Shopping in Cairo: Must-Visit Markets, Malls & Souvenir Hotspots

Cairo is not just a city of history and ancient monuments; it’s also a vibrant shopping destination where modern trends and traditional crafts are loved together. Whether you’re an avid shopper or just looking for a unique souvenir to take home, Cairo has something for everyone. The city offers a perfect blend of bustling markets, chic malls, and boutique shops that cater to every taste and budget. From luxury goods to handmade treasures, Cairo’s shopping scene is diverse, dynamic, and full of exciting things. In this guide for shopping in Cairo, we’ll take you on a journey through the best places to shop in Cairo.

Know Where to Go for Shopping in Cairo: Buy High-end Fashion and Traditional Egyptian Goods

Nowadays, Cairo is known as a modern capital city, but the Greater Cairo is famous for the Pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian Museum. Exploring these ancient sites is a must on many tourists’ lists but shopping in Cairo is no less an experience itself. The city’s markets offer a vibrant and sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells, while the air-conditioned malls provide a modern shopping experience. The city's rich cultural history is reflected in the goods you can find—from exquisite Egyptian cotton products to intricate jewelry and ancient papyrus scrolls. Whether you’re looking to indulge in high-end fashion or uncover a hidden gem, shopping in Cairo offers something for everyone. Let’s dive into the must-visit spots for an unforgettable shopping adventure in this fascinating city.

Amazing Places for Shopping in Cairo: Souvenirs, Handicrafts, and More

Cairo is famous for its traditional markets, known as souks. These markets are packed with history and culture, offering a true taste of Egyptian life.

Anything—from handmade crafts to spices and jewelry. Here are a few such souks in Cairo that one must explore for authentic Egyptian goods:

1. Khan El Khalili Bazaar

This is the most famous market in Cairo established in 1382 by Emir Djaharks el-Khalili. Before turning into a business place, it used to be used for political gatherings during the Mamluk period. Located in the heart of Islamic Cairo, Khan El Khalili is among the best places to visit in Cairo for anyone interested in local culture. You’ll find narrow alleys filled with hundreds of colorful shops and stalls selling souvenirs and local handicrafts like brassware, perfume bottles, spices, textiles, to jewelry. The atmosphere is buzzing with energy. The smell of incense, the sounds of haggling, and the vibrant colors of the goods make it an exciting place to visit. You are welcomed by more than 4000 shops spread across the narrow lanes.

Don’t feel shy to bargain the price as bargaining is a big part of the experience here. Give yourself a challenge to get a good deal, it’s fun.

Location: El-Gamaleya, Islamic Cairo, Cairo, Egypt

Address: El-Gamaleya, El Gamaliya, Cairo Governorate 4331302, Egypt

Opening Hour: Daily from 9:30 am to 12 am (varies by store)

Famous Stores:

• Khan El Khalili Gold and Silver Souk
• El Meligy Perfumes
• Al Fawziya Antique Shop
• Hussein Bazaar (traditional Egyptian crafts)

Facilities:

• Rest areas with seating
• Street food vendors
• Traditional craft stalls selling pottery, jewelry, and textiles
• Public restrooms

Nearby Attractions:

• The Egyptian Museum: Just a 10-minute walk away
• Al-Azhar Mosque: Located about 5 minutes away
• The Pharaonic Village: A bit further out

Nearby Restaurants:

• Naguib Mahfouz Restaurant
• El Fishawy Café
• Koshary Abou Tarek

2. Mohandiseen and Zamalek Districts

If you’re looking for more modern shopping experiences, head to Mohandiseen and Zamalek, an amazing shopping center in Cairo. These areas are home to stylish boutiques, international brand stores, and upscale shopping centers. You’ll find everything from trendy clothes to high-end electronics. Zamalek also has a number of antique shops and art galleries, so it’s a great place to pick up something unique.

