Egypt is a tolerant country and the Red Sea Riviera has a very international population. Thus yearly holidays are a mix of Muslim, Christian and secular ones. Government offices follow only the official holidays, which are a mix of Muslim and Coptic feasts. Western New Year’s Eve is celebrated in the major cities and in the tourist destinations. Western Christian Christmas is celebrated in all Red Sea resorts and in many hotels in the main tourist cities. Holidays and religious feasts don’t affect much the routine services in resorts and tourist main sightseeing sites. A particular note deserves the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. As the Muslim calendar is based on the lunar phases, Ramadan falls every year on different dates. This is a very special period for all Muslims, as it is a month of purification and connection with family, neighbours and guests. Fast is observed from dawn to dusk, with all observant Muslims avoiding food, drinks and cigarettes during daytime. After dawn though, every street and corner turns into a great feast as people, family, friends and guests gather together to have Iftar (breakfast) in restaurants or in private houses. During this month some shops and services might follow a slower pace during daylight, and some may stay close until after dusk. Closing day for most shops and all banks and offices is Friday, although in tourist towns almost everything is open every day. In tourist towns opening and closing hours are very flexible, with most shops, services and eateries open until quite late at night. |