Here’s a practical guide on what to avoid in Cairo to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and respectful visit:

Safety & Scams

• Unlicensed Taxis & Unmetered Rides: Always insist the driver uses the meter (ad-dittu). Better yet, use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Careem for fixed fares and safety.
• “Free” Gifts or Tours: Politely but firmly decline if someone puts a souvenir in your hand, offers to guide you, or says a site is “closed” – it’s often a prelude to demanding high payment.
• Too-Good-To-Be-True Deals: Be wary of “government papyrus museums” or “essential oil factories” – they are often overpriced tourist traps. Shop at reputable stores.
• Currency Exchange: Never exchange money on the street. Use official banks, ATMs inside hotels/banks, or licensed exchange offices.

Cultural & Behavioral Etiquette

• Inappropriate Dress: Avoid revealing clothing, especially when visiting mosques or religious sites. For both men and women, covering shoulders and knees is respectful.
• Public Displays of Affection: Holding hands is generally acceptable, but kissing and hugging in public can draw unwanted attention and is considered disrespectful.
• Photography Without Permission: Never photograph people, especially women, military personnel, police, or bridges/airports, without explicit consent. It can lead to serious confrontation.
• Using Your Left Hand: In Egyptian culture, the left hand is considered unclean. Use your right hand for eating, handing over money, and greeting people.