated. The majority of drivers do not speak English, so wherever possible you should have the
address you wish to go to written in Arabic to give to him or her.
It is recommended that you use the 'Fast-call' company local speed dial 19559. Taxis are metered;
many drivers speak English and return calls can be booked when making your official call.
*Cairo Metro
The Cairo Metro is a light rail system, partly underground. One line is running from al-Marg in the north through
the center of the city to Maadi and on to Helwan. Another line is now running from Shoubra El Kheima, north of
Cairo, to Ramses Station in the city center. A third line now runs from Tahrir Square passing by the Cairo Opera
House and ending at Cairo University in Giza. A new line runs now from Abassyea Square to Attaba Square,
downtown.
UK Trade & Investment Doing business in Egypt
Regional
The Western Desert Highway, a high-speed toll road, and the busier Delta Road connect Alexandria and Cairo.
Buses take 3½ hours between the cities, including a rest stop. A non-stop Turbino train takes just over 2 hours.
UK Trade & Investment Doing business in Egypt
Business Etiquette, Language and Culture
Business Etiquette
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The social side of business is very important. Egyptians must know and like you to conduct business.
Personal relationships are necessary for long-term business.
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Who you know is more important than what you know, so it is important to network and cultivate a
number of contracts.
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Expect to be offered coffee or tea whenever you meet someone, as this demonstrates hospitality. Even
if you do not take a sip, always accept the beverage. Declining is viewed as rejecting the person.
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Since Egyptians judge people on appearances, wear good quality conservative clothes and present
yourself well at all times.
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Egyptians believe direct eye contact is a sign of honesty and sincerity, so be prepared for
disconcertingly intense stares.
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Egyptians are emotive and use hand gestures when they are excited. In general, they speak softly,
although they may also shout or pound the table. This is not indicative of anger; it is merely an attempt
to demonstrate a point.
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You should demonstrate deference to the most senior person in the group, who will also be their
spokesperson. This is a country where hierarchy and rank are very important.
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Meetings are generally not private unless there is a need to discuss matters confidentially. In general,
Egyptians have an open-door policy, even when they are in a meeting. This means you may experience
frequent interruptions. Others may even wander into the room and start a different discussion. You
may join in, but do not try to bring the topic back to the original discussion until the new person leaves.
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Do not be surprised if the person you are meeting interrupts your conversation to answer a mobile
phone call; it is rare for Egyptians to switch off their phones, put them on silent, or ignore them.
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High-level government officials are more likely to adhere to more western business practices and hold
private meetings without interruptions.
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Business is hierarchical. The highest ranking person makes decisions, after obtaining group consensus.
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Decisions are reached after great deliberation.
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If the government is involved, discussions will take even longer since approval must often be given by
the ministers of several departments.
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Business moves at a slow pace. The society is extremely bureaucratic. It may take several visits to
accomplish a simple task.
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It is advisable to include older people with impressive titles in your team since Egyptians respect age
and experience.
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For business, visitors should be on time but expect locals to be often late, and do not take offence.
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Business attire is formal and conservative. Dress well if you want to make a good impression.
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Men should avoid wearing visible jewellery, especially around the face and neck.
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Women must be careful to cover themselves appropriately. Skirts and dresses should cover the knee
and sleeves should cover most of the arm.
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Business cards are given without formal ritual. Always hand the card so the recipient may read it.
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Make a point to study business cards you receive before putting into your business card case.
UK Trade & Investment Doing business in Egypt
Local Time, Business Hours and Holidays
GMT:
Local Time:
Sunday - Thursday (06:00 - 15:00)
Sunday - Thursday (08:00 - 17:00)
All offices keep shorter hours in Ramadan.
Arriving on Saturdays is a good option, as you would have the whole week available for business visits and
meetings. The local weekend is Friday and Saturday.
Language
Arabic is the native official language.
English, and to a lesser extent French, is widely understood by educated classes and spoken amongst the
business community, at hotels and tourist destinations.
The Egyptian dialect is the most widely understood of all other Arabic dialects.
Culture
Egypt is open to different cultures and the social environment is very friendly. English, French, German and
American schools are widely spread all over Egypt especially in Cairo and Alexandria.
Communications
There are currently three mobile phone operators: Mobinil, Vodafone and Etisalat. A SIM card will typically cost
around LE25 (around £2.5). Mobile top cards are readily available at kiosks or telecoms stores. Internet access
is now becoming more wide-spread, particularly in cafes. USB modems are offered by all three mobile
operators.
DO’s and DON’Ts
DOs
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Attempt to learn a few words or phrases of Egyptian Arabic, such as thank you, hello, good-bye, and
please. Egyptians appreciate and respect this gesture.
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Wait for your Egyptian counterpart to initiate the greeting at a first meeting.
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Men should wait for a woman to offer a handshake first. If she doesn't, bow your head to greet.
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Make eye contact when meeting Egyptian business associates, especially with male colleagues. Looking
an Egyptian in the eye is a sign of honesty and trust.
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Dress modestly and somewhat formally. Men shouldn't wear tank-tops or shorts, unless they're at the
beach. Women should wear either trousers or skirts that fall below the knee, and shirts that cover their
shoulders.
•
Men should wear a suit and tie at business functions. Men should not wear visible jewelry at business
meetings, either.
•
Dress appropriately if visiting a mosque. Women need to cover their hair, and no skin should be
exposed besides the hands, face, and feet. And remember to take your shoes off!
•
Feel comfortable dressing less conservatively at resorts, but whenever you leave the resort, go back to
wearing more modest attire.
•
Put your right hand over your heart if declining something. It makes your refusal seem much more
polite and gracious.
