Uber in Egypt: Everything You Need to Know Before Your Trip

Curious about how to get around with Uber in Egypt? Here’s what every traveler needs to know before booking their first ride.

Getting around Egypt can be overwhelming at first—especially in busy cities like Cairo. Between the traffic, language barrier, and confusing taxi fares, it’s easy to feel lost.

But here’s the good news: Uber is available in Egypt, and it makes things so much easier.

Whether you’re visiting the Giza Pyramids, hopping between museums,  or heading back to your stunning Cairo hotel after dinner, Uber is reliable, affordable, and simple to use.

In this post, I’ll break down everything you need to know about using Uber in Egypt—from where it works and how much it costs, to safety tips for solo travelers and what to do when Uber isn’t available.

This blog post is all about Uber in Egypt 

Quick Overview: Is There Uber in Egypt?

Yes, Uber is available in Egypt—and honestly, it’s one of the easiest ways to get around without worrying about taxi scams or the language barrier. If you’re anything like me and prefer knowing the price upfront and not having to explain where you’re going five times, Uber can be a lifesaver.

You can use Uber in these Egyptian cities:

• Cairo
• Alexandria
• Hurghada
• El Gouna
• Mansoura
• Tanta
• Zagazig

Cairo and Alexandria are by far the most reliable. Cars are usually easy to find, and prices are super reasonable. In resort towns like Hurghada and El Gouna, Uber does work—but availability can be hit or miss, especially late at night or if you’re far from the center.

Just a heads up: There’s no Uber in Luxor or Aswan. So if you’re planning to visit spots like Philae Temple or Abu Simbel, you’ll need to use taxis, private drivers, or join a tour.

You might also come across Careem, Uber’s sister company in the region. It works almost exactly the same and sometimes has more drivers—especially in places where Uber isn’t as active. I’ll explain more about that later in the post.

How to Use Uber in Egypt

If you’ve used Uber while traveling before, you’ll have absolutely no problems in Egypt. The app works just like it does anywhere else, but there are a few helpful things to keep in mind before your first ride.

Here’s how to use Uber in Egypt smoothly, without any stress:

• Download the Uber app before your trip: If you already have an account, you’re all set. I used mine without a problem—just make sure you have Wi-Fi or mobile data when you’re booking rides.
• Get a local SIM card: This makes life so much easier, especially when it comes to messaging your driver. I grabbed one at the airport—Vodafone, Orange, and Etisalat are all great choices.
• You can pay in cash or by card: Yes, Uber Egypt accepts cash! I recommend adding both payment methods to your account just in case one doesn’t work.
• Double-check your pickup spot: GPS isn’t always reliable, especially in busy areas. I’ve had better luck dropping a pin on landmarks like Bazaar Khan el-Khalili or the Marriott Mena House instead of exact addresses.
• Don’t expect fluent English: Some drivers speak a little, some don’t. In-app messaging usually gets the job done, and Google Translate is super helpful when needed.
• Always confirm the car and plate number: This is especially important in busy areas where several Ubers might pull up. Take a quick second to double-check before hopping in.

Once you get the hang of it, Uber makes exploring Egypt so much easier. Whether you’re visiting Coptic Cairo, hunting down hidden mosques, or chasing the best koshary in town—it takes the hassle out of getting around.

Need inspiration? Check out these 10 jaw-dropping mosques in Egypt—they’re definitely worth a spot on your itinerary.

How Much Does Uber Cost in Egypt?

Let’s talk numbers—because honestly, one of the best things about using Uber in Egypt is how affordable it is.

Yes, Uber in Egypt is usually cheaper than regular taxis, more transparent, and way less stressful. You see the price upfront, so there’s no guessing if the meter’s running—or if you’re being overcharged just for being a tourist.

Prices vary depending on traffic, time of day, and demand, but here’s a general idea of Uber rates in Egypt:

• Base fare: EGP 8
• Per kilometer: EGP 2.80
• Per minute: EGP 0.42
• Minimum fare: EGP 13

These rates were accurate as of 2022, according to Uber Egypt’s official site. That said, always double-check the app before confirming—it’s super reliable and gives you a solid fare estimate.

To give you a rough idea: when I was in Cairo, a 20-minute ride cost me around $2–4 USD. For a major capital city, that’s such a steal! Just for comparison, a similar ride with Uber in Singapore has cost me anywhere from $12–20 USD. Big difference.

Tipping Your Uber Driver

Unlike almost everywhere else in Egypt, where tipping is practically expected, tipping your Uber driver isn’t required—but it’s definitely appreciated. Especially for longer trips or if the driver helps with your luggage or waits for you at a stop.

I usually tip around 10%, or a bit more if the service is great. You can tip through the app or in cash. If you’re paying in cash, the easiest option is just to round up the total.

Can I Take Uber from Cairo Airport?

Yes, you can take Uber from Cairo International Airport—and honestly, it’s one of the easiest and most affordable ways to get from the airport to the city after landing.

Once you’ve picked up your luggage and cleared customs, just open the app and request a ride like usual.

Here’s what to know:

• Where it works: Uber operates from both Terminal 1 and Terminal 3.
• Pickup location: Follow the app’s instructions—pickup spots vary. You might need to walk to a nearby ride-share or parking area.
• Communicate with your driver: Not sure where to go? Message your driver through the app. They usually reply quickly and will guide you to the right spot.
• Be patient: Airport traffic can be slow, so give your driver a little time to get to you.
• Paying in cash? Bring small bills—getting change right after a long flight isn’t always easy.

That said, I didn’t personally use Uber from the airport. My private guide and driver from Medjet Travel met me right at the arrivals gate, helped me get a SIM card, exchanged money, and even sorted out my visa.