Address: Mohandiseen & Zamalek Districts, Cairo, Egypt

Opening Hours: 10 am to 4 pm

Famous Stores:

• The Blue Shop
• Damas Jewelry
• Hany El Sayed

Facilities:

• Cafes and restaurants
• Boutiques featuring Egyptian and international designers
• Art galleries
• Public restrooms

Fun Zones: Artellewa Art Gallery and Darb 1718

Nearby Attractions:

• The Cairo Opera House
• Zamalek Garden
• The Egyptian Museum

Nearby Restaurants:

• Crave
• Sequoia
• La Bodega

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3. El Moez Street

Before booking your tickets to Cairo, make a list of all the attractions you are going to visit and also the mementos that you are going to buy from there. For a historical shopping experience, head to El Moez Street, a street that dates back to the Fatimid period. Here you’ll find a mix of antique stores, local crafts, and traditional clothing shops. It’s a great place to pick up something that feels truly ancient, and the street’s stunning medieval architecture adds to the experience.

Address: El-Gamaleya, El Moez Street, Islamic Cairo, Cairo, Egypt

Opening Hours: Daily from 9 am to 10 pm

Famous Stores:

• Khan El Khayamiya (handcrafted textiles)
• Mina House (local jewelry and antiques)
• Sayed Agha Carpets (traditional rugs)

Facilities:

• Cafes and small restaurants
• Walking tours
• Public restrooms

Nearby Attractions:

• Al-Azhar Mosque
• The Mosque of Sultan Hassan

Nearby Restaurants:

• El Fishawy Café
• Naguib Mahfouz Restaurant
• Khan El Khalili Café

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4. Attaba Market

Located in the center of Cairo, Attaba Market is a bustling area known for its affordable clothing, shoes, and accessories. It's perfect if you're looking to shop for everyday essentials without breaking the bank. The market offers both new and second-hand items, making it a budget-friendly shopping spot for visitors.

Address: 6 Al-Baydaq Street (Electricity Market), Ataba, Egypt

Opening Hours: Daily 10 am to 2 am

Famous Stores:

• Attaba Clothing Market
• Attaba Electronic Market

Facilities:

• Street food vendors
• Local cafes and eateries
• Public restrooms

Nearby Attractions:

• Al-Azhar Mosque
• The Egyptian Museum

Nearby Restaurants:

• Felfela
• Koshary Abou Tarek
• El-Dahan Restaurant

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5. Salah El-Din Citadel

Though it's known as a historic site, the area around Salah El-Din Citadel offers some unique shops selling traditional Egyptian items. You'll find small shops offering carpets, handmade goods, and local artwork. The views from the Citadel are also worth a visit, making it a great place to explore while shopping for souvenirs.

6. Garden City & Downtown Cairo

For those looking to explore boutiques and designer shops, Garden City and Downtown Cairo are the places to be. These areas are home to a mix of high-end designer stores and independent boutiques that feature Egyptian and Middle Eastern designers. You’ll find everything from fashion to art in this stylish area, and it's the perfect place to discover unique finds.

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Explore Cairo’s Best Shopping Malls for Luxe Experience

One of the best things about shopping in Cairo is that you can find almost everything from global brands to the high-end restaurants and entertainment hubs. For such luxurious shopping experience, one can also visit these malls in Cairo starts here:

• City Stars Mall
• Mall of Egypt
• Cairo Festival City Mall
• The Village Mall
• Downtown Katameya
• Mall of Arabia
• Galleria Mall
• The First Mall
• Park Mall
• Arkadia Mall

1. City Stars Mall

City Stars is one of the largest and most popular shopping malls in Cairo. It’s located in the Nasr City area and has over 600 shops. You can find everything from clothing, accessories, gadgets, and cosmetics, to furniture and home decor. Besides shopping, City Stars has a food court, cinemas, and entertainment options like bowling and an ice-skating rink, making it a great destination for a full day of fun. The high-end shopping experience, fun activities, and delicious food will assure you have a great time exploring these amazing things to do in Cairo.

