What should expat women wear in the hot summer in Egypt?

Herbert He · 2025-07-22T15:54:45+02:00

Discover practical dressing tips for expat women in Cairo's hot summer, ensuring comfort and cultural respect for newcomers to Egypt.

Herbert He New member

Member since 21 July 2025

Herbert HeNew member22 July 2025 13:54:45

My daughter, who was born in Canada but grew up in China as well as Canada, recently moved to New Cairo to take up a position working for a large Chinese tech company. She's been to many countries, but this is the first time she is in Africa and staying long-term in a Muslim country. As the relocation happened in the hot summer and she is scheduled to travel back to both China and Canada in the coming months, she packed in only summer clothes, mostly skirts, shorts and T-shirts. On her first full day in the office in New Cairo, the receptionist in her company, a local lady, politely but seriously told her that what she was wearing would not work in Egypt and might even pose safety issues at times. We support our daughter for whatever she wants to do, and we share her excitement about working as a Canadian in Africa for an Asian company. But, as parents, we'd hate to see her get into any situation that is not safe for her. So What's the the dressing code for women in Egypt? Any allowance given to expat women? Should we be concerned about her safety? Any suggestions? Thanks.

Julia Verbovskaya New member

Member since 20 July 2025

Julia VerbovskayaNew member23 July 2025 15:27:39

@Herbert He

Egypt, including New Cairo, is generally quite cosmopolitan 鈥� especially in business and expat circles 鈥� but local cultural norms still influence what is considered appropriate attire, particularly for women. While there is no strict dress code enforced by law, modest dress is expected in most workplaces and public settings.

In general, for women in Egypt:

Knees, shoulders, and cleavage should ideally be covered 鈥� especially in professional or unfamiliar environments.

Loose-fitting clothing is more comfortable in the heat and draws less attention.

Skirts or dresses below the knee, trousers, and short-sleeved or elbow-length tops are all good options.

Shorts and sleeveless tops are best saved for resorts or touristy beach areas, not for daily life or work in cities like Cairo.

Expat women do have more leeway and are not expected to wear headscarves or adopt traditional dress, but dressing modestly can significantly reduce unwanted attention and help her blend in more easily, especially outside of international company circles.

In terms of safety, Egypt is not inherently dangerous, but cultural misunderstandings and harassment can occur, especially if local norms are unknowingly challenged. It鈥檚 not about restricting her freedom 鈥� it鈥檚 about navigating a new context with awareness and respect, which can make her experience more enjoyable and empowering.

Your daughter sounds adventurous and adaptable, and with just a few wardrobe adjustments, she鈥檒l likely feel much more comfortable and confident. A shopping trip in Cairo might even be a fun way for her to explore local fashion while picking up a few light, modest staples馃榾