Which Currency Should Tourists Use in Hurghada, Egypt?

Which Currency Should Tourists Use in Hurghada, Egypt? | Complete 2026 Guide

Planning your holiday in Hurghada and wondering which currency in Hurghada you should bring? Don’t worry — Egypt is one of the easiest destinations when it comes to exchanging and using money during your trip.

At Get Your Tours Egypt⁠, we help travelers every day with tours, excursions, airport transfers, and local travel tips. Here’s everything you need to know about currency in Hurghada before your holiday starts.
The Official Currency in Egypt
The official currency of Egypt is the Egyptian Pound (EGP), also known locally as “Geneh.”
You will find:
Banknotes in different values such as 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 EGP, Coins and small notes for tips and small purchases .
Most local shops, supermarkets, pharmacies, and traditional markets prefer payments in Egyptian Pounds.

Can You Use Euros or Dollars in Hurghada?
Yes — absolutely.
In tourist areas like Hurghada, many businesses accept:
Euros (€), US Dollars ($), British Pounds (£) This is especially common in:
Hotels, Excursion companies, Gift shops, Diving centers, Marina restaurants and Tourist bazaars.
However, paying in Egyptian Pounds is usually cheaper and gives you better value.

What Is the Best Currency to Bring?
Euros
Euros are widely accepted and easy to exchange in Hurghada. Many European tourists prefer bringing cash in Euros and exchanging small amounts during their stay.
US Dollars
US Dollars are also accepted almost everywhere in tourist areas. Make sure your bills are clean and newer versions, as damaged notes may be refused.
British Pounds
British Pounds can also be exchanged easily, especially in major exchange offices and banks.
Where Can You Exchange Money in Hurghada?
You can exchange currency at: Banks, Official exchange offices, Airport exchange counters and ATM machines
ATMs are available across Hurghada and usually offer good exchange rates when withdrawing Egyptian Pounds directly with your bank card.

Can You Pay by Card?
Yes, many places in Hurghada accept:
Visa, Mastercard and Contactless payments
But it’s always smart to carry some cash for:
Tipping, Small shops, Taxi rides, Local cafés, Markets and bazaars

Is Tipping Common in Egypt?
Yes — tipping is part of Egyptian culture and is appreciated for good service.
Common tipping situations:
Hotel staff, Drivers, Boat crew, Tour guides and Restaurant workers
Small amounts in Egyptian Pounds are usually preferred.
Helpful Money Tips for Tourists
Always carry small bills, Avoid exchanging money with unofficial street vendors, Check exchange rates before converting large amounts, Keep some cash with you during excursions and Notify your bank before traveling to Egypt.

Final Advice for Travelers Visiting Hurghada
The easiest option for most tourists is:
Bring Euros or Dollars, Exchange small amounts into Egyptian Pounds when needed, Use cards in larger places and cash for smaller expenses
Hurghada is very tourist-friendly, and managing money during your stay is usually simple and stress-free.
If you are planning excursions, snorkeling trips, desert safaris, or private tours during your holiday, the team at Get Your Tours Egypt⁠ is always ready to help you enjoy the best of Egypt with professional service and local experience.

Popular Tours in Hurghada

“After exchanging your money, you can enjoy some of the best activities in Hurghada such as Orange Bay Island, Dolphin House snorkeling trips, and desert safari adventures.”

Orange Bay

Dolphin House

Safari Adventures