Egypt stands out in many ways, and its approach to commerce is no exception. Shopping in Egypt primarily revolves around local shops, making up 99% of the retail landscape, with just a 1% presence of department stores and renowned brand outlets. Among the items tourists most commonly purchase are souvenir trinkets and delectable treats, with occasional acquisitions of clothing, natural stones, or fine cotton linens.
While it's relatively easy to locate major supermarkets and stores during your shopping expedition in Egypt, the quest for high-quality products might require a bit more effort. For a more cost-effective shopping experience, consider visiting local bazaars, where you'll discover a wide range of items at affordable prices.
Remember to engage in bargaining to avoid overpaying. Never settle for a price that feels too steep for your budget. It's worth noting that the highest prices are typically found in popular tourist towns like Sharm el Sheikh or Hurghada. In contrast, on the outskirts where tourists are less common, prices tend to be more reasonable.
In Egypt, the sale season occurs twice a year, typically in August and February. If you're fortunate enough to visit during one of these sales, you can enjoy significant discounts of 25-50% off on your desired products. Generally, stores operate from 09:00 to 20:00, but those catering to tourists often extend their hours until 21:00-22:00.
In Egypt, the weekend days are Friday and Sunday. During Ramadan, store hours may be adjusted, with later openings and earlier closures, and some stores may close during the day and only reopen at night.
