The 19 essential phrases
| English | To say (pronunciation) |
|---|---|
| Hello | Ahlan / Salam aleikum |
| Thank you | Shukran |
| You're welcome | Afwan |
| Goodbye | Ma'a salama |
| Please | Min fadlak (à un homme) / Min fadlik (à une femme) |
| Yes | Aywa |
| No | La' |
| No, thank you | La', shukran |
| I don't understand | Mish fahem |
| No problem | Mafeesh mushkila |
| Water, please | Moyya, min fadlak |
| Tea / coffee | Shai / Ahwa |
| The bill, please | El-hisab, min fadlak |
| How much is it? | Bikam da? |
| That's too expensive | Da ghali |
| Where is …? | Fein …? |
| Right / left / straight on | Yemin / Shemal / Dughri |
| Help! | Ilhaqouni! |
| Police / doctor | Shurta / Doktor |
Numbers
Numbers 1 to 10 : wahed, itneen, talata, arba'a, khamsa, sitta, sab'a, tamanya, tis'a, 'ashara.
Emergencies
Emergency numbers in Egypt (UK Foreign Office travel advice, read on 29 October 2026): police 122, ambulance 123, tourist police 126, fire 180.
Tips to be understood
- Speak slowly and smile: an effort, even clumsy, is warmly received.
- Prices are negotiable in souks and in taxis without a meter: ask "how much?" then smile.
- A man addresses a man with "-ak", a woman with "-ik".
- English is understood in hotels and tourist shops.
Where to use them
The best practice ground is a trip with a local dinner.
FAQ
Do I need Arabic in Hurghada? No, English is enough in tourist areas, but a few local words are much appreciated.
How do you say thank you? "Shukran".
Read next
Continue with money and tipping and scams and safety.
The Hurghada Authority editorial team, 26 October 2026.
