::ICAE - Quick Guide ::

City Description:
Cairo if described in one word is "Chaos" But you soon realise there is some innate method in the madness & things somehow pull together & work.
It has extreme weather conditions. Temperature reaches almost upto 50C in Summer and down to 3-4C in Winter. March is the month for the Khamseen (sand storms). You can expect light rain in January.

Pros and Cons:
How do the locals feel about foreigners?
Locals have mixed feelings about foreigners and its not easy to generalize. I have met with all kinds of receptions ranging from curiosity to resentment. But for the most part, foreigners and their dollars are welcomed by majority of the population that I have come in contact with.

What are the positive and negative aspects of living in your city?
The city is rich in culture and heritage. From the pyramids of the Pharaonic era (5000 years ago)to the Citadel of Saladin to the Cairo Tower.
The traffic, the pollution, the dust, the lack of respect for time and the cacophony can be nerve wracking at times.

Is this a good city for families/singles/couples/gays and lesbians?
Children of all ages will feel welcome in Cairo and its easy for parents with kids to develop support networks. Singles and couples also have a lot on offer. (If I'm not mistaken homosexuality is either illegal or believed not to exist at all in this country.)

Problems with racial, religious or gender prejudices?
The only 3 religions that are believed to exist are the monotheistic religions of Judaism, Islam & Christianity. The others aren't recognised.
Women have a lot more freedom and rights in Egypt than I have noticed in other Middle Eastern countries. Quite a large number of women in Egypt work outside their home.

Is there a specific dress code?
Many women in Egypt cover their heads with a veil, some do wear other forms of Islamic dress like the abaya and niqab, but it is not expected to be worn by all women.
In general it is a good practice for women to cover their forearms and knees when out in public. This is more to avoid unwanted attention than anything else.
Tourists do wear everything from halter to bikini tops, but keeping in mind local sensibilities it is better to avoid this display of skin.
Many Mosques and Coptic Churches will insist on arms and knees being covered for both men & women visitors. Some will ask you to cover your head. A loose shawl or cap will suffice.

Are there any Security concerns? (car jacking, robberies, kidnappings, etc.)
Egypt is relatively crime free. If you do not consider blatant overcharging by touts a crime :) There are a lot of security measures in place at most locations that expats/tourists would visit, including malls, heritage sites and hotels.

Advice to help avoid problems?
Respect local sensibilities (this is applicable in any country that you move to) Avoid public displays of affection like kissing and hugging.

Immigration / Visas / Work Permits:
Visitors from some countries require visas before arriving whereas passport holders from USA and some other countries can apply for visas on arrival at the airport for about 15USD.
If you are hired by a company before you arrive, try and get your work permit from this company before you actually arrive in Egypt. Its not as easy to find a company to hire you and sponsor your work permit after arriving in Egypt.

Accomodation:
What is the typical housing for expats?
Apartments, house boats (on the Nile - limited numbers and extremely basic) and villas are available for rent.
Apartments range from unfurnished to fully furnished. Fully furnished means all the furniture, AC's in every room except the kitchen. A TV, washing machine, refrigerator, cooking stove and dishwasher.

Where are the best places to live?
Maadi is the number one choice for most expats. Zamalek, Mohandaseen, Katameyya, 6th of October City, Heliopolis, Rehab are some other areas expats may choose to live in

What is the typical cost in rent?
Rent could range between 500USD to 6500USD per month depending on various factors.

Is there a typical payment process?
The typical payment process is a one month security deposit and montly or quarterly payments in advance. The agreement is typically for one year. At the end of the year, they may ask for a 5-10% increase in the rent.

What is important to look for and/or negotiate when looking for accomodation?
When looking for accommodation, always get all the jobs that you want done in the house accomplished before you move in to the house. Thats when most landlords/landladies will work the fastest. Once you move in and ask for things to be done then it could take weeks even to get them to change a lightbulb.