If you are planning a move to Egypt, transport in Cairo is cheap and extensive but intense. Start with the wider Egypt expat guide for the fuller picture.
At a glance
- Best for: expats who use the metro and ride-hailing and choose their district well
- Hardest part: heavy traffic and chaotic driving conditions
- Good fit for: people who base themselves near their daily routine
Daily transport in the main cities
Cairo has an extensive, very cheap metro that avoids the city's notorious traffic, with dedicated women-only carriages. Buses, microbuses, and shared options fill out the network but can be confusing for newcomers. The dominant tool for most expats is ride-hailing (Uber, Careem), which is affordable and far easier than negotiating street taxis. New lines and a monorail are expanding the network.
Do you need a car?
Many expats avoid owning a car in Cairo because traffic and parking are stressful, relying instead on the metro and ride-hailing. A car can help for families or specific routines, but where you live matters more: choosing a district close to work and daily needs reduces time lost to traffic dramatically.
Intercity and regional travel
Trains connect Cairo with Alexandria and the Nile Valley, and long-distance buses serve many routes. Domestic flights cover longer distances such as to the south or the coast. Intercity planning is straightforward once you know the main operators.
Driving, licences, and setup
Residents can obtain an Egyptian licence; an International Driving Permit helps initially. Driving is chaotic by Western standards, with assertive traffic and informal rules, so many newcomers prefer to leave driving to ride-hailing drivers, at least at first.
Costs, passes, and apps
The metro is extremely cheap, and ride-hailing is affordable and reliable. Combining the two — metro for crosstown speed, ride-hailing for door-to-door — is the standard, economical expat setup.
Practical tips for expats
- Use the metro to bypass traffic on longer crosstown trips.
- Rely on Uber or Careem rather than negotiating street taxis.
- Choose a neighbourhood close to your routine to minimise time in traffic.
Final thoughts
Cairo is very navigable and cheap once you combine the metro with ride-hailing and pick a well-placed home. Traffic is the real challenge, and neighbourhood choice is the main lever against it.
FAQ
Do I need a car in Cairo?
Often no. The metro plus ride-hailing works well, and many expats avoid the stress of driving.
Is the metro safe and easy?
Yes, it is cheap and efficient, with women-only carriages available, though it can be crowded.
What about street taxis?
Most expats prefer Uber or Careem for transparent pricing and convenience.