Getting ready to move to a new country and a new culture can lead to a lot of questions, one of which will inevitably be “What do people wear in this new place?” Moving to Egypt is no different, and, like any other foreign move, requires a wardrobe evaluation. So if you find yourself standing at your closet without a clue what to pack and what to leave behind, never fear - we’re here to help!

A Note on The Culture

So first off, yes Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country, and expectations for clothing are more modest than some parts of the world. However, this doesn’t mean that everyone is expected to wear a galabeya, or that girls must wear dresses and cover their hair. Dress in Egypt can vary widely depending on location, so consider where you’ll be living, how many other expats live in the area, and what places you’d like to visit during your time here. 

Everyday Dress for Women

Long skirts or pants and tops with sleeves are advisable. Avoid revealing clothes like tank tops, short skirts, and shorts.

• Summer = Lightweight Materials Loose skirts and flowy pants in materials like linen and polyester will be your best friend.

• Winter = Layers While days can still be warm, evenings and mornings are cooler. Layers are key—think light sweaters or jackets that you can easily put on or take off as needed.

Everyday Dress for Men

Long trousers and short- or long-sleeved shirts are appropriate. Shorts are acceptable in tourist areas, but longer pants are preferable in most areas, particularly in more conservative regions or when visiting religious sites.

Shoes

As with most places, comfortable shoes are a must! You’ll want a mix of close-toed shoes and sandals for the variety of seasons and activities. Think about how much walking you’ll do on a daily basis (will you walk to work, drive, or take public transportation?) and plan accordingly. And consider materials as well - the streets of Cairo can get dusty, so shoes that clean easily are a plus. 

Traveling Around Egypt

Following the above guidelines will keep you comfortable in most situations. However, there are a few exceptions based on specific locations.

• Religious Sites: Both men and women should cover their arms and legs. Women may also need to cover their hair.

• Beach Resorts: Shorts and swimsuits are acceptable at resorts, especially those frequented by tourists. 

Hopefully this gives you a better idea of what to pack for your new adventure. And don’t stress too much if you forget something - there are malls aplenty, full of American and European brands like Nike, Adidas, Zara, H&M, and more!