Friday is the holy day
Friday noon prayers are significant. Many businesses close Friday mornings or all day. The weekend is Friday–Saturday, though some offices work Saturday.
Daily life in Egypt comes down to small habits — laundry, groceries, schedules, household routines — that locals do on autopilot and newcomers learn by watching.
In Egypt, daily life comes down to a few things: friday is the holy day, bargaining is expected, and baksheesh is the system.
Friday noon prayers are significant. Many businesses close Friday mornings or all day. The weekend is Friday–Saturday, though some offices work Saturday.
In markets (souks), tourist areas, and taxis, the first price is a starting point. Smile, counter-offer, and enjoy the process. Fixed prices exist in malls and chain stores.
Small tips for small services — opening a door, carrying bags, pointing directions, guarding your car. It's not begging; it's how the informal economy works. Keep small bills handy.