Doing Business in Egypt

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For those unfamiliar with the culture and economic landscape of the country, doing business in Egypt can be a daunting and somewhat frustrating process. Expats who wish to be successful in Egyptian business will need to spend some time learning and understanding the local culture and cultivating solid relationships with their local counterparts.

Every step of the business process in Egypt takes almost twice as long as it would in the West, so we recommend expat entrepreneurs leave plenty of time for negotiations and possible setbacks. Those moving to Egypt to set up a business should arrange meetings as far in advance as possible, even before arriving in the country. It is also important to confirm the meeting close to the time.

Fast facts

Business hours

Sunday to Thursday, from 9am to 5pm. This can vary between businesses, and hours may differ during Ramadan.

Business language

The official language in Egypt is Arabic, but English is also widely spoken and understood in the business world.

Dress

Smart and conservative, especially for women. First impressions are important in Egypt and are strongly influenced by how a person presents themselves, so dressing well is essential. Men should wear dark-coloured, lightweight suits and women should ensure that any skirt or dress they wear falls below the knees and that their shoulders and arms are covered.

Gifts

It is customary to exchange gifts in Egypt. Gifts should be wrapped, well presented and of a high quality, and should be given with the right hand. Gifts are not usually opened in the presence of the giver. Avoid giving flowers as these are associated with particular occasions like illness or weddings.

Gender equality

Women are underrepresented in Egyptian companies, but expat women are typically respected in business circles. That said, they will be expected to dress and behave more conservatively than they would in the West.

Greetings

The most common greeting is a handshake. Close associates may kiss one another on the cheek. If a male expat greets a woman, it is best to wait for her to initiate a handshake and, if she doesn’t, greet her with a slight nod of the head instead.

Business culture in Egypt

Relationships

Egyptians prioritise forming strong personal relationships with their business associates. For expats, this means investing time into building relationships and cultivating trust with potential business partners. Networking is important in Egypt, and expats should call upon their local contacts for useful introductions and references.

Meetings

When meeting a business associate for the first time, expats shouldn't expect to get straight down to business, as Egyptians prefer to take some time to get to know colleagues. It is best to wait for the Egyptian business partner to steer the conversation in the direction of business. It's also important to schedule the meeting weeks in advance and confirm it at least two days before the established date.

Negotiations

Expats will find that the key to doing business in Egypt is patience. This is especially true when it comes to negotiations. Business meetings are slow and lengthy. Egyptians are tough negotiators and will rarely settle for the initial terms of a contract. Avoid being hostile and pressuring other parties during negotiations, as this will create distrust.

Hierarchy

The business environment in Egypt is hierarchical. Status and titles are held in high regard. People in Egypt should be addressed by their title followed by their surname. If no clear title exists, then it is sufficient to use Mr or Mrs.

Saving face

The concept of maintaining face is important in Egypt, and it is inappropriate to humiliate colleagues and associates. Honour is highly valued in both the business world and wider Egyptian society. Even in the business world, a person's word is their bond, and to go back on a verbal agreement makes one look dishonourable. Follow through with any promises made during business negotiations, as this will show trustworthiness.

Dos and don’ts of business in Egypt

Do take the time to get to know business associates on a personal and professional level. Business relationships in Egypt are based on familiarity and trust.
Do not make promises that cannot be kept. Honour is highly valued in business.
Do dress well for business meetings. Appearances and first impressions are important.
Do not expect to do business during Ramadan, as business comes close to a standstill during this time
Do make direct eye contact during negotiations as it is considered a sign of honesty and sincerity

What do expats say about Egyptian business culture?
"A manager is seen as very important and is treated more like a commander than a boss. Showing respect for those of a higher position or pay grade is very important here. There are tea makers in nearly every office, something again I am not used to." Learn more about Sam's experiences in Egypt in his expat interview.

Further information

►Working in Egypt provides more information about the country's world of work.

Are you an expat living in Egypt?

Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Egypt. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.