Egypt has a rich history and culture dating back thousands of years, from the culture of the pharaohs to Christianity and Islam. Egypt was the birthplace of one of the first civilizations. Its culture was influenced by many other ethnic groups that either lived in or invaded the country.
The traditions of modern Egypt may seem a little different from what we are used to, which, in turn, can make tourists sometimes feel embarrassed. To understand the atmosphere of Egypt, it is necessary to carefully study the culture, customs and family values of the people inhabiting this country. If you learn to understand and respect other people's values, traveling to Egypt will bring you even more pleasure.
Egyptian traditions: believers and food
Most Muslims in Egypt are not in the habit of drinking alcohol. However, they don't mind when others drink. However, it is important that you drink alcohol in Egypt in moderation. The traditions of Egypt do not involve the use of pork for food, but for visitors there is always a restaurant or cafe serving dishes from this meat.
Note for women
In Egypt, there are several restrictions on visiting women. At the ticket line, foreign women stand in line with other women.
Direct interaction with Egyptian women is never recommended. It's always wise to speak to them through someone local or people you know well.
Crime
Egypt has a low crime rate, but domestic violence is common. From time to time there are petty thieves and pickpockets. Women should be on the lookout, especially in areas far from the city center. Drug use is frowned upon, so public consumption and possession of drugs is not recommended to avoid legal trouble.
Warm and hospitality
Egypt has amazing natural, historical and cultural attractions, so tourism here is one of the main sources of income. Egyptians are extremely friendly, open to other cultures and known for their hospitality, so don't be surprised if people invite you into their homes and insist that you accept the invitation.
Egyptians are generally friendly by nature and love to help people. If you ask them any question, they will gladly answer it. It is also interesting that whenever you askquestion to the Egyptian, he will call other people to discuss it, and will try to give you the most accurate and correct answer to the question asked.
Family
Traditions in Egypt are strictly observed when it comes to family matters. The family is very important to the Egyptians, so they pay special attention to family values and relationships. Respect between family members leads to the fact that children most often live with their parents before creating their own family and having children. In general, parents encourage marriage and financially support their sons and daughters to get married. Egyptians love to hold big wedding celebrations where they invite all family members and friends.
Usually, responsibilities are divided in such a way that the care of children remains with women, while men are responsible for the financial support of the family.
Because family members are very attached to each other, they deeply mourn the death of a family member. It is customary to wear only black for at least 40 days after the death of a family member, and they may mourn for up to a year. This is one of the traditions inherited from the great pharaohs. Traditions in Egypt are such that it is considered unacceptable to show any sign of happiness during a funeral.
Holidays
Egyptians love different celebrations. Close family members and friends always gather together during holidays and special celebrations.
Due to the great love for food, the table is usually prepared and set by the whole family, butIn such cases, joint cooking is common here. It seems that the culinary traditions of ancient Egypt have been preserved here to this day. Women are usually proud of their ability to cook: they like to compete with each other in who can cook the most delicious dish. Interestingly, restaurants are one of the most thriving businesses, as Egyptians enjoy trying new cuisines and appreciate delicious food.
How to respond if an Egyptian invites you to his house
Traditions in Egypt suggest that if you are invited to visit, you must first refuse. If the owner really wants you to visit his house, he will give you a second invitation. In this case, you should not refuse the invitation. If for some reason you are unable to visit the Egyptian, be sure to promise that you will visit him next time. However, it is still better to accept the invitation, because otherwise there is a chance that your host will feel humiliated. Hospitality is one of the characteristic features of the Egyptians, so inviting guests is a national tradition of Egypt. Representatives of the people of this country are always pleased to show respect and care for guests. If you want, you can even grab some gifts for the host, but check if the gift is in line with their status.
Culture, traditions and customs of Egypt: religion
Religion plays a big role in the life of Egyptians and it is mixed with the daily activities of Muslims and Christians living in Egypt. Mosques are located here and there, so as you walk through the streets of Egyptian cities, you can hear the call to pray up to five times a day.
Although the Egyptians use the Western calendar, they refer to the calendar of Islamic religious holidays and Ramadan is the most important month of the year. Ramadan is the holy month for the Egyptians, which they celebrate with friends and relatives. During this month, the Egyptians stay awake at night and spend time in prayer and spiritual activities. In addition, they do charity work, rebuild relationships, and share love and affection for each other. Despite this, the tourist season in Egypt continues even in the holy month.
Prayer places
Places designated for prayer are considered sacred by Egyptians, and therefore tourists from abroad should respect such churches and mosques, of which there are a huge number in Egypt.
Thus, when a person enters the territory of a place where prayers are held, he should take off his shoes and cover his head. You should also wear the most modest clothing that will cover most of your body. Interestingly, Friday in Egypt is considered the holy day of the week.
Tipping
In Egypt, tips are welcome and often expected. You can offer tips not only to waiters, but to all the people who helped you during your trip. However, try to avoid large sums - the Egyptians take it as an insult. In any case, tip -it's a great way to make a good impression on the people around you. However, don't tip people of your status or professionals.
Summarizing
If you want to read about Egypt, traditions and customs in a summary, then the following can be said on this topic: Egypt's centuries-old history, tourist attractions and geographical location make it an ideal place for business and tourism. But before you visit this country, it is important to understand the culture and traditions of this place.
Egypt is a truly unique country where the traditions and customs of Ancient Egypt have combined with the modern structure of society. Egypt has been through a lot: it has been the victim of many invaders in the past, and has recently suffered from economic and political problems. But the Egyptians continue to love their life and enjoy it, despite all the difficulties and problems. Perhaps by visiting Egypt, you can learn the positive thinking that is so inherent in the local population.
