Sheikh Zayed City City Guide

A variety of local dishes and international cuisines are available. Vegetarian options are common, and vegan options are growing.

Sheikh Zayed City has a more relaxed nightlife compared to downtown Cairo, primarily consisting of cafes, shisha lounges, and some restaurants with live music.

Sheikh Zayed City has a vibrant coffee culture, with a range of cafes from chains to local independents offering specialty coffee.

Tipping is customary in Egypt, known as 'baksheesh.' It's expected for most services, though amounts can be small.

SIM cards can be purchased at the airport upon arrival or from official stores of mobile providers in Sheikh Zayed City. Vodafone, Orange, and Etisalat offer good coverage.

Overall cleanliness is higher than many parts of Cairo, with efficient waste collection and organized streets.

Many pharmacies and minimarts operate late, with some 24/7 options. Extended hours for clinics and food deliveries are also common.

Good availability of international products, especially in larger supermarkets. Main supermarkets include HyperOne, Carrefour, and Spinneys.

Card acceptance is common in larger supermarkets, restaurants, and malls. However, cash is still essential for smaller shops, local markets, and taxis.

ATMs are widely available from major banks like CIB, QNB Alahli, and Banque Misr in malls and commercial areas. Fees for foreign cards can vary, but typically range from 20-50 EGP per transaction.

The British School, Cairo (BSC), American International School in Egypt (AISE West Campus), and Lycée Albert Camus are prominent international schools offering education in English, French, and Arabic.

The digital nomad community is growing, with networking primarily through co-working spaces and online groups. Cairo offers more established events and meetups.

Sheikh Zayed Central Park and residential compounds offer ample green spaces for recreation and relaxation.

Popular running routes include residential streets and parks. Generally safe, but main roads can be busy. Air quality is better than central Cairo.

There are several gyms in the area, offering various fitness classes and memberships.

Many residential compounds and sports clubs have tennis courts. Booking and membership may be required.

Padel courts are available within sports clubs and residential areas. Membership often needed for access.

Several yoga studios offer a variety of classes in different styles. Both drop-in classes and memberships are available.

Various martial arts disciplines like Taekwondo, Karate, and Boxing are taught in dedicated centers. English-speaking instructors are available in higher-end gyms.

Indoor skiing is available at Ski Egypt, located in Mall of Egypt, with facilities for various skill levels.

Limited within Sheikh Zayed City itself, primarily in private clubs with pools. Some water activities are possible on the Nile in Cairo.

No surfing opportunities as it is an inland city.

No diving available near Sheikh Zayed City. Travel to the Red Sea coast for diving.

Several private hospitals like Dar Al Fouad Hospital and Sheikh Zayed Specialized Hospital offer services with English-speaking staff. Private healthcare generally offers higher quality services than public facilities.

Tap water in Sheikh Zayed City is generally not recommended for direct consumption by foreigners due to different purification standards and potential for stomach upset. Bottled water is widely available and recommended.

Sheikh Zayed City offers numerous playgrounds, kid-friendly cafes, and easy access to baby supplies, making it a great place for families.

Egypt has conservative social norms, and LGBTQ+ individuals may face discrimination and legal risks. Discretion is advised in public settings.

Pet policies vary by establishment. Veterinary services and some pet parks are available, but pet-friendly accommodations are limited.