There is no obligation to learn Arabic while visiting Egypt, particularly if staying in a metropolitan area such as Cairo or Alexandria. The hotels are exceptionally staffed and there will always be someone fluent in English with whom to ask questions. The hotels will assign city cabs or shuttles with English speaking drivers, and a considerable amount of Egyptians are fluent in English. However, it is always polite to learn simple phrases for foreign journeys, simply out of courtesy and to show appreciation for different customs and traditions.
Greetings and farewells
Egyptians greet each other warmly with the greeting “asalam alakum” (peace be upon you). Members of the same sex will traditionally greet each other with a kiss upon each cheek. Some Egyptians may greet each other with the phrase “izzayak” (how are you, if asked to a male) or “izzayik” (how are you, if asked to a female). When you depart ways, the proper farewell is “ma’salama” (go with peace).
“Elhamdulillah” and “inshallah”
One word that is very important in Arabic dialogue is the word “elhamdulillah” (thank God). In America, it may be seen as an exclamation of sorts. In Egypt, it used extremely frequently and is the answer to several posed questions, such as “how are you,” “how was your flight,” or “how is the weather?” All of these would commonly be answered with “elhamdulillah.” It is also the expression used when one sneezes, instead of the common American expression of “excuse me.” One would also say “elhamdulillah” when someone shares good news. Another very pertinent word is “inshallah” (God willing). “Inshallah” is a short, punctual answer for many questions, such as “will I see you there?” or “are you expecting company?” One may also state “aywa” (yes) or “la” (no). Both “inshallah” and “elhamdulillah” are two of the most commonly used words in the arabic vocabulary.
Thank you and terms of endearment
It is very important to know how to say thank you in arabic, which is “shokran” or even “shokran gazillan” (thank you very much). It is also important to note that in Egypt, “shokran” is also a pleasant way of declining an offer, whereas in America one would state “no, thank you.” So, if there is an offer made and the Egyptian states “shokran”, this is declining, not accepting the said offer. Because of a heavy French influence in arabic vocabulary, many Egyptians will also thank each other with “merci” or “merci beaucoup.” The main term of endearment in Egypt is the term “habibi” (my beloved, to a male) or “habibti” (my beloved, to a female). This can be said to family members, people of the same sex, or between two members of the opposite sex in a committed relationship. It is not considered appropriate to say it casually to a member of the opposite sex unless there is an intimate connection.
Finally, if found at a complete loss, one can always honestly state “ana mish fahma” (I don’t understand, spoken by a female) or “ana mish faahim” (I don’t understand, spoken by a male).
Egyptians are extremely warm and generous people. Although many of them will hold conversations with foreigners in English, it is always a welcome surprise when foreigners attempt to interject Arabic words and phrases into conversation. Remember these common phrases on your travels and a warm reception awaits you, “inshallah.”
