Shopping in Egypt: Souvenirs, Bazaars & Insider Tips

Shopping in Egypt is far more than a casual retail experience—it’s an adventure that connects you to ancient traditions, artistic craftsmanship, and vibrant local culture. Whether you’re browsing the iconic Khan El Khalili Bazaar or wandering through modern shopping malls, Egypt offers something unique at every turn. From aromatic oils and handmade jewelry to pharaonic statues and gold cartouches, every purchase tells a story.

If you’re planning your trip, consider pairing your shopping experience with one of our Cairo sightseeing tours for a truly immersive cultural day.

Why Shopping in Egypt is Unlike Anywhere Else

To begin with, Egypt’s markets are not just about buying souvenirs—they are living museums of cultural heritage. Here, bargaining is more than a pricing tactic—it’s a time-honored tradition. Therefore, even if an item seems reasonably priced, don’t hesitate to negotiate. You’ll often walk away paying 30% to 50% less than the original asking price, which adds to the thrill of the experience.

Moreover, many items you’ll find are handcrafted and rooted in centuries-old techniques passed down through generations. This makes every purchase meaningful.

What to Buy in Egypt: Authentic Souvenirs Worth Packing

Miniature Pyramids and Statues of the Gods

Since the pyramids are Egypt’s most iconic landmarks, miniature versions make excellent souvenirs. These can include the Great Sphinx, Anubis statues, or sarcophagi replicas. Although some are made from genuine alabaster, basalt, or granite, others are cheaper gypsum copies. Consequently, always test the quality by scratching lightly—if it leaves a white mark, it’s fake. For best results, buy from recommended vendors during our Giza Pyramid Tour.

Gold and Silver Cartouches

A personalized cartouche with your name in hieroglyphs makes a truly special keepsake or gift. These can be made in gold or silver, and you can choose from various sizes and styles. As a tip, ask for a certificate of authenticity if you’re purchasing gold. You can often find great pieces in combination with our Coptic Cairo Tour, where trusted jewelry shops are nearby.

Traditional Galabeyas and Belly Dance Costumes

The galabeya, Egypt’s traditional robe, is widely worn in rural areas and during festivals. Women’s styles are bright and fitted, while men’s are more modest. Additionally, Cairo is a great place to shop for belly dance costumes, which come in various colors and fabrics.

Hookah (Shisha Pipe)

If you’re looking for something both decorative and functional, a hookah, or “shisha,” is perfect. A genuine Egyptian hookah is a multi-part setup, usually made from brass and glass. It’s available in many designs and is often sold with flavored tobacco. We recommend checking out the copper shops during our Islamic Cairo walking tour for authentic pieces.

Hibiscus Tea (Karkadeh)

Known locally as karkadeh, this rich red tea made from hibiscus flowers is both refreshing and full of health benefits. It’s a great edible souvenir and can be found in both local spice markets and high-end stores. Try a cup during your Nile Dinner Cruise in Cairo for the full experience.

Perfume Oils

Egypt is famous for its fragrance oils, many of which are the basis for popular luxury perfumes. Shops often offer demonstrations and will help you create your own blend. You’ll find the best quality near pharmacy bazaars, or as part of your visit to a papyrus museum on our Cairo city day tours.

Scarab and Ankh Jewelry

In addition to cartouches, jewelry featuring ankh crosses, scarabs, and pharaonic profiles is a common sight. These symbols carry spiritual and historical meaning. Look for jewelry made of gold, silver, or copper, and check the hallmark to verify authenticity.

Best Places for Shopping in Egypt

Khan El Khalili Bazaar – Cairo’s Timeless Market

No visit to Cairo is complete without exploring Khan El Khalili, one of the oldest and largest bazaars in the Middle East. Here, you can shop for everything from handcrafted silver and gold jewelry to wooden boxes, alabaster statues, and woven carpets. After shopping, unwind with a mint tea at El Fishawy Café, which has been open continuously for over 200 years. This bazaar can be included in your Old Cairo walking tour.

Tentmakers Bazaar – Ghouria Street

Located near Bab Zuweila, this bazaar specializes in Khayamiya—a unique Egyptian art form of hand-stitched appliqué textiles. These make for exceptional wall hangings or cushion covers and are best purchased directly from the artists.

City Stars Mall – Modern Retail Meets Tradition

If you’re looking for a modern shopping experience, City Stars Mall in Nasr City combines luxury stores, food courts, cinemas, and even a miniature replica of Khan El Khalili. This makes it easy to enjoy traditional and international shopping under one roof.

Souq Al-Fustat – Coptic Cairo

This cozy artisan market is located next to the Hanging Church, and is a perfect stop during your Coptic Cairo exploration. You’ll find beautiful pottery, candles, and hand-stitched fabrics made by local artists.

Samadi Sweets – Authentic Egyptian Desserts

To bring a taste of Egypt home, stop by Samadi, a famous chain selling oriental sweets like basbousa, baklava, and konafa. The sweets are boxed for travel and are perfect gifts for loved ones.

Nagada – Artisan Elegance in Maadi

Nagada is known for hand-dyed textiles, pottery, and contemporary Egyptian fashion. Located in a historic villa, this shop offers a quiet escape from Cairo’s busy streets and is a treasure trove of artistic souvenirs.

Nefertari – Natural Cosmetics

Offering soaps, oils, and lotions made from milk, honey, and botanicals, Nefertari products are 100% natural and make for luxurious gifts. Their stores are found in major malls and hotels.

El Diwan & El Shorouk Bookstores

Both stores offer a large selection of English and Arabic books, from travel guides to novels and children’s literature. They’re ideal for travelers looking to dive deeper into Egyptian history and culture.

Insider Shopping Tips for Travelers

• Always negotiate. Most sellers expect you to haggle—it’s part of the fun!

• Stick to reputable vendors. If in doubt, ask your Egyptologist guide.

• Use local currency (EGP) when possible, as it often gives you better value.

• Check materials. For statues, a quick scratch test can reveal if it’s real stone or cheap plaster.

• Ask for receipts when purchasing gold, silver, or high-value items.

Final Thoughts: Make Your Shopping Experience Unforgettable

In conclusion, shopping in Egypt is more than a transaction—it’s a cultural journey. From ancient markets to modern malls, each shop offers a window into Egypt’s soul. Don’t just take home souvenirs; take home stories, scents, textures, and flavors that will forever remind you of your time along the Nile.

To make the most of your visit, combine your shopping day with one of our private Cairo tours or enjoy a magical evening on a Nile Maxim Dinner Cruise.