Living in Alexandria as an expatriate

Visa requirements

Expatriates moving to Alexandria require a valid work visa or student visa, depending on their purpose of residency. The process of obtaining a work visa is somewhat challenging for foreign nationals, requiring extensive documentation, sponsorship by an Egyptian company, and a residency permit. Student visas, on the other hand, are more straightforward to obtain and are renewable alongside the study permit.

Language resources

Learning the Arabic language is essential for communication and socializing among the locals. Expatriates may take Arabic language classes at several language schools and universities across Alexandria, including the Arabic Language Institute in Alexandria, Al-Baleen, and English Helpers Consultation. Alternatively, various online language learning platforms like Rosetta Stone, Babbel, and Berlitz offer interactive courses for learners.

Housing

The cost of housing in Alexandria varies significantly depending on the neighborhood, type of accommodation, and number of bedrooms. A room in a shared house typically costs around 1,800 to 2,500 EGP ($110 to $155) per month. A one-bedroom apartment may range from 3,000 to 5,500 EGP ($185 to $345), while a two-bedroom apartment falls between 5,500 and 7,500 EGP ($345 to $470). Finally, a three plus bedroom house pays around 8,500 to 14,000 EGP ($515 to $865), depending on the proximity to the city center and beachfront properties.

Groceries

The prices of groceries in Alexandria are cheaply priced due to the city's thriving agriculture sector that supplies fresh produce, grains, fruits, and vegetables to the local markets. Expats can stock up on basic groceries from local supermarkets like Metro, Carrefour, and Spinneys Supermarkets at affordable prices.

Transportation

Transportation costs in Alexandria depend on the mode of transport used. Public buses charge a nominal amount of around 2 EGP ($0.12) per ride, while cab or ride-share services like Uber or Careem cost around 100 to 150 EGP ($6 to $9).

Alexandria has a Mediterranean climate with mild, humid winters and hot, dry summers. July and August are the hottest months, with temperatures surpassing 35°C (95°F). Winters from December to February are mild, with temperatures averaging around 15°C (59°F). The city experiences higher humidity during summers, making it less tolerable for newcomers. However, it makes up for its hot season with refreshing Mediterranean winds during spring and autumn.

Alexandria's economy is diversified, driven primarily by manufacturing, finance, and the service sector. The city is home to several international and Egyptian firms, including HSBC, Mediterranean Shipping, Vodafone, and Bayer. In recent years, Alexandria has been deemed a Special Economic Zone, promising tax breaks and incentives for businesses wishing to set up operations in the city. Furthermore, Alexandria's strategically located port—the East Port Said (EPS)—is typically ranked as Egypt's busiest port and is a significant driver of employment.

Alexandria's healthcare system is comprehensive, with several state-of-the-art hospitals and private medical centers. The city has more than 20 public hospitals, including the El-Nahar Private Hospital, which is one of the largest private hospitals in Egypt. Private medical centers like Saad Hospital and Asasta Clinic offer a range of medical services, including specialized surgeries, cancer treatments, and cardiac care. The government's national healthcare scheme, Tahya Misr, provides free medical care to Egyptians aged 65 and up.

Alexandria boasts a well-organized public transportation system with several options for commuters. The city's public buses are the most prominent mode of transportation, with over 200 buses and 20 routes connecting the various parts of the city and its suburbs. Additionally, the city operates a modern metro system, opened in 2012, that has three operational lines. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Careem and Uber are also widely available in Alexandria, providing a convenient option for shorter distances.

While Alexandria is generally a safe city, it's essential to exercise caution, as petty crimes like pickpocketing and burglary occur. Expats should avoid carrying large amounts of cash, wearing conspicuous jewelry, or walking alone at night in deserted areas. Driving in Alexandria can be chaotic due to heavy traffic, especially during rush hours. Unfortunately, road accidents are prevalent, with severe implications on personal safety and vehicular damage. Therefore, it's advisable for newcomers to hire a private driver or opt for mass transit instead of driving themselves.