How Does ATMs & Cash Work in Egypt?
Last verified: 2025-06 · Middle East
1The Quick Answer
Egypt is a largely cash economy — use CIB or Banque Misr ATMs for foreign cards and carry small EGP notes for everyday use.
2What You Need to Know
Cash is king in Egypt. A very large proportion of shops, street vendors, local restaurants, and transport require cash payment. The most reliable ATMs for international cards are CIB (Commercial International Bank) and Banque Misr, found in airports, shopping malls, and city centres. Exchange rates at official exchange offices (bureau de change) are better than at hotel desks. Carrying a backup stash of USD or EUR is sensible given the Egyptian Pound's history of significant devaluation — dollars and euros are widely accepted as a backup in tourist areas. Inform your bank before travelling to avoid cards being blocked.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1Exchange money at official exchange offices or CIB bank branches — hotel rates are typically 10–15% worse
- 2Keep a supply of 10, 20, and 50 EGP notes for tipping, local taxis, and small purchases
- 3Use a Wise or Revolut card to minimise foreign transaction fees when withdrawing from ATMs
Important Warning
ATM skimming does occur in Egypt. Use machines inside banks or shopping malls rather than standalone street ATMs, and cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
How does this compare?
ATMs & Cash rules in nearby and similar countries:
ATMs are widely available and the UAE is largely cashless, but carry AED 200–500 for souqs and small traditional vendors.
Cash is king in Morocco — withdraw dirhams from bank ATMs in cities and note that taking dirhams out of Morocco is illegal in significant quantities.
ATMs are widely available from major banks and accept foreign cards; contactless and Apple Pay are very widely accepted, making cash less essential.
Traveling to Egypt?
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SafetyWing Travel Insurance
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Airalo eSIM
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