Culture Shock in Egypt
Many immigrating expats are relieved to find Egypt more relaxed than other Muslim countries. Although Egypt is primarily Muslim, foreigners of other faiths are welcomed and Islamic rules are not expected to apply to all expats. There are a number of well frequented bars and discos akin to anything in the west. Women find Egypt the most difficult to adjust to because of different cultural norms. Unaccompanied women can be verbally harassed, particularly ones wearing skimpy clothing which might not draw attention in the west but are a bit risqué in Egypt. Women should dress a bit more conservatively which usually just consists of covering more skin or wearing a shawl.During Ramadan it is considered rude to eat in public during the day and drinking should be kept to hotel bars. Foreigners are usually welcomed by Egyptians but sometimes a cultural barrier, difficulties making local friends, and being overcharged as a foreigner can grow frustrating. Learning Arabic and the customs can help a lot. Adding to initial frustrations in Egypt is a string of red tape regarding anything bureaucratic such as buying property, banking, licenses, etc.
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