Address: City Stars, Masaken Al Mohandesin, Nasr City, Cairo Governorate 4451620, Egypt

Opening Hours:

• Thursday to Friday- 10 AM to 11 pm
• Saturday to Wednesday- 10 am to 10 pm

Category Stores:

• Accessories
• Footwear
• Clothing
• lingerie
• Jewelry
• Optics
• Sports Wear
• Unisex
• Watches

Famous Stores:

• Zara
• H&M
• Apple Store
• Carrefore
• Pandora
• Marks & Spencer
• IKEA (home goods and furniture)

Facilities:

• Free Wi-Fi
• Parking (indoor and outdoor)
• Dining options with a wide variety of cuisines
• ATM machines
• Restrooms
• Childcare facilities and play area
• Club Cars
• Disabled Restrooms
• EV Charging
• Food Safety
• Information Desk
• Stars Clinic
• Tenants Platform
• Wheelchair
• Wristbands

Fun Zones:

• City Stars Cinemas
• Bowling
• Ice Skating Rink
• Magic Planet

Nearby Attractions:

• Cairo International Convention Center
• The Cairo International Stadium
• The Baron Empain Palace
• Egyptian Museum
• El Ghoury Complex

Nearby Restaurants:

• The Kitchen Restaurant
• TGI Friday’s
• Hardee’s

Nearby Hotels:

• Le Meridien Heliopolis
• Hilton Cairo Heliopolis
• Fairmont Heliopolis
• Marriott Cairo

2. Mall of Egypt

Located in 6th of October City, Mall of Egypt is another popular shopping destination in Cairo. This mall is home to global brand stores in Cairo such as Zara, H&M, and Apple. What makes Mall of Egypt special is its indoor ski resort, Ski Egypt. If you love winter sports or just want to escape the Cairo heat for a while, you can try skiing or snowboarding indoors. Afterward, you can grab a bite to eat or catch a movie in one of the mall’s theaters.

Address: El Wahat Rd, First 6th of October, Giza Governorate 12573, Egypt

Opening Hours: Daily from 10 am to 11 pm

Famous Stores:

• Adidas
• Virgin Megastore
• H&M
• Marks & Spencer
• LC Waikiki

Facilities:

• Free Wi-Fi
• Parking (indoor and outdoor)
• Dining options with international cuisine
• ATM machines
• Restrooms

Fun Zones:

• Ski Egypt
• Magic Planet
• Cinemas

Nearby Attractions:

• Dream Park
• Giza Pyramids

Nearby Restaurants:

• The Social Grill
• Crave
• Sbarro

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3. Cairo Festival City Mall

Located in New Cairo, Cairo Festival City Mall is a large, open-air shopping center. The mall features some of the world’s top fashion brands, plus a variety of restaurants and cafes. The mall also offers great dining options, a huge cinema complex, and entertainment for kids, making it a great choice for families and shoppers looking for variety. One of the highlights here is the large IKEA store, which offers a wide range of furniture, home accessories, and decor.

Address: Ring Rd, New Cairo 3, Cairo Governorate 4730020, Egypt

Opening Hours

• Thursday to Friday- 10 AM to 1 am
• Saturday to Wednesday- 10 am to 12 am

Famous Stores:

• Apple Store
• Zara
• IKEA (home goods and furniture)
• Adidas
• Sephora

Facilities:

• Free Wi-Fi
• Parking
• Large dining areas with international restaurants and cafes
• ATM machines
• Restrooms
• Play area for kids

Fun Zones:

• Cairo Festival City Mall Entertainment Complex
• Cinemas
• Dining by the Lake:

Nearby Attractions:

• The American University in Cairo
• The Pyramids of Giza

Nearby Restaurants:

• The Smokery
• Carrefour Café
• P.F. Chang’s

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4. The Village Mall

The Village Mall is a high-end shopping destination in New Cairo, designed for luxury shopping with high-end fashion brands and a family-friendly atmosphere. With its elegant design, it offers premium brands that cater to fashion-forward individuals. This mall also has a selection of fine dining restaurants, so you can enjoy a meal after a shopping spree. The Village Mall is perfect if you’re looking to treat yourself to designer clothes shopping in Cairo along with accessories, and unique lifestyle products, all while enjoying the sophisticated ambiance.

