Money and duty free for Egypt
Currency and Money
Currency information
Egyptian Pound or ginee (LE; symbol E£) = 100 piastres. Notes are in denominations of E£200, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 1, 50 piastres and 25 piastres. Coins are in denominations of 25, 20, 10 and 5 piastres.
British pounds sterling, Euros and the US Dollar are accepted everywhere although change may be given in Egyptian pounds.
Credit cards
American Express, Diners Club, Mastercard and Visa are widely accepted in all but the smallest hotels and restaurants throughout the country, except in the Western oases. It is wise to keep your credit card in view when you make purchases or pay a restaurant bill, and to keep receipts for checking exchange rates and charges on your statement.
ATM
ATMS can be found in all major towns and cities.
Travellers cheques
Most bank will not cash traveller's cheques.
Banking hours
Sun-Thurs 0830-1400. Bureaux de change are generally also open in the evening 1800-2100.
Currency restrictions
The import and export of local currency is limited to E£5,000. The import of foreign currency is ulimited, but sums that are equivalent of US$10,000 or higher need to be declared. Foreign currency can be exported up to the amount that was imported.
Currency exchange
The Egyptian pound is available outside Egypt and you can change money before you leave for your trip. Alternatively, 24-hour currency exchange is available at Cairo airport. It is worth exchanging at least a small amount for incidentals during your first day or two in Egypt. Keep small denomination notes for taxis fares as drivers rarely seem to have any change, and for tips, known as baksheesh, which are a way of life in Egypt.
Currency exchange is also available at banks, official bureaux de change outlets and most hotels. Banks often have better exchange rates than bureaux de change or hotels. All common international currencies are accepted. It is wise to divide your currency between you if there is more than one person in your party and keep it secure to guard against theft. It is advisable to take only what you will need for a day’s excursion and keep the remainder of your money in your hotel safe.
Egypt duty free
Overview
The following items may be imported into Egypt by travellers over 18 without incurring customs duty:
• 200 cigarettes or 25 cigars or 200g of tobacco.
• 1L of alcoholic beverages.
Other goods like gifts and personal items up to a value of 1500 E£.
Banned Imports
Drugs, firearms and cotton.
Banned Exports
Drugs, firearms and cotton.
You may only export small quantities of locally bought gold and silver for personal use.
If exporting antiquities over 100 years old, you must obtain a licence.
