The currency of Egypt is the Egyptian pound (EGP), written E£ or LE and called ginēh in Arabic. One pound is divided into 100 piastres. Cash is the norm outside big hotels, so carry small notes in pounds and change money at banks or licensed exchange offices rather than at airport counters.
Key Takeaways
- The official currency is the Egyptian pound: ISO code EGP, symbols E£ or LE, and 1 pound = 100 piastres.
- Banknotes in common circulation are 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 EGP; 1 and 2 EGP coins and piastre coins cover small purchases.
- Cards work in big hotels, airlines and major restaurants; small shops, markets, taxis and rural vendors usually take cash only.
- Some tourist hotels and tour operators accept US dollars or euros, but the Egyptian pound is the norm.
- Exchange rates change daily, so check a live rate before you travel; this guide gives none.
You’ll get concise facts plus real-world travel advice: what banknotes and coins look like, how to read prices, when to use cash vs cards, where to change money, and how to spot counterfeit bills. Whether you’re visiting Cairo’s bustling souks, cruising the Nile River, or exploring Aswan’s Nubian villages, this article tells you exactly what to expect.
Quick Answer: What Is the Currency of Egypt?
See our best Egypt tour packages →The official currency of Egypt is the Egyptian pound, commonly abbreviated EGP. Locally it’s called the ginēh (الجنيه), and you’ll also see it written as LE (from the French livre égyptienne). One Egyptian pound equals 100 piastres (sometimes spelled piasters). In everyday life, prices are quoted in pounds and piastres—so EGP 120 is 120 Egyptian pounds.
Names, Symbols and ISO Codes: How to Read Money Labels
Name: Egyptian pound (Arabic: الجنيه المصري)
ISO code: EGP
Common symbols: E£, LE, or simply EGP
Subdivision: 1 pound = 100 piastres (often abbreviated pt)
When you see a price written as 120 EGP or LE 120, it means 120 Egyptian pounds. Vendors sometimes say amounts verbally like “hundred and twenty,” so listen for the word “pound” or “ginēh” in shops and markets, especially in busy places like Khan al-Khalili.
Banknotes and Coins: What You’ll Hold in Your Hand
Egypt uses a set of colorful banknotes and handy coins designed for daily use. Expect to see:
Banknotes (common in circulation):
200 EGP
100 EGP
50 EGP
20 EGP
10 EGP
5 EGP
Coins and subunits:
Piastres: commonly 5, 10, 20, 25, 50 piastres (useful for small purchases)
1 EGP and 2 EGP coins are widely used
Banknotes show prominent pharaonic monuments and modern security features. Coins and piastres are used for street food, small purchases, and tipping. Carry some small notes and coins for markets, taxis, and tips—particularly when visiting major Cairo attractions.
A Short History (Why the Pound Matters)
Egypt’s currency history spans centuries of trade and change. The modern Egyptian pound evolved as Egypt modernized in the 19th century and became the nation’s primary unit of money. Over the years, design and denominations have changed to improve security and convenience. Today’s Egyptian pound is a stable, widely accepted currency inside Egypt and the practical choice for travelers.
Practical Tips for Travelers: Exchange, ATMs, Cards & Safety
Where to exchange money
Airports do offer currency exchange, but rates can be less favorable. For better rates, use banks or reputable exchange offices in city centers. Hotels also exchange money but usually charge higher fees. Compare rates and keep receipts.
ATMs and cash withdrawals
ATMs are plentiful in Cairo, Luxor, Aswan and main tourist areas. Withdraw EGP from trusted bank ATMs to avoid hefty fees. Notify your bank before travel and check withdrawal limits. ATMs typically dispense local currency only, including in popular destinations listed in the Egypt Travel Guide.
Credit & debit cards
Major hotels, restaurants, and larger stores accept Visa and Mastercard. Small shops, market stalls, taxis and rural vendors usually prefer cash. Always carry a mix of cash and one card for backup.
Small change matters
Carry small notes and coins for tips, local snacks, restroom fees and street purchases—vendors may not be able to give change for large bills.
Avoiding counterfeit bills
Check for watermarks, security thread, and raised ink on banknotes. If a note looks suspicious, politely refuse it and exchange at a bank. Keep receipts from exchanges as proof.
Bargaining in markets
Haggling is part of the culture in souks. Vendors will quote prices in EGP—start lower and work to a fair price. This is especially useful when shopping for things to buy in Egypt.
Where You’ll Use Which Currencies: Dollars, Euros, and Tourist Spots
While the Egyptian pound is the standard, some tourist hotels and tour operators may accept US dollars or euros. However, relying on foreign currency is inconvenient. Exchange your cash to EGP for best value and to move freely, whether you’re staying in resort areas or joining Egypt Day Tours.
How to Budget: Sample Costs (Ballpark)
Here are typical costs to help you plan (prices in EGP; these are approximate and vary by season and location):
Bottle of water / street snack: small EGP amount (coins/piastres)
Local taxi ride in city: moderate (small notes)
Mid-range restaurant meal: tens to low hundreds of EGP
Entrance fees to major sites: tens to a few hundred EGP
Tipping porters or guides: small amounts in EGP
Keep an eye on daily expenses and withdraw cash as needed. Splitting cash/credit reduces risk.
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Banking Hours, Fees & Travel Card Advice
Banks in Egypt generally operate weekdays with morning hours; major bank branches near tourist centers often have extended times. Expect ATM and card fees; factor them into your budget. Prepaid travel cards and fee-friendly bank cards can be useful, but always have some local cash as backup.
Plan Your Trip With Egypt Top Tours
Now that you know what is the currency of Egypt and how to use it, you’re better prepared to travel confidently. If you’d like help planning a money-smart itinerary—guided visits, smooth transfers, and local insights—Egypt Top Tours can arrange guides, transfers, and advice so you spend less time worrying about cash and more time enjoying the sites.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the currency of Egypt?
A: The official currency is the Egyptian pound (EGP), subdivided into 100 piastres.
Q2: Can I use US dollars or euros in Egypt?
A: In some tourist hotels and shops, yes, but the Egyptian pound is the norm. Exchange to EGP for best convenience and value.
Q3: Are credit cards accepted widely in Egypt?
A: Cards work in big hotels, airlines, and major restaurants. Small vendors, markets, and taxis generally take cash only.
Q4: Where’s the best place to change money?
A: Banks and licensed exchange bureaus in city centers offer better rates than airport counters or hotel desks.
Q5: Can I withdraw Egyptian pounds from ATMs?
A: Yes—ATMs are common in cities and tourist areas. Expect withdrawal fees; notify your bank before travel.
Q6: How should I tip in Egypt and in which currency?
A: Tip in Egyptian pounds for porters, drivers, and guides. Small amounts—10–50 EGP depending on service—are common.
Q7: How do I avoid counterfeit notes?
A: Exchange at banks, inspect notes for watermarks, security threads and raised print, and avoid accepting large bills from street vendors.
Q8: Is it safe to carry large amounts of cash?
A: Carry moderate cash and leave excess in a hotel safe. Use cards where accepted and split money between a secure place and a daily pocket amount.
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