After a long flight, it was so worth it. If you’re arriving late or just want a smooth, no-fuss experience, I definitely recommend pre-booking a transfer. But if you’re up for it and want to save a bit, Uber from Cairo Airport works just fine too.

Alternatives to Uber in Egypt

Uber is super convenient when it’s available—but what about when there are no drivers nearby or you’re in a city in Egypt where Uber doesn’t operate? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Here are the best alternatives to Uber in Egypt:

1. Careem in Egypt

Careem is Uber’s sister company in the Middle East, and it works almost exactly the same way. In some places, it’s actually more reliable than Uber.

• Available in Cairo, Alexandria, Hurghada, and more
• Also operates in Luxor and Aswan, where Uber doesn’t
• The app is nearly identical to Uber—so no learning curve
• Sometimes offers shorter wait times or even lower fares during busy hours
• Accepts cash and card, and tipping is built into the app

Pro Tip: I always keep both Uber and Careem on my phone. That way I can check prices and see which one has a driver nearby faster.

2. Taxis in Egypt

I’m not the biggest fan of using taxis while traveling, especially in Asia. They’re often more expensive than Uber, and drivers can try to scam you if they think you’re new to Egypt.

Still, in places like Luxor or Aswan, where ride-hailing apps are limited, taxis might be your only option. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• If the driver refuses to use the meter, either get out or make sure to agree on a price before getting in.
• Use Google Maps to follow the route and avoid being taken the long way
• Tipping is expected, usually just a few Egyptian pounds.
• Scams are extremely common near popular tourist spots like the Pyramids, the newly open Grand Egyptian Museum, and Cairo train station.

3. InDriver in Egypt 

InDriver is another ride-hailing app used in Egypt—but it’s a little different. Instead of fixed prices, you suggest a fare and drivers choose to accept or counter it.

• Available in Cairo and some other major cities
• You’ll negotiate the price inside the app—which can be tricky if you don’t know what a fair rate is
• Cash only—no card payment option
• More popular among locals than tourists, but still a good backup to have

To be honest, I’ve never used InDriver in Egypt (or anywhere else), but I wanted to include it in case you’re looking for even more alternatives to Uber in Egypt.

Not confident with haggling? Don’t worry—I’ve got a full post on how to haggle while traveling that’ll help you avoid getting ripped off.

4. Hotel Transfers or Private Drivers

Public transportation in Egypt isn’t great—routes are limited, delays are common, and comfort is hit-or-miss. Honestly, if you’re on a tight budget and plan to rely on it, this could be one of the reasons not to visit Egypt in 2025.

If you’re heading somewhere Uber doesn’t reach, like Siwa Oasis or remote sites in Aswan, your best option is to hire a private driver. Yes, it costs more than Uber or a taxi, but the comfort, flexibility, and peace of mind are totally worth it.

Here are a few options I’ve personally used and recommend:

• Hotel-arranged drivers: Easy and stress-free, with clear pricing and no haggling.
• Day tours with Klook or GetYourGuide: Great for fully organized experiences with transport, tickets, and a guide included.
• 12Go Asia: My go-to for booking buses, trains, and ferries between cities. Super reliable and easy to use.
• Medjet Travel: I used them for a private driver and guide. Each morning, I was picked up from my hotel in a comfy van and taken to that day’s temple or site—it made everything smooth and stress-free.

Is Uber in Egypt Safe for Tourists?

Yes—overall, I found Uber in Egypt to be safe, reliable, and much more comfortable than dealing with regular taxis.

As a solo female traveler, safety is always a priority. I felt far more at ease using Uber than trying to flag down or negotiate with taxi drivers on the street. With the app, you can track your ride, share your trip in real time, and skip the stress of fare haggling entirely.

Here’s why I felt safe using Uber in Egypt:

• You see the driver’s name, photo, rating, and license plate before they arrive
• You can share your trip with someone back home
• If your card is linked, there’s no need for cash, which makes things even smoother
• Every ride is tracked in the app, so there’s always a digital record

Safety Tips When Using Ride-Sharing Apps in Egypt

Uber is generally a safe option, but a few simple precautions go a long way—especially if you’re traveling solo:

• Double-check the car and license plate before getting in. Don’t be shy about confirming the driver’s name.
• Sit in the back seat, especially when riding alone.
• Avoid late-night rides in unfamiliar areas when possible.
• Trust your instincts—if something doesn’t feel right, cancel the ride and book another.

I used Uber to explore some of the top things to do in Cairo and even during my day trip to Alexandria, and I never had a single issue. It gave me freedom, flexibility, and the confidence to explore on my own terms—while still feeling safe and totally in control of my experience.

If you’re visiting Egypt—especially as a solo traveler—I’d absolutely recommend giving Uber a try.

FAQs About Using Uber in Egypt

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s quickly answer some popular questions about using Uber in Egypt, especially in cities like Cairo, Alexandria, and Luxor.

So, Are Ubers Reliable in Egypt?

Yes—when available, Ubers in Egypt are reliable, safe, and budget-friendly. They’re a great way to get around without dealing with haggling or heat—especially if you’re visiting Egypt in the summer. If you’re planning a trip in 2025, I definitely recommend giving Uber a try.

Have you used Uber in Egypt before? Or are you planning to on your next trip? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Other Egypt Travel Guides You Might Enjoy:

• 3 Perfect Days in Cairo: The Ultimate Itinerary for First-Timers
• 7 Unique Things to Do in Cairo You Won’t Find in a Typical Guidebook
• Is Egypt Worth Visiting? Here’s What No One Tells You
• Inside the Grand Egyptian Museum: What to Know Before You Go
• The Absolute Worst Time to Visit Egypt (And When to Go Instead)

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