Though it enjoys friendly relations with the U.S. and other Western nations and has one of the more dynamic economies in the Arab world, Egypt is very respectful of Islamic traditions and mores. Business travelers will find that the Muslim culture affects many aspects of their visit.
Appointments—You will be required to have an Egyptian intermediary to conduct business in the country, and the intermediary can usually assist in scheduling meetings. As a visitor, you should always try to be on time, but you can anticipate that your Egyptian counterparts will not be punctual. Generally, the higher your rank as a visitor, the greater effort your acquaintance will make to meet you at the appointed time. Note also that the Islamic calendar is often used and that parties should carefully agree upon the calendar being used to fix a date. Remember that Friday is the Islamic holy day, and business is not conducted then.
Personal Introductions—Handshakes are common, always with the right hand. Introductions can often be elaborate. If an acquaintance is introduced with a professional title, use it; if not, standard English titles (Mr., Ms.) are acceptable, along with the person's last name. Use the title and last name until instructed to do otherwise.
Negotiating—Egyptians usually have a great curiosity about their visitors and will want to get to know you before discussing any details of a business transaction. The pace of negotiations is slow, but don't try to hurry things along.
Business Entertaining—Expect to be entertained with much expressiveness and generosity. An engagement will typically begin late in the evening. Socializing is the intent, so don't bring up business unless your host initiates the conversation. Remember that many followers of Islam do not consume alcohol, and it's wise to follow your host's lead in this regard.
Body Language—Egyptians typically stand close to one another when speaking. Men will often touch their male acquaintances on the arm or back while involved in conversation, but a man will not touch a woman in the same manner. Pay close attention to which hand you use: The left hand should never be used to shake hands or to accept and offer items, including business cards, pens, etc. Avoid pointing at people or using the thumbs-up gesture. Avoid sitting in any manner that would permit the sole of your shoe or foot to be seen, which would be taken as an insult. Remember that shoes are often removed in homes and always in mosques. Women should dress modestly. Although Egypt is not as strict as some Islamic countries with regard to covering the head and legs, women's outfits should be loose and should conceal as much of the body as possible. Men should always wear long pants and shirts with sleeves. Use caution about tapping your fingers on a table, as in some quarters this can be interpreted to have sexual overtones.
Gift Giving—It's acceptable to give a business acquaintance a gift, but it should be of good quality. Flowers are not typically given. Chocolates are a good gift when visiting a home.
Conversation—Avoid politics, especially any criticism of Egypt or other Islamic countries. Israel is best left out of the conversation altogether. Remember that women (even wives and daughters) are typically not discussed and, if present, are usually not addressed by men. Sports, especially soccer, are a popular topic, as are antiquities and Egyptian culture.
