Thorough preparation ensures a successful relocation to New Cairo. Focus on these critical areas:
Research Neighborhoods
Identify zones matching your lifestyle:
- Fifth Settlement: Premium villas/gated compounds with international schools
- Rehab City: Family-oriented with parks and retail complexes
- Madinaty: Integrated community with golf courses and hospitals
- Al Tagamoa Al Khames: Mid-range apartments near universities
Verify developer credibility and infrastructure completion status.
Legal Documentation
Non-Egyptians require:
- Valid residency visa or work permit
- Notarized lease agreement registered with Egyptian Tax Authority
- Property insurance proof for owned residences
Engage certified translators for Arabic contract review.
Moving Logistics
Customs regulations:
- Household goods duty-free entry within 6 months of residency
- Required documents: passport copy, itemized inventory (Arabic/English), original Bill of Lading
Local transport: Book covered trucks; avoid midday moves due to traffic congestion.
Essential Services Setup
Prioritize these post-arrival:
- Electricity/Water: Apply at New Cairo City Authority with lease copy and ID
- Internet: WE (VDSL) or Orange (fiber) – installation takes 3-7 business days
- Healthcare: Al Salam International Hospital and Saudi German Hospital accept international insurance
Maintain photocopies of all service contracts.
Daily Life Integration
Transportation:
- Use Uber/Careem for reliable point-to-point trips
- Metrobus lines connect to downtown Cairo (Route 72 from Fifth Settlement)
Shopping: City Centre Almaza, Point 90, and Dandy Mall for international brands.
Cultural Adaptation
- Learn basic Arabic phrases; English suffices in business districts
- Friday-Saturday weekends standard
- Carry small change for bakshish (tipping) service providers
Register with your embassy for security alerts.
Allocate 6-8 weeks for administrative processes. Keep digital backups of critical documents on encrypted storage.