UK Trade & Investment Doing business in Egypt
DON’Ts
•
DON’T rush Egyptian counterparts into making a quick decision, as this may prove ineffective. Business
in Egypt is slower than in the West, so patience is necessary.
•
DON’T ask detailed questions about your Egyptian counterpart’s family, especially if she is female.
Enquiring about general welfare is usually acceptable, however further discussions would be viewed as
personal and inappropriate.
•
DON'T sit with your legs crossed. Showing the sole of your shoe is considered rude.
•
DON'T stand too close to a member of the opposite sex, though personal space between members of
the same sex might be closer than you are used to. Don't move away, as this could be seen as rude.
UK Trade & Investment Doing business in Egypt
Contacts
If you have a specific export enquiry about the
Egyptian market which is not answered by the
information on this report, you may contact:
UK Trade & Investment Enquiry Service
Tel: +44 (0)20 7215 8000
Fax: +44 (0)141 228 3693
Email: enquiries@ukti.gsi.gov.uk
You will be signposted to the appropriate section on
our website, or transferred directly to the British
Embassy in Cairo.
British Embassy Cairo
Trade & Investment Department
7 Ahmed Ragheb Street
Garden City, Cairo, Egypt
Tel: +20 2 2791 6000
Fax: +20 2 2791 6130
E-mail: commercial.cairo@fco.gov.uk
Website: https://www.gov.uk/government/world/orga
nisations/british-embassy-cairo
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/uktiegypt
Twitter: www.twitter.com/ukti_egypt
British Consulate General Alexandria
Trade & Investment Department
3 Mina Street, Kafr Abdou
Roushdy, Alexandria, Egypt
Tel: +20 3 546 7001/2, 546 7171
Fax: +20 3 546 7177
E-mail : alexacom.alexandria@fco.gov.uk,
britconsul@dataxprs.com.eg
Contact UK Trade & Investment at the following
address:
Tim Flear
Head, Libya & Egypt Unit
UK Trade& Investment
1 Victoria Street
London
SW1H OET
Tel: 020 7215 4761
Email: tim.flear@ukti.gsi.gov.uk
Sameera de Silva
Deputy Head of Libya & Egypt Unit
UK Trade & Investment
1 Victoria Street
London
SW1H OET
Tel: 020 7215 2888
Email: sameera.de.silva@ukti.gsi.gov.uk
Dele Muji
Manager - North Africa: Strategic Trade Group
UK Trade & Investment
1 Victoria Street
London
SW1H 0ET
Tel: 020 7215 4947
E-mail: dele.muji@ukti.gsi.gov.uk
Region UKTI Contacts
Office Hours:
GMT:
Sunday – Wednesday
Thursdays
In the UK
(06:00 - 13:30)
(06:00 - 12:00)
Search to find your nearest UKTI contact in the
region:
http://www.ukti.gov.uk/export.html
Local Time:
Sunday - Wednesday (08:00 - 15:30)
Thursdays
(08:00 - 14:00)
Open: Sunday to Thursday
UK Trade & Investment Doing business in Egypt
Resources/Useful Links
Business Link: International Trade
Business Link’s International Trade pages provide an overview of export basics including
licensing, customs procedures, classifying and movement of goods, other regulatory
information and export paperwork issues. It also introduces exporters to the UK Trade
Tariff.
Essential reading for exporters!
Find out more at: https://www.gov.uk/browse/business/imports-exports
Country Information:
BBC Website:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/country_profiles/default.stm
FCO Country Profile:
https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/egypt
Customs & Regulations:
HM Revenue & Customs: http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/
Culture and communications
CILT – National Centre for Languages - Regional Language Network in your area:
http://www.cilt.org.uk
Kwintessential culture guides: - a translation agency: http://www.kwintessential.co.uk/
Economic Information:
Economist:
http://www.economist.com/countries/
Export Control
Export Control Organization:
http://www.berr.gov.uk/whatwedo/europeandtrade/strategic-export-control/index.html/strategic-exportcontrol/index.html
Export Finance and Insurance:
ECGD: http://www.ecgd.gov.uk/
UK Trade & Investment Doing business in Egypt
Intellectual Property
Intellectual Property Office: www.ipo.gov.uk
Market Access
Market Access Database for Tariffs:
http://madb.europa.eu/madb/indexPubli.htm
SOLVIT – Overcoming Trade Barriers (EU Markets only):
www.bis.gov.uk/EUMarketAccessUnit
Standard and Technical Regulations:
British Standards Institution (BSI):
http://www.bsigroup.com/en/sectorsandservices/Disciplines/ImportExport/
National Physical Laboratory: http://www.npl.co.uk/
Trade Statistics:
National Statistics Information: http://www.statistics.gov.uk/hub/index.html
UK Trade Info: https://www.ukti.gov.uk
Travel Advice:
Please Visit FCO Travel Advice on: The registration process has changed. Kindly subscribe to receive our
travel advice email updates through our website: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/egypt
Subscribing is a straight-forward process and will only take a couple of minutes. We will communicate all
security and travel updates through our travel advice; therefore this is the best way to stay in touch with us.
In addition, you can also follow Foreign & Commonwealth Office travel news on social media through:
Twitter:
http://twitter.com/ukinegypt
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/ukinegypt
NHS: http://www.nhs.uk/nhsengland/Healthcareabroad/Pages/Healthcareabroad.aspx
Travel health: http://www.travelhealth.co.uk/
Content featured in this publication is subject to Crown Copyright protection unless otherwise indicated.
© Crown copyright, 2013.
If you do re-use any material from this publication you MUST acknowledge the source with the following attribution:
“This information is provided by UK Trade & Investment and used as permitted by the Open Government Licence v1.0”
UK Trade & Investment Doing business in Egypt