Local Customs & Etiquette in Alexandria, Al Iskandarīyah, Egypt
1. Greeting Etiquette
Locals often shake hands and greet each other with 'Ahlan wa sahlan' (Welcome). Be aware that in some cases, women may not initiate handshakes. Men may greet each other with a light hug or back slap.
- Gender Awareness: Recognize the difference in greeting etiquette between genders
- Cultural Respect: Respect local customs and traditions by following the appropriate greeting protocol
- Adaptability: Adapt to the situation based on the context, such as formal or informal settings
2. Dining Etiquette
Egyptian meals are typically communal. Use your right hand for eating, as the left hand is considered unclean. When dining out, leave a small tip (10-15 LE) in appreciation.
- Hygiene: Avoid using your left hand for eating to respect local customs
- Tipping Practice: Understand and practice the tipping culture in Alexandria's dining establishments
- Cultural Sensitivity: Respect local customs during meal times by adhering to communal eating practices
3. Dress Code
Modest clothing is recommended in Alexandria. Cover shoulders and knees in public places, especially when visiting mosques.
- Respect for Religion: Adhere to the local dress code out of respect for religious sensitivities
- Comfort and Safety: Choose clothing that is both culturally appropriate and comfortable for exploring Alexandria's sights
- Climate Adaptation: Dress for the climate, which can be hot and humid in Alexandria
4. Tobacco Etiquette
Smoking is common in Egypt. However, it's essential to be mindful of non-smokers and follow 'No Smoking' signs.
- Respect for Others: Respect the preferences of others by avoiding smoking in their presence
- Awareness of Signs: Observe and follow 'No Smoking' signs in Alexandria's public areas
- Local Customs: Recognize and adapt to the local smoking etiquette
5. Bargaining in Souks
Haggling is a common practice in Alexandria's souks. Bargain respectfully and be prepared to walk away if the price is not acceptable.
- Respectful Negotiation: Negotiate prices in a polite and respectful manner
- Price Awareness: Know the base price for items to guide your bargaining efforts
- Situational Adaptation: Adapt your bargaining strategy based on the vendor and item being discussed
6. Museum Etiquette
When visiting museums in Alexandria, be quiet and respectful. Do not touch the exhibits, and refrain from taking flash photography.
- Respect for Artifacts: Avoid touching artifacts to preserve their integrity
- Silent Environment: Maintain a quiet and respectful environment when visiting museums in Alexandria
- Photography Guidelines: Follow the museum's guidelines regarding photography to avoid any issues
7. Taking Photos
It is generally acceptable to take photos in Alexandria; however, always ask permission before photographing locals or sensitive areas such as military installations.
- Respect for Privacy: Ask for permission before taking photographs of locals
- Security Considerations: Avoid photographing sensitive areas like military installations
- Cultural Sensitivity: Be mindful of cultural sensitivities when taking photographs in Alexandria
8. Tipping for Services
It is customary to tip service staff such as taxi drivers, hotel staff, and tour guides. A small tip (5-10 LE) is appropriate.
- Appreciation: Tip for good service as a token of appreciation
- Local Customs: Follow the local tipping culture when receiving services in Alexandria
- Reasonable Tips: Offer a reasonable tip that reflects the quality and duration of service provided
9. Visiting Mosques
When visiting mosques in Alexandria, be mindful to dress modestly, remove shoes, and behave respectfully.
- Respect for Religion: Show respect for religious sensitivities when visiting mosques
- Mosque Etiquette: Follow the proper etiquette when visiting mosques in Alexandria
- Dress Code: Dress modestly to show respect while visiting mosques
10. Street Food Safety
Street food in Alexandria can be delicious but ensure it is cooked properly and avoid consuming food from unhygienic vendors.
- Hygiene: Ensure street food is cooked hygienically to prevent illness
- Vendor Selection: Choose reliable street food vendors for a safe and enjoyable dining experience
- Common Sense: Use common sense when selecting and consuming street food in Alexandria
11. Navigating Alexandria Streets
Alexandria's streets can be chaotic. Be patient, aware of traffic, and mindful of pedestrian rights.
- Patience: Demonstrate patience while navigating Alexandria's busy streets
- Traffic Awareness: Stay alert and aware of traffic when crossing roads in Alexandria
- Pedestrian Rights: Respect pedestrian rights and walk confidently on busy streets
12. Alexandria Festivals
Participate in Alexandria's festivals to experience local culture. Be respectful and aware of the specific customs associated with each festival.
- Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in the rich cultural experiences offered during Alexandria's festivals
- Respectful Participation: Participate respectfully and learn about the unique customs associated with each festival
- Festival Knowledge: Gain knowledge about Alexandria's festivals to appreciate their cultural significance
13. Local Art and Crafts
Purchase local art and crafts as souvenirs to support the local economy. Be mindful of cultural sensitivity when bargaining.
- Cultural Support: Support Alexandria's local artists by purchasing their works
- Bargaining Awareness: Understand and respect the bargaining culture when purchasing art and crafts in Alexandria
- Souvenir Selection: Choose unique and authentic souvenirs to take back home
14. Alexandria Coffee Culture
Coffee is an essential part of Alexandrian culture. Enjoy a cup of traditional Egyptian coffee or 'el-gahwa', while experiencing local conversations.
- Cultural Experience: Experience the rich cultural traditions surrounding coffee in Alexandria
- Local Interaction: Engage with locals and enjoy their company over a cup of traditional Egyptian coffee
- Coffee Appreciation: Appreciate the unique flavor profile of Alexandrian coffee, el-gahwa
15. Alexandria's Nightlife
Experience Alexandria's vibrant nightlife by visiting local bars, clubs, and cafes. Respect local customs and be mindful of alcohol consumption.
- Cultural Experience: Immerse yourself in Alexandria's unique nightlife culture
- Respectful Participation: Participate respectfully and be mindful of local customs during Alexandria's nightlife
- Safe Enjoyment: Enjoy the nightlife safely by being aware of your surroundings and practicing responsible drinking