Can you drink alcohol in Egypt?

Yes, you can drink alcohol in Egypt.

It is legal for non-Muslims, particularly in hotels, bars, and restaurants that cater to foreigners.

However, it is important to note that alcohol consumption is prohibited for Muslims, and public intoxication is generally frowned upon in Egyptian society.

In some areas, particularly in more conservative or rural parts of the country, alcohol may be less readily available.

During certain religious holidays and events, there may be stricter regulations on the sale and consumption of alcohol. It’s always advisable to respect local customs and laws regarding alcohol consumption when visiting any country.

What alcohol is Egypt known for?Ouzo 12, Volos, Griechenland

Egypt is known for producing and exporting a type of brandy called “ouzo,” made from grapes and flavored with anise. Other popular alcoholic drinks in Egypt include beer, wine, and various spirits.

Other alcoholic beverages commonly associated with Egypt are:

Wine: Some well-known Egyptian wineries include Ghandurah, Omar Khayyam, and Brave Winery.

Araki: – Araki (or Arak) is a traditional anise-flavored spirit popular in Egypt and other Middle Eastern countries.

It is typically distilled from grapes or dates and has a distinct licorice-like taste.

Palm wine/Palm liquor:- Palm wine, or locally known as “Laban Areer,” is an alcoholic beverage made from the fermented sap of palm trees.

Beer is also consumed in Egypt.

In tourist areas and larger cities like Cairo and Alexandria, you can find a variety of locally produced and imported alcoholic beverages available for purchase and consumption.

Can females drink alcohol in Egypt?

Yes, females are legally allowed to drink alcohol in Egypt. However, there are some cultural and religious considerations to keep in mind:

Legal status: Alcohol consumption is legal in Egypt for both men and women, Muslims and non-Muslims, as long as they are above the legal drinking age of 21.

Social acceptance: While legal, drinking alcohol is still not widely accepted or practiced among Egyptian women, especially in more traditional or rural areas.

It is generally more socially acceptable for women to drink alcohol in larger cities like Cairo and Alexandria or tourist areas.

Also, the public consumption of alcohol by women may be frowned upon or seen as inappropriate by some. Many women who do drink alcohol tend to do so in more private settings or certain restaurants and bars, particularly in areas frequented by tourists or expatriates.

It’s important to note that, while legal, alcohol consumption by women in Egypt is still subject to societal and cultural norms.

Is alcohol expensive in Egypt?

Yes, alcohol is generally considered expensive in Egypt, especially for the local population. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Taxes and duties: There are high taxes and import duties levied on alcoholic beverages in Egypt. This significantly increases the retail prices.
  • Limited local production: Most alcoholic beverages available in Egypt are imported, as there is limited local production. Imported alcohol is subject to higher taxes and transportation costs, making it more expensive.
  • Tourism-centric pricing: In areas frequented by tourists, such as resorts and hotels, alcohol prices are often inflated to cater to foreign visitors who may have higher disposable incomes.
  • Social and religious factors: Due to the Islamic culture and religious beliefs of the majority population, alcohol consumption is not widespread in Egypt. This lower demand can contribute to higher prices.
  • Purchasing restrictions: There are restrictions on where and when alcohol can be purchased in Egypt, limiting the availability and contributing to higher prices.

To give you an idea of the costs, a bottle of locally produced beer like Stella can cost around 20-30 Egyptian pounds (around $1-$2), while imported beers can cost double or triple that amount. A bottle of wine can range from 150-300 Egyptian pounds (approximately $8-$16) or more for imported varieties.

It’s important to note that alcohol prices can vary greatly depending on the location and establishment. The prices in tourist areas and upscale venues tend to be significantly higher than in local markets or shops.

For the average Egyptian, alcohol is considered a luxury item due to its high cost relative to the local income levels. As a result, alcohol consumption is generally limited among the local population.

Do hotels in Egypt serve alcohol?

Yes, many hotels do. Egypt’s alcohol laws are based on a mix of religious and secular regulations. While Islam prohibits alcohol consumption, tourism is a major source of revenue for the country.

CECIL HOTEL, ALEXANDRIA, EGYPTSo, visitors will find that many hotels in Egypt do serve alcohol, especially those in tourist areas like Cairo, Sharm El Sheikh, and Hurghada.

Most hotels in tourist areas will have bars or restaurants that serve beer, wine, and spirits. Hotels located outside of tourist areas are less likely to serve alcohol.

Some hotels may be entirely dry, meaning they don’t serve alcohol at all. These hotels often cater to Muslim travelers or adhere to stricter religious principles.

Tips for finding a hotel that serves alcohol in Egypt:

  • Look for hotels in tourist areas. These areas are more likely to have hotels that cater to international visitors.
  • Read hotel reviews online. Reviews can often mention whether or not a hotel serves alcohol.
  • Contact the hotel directly. The hotel will tell you definitively whether or not they serve alcohol.

What do Egyptians drink in the morning?

In the morning, many Egyptians drink tea or coffee. These drinks are often enjoyed with breakfast,  including items such as bread, cheese, and eggs.

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *