Shopping in Egypt: Souvenirs to Bring Home

Egypt is known for its old wonders and new achievements. Besides their famous pyramids, temples and Nile River cruises, the country also has a lively shopping scene that gives your trip even more appeal. While exploring the lively souks and bazaars, you’ll discover a wide variety of handmade crafts, spices, jewellery and souvenirs that tell about Egypt’s heritage. There’s more to shopping here than making a purchase; it’s about experiences, stories, bargaining and exchanging cultures. 

You should take care of your travel documents before you start shopping. The first thing to do when planning a trip from India is to apply for an Egypt Visa. It’s simple to do and can usually be done online, making it easy for you. Once you have your Egypt Visa, you are free to visit the country’s busy markets and discover its special souvenir shops. Shopping in Egypt, whether at Khan El Khalili or Luxor’s markets, will be something you remember even after you’re back home. 

Here are some of the shopping in Egypt: souvenirs to bring home. 

1. Papyrus Scrolls: A Look at Ancient Art 

The Egyptians were the first to create papyrus, one of the oldest kinds of paper. You can still find these as popular gifts, featuring colorful images from Egyptian myth and daily scenes painted by hand. Most museums and workshops have experts there to demonstrate papyrus making and let you pick your favorite piece. They are easy to transport, weigh little and can make a special gift or decoration for your wall. 

2. Perfume Oils: The Scents of the Pharaohs 

The ancient recipes of the pharaohs are used to create Egypt’s famous perfume oils. They are designed to last a long time and are sold in lovely glass bottles that can be kept or given away. You’ll discover many fragrances, including lotus, sandalwood and musk, in the local markets. Going to a perfume palace gives you a chance to try out, mix and maybe even design your own fragrance. 

3. Cartouche Jewelry: Worn by People and Always in Style 

A cartouche is a traditional type of jewelry in Egypt, formed as an oval with your name written inside in hieroglyphs. It represents safety and who you are and it’s often seen worn around the neck or wrist. You are welcome to have your pendant made in gold or silver. Because it is stylish and carries cultural and historical meaning, this personalized gift is perfect for loved ones. 

4. Egyptian Cotton Products Give You the Feel of Wearing Luxury 

Egyptian cotton is famous for being both gentle and tough. Clothing, scarves, bed linens and towels made from this cotton are very popular. In Cairo or Alexandria, find stores or factories that are officially certified to guarantee real products. When you buy Egyptian cotton, you get to feel luxurious every single day. 

5. Beautiful Art from Hand-Carved Alabaster 

Egyptians commonly use alabaster to carve decorative lamps, vases and statues, mainly around Luxor. Often, the items are carved to show pharaohs, gods or regular designs. Since alabaster objects are easily damaged, be sure to pack them carefully when taking them home. They give any living area a touch of class and history. 

6. Spices and Teas: A Sample of Egypt 

You can bring home Egyptian flavors by using locally found spices like cumin, coriander, hibiscus and black seed. The spice markets in Cairo and Aswan are filled with aroma and color and offer both types of herbs for food and medicine. Egyptian mint tea and hibiscus tea are both popular and make good, fragrant gifts for your health. Because they are packaged nicely, it’s very easy to take them with you and share with the people you care about. 

7. Tradition Clothes and Galabeyas 

Men and women in Egypt may choose to wear a galabeya, since it comes in many different styles and materials. They work as comfortable loungewear or as a way to dress in the local style. You will also notice embroidered shawls, outfits for belly dancing and vibrantly colored scarves. They are comfortable to wear and make a great gift to remember Egypt’s unique culture. 

8. Colorful glassware is often made by hand. 

The skill of glass-blowing has been handed down in Egypt from one generation to another. Brightly colored and finely patterned perfume bottles, candle holders and ornaments are created by hand in glass. You will gain a better understanding of glass-blowing by visiting a workshop. They are light and break easily, but they look very nice as gifts or decorations. 

9. Shisha in Egypt serves as a piece of art and and is useful. 

Shisha or hookah is a major aspect of social life in Egypt. Many visitors buy these colorful water pipes to remember their trip. Many sizes and styles are available, often with traditional patterns and colors. Even though packing a large hookah can be tough, mini hookahs look nice in your home and can be used to have conversations. 

10. Scarabs and Statues are Used as Good Luck Charms 

The scarab beetle represented protection and new life in ancient Egypt. If you wander through the markets, you will often see mini scarab statues, keychains or jewelry being sold. Replicas of famous ancient statues, for example the Sphinx and Tutankhamun’s mask, can be found too. If you are interested in spiritual or historic items, these are great for your collection. 

11. Leather Products: Craftsmanship of Artists 

The leather industry is an important part of Egypt’s economy. You can often find handmade bags, wallets, belts and sandals in local stores. Many people choose camel leather because it is both high quality and feels special. They are both practical and attractive, showing off Egypt’s handicrafts.