Egypt
In this guide
Why families choose Egypt
Egypt is home to Al-Azhar, one of the oldest centres of Islamic learning, and to a daily rhythm built around the salah. For Western families it offers Arabic immersion, a lower cost of living than the Gulf, and an established community of Muslims who moved here from America, Britain and Canada.
It is not without challenges: traffic, paperwork and the summer heat are real. Our stories section includes families who talk about both sides.
Residency routes
Most of the families we support settle through one of four routes. Requirements change often, so we verify each route before we advise on it.
- Study — Arabic and Islamic study at recognised institutes. [Requirements to verify]
- Property — residency linked to owning a home. [Threshold to verify]
- Business and investment — founding or investing in an Egyptian company. [Requirements to verify]
- Employment — a work permit sponsored by a local employer. [Requirements to verify]
What a month costs
Monthly costs for a family in Cairo, from the Hijrah Plan budget. Prices checked 29 March 2026. Exchange rate of 7 November 2026.
| Item | Monthly, EGP | Monthly, USD |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (3-bedroom family home) | EGP 27,783 | $515 |
| Utilities | EGP 1,373 | $25 |
| Internet | EGP 584 | $11 |
| Groceries (family) | EGP 7,296 | $135 |
| Transport | EGP 380 | $7 |
| Domestic help | Not available | Not available |
| School (per month) | EGP 74 | $1 |
| Health insurance (per month) | Not available | Not available |
| Total with figures | EGP 37,490 | $696 |
Estimates from our own research, in US dollars as researched and converted at the rate shown. Prices move; use as a starting point, not a quote.
Where Western Muslims settle
Schooling
Families choose between three kinds of school: Azhari schools with a full Islamic curriculum, international schools teaching British or American programmes, and private Islamic schools that combine the two. The families guide includes a school-search checklist and the questions to ask on a visit.
