Cairo: The Timeless City of Pharaohs and Pyramids

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wada'an]
• Yesنعم
  [na'am]
• Noلا
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlak]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [a'ithir]
• How are you?أزيك؟
  [ezayyak?]
• Fine. And you?تمام. وأنت؟
  [tamam. w-ant?]
• Do you speak English?بتتكلم إنجليزي؟
  [betetkalem ingilizi?]
• I don't understandمش فاهم
  [mish fahem]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseعايز أشوف القائمة، من فضلك
  [ayiz ashuf elqa'ima, min fadlak]
• I don't eat meatأنا مش بآكل لحم
  [ana mish ba'akol lahme]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseعايز أدفع، من فضلك
  [ayiz adfa', min fadlak]

• Help!النجدة!
  [elnajda!]
• Go away!امشي!
  [imshi!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [etssel baleshorta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بالطبيب!
  [etssel balta'ib!]
• I'm lostانا ضايع
  [ana daye']
• I'm illانا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...عايز أشتري...
  [ayiz ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا بس بتفرج
  [ana bas batefarrag]
• How much is it?بكام؟
  [bikam?]
• That's too expensiveده غالي أوي
  [da ghali awe]
• Can you lower the price?تقدر تنزل السعر؟
  [takdar tenzel elsa'r?]

• What time is it?كام الساعة؟
  [kam elsa'a?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة واحدة
  [elsa'a wahda]
• Half past (10)العاشر ونص
  [ela'ashar wanas]
• Morningصباح الخير
  [sabah alkheir]
• Afternoonمساء الخير
  [masa' alkheir]
• Eveningمساء الخير
  [masa' alkheir]
• Yesterdayالأمس
  [al'ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyoum]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahed]
• 2اتنين
  [itneen]
• 3تلاتة
  [talata]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'a]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [sitta]
• 7سبعة
  [saba'a]
• 8تمانية
  [tamaneya]
• 9تسعة
  [tesa'a]
• 10عشرة
  [ashra]

• Where's a/the...?فين ...؟
  [fein ...?]
• What's the address?ايه العنوان؟
  [eh el'anwan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?تقدر توريني؟
  [takdar tureen?]
• When's the next (bus)?الباص الجاي امتى؟
  [elbas elgay emta?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (لـ ...)
  [tazkara (li ...)]

Cairo, known as Al-Qahirah in Arabic, was founded in 969 CE by the Fatimid dynasty. The city was established as the capital of the Fatimid Caliphate, marking the beginning of its rich historical journey. Before Cairo's establishment, the area was inhabited by older settlements, including the ancient city of Memphis and the Roman fortress of Babylon-in-Egypt.

During the Fatimid era, Cairo grew rapidly in size and influence. The Fatimids built many significant structures, including the Al-Azhar Mosque, which later became one of the oldest universities in the world. The city served as a center for Islamic learning and culture, attracting scholars from across the Muslim world.

In the late 12th century, Cairo came under the control of the Ayyubid dynasty, founded by Saladin. The Ayyubids were succeeded by the Mamluks in the mid-13th century, who ruled until the early 16th century. During this period, Cairo became a major center for trade, culture, and architecture. Iconic structures such as the Citadel of Cairo and numerous mosques and madrasas were built.

Cairo was conquered by the Ottoman Empire in 1517, marking the beginning of a new chapter in its history. The city remained an important provincial capital within the empire. Although the Ottomans ruled from Istanbul, Cairo retained a significant degree of autonomy and continued to thrive as a cultural and economic hub.

In 1798, Napoleon Bonaparte's forces briefly occupied Cairo, bringing with them European influences and sparking a period of modernization. Although the French left in 1801, their impact paved the way for future reforms. Muhammad Ali Pasha, an Ottoman governor, initiated significant modernization efforts in the early 19th century, transforming Cairo's infrastructure, military, and education system.

In 1882, the British occupied Egypt, including Cairo, ostensibly to protect their interests in the Suez Canal. British rule brought further modernization but also led to increased nationalistic sentiments among Egyptians. Cairo became a focal point for political activity, culminating in the 1919 revolution against British rule.

Cairo continued to grow throughout the 20th century, becoming a symbol of Arab nationalism under leaders such as Gamal Abdel Nasser. The city expanded rapidly, grappling with challenges such as overpopulation, traffic congestion, and pollution. Despite these issues, Cairo remains a vibrant metropolis, rich with historical sites, cultural landmarks, and bustling markets.

Cairo is served by Cairo International Airport (CAI), which is the primary gateway for international travelers. The airport is located approximately 22 kilometers northeast of the city center. Most major airlines operate flights to Cairo from various global destinations. From the airport, you can reach the city center by taxi, which is the most common and convenient option. Alternatively, airport shuttle services and private car hires are also available.

Cairo has a comprehensive transportation network. The Cairo Metro is a fast and affordable way to navigate the city, with three lines covering major areas. Taxis are widely available, but it is advisable to use reputable companies or ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem. For short distances, tuk-tuks and minibuses are common, though they can be crowded. Renting a car is an option, but driving in Cairo's heavy traffic can be challenging for newcomers. Buses are also available, but they can be confusing and less reliable for tourists.

The official currency in Egypt is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. However, it's advisable to carry cash for smaller vendors and markets. ATMs are readily available throughout Cairo. It's wise to exchange some currency at the airport or local banks for immediate expenses upon arrival.

Cairo is generally safe for tourists, but like any large city, it has areas where caution is advised. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded places like markets and tourist attractions. Avoid isolated areas, especially at night. Areas like Downtown Cairo and Garden City are generally safe, while neighborhoods like Imbaba and Ain Shams have higher crime rates. Always be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.

In case of an emergency, dial 122 for police assistance, 123 for medical emergencies, and 180 for fire services. Most hospitals in Cairo have emergency departments, and there are numerous pharmacies for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For consular assistance, contact your respective embassy or consulate in Cairo.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do show respect for local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes and cover your head when entering mosques. Public Transport: Do be patient and respectful. Public transport can be crowded. Don't eat or drink on the metro. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a polite nod. Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods and accept hospitality graciously. Don't drink tap water; always opt for bottled water.

To experience Cairo like a local, visit the bustling Khan El Khalili bazaar for authentic shopping and local crafts. Enjoy a traditional Egyptian breakfast of foul and taameya at a local cafe. Take a felucca ride on the Nile for a relaxing evening. Engage with locals who are often friendly and willing to share insights about their city. Explore less touristy neighborhoods like Zamalek and Maadi for a more authentic experience.