Egypt currency and Exchange Rate

The unit for Egypt currency is the pound (EGP; symbol E£) = 100 piastres. Notes are in denominations of E£100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 1, 50 piastres and 25 piastres. Coins are in denominations of 20, 10 and 5 piastres.

Two interesting peculiarities of Egypt currency are that each note is written in two languages, Arabic and English, and that the smaller the note denomination, the smaller its physical size. The Arabic side of the note has engravings of architecturally and historically important mosques. The English side depicts the legacy of Ancient Egypt, with engravings of figures, statues and temples. Egyptian paper money is among the most beautiful, on account of its color and the use of Egyptian and Arab motifs in its design.

Currency exchange is available at banks, official bureaux de change and most hotels. Banks often have better exchange rates than bureaux de change or hotels. All common international currencies are accepted. The import and export of foreign currency is unlimited. The import of local currency is unlimited. The export of local currency is prohibited. An attempt discriminates!

One-five pound note is a good tip for service.

American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are accepted, but generally only in bigger hotels or restaurants in Cairo and restaurants in tourist areas. You may avoid additional exchange rate charges by using traveller's cheques in US Dollars, Euros or Pounds Sterling.