Things To Do
in Madīnat as Sādis min Uktūbar

Small neighborhood markets and weekend bazaars near residential districts sell fresh produce, breads, roasted corn and falafel; great places to sample local street food and inexpensive snacks.

Major malls like Mall of Arabia feature expansive food courts with local chain restaurants, grills and international options — convenient and reliable for visitors.

Dress conservatively in public — shoulders and knees covered are recommended, especially in religious or traditional areas. Women should carry a scarf for mosque visits.

Use polite greetings (e.g., Salam Alaikum) and accept hospitality graciously. Public displays of affection are frowned upon; handshake with the opposite sex only if offered.

During Ramadan avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public during daylight hours out of respect for those fasting; many businesses change hours.

Ask permission before photographing people, especially women and in private areas; be cautious when photographing military or government buildings.

Tipping is customary: leave 10%–15% in sit-down restaurants if service is not included; give small tips (5–20 EGP) to porters, taxi drivers for help with luggage and hotel staff. Round up or leave spare small notes for good service.

Egyptian pound (EGP) is the local currency; cash is essential for small vendors and markets. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in malls, hotels and larger restaurants, and mobile ride-hailing apps accept cards as well. Always carry some small-denomination cash for tips and street purchases.

June–August is very hot and dry; daytime highs often exceed 35–40°C (95–104°F). Plan outdoor activities early morning or late afternoon and carry water, sun protection and light clothing.

September–November brings milder temperatures and comfortable evenings — a good time for sightseeing and desert excursions.

December–February is mild to cool with occasional rain; nights can be chilly (especially in desert areas), so bring a light jacket for evenings.

March–May offers pleasant weather but can have occasional dust or sand-laden winds (khamsin) — check forecasts before heading out.

Several universities and institutes draw students from across Egypt, giving parts of the city a youthful, academic vibe.

Many middle-class Egyptian families live in gated compounds and suburban neighborhoods, shaping the city’s residential character.

The city’s industrial zones and business parks employ a sizeable workforce in manufacturing, logistics and services.

A smaller expat community — mainly professionals working in companies, NGOs or universities — adds some international amenities.

Vegetarian options are common — koshari, ful, ta'ameya and vegetable stews are widely available. Ask vendors for no meat and check for ghee or animal stock in some dishes.

Vegan choices exist but require caution: many dishes use butter or ghee. Koshari and ful are often vegan-friendly, but always confirm ingredients.

Almost all meat sold locally is halal; you don’t need special requests when ordering meat dishes.

Bread is a staple in Egyptian cuisine, so gluten-free diners should ask about sauces and bread and prefer rice- and bean-based dishes where possible.