31-country business-culture briefs — customs stated as common practice, backed by our data.
Handshakes are the standard greeting in business settings; male colleagues may exchange cheek kisses once a relationship develops. When meeting women, wait for them to extend a hand first — if they do not, a respectful nod suffices. Titles such as 'Doctor' or 'Engineer' are widely used and should be applied when addressing counterparts, as they signal respect.
Use professional titles followed by the first name in formal settings, such as 'Doctor Ahmed' or 'Engineer Hassan.' Once a relationship is established, your counterpart may invite you to use first names — follow their lead rather than initiating informality. Avoid addressing senior contacts by first name alone until clearly welcomed to do so.
Avoid passing items with the left hand, as it is considered unclean in local culture. Never publicly criticize or embarrass a counterpart — preserving dignity and 'face' is essential to maintaining trust. Refrain from making negative comments about Islam, and avoid asking personal questions about female family members.
Meetings typically open with warm small talk covering family, health, or general well-being; jumping straight to business can come across as abrupt. Expect interruptions and people entering mid-meeting — this is normal professional practice, not disrespect. Always confirm meetings in advance and reconfirm closer to the date, as schedules in Egypt are subject to change.
Relationship-building takes precedence over deal-making in Egyptian business culture; avoid signaling impatience or rushing to close. Bargaining is common practice, and initial offers typically include considerable margin — patience and persistence are valued negotiating traits. Decision-making often involves multiple approval layers, so establishing contact with senior decision-makers early is advantageous.
Business meals are usually held in restaurants, and hosts will press guests to eat generously; accepting food graciously and expressing appreciation is better received than repeated refusals. Pork and alcohol are restricted in Islamic practice, and many Egyptian professionals do not drink — observe before ordering alcohol. Competing to pay the bill is a common gesture of generosity; as a guest, making a polite attempt to pay is appreciated, but accepting the host's hospitality is customary.
Punctuality expectations in Egypt lean flexible — meetings may start 30 minutes or more late. Foreign visitors are generally expected to arrive on time, but should prepare to wait without displaying frustration. During Ramadan, working hours shorten significantly; schedule meetings outside fasting hours and build in extra time for all commitments.
Ramadan is the most significant religious period, during which working hours are reduced and business activity slows considerably — avoid scheduling critical negotiations at this time. Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are major holidays when offices typically close for several days. National Day (October 6) and Revolution Day (January 25) are public holidays; always verify exact dates before finalizing travel plans, as Islamic calendar-based holidays shift each year.