Cost of Living
Cost of living index: 20 (NYC = 100)
Rent (1BR)
$150
Rent (3BR)
$350
Groceries
$80
Transport
$10
Utilities
$20
Internet
$10
Dining Out
$30
Tax System
Corporate Tax
22.5%
VAT / Sales Tax
14%
Social Security
11%
Capital Gains
10%
Income Tax Brackets
| Income Range (USD) | Tax Rate |
|---|---|
| $0 - $600 | 0% |
| $601 - $1,800 | 10% |
| $1,801 - $4,200 | 15% |
| $4,201 - $12,000 | 20% |
| $12,001 - $24,000 | 22.5% |
| $24,001 - Above | 25% |
Culture
Egypt is the cradle of civilization, home to the pyramids and a 7,000-year cultural heritage. Modern Egypt blends ancient traditions with Islamic culture and a warm, hospitable spirit.
Traditions
- Ramadan celebrations
- Sham el-Nessim (spring festival)
- Moulid festivals
- Sufi music
Cultural Values
- Hospitality
- Family
- Religion
- History
Common Greeting: Ahlan wa sahlan!
Cultural Tips
- • Hospitality is paramount—tea or coffee will always be offered
- • Dress modestly, especially near mosques and in Upper Egypt
- • Bargaining is expected and enjoyed in markets
- • Egyptians have a great sense of humor and love conversation
🍽 Food & Cuisine
Egyptian cuisine is hearty, flavorful, and largely vegetarian-friendly. Ancient grains, legumes, and bold spices define a food tradition thousands of years old.
Koshari
Egypt's national dish: rice, lentils, pasta, chickpeas, and spicy tomato sauce
Ful Medames
Stewed fava beans with olive oil, lemon, and cumin, eaten for breakfast
Shawarma
Spiced meat shaved from a rotating spit, wrapped in bread with tahini
Om Ali
Bread pudding with nuts, raisins, coconut, and warm milk
Quality of Life
Job Market
Average Annual Salary
$4,000
Job Difficulty
Difficult
Unemployment Rate
7.2%
Work Permit Required
Yes
Top Industries
Languages
Official Languages
Other Languages Spoken