Things To Do
in Al ‘Āshir min Ramaḑān

Broad avenues, factory complexes and modern housing blocks offer contrast between industrial architecture and planned urban spaces — good for documentary-style city photography.

Vibrant market scenes with breads, spices and vendors provide colorful, candid opportunities; early morning light is best.

Short drives to the surrounding Eastern Desert yield dramatic light, sand textures and minimalist landscapes ideal for wide-angle shots.

If you head to the Red Sea beaches nearby, you’ll find seaside vistas, fishing boats and sunset compositions not far from the city.

A filling mix of rice, lentils, pasta and a spicy tomato-vinegar sauce topped with fried onions; widely available at local eateries and street stalls.

Must-Try!

Slow-cooked fava beans seasoned with oil, lemon and cumin — a staple breakfast you can find at any small café or street cart.

Crispy fritters made from fava beans and herbs; great for a quick, inexpensive meal from street vendors and sandwich shops.

Skewered minced meat or cubes of marinated meat, grilled and served with rice or bread at local grills and restaurants.

Morning markets selling fresh bread, vegetables, legumes and spices — ideal to sample breakfast staples like ful and freshly baked aish baladi.

Look for koshari and taameya vendors around office complexes and near bus hubs for inexpensive, authentic meals.

Egypt is conservative — dress modestly in public, especially for women in less touristy areas and when visiting religious sites (cover shoulders and knees).

Handshakes are common among men; wait for a woman to extend her hand first. Accepting tea or coffee when offered is a polite gesture.

During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public during daylight hours out of respect; many restaurants operate differently and business hours may change.

Ask permission before photographing people, especially women; avoid photographing military, police or industrial installations.

Tipping is common: leave 10% in restaurants if service isn’t included; small tips (a few EGP) are appreciated for porters, taxi drivers and hotel staff. Round up casual payments and offer small change for quick services.

Egyptian pound (EGP) is the local currency. Cash is widely used, especially at markets and small vendors; larger shops, malls and hotels accept credit/debit cards. ATMs are common in the city; notify your bank before travel for card use.

Very hot and dry from June to August with daytime highs often above 35–40°C (95–104°F). Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon, stay hydrated and use sun protection.

Mild and comfortable from December to February with daytime temperatures in the mid-teens to low twenties °C (60s–70s°F); nights can be cooler, so pack a light jacket.

Temperatures rise and occasional khamsin (sand/dust) winds occur in March–May — check forecasts and protect camera gear from sand.

Warm and pleasant with lower tourist traffic; October–November are good months for outdoor trips and beach visits near the Red Sea.

The main international gateway to Egypt, roughly 45–75 km west/southwest depending on route; most visitors arrive here and travel onward by car, bus or private transfer.

A larger Red Sea airport about a few hours' drive to the southeast — useful if combining a visit to the coast with a stay in the region; domestic and international flights available.