Egypt
Egypt has three main mobile service providers: Vodafone, Orange, and Etisalat. All offer good network coverage in El Gouna and most of Egypt. Purchase a local prepaid SIM card upon arrival at Hurghada International Airport (HRG) or from official stores in El Gouna Downtown (passport needed for registration).
Shops generally open from 10 AM to 10 PM. Restaurants typically open for lunch from 1 PM and remain open for dinner until late. Banks usually operate Sunday to Thursday, 8:30 AM to 4 PM.
Handshakes are common upon introduction. "Salam alaykum" is a polite Arabic greeting. Modesty in attire is appreciated, especially outside El Gouna's resort area.
Tipping (baksheesh) is customary. Avoid public displays of affection. Do not openly criticize religion or politics. Showing the sole of your foot is impolite.
El Gouna, a newer resort, generally has infrastructure for accessibility. Many resorts offer ramps, elevators, and accessible rooms. Paved, flat pathways in Downtown and Abu Tig Marina simplify navigation. Accessibility on internal shuttle systems and boat trips may be limited; inquire directly with operators and hotels about specific needs.
Essential information to navigate El Gouna confidently and enjoy a hassle-free trip.
Local SIM cards are affordable. Wi-Fi is common in hotels and cafes. Google Translate assists with language barriers.
Shops and restaurants have extended hours in tourist areas. ATMs are widely available. Plan around public holidays.
Practice respectful greetings and modest dress outside the resort. Always ask permission for photos.
Learning basic Arabic phrases creates a positive interaction.
By preparing with this practical information, your navigation of El Gouna will be confident, supporting a hassle-free trip.
A understanding of communication, business hours, and cultural norms will further prepare your trip.
Vodafone, Orange, and Etisalat are mobile providers. SIM cards are available at HRG airport or in El Gouna Downtown, requiring your passport. Data packages are affordable.
Arabic is the official language. English is widely spoken in El Gouna's tourist areas. German, Russian, and French are also understood.
Friday is the main day of rest. Ramadan is a holy month of fasting. Eid al-Fitr & Eid al-Adha are major Islamic holidays. National holidays also impact services.
Modest dress for women outside El Gouna resort areas avoids unwanted attention. Public displays of affection are not customary. LGBTQ+ travelers practice discretion.
Proper preparation with this practical information means a confident and comfortable visit to El Gouna.
El Gouna Downtown represents the town's heart, featuring shops, cafes, and essential services.
El Gouna Downtown serves as a central hub for visitors and residents. Its offerings include a post office and official mobile provider stores for SIM card purchases.
Tamr Henna Square, a focal point in Downtown, buzzes with cafes and restaurants. It is a prime location for people-watching and enjoying the town's pulse.
Downtown offers a different vibe from the marinas, with a focus on daily life and local interactions. It is a good place to witness the town's community spirit.
From local handicrafts to fashion boutiques, Downtown provides various shopping opportunities. Find authentic items to remember your trip.
El Gouna Downtown offers shops, cafes, and services, central to the town's life.