Location: Mall, New Cairo 1, Cairo Governorate 4730020, Egypt

Opening Hours: 8:30 am to 1:00 am

Famous for: Luxurious Atmosphere and Exclusive Brands

Services:

• Valet Parking
• Free Wi-Fi
• Lost & Found
• Delivery
• Concierge

Facilities:

• Parking
• Air Conditioning
• Restrooms
• Elevators
• Prayer Room

Nearby Restaurants:

• P.F. Chang’s
• Wadi Food
• Be Good
• La Poire
• The Noodle House

Nearby Attractions:

• City Center
• AUC Campus
• Al Rehab City
• Cairo Festival City
• The New Cairo Mall

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5. Downtown Katameya

Downtown Katameya offers a welcoming shopping experience with premium brands stores in Cairo Egypt. The mall brings together international and local brands, making it a perfect blend of fashion, lifestyle, and food. If you do not like crowded places, this mall is for you. The large size of the mall makes it look less crowded even if it is. It offers a broad selection of products, including apparel, accessories, and electronics. The mall’s central courtyard is ideal for relaxing, and the restaurants offer great choices for every taste. Whether you’re looking to shop or grab a bite, Downtown Katameya has something for everyone in a serene environment.

Address: Area A-City Center, hk٥5th District, Road 90،, Cairo Governorate, Egypt

Opening Hours: 8 am to 12 am

Famous for: International and Local Boutiques

Services:

• Free Wi-Fi
• Valet Parking
• Delivery
• Lost & Found
• ATM

Facilities:

• Parking
• Restrooms
• Elevators
• Air Conditioning
• Prayer Room

Nearby Restaurants:

• Le Deck
• Ristorante La Trattoria
• Pappa Roti
• Solero Café
• Maestro

Nearby Attractions:

• The New Cairo Mall
• Cairo International Airport
• AUC
• Cairo Festival City Mall
• Al Rehab City

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6. Mall of Arabia

Thinking of exploring a shopping center in Egypt where you find everything under one roof, the Mall of Arabia is your answer. You will find a variety of stores, from local to international fashion, accessories, and electronics. Stores like Samsung, Mango, and Louis Vuitton welcome you with your needs and not only this the mall boasts of having an indoor amusement park and cinema for entertainment. After all, you can dine in diverse dining options to recharge yourself. A few of the dining spots include Hard Rock Cafe and Pizza Hut. If it’s not shopping and just a day out, you can count on this wonderful place for a fun day in Cairo.

Address: First 6th of October, Giza Governorate 3236020, Egypt

Opening Hours

• Friday to Saturday- 9 am - 11 pm
• Sunday to Thursday- 9 am to 10 pm

Category Stores

• Accessories
• Footwear & Leather Goods
• Kid's Wear
• Ladies' Wear
• Men's Wear
• lingerie
• Jewelry

Famous Stores

• DeFacto
• LC Waikikil
• H&M
• Zara
• The Gap
• Mercedes-Benz
• Colin's
• Louis Vuitton
• Mango
• Lacoste
• Apple

Entertainment Options

• Indoor Amusement Park
• Cinema
• Bowling
• Arcade
• Kids’ Play Zone

Services and Facilities

• ATM
• Baby Changing Rooms
• Disabled Restrooms
• Free WIFI
• Information Desk
• Parking
• Restrooms
• Wheelchair
• Lost & Found

Nearby Attractions

• 6th October War Panorama
• Dream Park
• Sheikh Zayed City
• Mall of Egypt
• Cairo Jazz Club

