Egypt

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Country guide

Egypt Business etiquette and meeting customs

Africa/Cairo

What kind of meeting?

Moderate punctuality

A few minutes late is tolerated, but let people know if you'll be later.

Meeting Culture

Recommended duration60+ min
Communication StyleWarm, indirect
Greeting StyleHandshake (same gender), sometimes light embrace

Daily Schedule

Work Hours09:00 – 17:00
Breakfast07:00 – 08:00
Lunch14:00 – 15:30
Dinner21:00 – 22:00
Sleep23:00 – 07:00

Tips for Meetings

For the kind of meeting you chose above.

Dress Code

Business formal

Tone

Warm, hierarchical

  • ·Trust must be established before any business discussion
  • ·Always accept offered tea or coffee as a sign of respect
  • ·Avoid scheduling on Fridays — it is the holy day
  • ·Use your right hand for greetings, eating, and passing objects — the left hand is considered impolite

General Tips

  • ·Meetings may start late — but arrive on time yourself
  • ·Build personal trust before business discussions
  • ·Tea or coffee is always offered — accept it
  • ·Friday is the holy day — avoid scheduling

Cultural Notes

  • ·Weekend is Friday-Saturday

Meeting someone from Egypt?

Find the best time

Cultural information is for general guidance only and may not reflect every individual's practices.

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