Where can I exchange money in Egypt, and how do bank exchange counters and machines work?

In September 2026, a traveller reported that the ATM near the entrance to the Zahabia hotel, opposite the old reception, could exchange US dollar cash for Egyptian pounds. Conditions change — confirm with an official source before you travel.

If the machine interface is confusing, it is usually a bank ATM rather than a full cash exchange kiosk, so it normally works with a bank card. For cash exchange, it is easier to use a bank branch such as Banque Misr, NBE, or CIB.

The nearest official exchange is often a major bank branch rather than a standalone exchange booth. In Egypt’s tourist cities, Banque Misr and National Bank of Egypt are the most reliable options, and their rates are usually closer to the official market rate than small private counters.

It is best to exchange money at banks or official airport counters, especially on arrival. Cairo Airport, Hurghada Airport, and Sharm El Sheikh Airport all have bank exchange desks, though city branches usually offer a slightly better rate.

If you need foreign currency such as USD or GBP before departure, use banks rather than informal exchanges with other travelers. Availability of USD/GBP in Egypt can be limited, so it is better to do this in advance at a large bank branch.

A practical countrywide option is to visit during bank hours with your passport and cash in USD, EUR, or GBP. At Banque Misr, NBE, and CIB branches, exchange is typically done without a separate commission, using the current bank rate in EGP.