#12 - 23/03/2024

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Would you be surprised if I told you Egypt wasn’t our first choice, or even on our list?

I was certainly surprised, given that we had never visited Egypt before, not even as tourists.

A year ago, my friend shared his experiences in Cairo, Egypt. I remember responding,

"Well, that’s one place I’ll never live!".

Fast forward to today, and two months have flown by since we unpacked our lives in Cairo, a decision that raised many eyebrows.

The journey from skepticism to surprise, and eventually, to a profound connection, was as unexpected as our destination.

You might wonder, then, why Egypt?

The answer, as unexpected as the country itself, unfolds in the story of our journey.

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So, why Egypt?

The Crossroads of Choice

Life's most pivotal moments often come from the most unexpected conversations.

This was precisely our experience when, poised to move to Qatar, we crossed paths with a close friend, Dr. Salah Sharief, whose perspective on education and spiritual growth for our children redirected our journey straight to Egypt.

All it took was a leap of faith for us to be sold on Egypt, but our journey there proved to us that we indeed made the right decision, Alhamdulillah.

And it all started in Cairo, the city where history meets modern marvels!.

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A Dive into the Heart of Cairo

Our adventure in Cairo began with curiosity and a bit of apprehension.

Yet, the city welcomed us with a blend of history, culture, and modern living that felt both exotic and comfortably familiar.

Living in Cairo is a tapestry of experiences, each thread representing different facets of daily life.

From the gated serenity of our Beverly Hills-like compound to the vibrant chaos of Cairo streets, here's a glimpse into our life costs covering housing, education, healthcare, and leisure—painting a picture of Cairo's affordability and richness.

Join me as I explore the intricacies of our daily life, providing insight for those curious about the path to discovering purpose in Egypt.

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Note: All prices mentioned reflect annual expenses based on the currency rates over the past two months.

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Rent - £10,500 / 632,400 EGP

Our sanctuary in a gated community echoes Beverly Hills' luxury, a stone's throw from Cairo's heartbeat.

Nestled in a gated compound, it mirrors the tranquility and luxury of Beverly Hills, yet lies only a 25-minute drive from the bustling heart of downtown Cairo.

This isn't merely a place to live; it's where we've found a community, security, and a touch of opulence amidst the vast & vibrant landscape.

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Homeschooling - £10,800 / 686,772 EGP

Our children's homeschooling journey is a blend of Math, English, Qur'an, and Arabic, tailored to nurture both mind and spirit.

Employing tutors for Math, English, the Qur'an, and Arabic, each session extends beyond academics into life lessons, cultural immersion, and spiritual growth.

This holistic approach to learning isn't just about meeting educational standards but nurturing well-rounded, worldly individuals who will be responsible for shaping our future inshaAllah!

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Healthcare - £1,000 to £5,000 / 310,000 EGP

Navigating medical needs from general check-ups to unexpected surgeries, Cairo's healthcare system has proven both accessible and affordable.

From £20 general check-ups to £35 minor surgeries, the affordability and accessibility have eased one of the biggest concerns of expatriate life.

This experience has underscored the importance of health as wealth, reinforcing the value of accessible care in leading a full, vibrant life.

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Iqamah Visa - £600 / 37,200 EGP

This is the visa most families get, which you need to get after one month of being in the country. It gives you a stay (Iqamah) for 6 months.

Only the parents need this - something they don't tell you!

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Transportation - £1,200 / 74,400 EGP

Ubers. Everywhere! You generally don’t want to drive here until you learn the ropes of the roads - which can be intense, to say the least!

Our reliance on Uber for transportation reflects our cautious approach to embracing Cairo's dynamic yet daunting roadways.

This choice has not only ensured our safety, but also allowed us to observe and learn from the city's pulse without the immediate stress of navigating its complexities ourselves.

P.S. Cars here are expensive, like super strangely expensive. They do generally retain value, though, which is good.

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Groceries & Eating Out - £4,000 / 248,000 EGP

Delicious food and rich flavours, a blend of local and familiar tastes, define our daily lives.

This budget, including our frequent takeout, is a canvas for our family's culinary adventures, mixing the rich flavours of Egypt with the comfort of home, creating a mosaic of experiences that nourish both body and soul.

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Utilities - £2,500 / 139,500 EGP

Our monthly spending covers things like water, electricity, Wi-Fi, and mobile data for both you and your spouse.

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Leisure and Cultural Exploration -  £3,500 / 217,000 EGP

Cairo transforms into our classroom every Friday, exploring everything from local parks to historic trails, enriching our family bond and our children's appreciation for the world's diversity.

Cairo, with its parks, excursions, and historical trails, offers endless opportunities for family bonding and education outside the classroom.

These experiences enrich our understanding and appreciation of Egypt's cultural and natural beauty, making every Friday an adventure that fuels our collective spirit of adventure.

Total:  £38,100 GBP / 2,345,772 EGP (approximately)

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Beyond the Basics

Don’t be mistaken though, life in Cairo isn't just about managing expenses.

You experience a new world, with bustling streets in one city, and calm serene compounds in another.

From the surprising cost of vehicles to the strategic advantage of paying in foreign currency, every aspect, including navigating rental agreements and investing in education for ourselves, is part of a broader narrative of growth and discovery.

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Final Thoughts

This journey is more than are location; it's a testament to choosing our own path, informed by a blend of potential and purpose.

By sharing our story, I hope to inspire you to consider the roads less travelled, to embrace the unconventional, and to live life on your terms.

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About Me:

I’m Saif, from the UK to Egypt, I’ve shifted my life to follow my own compass.

As a venture builder and the Founding Partner of VALCAP, my goal is simple: to inspire a life filled with purpose, for myself and for you.

Let’s embark on this journey together, with a shared vision for a meaningful life.