Frequently Asked Questions

1. Papyrus: A symbol of ancient Egypt, papyrus scrolls are a popular choice for souvenirs. You can find them with various inscriptions and artwork
2. Alabaster Statues: Beautifully carved figures, often representing gods or pharaohs, showcasing Egyptian craftsmanship
3. Cartouche: Personalized nameplates in hieroglyphics, making for a unique and meaningful keepsake
4. Perfume and therapeutic oils: Experience the exotic fragrances of the Middle East with authentic Egyptian perfume oils. They come in beautifully decorated bottles and make a unique gift
5. Spices: Bring a taste of Egypt home with aromatic spice blends. They are perfect for cooking or adding a touch of exotic flavor to your home
6. Egyptian Cotton Products: Renowned for its softness, items like towels and bed linens are luxurious gifts
7. Pharaonic Artifacts: From miniature statues to replica amulets, pharaonic artifacts are a popular choice for history buffs
8. Handmade Carpets: These carpets feature traditional patterns and craftsmanship, adding a touch of Egypt to any home
9. Handcrafted Jewelry: Egyptian jewelry, often featuring intricate designs and precious stones, is a timeless piece. Look for gold, silver, and gemstone pieces inspired by ancient Egyptian motifs
10. Egyptian Leather Products: High-quality bags and wallets made from genuine leather, combining tradition with modern style

1. Hotel Shops: Many hotels have their own gift shops. While convenient, prices are typically higher due to the expensive rental costs associated with these locations
2. Tourist Area Shops: Near hotels, you'll find gift shops aimed at tourists. These shops may offer slightly lower prices than hotel shops, but they generally remain expensive as they cater primarily to tourists
3. City Center shops: For more affordable options, visit shops in the city center. These stores often have lower prices due to competition, along with a wider variety of products and frequent sales
4. City Tour Shops: Some organized city tours include shopping stops. However, be cautious; while these tours can be free, they often lead to stores that inflate prices significantly. Tour companies typically earn big commissions from these shops, which can raise prices by over 100%
5. Delivery Services: Consider using a gift delivery service that brings items directly to your hotel. This option can be cheaper than purchasing from local shops, as these services often source products directly from manufacturers and charge reasonable delivery fees

Bargaining, or haggling, is a common practice when shopping in Egypt, especially in traditional markets and souvenir shops. Here are some tips on how to effectively bargain:

1. Start Low: Always offer a significantly lower price than the initial asking price. This sets the stage for negotiation
2. Be Firm but Friendly: Maintain a friendly demeanor while being firm in your desired price. A smile and a friendly attitude can go a long way
3. Know the Value: Do some research beforehand to have a general idea of the fair price for the items you want to buy
4. Pay in Local Currency: Having Egyptian pounds on hand can give you more bargaining power, as you can offer smaller denominations to reach a compromise
5. Walk Away: If you can't agree on a price, be prepared to walk away. Sometimes, this is the best way to get a seller to lower their price
6. Buy in Bulk: If you're purchasing multiple items, you may be able to negotiate a better price for the entire lot
7. Visit Multiple Shops: Compare prices at different shops to get a better sense of the going rate
8. Show that your experienced tourist: Never tell the seller that it's your first time in Egypt; instead, say that you have been here many times during the season to give the impression that you are experienced and know everything here, and that it's not easy to deceive you
9. Learn Basic Arabic Phrases: Knowing a few basic Arabic phrases can help you connect with the seller and show that you are an experienced tourist, even in the local language, as you know it
10. Be Patient: Bargaining can take time, so be patient and persistent

Enjoy the Experience: Bargaining is part of the cultural experience in Egypt, so embrace it and have fun

There are generally no significant restrictions on purchasing gifts from Egypt, including food products and fruits, as long as they comply with local laws. However, the sale and purchase of coral reefs are prohibited. When leaving the country, ensure that your luggage does not exceed the allowed weight limit set by airlines. Additionally, familiarize yourself with airline regulations regarding items permitted in cabin baggage and those allowed only in checked luggage. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy shopping for unique gifts in Egypt without any issues.

According to the regulations of the Egyptian Consumer Protection Agency, a buyer can return gifts purchased in Egypt within 14 days if they are defective or damaged. However, this does not apply to food products or undergarments. It is crucial for the buyer to keep the receipt or invoice, which should be requested at the time of purchase. If the return is due to a change of mind or a desire to exchange the item, the store's return and exchange policy will be applicable. In any case, issues can usually be resolved amicably, ensuring no harm is done to either party.