Nearby Hotels

• Aracan Pyramids Hotel
• Hilton Cairo Zamalek Residences
• Sheraton Cairo Hotel
• Sofitel Cairo El Gezirah
• Novotel Cairo 6th October

Nearby Restaurants

• Hard Rock Café
• Pizza Hut
• Costa Coffee
• TGI Friday’s
• McDonald’s

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7. Galleria Mall

Galleria Mall stands out for its beautiful design and refined atmosphere. It’s a place where shoppers can find a mix of luxury brands, specialty stores, and high-end services. You’ll also find cozy cafes and restaurants that offer everything from coffee to gourmet meals. The mall is known for its attention to detail, with beautifully designed spaces that make shopping feel like a special experience. If you’re looking for a sophisticated, high-quality shopping experience, Galleria Mall offers just that, along with great facilities and customer services.

Address: 26MG+GPM, Abdulaziz Al Saud, Old Cairo, Cairo Governorate 4240303, Egypt

Opening Hours: 9 am to 12 am

Famous Stores

• Adidas
• Levi’s
• Zara
• Sephora

Entertainment Options

• Kids’ Entertainment Zone
• Cinema
• Arcade
• Event Space
• Live Music

Services and Facilities

• Valet Parking
• Free Wi-Fi
• ATMs
• Lost & Found
• Baby Changing Facilities

Nearby Attractions

• Mall of Arabia
• Zayed Central Park
• Sheikh Zayed Hospital
• The Waterway
• Cairo Golf Club

Nearby Hotels

• Hilton Cairo
• Novotel Cairo Sheikh Zayed
• JW Marriott Hotel
• Aracan Pyramids Hotel
• Radisson Blu Hotel

Nearby Restaurants

• Nola Cupcakes
• The Coffee Bean
• Hard Rock Café
• TGI Friday’s
• Leila

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8. The First Mall

The First Mall is located close to the famous Pyramids of Giza and offers an elegant experience of shopping. This mall is home to a few of the best shops in Cairo that you can explore for luxury fashion brands. Perfect for those seeking family time and several fine-dining restaurants where you can enjoy yourself and relax after a tiring shopping session. Top brands like Gucci and Prada, some classy restaurants in Cairo along with cinema and other entertainment welcome for best experience.

Address: 5 Giza Street - Inside Four Seasons Hotel, Al Giza, 11432, Egypt

Opening Hours: 10 am - 10 pm daily

Famous for: Luxury Fashion, Premium Boutiques, and Gourmet Dining

Services:

• Concierge
• ATM
• Valet Parking
• Lost & Found
• Delivery

Facilities:

• Free Wi-Fi
• Parking
• Elevators
• Air Conditioning
• Prayer Room

Nearby Restaurants:

• The Sequoia
• Birdcage
• Paul Bakery
• The Grill
• Abou El Sid

Nearby Attractions:

• Giza Pyramids
• Cairo Opera House
• Cairo Tower
• Nile River
• Egyptian Museum

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9. Park Mall

Park Mall is a cozy destination located in the 6th of October City that one can visit to experience the best shopping in Cairo. Known for its mix of popular and affordable brands, the mall is perfect for those looking to shop without breaking the bank. It’s not as large as some other malls, but it’s a charming spot for those who enjoy a quieter, more relaxed shopping experience. With a variety of stores, good restaurants, and entertainment options, Park Mall is an excellent choice for an enjoyable day out without the crowds.

