Digital Nomad Life in Alexandria, Egypt
Summary: Digital nomads like living in Alexandria, Egypt because of its low cost of living, vibrant culture, and access to the Mediterranean Sea. Alexandria is a great place to live for digital nomads because it is a major hub for the tech industry, with many startups and tech companies based in the city. Additionally, Alexandria is a great place to live for digital nomads because of its vibrant nightlife, excellent restaurants, and beautiful beaches. The best neighborhood to live in Alexandria is the Raml Station area. This area is close to the city center and is known for its vibrant nightlife, excellent restaurants, and beautiful beaches. Additionally, the Raml Station area is home to many tech startups and companies, making it a great place for digital nomads to network and find work. The approximate population of Alexandria, Egypt is 5.2 million people. The weather in Alexandria, Egypt is typically warm and sunny year-round, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit. The monthly cost of living for a digital nomad in Alexandria is approximately $1,000 USD. This includes rent, utilities, food, transportation, and entertainment. The cost to rent a centrally located, one-bedroom apartment with high-speed internet access in Alexandria is approximately $500 USD per month.
How do I meet people in Alexandria?
When we asked people living in Alexandria about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"The British Club and read the free newspapers for groups that meet once a week or so," said one person in Alexandria.
"Expats in Alexandria often join clubs and activities such as the Alexandria International Community, which is a group that organizes events and activities for expats. Other popular activities include joining a gym, taking language classes, and attending cultural events. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals, joining a book club, or volunteering with a local organization. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups to connect with other expats in the area," said one expat who made the move to Alexandria.
What is life like in Alexandria?
When we asked people living in Alexandria what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Living in Alexandria as an expat or digital nomad can be an exciting and rewarding experience. The city is known for its vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and rich history. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy the city's many attractions, such as the Alexandria Library, the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, and the Montazah Palace. The city also offers a wide range of activities, from shopping and dining to exploring the Mediterranean Sea. Expats and digital nomads can also take advantage of the city's excellent transportation system, which includes buses, taxis, and the Alexandria Metro. The cost of living in Alexandria is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to live and work abroad," said one expat who made the move to Alexandria.
"In Egypt, Family is number one but going for coffee is right up there as well. Going to the mall (Carfor) seems to be a big deal here," explained one foreigner living in Alexandria, Egypt.
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Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
Where should I live in Alexandria?
We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Alexandria is to search online for rental listings. There are many websites that offer listings for apartments, houses, and other types of rental properties in Alexandria. Additionally, you can also search for real estate agents in the area who can help you find a suitable place to live. Additionally, you can also ask friends and family who live in Alexandria for recommendations on where to look for a place to live," remarked one member in Alexandria.
What do I need to know before moving to Alexandria?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Alexandria, they said:
"Before retiring in Alexandria, expats should be aware of the local culture and customs. It is important to research the cost of living in Alexandria, as well as the availability of healthcare and other services. Expats should also be aware of the security situation in the city, and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. Additionally, expats should familiarize themselves with the local language, as English is not widely spoken in Alexandria. Finally, expats should be aware of the visa and residency requirements for living in Egypt," said one person in Alexandria.
"Be very prepared not let the backward ways and slowness and unorganized ways get to you. Relax and take it for what this country is great for which is cultural, beauty, great food and fun in the sun," said one expat who made the move to Alexandria.
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What do people appreciate most about the culture in Alexandria?
"Expatriates in Alexandria appreciate the city's rich history and culture, which is evident in its many ancient monuments, museums, and archaeological sites. They also enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife, with its many bars, restaurants, and clubs. Additionally, expats appreciate the friendly and welcoming nature of the locals, who are always willing to help out and share their culture with visitors. Finally, expats enjoy the city's Mediterranean climate, which offers warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine throughout the year," said one person in Alexandria.
"The people are very friendly and try and help wherever they can. The sense of safety is also a surprise. The delight in finding things that I am looking for is wonderful," said one expat who made the move to Alexandria.
Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
What do people find most challenging about the culture in Alexandria?
"Very dirty, smelly, busy, noisy place. Nothing is the way you would expect it to be, and it's difficult to get many things done," remarked one member in Alexandria.
"Expats in Alexandria often find the language barrier to be one of the most challenging aspects of the local culture. Additionally, the cultural norms and expectations can be difficult to navigate, as they are often quite different from those of other countries. Additionally, the hot and humid climate can be difficult to adjust to, especially for those coming from cooler climates. Finally, the lack of reliable public transportation can make it difficult to get around the city," explained one expat living in Alexandria, Egypt.
What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Alexandria for a while?
"If you plan to stay in Alexandria for a while, you will need to obtain a valid residence permit or visa. Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for a tourist visa, student visa, or work visa. You will also need to provide proof of your identity, such as a passport or national ID card. Additionally, you may need to provide proof of financial resources, such as a bank statement, to demonstrate that you can support yourself during your stay," said one expat in Alexandria.
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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Alexandria?
We asked people in Alexandria if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:
"I was in the mobile shop and after arranging our cellphone airtime etc. was asked for the visa, whereupon I pulled out my husband's passport and pointed to our visa. Much to the shop assistant's amusement he pointed out that he wanted the Visa credit card," remarked one member in Alexandria.
"It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions when visiting Alexandria. It is important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. It is also important to be aware of the local laws and regulations, and to avoid taking photographs of military or government buildings. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local customs regarding public displays of affection, as these may be seen as inappropriate in some areas. Finally, it is important to be respectful of local religious beliefs and practices, and to avoid making any comments that could be seen as offensive or disrespectful," explained one expat living in Alexandria, Egypt.
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What are healthcare services like in Alexandria?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Alexandria, they replied:
"Healthcare services in Alexandria, are provided through a mix of public and private facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical centers. The public healthcare system is managed by the Ministry of Health and Population, offering basic medical services at low costs. However, public hospitals and clinics often face challenges such as overcrowding, limited resources, and outdated equipment. On the other hand, private healthcare facilities in Alexandria offer a higher standard of care, with modern equipment and well-trained medical professionals. These facilities cater to a wide range of medical needs, including general medicine, surgery, dentistry, and specialized care such as cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics. Many private hospitals also have emergency departments and diagnostic services like radiology and laboratory testing. In addition to hospitals and clinics, Alexandria is home to several pharmacies that provide prescription and over-the-counter medications. Some pharmacies operate 24 hours a day, ensuring access to medications at any time. Foreign visitors and expatriates in Alexandria often opt for private healthcare services, as they typically offer a higher quality of care and shorter waiting times compared to public facilities. It is also common for people to seek medical treatment in nearby Cairo, where there are more advanced healthcare facilities and internationally accredited hospitals. Overall, healthcare services in Alexandria are accessible and cater to various medical needs, but the quality of care can vary significantly between public and private facilities," said one member in Alexandria.
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What are the pros and cons of living in Alexandria?
"Expats and digital nomads living in Alexandria, often like the city's rich history, stunning architecture, and numerous historical sites, such as the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, the Roman Amphitheater, and the Citadel of Qaitbay. They also appreciate the relatively low cost of living, which allows them to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank. The Mediterranean climate, with its warm summers and mild winters, is another attractive feature of living in Alexandria. Additionally, the city's coastal location offers beautiful beaches and a vibrant waterfront, providing ample opportunities for relaxation and leisure activities. On the other hand, expats and digital nomads may dislike the traffic congestion and pollution in Alexandria, which can make getting around the city challenging and frustrating. They might also find the public transportation system to be inadequate and unreliable. The language barrier can be another issue, as not everyone speaks English, making it difficult for expats to communicate and navigate daily life. Some may also feel that the city lacks a strong expat community, which can lead to feelings of isolation and difficulty in making friends. Lastly, the internet speed and reliability may not be up to the standards that digital nomads require for their work, causing frustration and limiting their productivity," explained one person living in Alexandria, Egypt.
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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