No other nation in the world says ‘Welcome’ as often as the Egyptians, and every time, they mean it. While the ancient civilization of Egypt continues to amaze, contemporary Egyptians are equally remarkable.
Telephones In Egypt
Telecommunications Guide
Telecommunications Guide for Travelers in Egypt
Navigating phone usage in Egypt can be straightforward with the right information. Here’s a comprehensive guide for travelers on using telephones and cellphones in Egypt:
Making Calls to and from Egypt
- International Access Code:
- From the U.S. or Canada: Dial 011
- From the U.K., Ireland, or New Zealand: Dial 00
- From Australia: Dial 0011
- Country Code: Dial 2 for Egypt.
- City Code and Number: Dial the city code followed by the local number.
To Make International Calls from Egypt:
- Dial 00 followed by the country code (e.g., 1 for the U.S. or Canada, 44 for the U.K., 61 for Australia).
- Dial the Area Code and Number: For example, to call the British Embassy in Washington, D.C., dial 00-1-202-588-7800.
Directory and Operator Assistance
- Directory Assistance: Dial 140 for English-speaking assistance within Egypt. Online assistance is available at 140 Online, but numbers may not be as current.
- International Directory Assistance: Dial 144.
- Operator Assistance: For international calls, dial 120; for local calls within Egypt, dial 140.
Toll-Free Numbers and Changes in Phone Numbers
- Toll-Free Numbers in Egypt: Start with 0800. Note that calling U.S. 800 numbers from Egypt is not toll-free.
- Changes in Cairo Phone Numbers: Cairo numbers (city code 02) changed from 7 to 8 digits. Add a 3 for numbers on the west side of the Nile and a 2 for the east side and central areas.
Cellphones in Egypt
- GSM Network: Most of the world, including Egypt, uses GSM for mobile communications.
- International Roaming: Contact your provider for international roaming options. Be aware of high per-minute charges.
- Renting/Buying a Phone: Renting from hotels or buying a low-end handset locally can be cost-effective. The Conrad and Four Seasons offer rentals.
- SIM Cards: Purchase SIM cards for about LE 200 ($12/£8) with a copy of your passport. Providers include Orange, Vodafone, and Etisalat.
- Prepaid Credit: Available at stores selling SIM cards. For deals, visit TravelSim.
Tips for Travelers
- Check Compatibility: Ensure your phone is compatible with the GSM network.
- Consider Prepaid Options: Prepaid SIM cards are a convenient and budget-friendly option.
- Be Aware of Costs: International calls can be expensive; consider using internet-based calling services.
- Stay Informed: Keep updated with any changes in telephone systems or codes.
By understanding these telecommunications options, travelers in Egypt can stay connected efficiently and affordably.