Address: South 90th Street, New Cairo 1, Cairo Governorate 4740020, Egypt

Opening Hours: 9 am to 12 am

Famous for: Affordable brands and Trendy stores

Services:

• Free Wi-Fi
• Concierge
• Delivery
• Kids Play Area
• Valet Parking

Facilities:

• Parking, Restrooms
• Elevators
• Air Conditioning
• Prayer Room

Nearby Restaurants:

• Casero
• Cilantro
• Tandoor
• McDonald's
• Ovio

Nearby Attractions:

• Dream Park
• Mall of Egypt
• Giza Pyramids
• Sheikh Zayed
• Al Haram

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10. Arkadia Mall

When in Cairo and looking for a stylish experience of shopping in Cairo Egypt, Arkadia Mall should be your destination. Located in the heart of Heliopolis, it’s a great destination for those who enjoy a mix of high-end fashion, homeware, and unique gifts. Its design and layout provide a comfortable and pleasant shopping environment. You can explore brands like Mango and Nike and some popular restaurants to relish delicious foods in Cairo. The mall also offers a selection of cafes and restaurants where you can relax and unwind. With its intimate size and selection of trendy stores, Arkadia Mall offers a special kind of shopping experience.

Address: Egyptian Radio and Television Building, 4 Nile Corniche, El Nile, Cairo Governorate 11672, Egypt

Opening Hours:

• Thursday to Saturday- 9 am to 11 pm
• Sunday to Wednesday- 9 am to 10 pm

Famous for: Boutique-style shops and Chic atmosphere

Services:

• Valet Parking
• Free Wi-Fi
• Lost & Found
• Concierge
• Delivery

Facilities:

• Parking
• Restrooms
• Elevators
• Air Conditioning
• Prayer Room

Nearby Restaurants:

• Tandoor
• Be Good
• The Sushi Bar
• Ovio
• Casa Mia

Nearby Attractions:

• Cairo International Airport
• Baron Palace
• Cairo Opera House
• City Stars
• Al Azhar Park

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Unique Souvenirs You Can Only Find in Cairo

When shopping in Cairo, you’ll want to take home a few special souvenirs that reflect the culture and history of Egypt. Here are some of the best items to buy when you visit:

1. Papyrus Scrolls

Egyptian papyrus is an iconic souvenir. These handmade scrolls are made from the papyrus plant, which ancient Egyptians used for writing. You’ll find beautiful painted papyrus scrolls depicting ancient Egyptian scenes, gods, and hieroglyphics. They make a unique gift or decoration for your home.

2. Egyptian Cotton Products

Egyptian cotton is world-renowned for its quality and softness. You can find luxurious bed linens, towels, and clothing made from this high-quality cotton in shops throughout Cairo.

3. Spices

The spices in Cairo’s markets are vibrant and full of flavor. In Khan El Khalili and other souks, you’ll find stalls selling dried herbs, spices, and blends used in Egyptian cooking. Common spices include cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and saffron.

4. Handmade Jewelry

Cairo is full of jewelry shops selling both traditional and contemporary designs. Handmade silver and gold jewelry featuring Egyptian symbols like the Eye of Horus or scarabs are popular choices. These pieces make excellent gifts or keepsakes.

5. Carpets and Kilims

Egyptian carpets and kilims (rugs) are another item you’ll see in many shops, especially in Khan El Khalili. These handmade rugs are intricately woven and come in a variety of designs and colors. They make for beautiful home decor and are a great souvenir to remember your trip to Egypt.

Tips for Shopping in Cairo

To make your experience of shopping in Cairo more enjoyable, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Bargain at Markets: Don’t be afraid to haggle with shop owners to get a better price
• Cash is King: Always carry some Egyptian pounds (EGP) when shopping in markets
• Check for Quality: Be sure to inspect things like clothing, jewelry, or souvenirs before buying
• Respect the Culture: Always be polite and respectful when shopping in Cairo
• Timing Matters: It’s a good idea to shop in the morning or late afternoon

Cairo is a shopping paradise that offers a blend of traditional and modern experiences. From the chaotic charm of Khan El Khalili to the sleek malls like City Stars, shopping in Cairo is an adventure you won’t forget. Don’t miss out on the unique souvenirs, fashionable clothes, and handmade goods filled with the essence of Egypt’s culture. So, when visiting this historic land with our Cairo tour packages, don’t miss this experience, just grab your shopping bags and get ready to explore all that Cairo has to offer!

Shopping in Cairo - FAQs