Salaam Alaikum (sa-laam a-lay-kum): The classic “peace be upon you.” A respectful opener used all day. The natural reply you’ll hear is Wa Alaikum Salaam (wa a-lay-kum sa-laam).

Sabah Al-Khair (sa-bah al-khair): “Good morning.” Use it at your hotel breakfast, in cafés, or when joining a tour. Friendly, simple, and always appreciated.

Masaa Al-Khair (ma-saa al-khair): “Good evening.” Perfect for restaurants, night strolls on the promenade, or meeting your guide after sunset.

Izayyak? (iz-zay-yak) to a man / Izayyek? (iz-zay-yek) to a woman: Casual “How are you?” Keep it light—smile and nod if you don’t catch the full reply; you’ve already made a great impression.

Ahlan (ah-lan): Short, friendly “hello.” Easy to use anywhere—shops, beach kiosks, or when a local greets you first.

Shukran (shoo-kran): “Thank you.” The most important word you’ll use. From shops to hotels, gratitude always wins hearts.

Afwan (af-wan): “You’re welcome.” A natural reply when someone thanks you. Locals will smile when they hear it.

Min Fadlak (min fad-lak) to a man / Min Fadlik (min fad-lik) to a woman: “Please.” Use it in restaurants, taxis, or whenever you’re making a request.

Laa Shukran (laa shoo-kran): “No, thank you.” Very useful when kindly declining offers at bazaars or street vendors.

Aiwa (ay-wa): “Yes.” You’ll use it everywhere—from shops to tours. Easy, quick, and always understood.

Laa (laa): “No.” Just as important as yes! Use it politely with a smile when you don’t want something.

Tamam (ta-mam): “Okay” or “perfect.” Egyptians use this word all the time. Say it when you agree or want to confirm.

Mashi (ma-shi): “Alright” or “let’s go.” Use it casually with drivers, guides, or friends you meet on your journey.

Yalla (yal-la): “Let’s go” or “come on.” Fun, energetic, and one of the most famous Egyptian words tourists love to use.

Ma’a Salama (ma-a sa-la-ma): “Goodbye” or “go with peace.” A polite way to end a conversation or leave a shop, hotel, or café.

Bashufak Ba’dain (ba-shoo-fak ba’d-ain): “See you later.” Casual and friendly, perfect for guides, drivers, or new friends.

Ila Al-Liqa (i-la al-lee-qa): A formal “until we meet again.” Use it in professional settings or with older people for extra respect.

Bye (same as English): Egyptians often mix English with Arabic. A cheerful “bye” works everywhere and feels natural.

Yalla Habibi (yal-la ha-bee-bi): “Let’s go, my friend.” A cheerful and famous Egyptian expression that tourists quickly fall in love with. Perfect for group trips or heading to the beach.

Khalas (kha-las): “Enough” or “finished.” Egyptians use this word a lot. It can mean “done,” “stop,” or simply “okay.” Fun to try in casual situations.

Halasna (ha-las-na): “We’re done.” Use this after finishing an activity, meal, or shopping trip. Locals will find it hilarious when tourists say it.

Felucca (fe-luk-ka): A traditional wooden sailboat used on the Nile. The word itself feels cultural and unique. Great to drop into a conversation when booking boat tours.

Ya Salam (ya sa-lam): Literally “oh peace,” but used like “wow!” or “amazing!” Perfect when admiring the Red Sea views or Egyptian food.

👉 Ready to Practice Your Arabic?

Use your new phrases on our Hurghada City Tour, or try them with locals at the Best Restaurants in Hurghada. Every word is a bridge to a new smile!