The Egyptian pound and its exchange rate
The pound was devalued in March 2024, with the dollar going from about 30.9 to 49.56 EGP. At the end of July 2026, one converter gave about 51 EGP to 1 dollar, and another about 57.85 EGP to 1 euro on August 4, 2026. These rates move: check the Central Bank of Egypt's rate or a bank's on the day you change money.
The consequence for travellers: old guides that quote pre-2024 rates are no longer reliable.
Where to change and how to pay
Change money at a bank or an authorised exchange bureau rather than with a private individual. Keep the exchange receipts. Always compare the rate shown with the day's rate, and refuse any hidden commission. Taxis, small restaurants and shops in the El Dahar souk are most often paid in cash; in El Gouna, ask on the spot which payment methods are accepted. Check your bank's fees for withdrawals and payments abroad.
Small notes
Always keep small change: taxi drivers, porters and sellers do not always have change for a large note. Also have notes ready for tips, which are given in pounds.
Tipping
A tip is expected, and guides disagree on the amounts: what follows are benchmarks, not rules.
| Situation | Benchmark |
|---|---|
| Café | 10 to 50 EGP |
| Restaurant | 10 to 15% of the bill; if service is already added, 5 to 10% more in cash |
| Taxi | round the fare up to 5 or 10 EGP, or to 50 EGP according to guides |
| Hotel porter | 20 to 50 EGP per bag according to guides |
| Housekeeping | 20 to 100 EGP per day according to guides |
| Toilets, guards | a few pounds |
Benchmarks taken from several travel guides; amounts vary greatly from one source to another.
The 10 to 12% service charge added to the bill in tourist restaurants does not always go to the staff: an extra cash tip is appreciated. On excursions, tipping the guide and driver is customary; ask your agency what is included.
Pitfalls to avoid
Check the bill, the change you are given and the prices before getting into a taxi. For other pitfalls, see our guide to scams in Hurghada.
Going further
To set your daily budget, read travel budget for Hurghada; for your journeys, getting around Hurghada and from the airport to the centre.
