While Egypt is a Muslim-majority country where alcohol is generally haram (forbidden) in Islam, the nation is remarkably liberal and accommodating toward international visitors. You can certainly enjoy a drink during your stay, provided you navigate the local laws and cultural nuances with care. With guidance from Hurghada Today, we’ll explore the essential legal rules every traveler should know, the strict timelines for duty-free shopping, and exactly where you can stock up on beer and wine for your own private terrace.
Where to buy and drink alcohol in Egypt
Don’t expect to find a six-pack of beer next to the milk in your local supermarket. It doesn’t work like that here. However, alcohol is actually quite easy to find once you know which licensed spots and specialized shops to look for.
Licensed establishments
If you’re staying at a 4-star or 5-star hotel, you’re in luck. Alcohol is served pretty much across the board. The same goes for international restaurants, trendy bars, and nightclubs where grabbing a drink is totally legal and socially the norm. You’ll usually find a mix of the classic Egyptian brands (like Stella or Sakara) and the pricier imported spirits if you’re feeling fancy
Specialized shops
If you’d rather enjoy a cold beer on your own balcony or terrace, you’ll want to head to a specialized liquor store. The biggest name you’ll see is Drinkies. They’re everywhere and are actually owned by the folks who brew Egypt’s famous Stella and Sakara beers. Bacchus is another great local chain to look out for. These shops are dedicated entirely to takeaway, so you can easily grab a few bottles of wine or a case of beer to bring back to your place.
Tourist resorts
If you’re heading to tourist hotspots like Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh, you won’t have any trouble finding a drink. In these beach towns, alcohol is everywhere—from the all-day service at all-inclusive resorts to the busy bars and clubs that define the nightlife. Since these cities are built around international travelers, the atmosphere feels a lot more relaxed and ‘holiday-like’ than the more traditional neighborhoods in Cairo or Upper Egypt.
Where to find specialized shops?
If you are looking for a reliable place to stock up, here is one central address for a specialized shop in each of the main cities:
- Hurghada, Drinkies, Tamr Henna Square, El Gouna (Service Area), but you will find in Hurghada near Gumla market in Sakala, too,
- Cairo, Drinkies, 157 26th of July St, Zamalek (Opposite Cairo Marriott),
- Sharm El Sheikh, Drinkies, El Sultan Qabous St, Naama Bay
What to try: A quick guide to Egyptian beer and wine
Since you’re already heading to Drinkies or Bacchus, you’ll want to know what to put in your basket. Most of the alcohol produced in Egypt is made by the Al Ahram Beverages Company (owned by Heineken), so the quality is generally consistent and safe.
The beer scene
Egyptian beers are light, crisp, and perfect for the desert heat.
Stella: No, not Stella Artois! This is the iconic Egyptian lager with the yellow label and the blue star. It’s been around since 1897 and is the “go-to” beer for everyone. It’s light, refreshing, and very easy to drink.
Sakara Gold: Often considered a bit “smoother” than Stella, Sakara beer is another massive favorite. It’s a standard 4% lager and is the perfect poolside companion.
Meister Max: If you’re looking for something with a bit more “kick,” this is a strong lager (around 8% ABV). It’s definitely heavier, so sip with caution!
The wine scene
Don’t expect a French Bordeaux, but Egyptian wines have improved massively over the last decade. Look for these “staple” brands:
Omar Khayyam: This is the most famous local wine. It comes in Red, White, and Rosé. It’s an “everyday” wine—affordable, reliable, and best served slightly chilled (even the red!).
Grand Marquis: A step up from Omar Khayyam in terms of quality. The Red is a blend of Carignan and Cabernet Sauvignon and is quite decent for a dinner at home.
Shahrazade: This is a very popular, budget-friendly choice you’ll see in almost every liquor store. It’s fruity and easy-going—perfect if you aren’t a “wine snob” and just want a glass with your sunset.
Pro tip on spirits
While Egypt produces its own gin, vodka, and whisky (like ID Vodka or Auld Stag), the quality can be “hit or miss” for Western palates. If you’re a fan of high-end cocktails, this is where that 48-hour Duty-Free rule comes in handy. Buy your favorite international brand of gin or whisky at the airport when you land!
Drinking in public (A major No-No)
The golden rule in Egypt is simple: keep your drinks behind closed doors. While the country is very laid back with tourists, drinking on the street, on a public sidewalk, or at a local beach (that isn’t part of a private resort) is a quick way to get into trouble with the police. To stay on the right side of the law and show respect for the local culture, always stick to licensed bars, restaurants, or the privacy of your own balcony. If you’re carrying bottles back to your place, most shops will give you a black plastic bag. Keep them in there until you’re safely inside.
Alcohol and Ramadan 2026
If your trip falls during the holy month of Ramadan (roughly February 18th to March 19th, 2026), things change quite a bit.
The Local Scene: You’ll find that many local bars and liquor stores like Drinkies shut down completely for the month. It’s actually illegal for many places to sell alcohol to Egyptians during this time.
For Travelers: Don’t worry, you won’t be totally “dry.” Big international hotels and high-end tourist spots still serve alcohol to foreign visitors. Just keep in mind that the vibe will be much more low-key, and it’s polite to be extra discreet out of respect for those fasting around you.
The “48-hour” Duty-Free rule
Here is a pro-tip that catches a lot of people off guard: If you want imported spirits (like your favorite Gin or Scotch) without paying a fortune, you have a 48-hour window after you land to buy up to 3 liters at a Duty-Free shop.
The reality of finding and enjoying alcohol in Egypt
In the end, finding alcohol in Egypt as a traveler is entirely possible—it just requires a bit of awareness and respect for local customs. From picking up a cold Stella at a licensed shop to visiting Duty-Free within your arrival window, the experience is less about difficulty and more about timing and discretion. Egypt’s alcohol culture may be quieter than in many Western countries, but it exists, and those who approach it with understanding will find it surprisingly accessible.
