C - Student Life in Egypt
Q1: What language do Egyptians speak?
A1: Egyptians speak a colloquial dialect ('Amiyyah) derived from Modern Standard Arabic (Fus'ha). Nevertheless Fus'ha is used constantly in print, broadcast, on television, in the mosques, and in all formal writing.
Q2: If Egyptians speak 'Amiyyah in their everyday interactions, what will be the benefit in learning Fus'ha in Egypt?
A2: Among the benefits of studying Arabic in Egypt is that you will be afforded the opportunity to attend classes daily for more than 5 hours in the Center, thereby speaking and listening to Fus'ha for an extended period of time daily. Moreover, the Center provides a modern library of tapes and cds to use at your convenience. You will also undoubtedly befriend students who do not know your mother tongue and whose only linguistic medium is Fus'ha.
Q3: How will I live among Egyptians without knowing ('Amiyyah)? Should I learn it too?
A3: Not necessarily. Everyone in the street understands Fus'ha but does not speak it. Shops and service places in the Al-Diwan area are used to AL Diwan international students; besides, students at AL Diwan help each other in getting what they need.
Q4: What are the rental prices for furnished apartments near Al Diwan?
A4: Rent varies with respect to the number of bedrooms, the value of the furniture, and the price that the owner feels they can get for the apartment. Usually, rent near the center ranges from 2000 LE to 3000 EGP for 2 bedrooms, 2000 EGP to 3500 EGP for 3 bedrooms, and 3000 EGP to 5000 EGP or more for 4 bedrooms. real-state agents charge the equivalent of ½ month’s rent. You must pay a first month’s rent in advance and a security deposit (usually equivalent to one-month of rent). The security deposit is refunded when you move out minus any property damages, if any. If you leave the apartment before the end of the contract, you will most likely lose the security deposit. However, keep in mind that each landlord and contract is different, so make sure to read the contract carefully and ask all questions before signing the lease (contract).
NOTE: In the winter, the rent is cheaper than in the summer.
Q5: Is it possible to room with someone so that we can share the rental expense?
A5: Yes, our students frequently decide to room together. We help our students get acquainted with each other, so so their time here can be the most optimal.
Q6: Can you make an apartment (i.e.: flat) reservation for me ahead of time, so I can immediately move in upon my arrival in Egypt?
A6: This is not possible unless you have studied at Al Diwan Center before. Our normal procedure is to receive students at the airport, accompany them to a hotel, at which point, they accompany a rental agent and choose an apartment at their own discretion.
Q7: How long does it take to retain a flat (apartment) through your assistance?
A7: It takes around 48 hours during the week, except for Fridays and National Holidays/Celebrations. It may take even less time if the student comes to the center before noon.
Q8: What are the prices for meals in Egypt?
A8: Prices vary based on whether you prepare your own meals or if you eat out. If you will be cooking your own meals, food expenses run less than 50 EGP a day. If you will be purchasing cooked food, the price varies depending on the restaurant you go to and can be anywhere from 10 EGP to 100 EGP a meal. There is a wide variety of restaurants around Al-Diwan that students can go to.
Q9: What is the standard of health care in Egypt, and what are the prices of medicine?
A9: Hospital care differs in Egypt. There are American branches of major hospitals here, as well as excellent public emergency clinics. Private clinics are spread throughout Egypt's metropolis, and medicine is extremely affordable.
Q10: Is there any hospitals near Al-Diwan?
A10: Of course yes! Nasr City, where Al-Diwan is located, is one of the Cairo's most active areas. Nasr City has everything you need at anytime of the day or night, including hospitals, and health services.
Q11: Are Internet services available in Egypt?
A11: Yes, there are over 50 Internet companies in Cairo that offer free Dial-up Internet services (if you have a computer and phone line). With your ground line, you can get a ADSL for as low as 95 EGP a month. There are also Internet Cafes throughout Cairo whose prices are about 2-4 EGP per hour.
Q12: How much does it cost to buy a mobile (Cellular) phone? How much does it cost to make a call to a mobile phone number from any store or a public place?
A12: Regarding mobile lines, they widely differ in costs. However, you can find a line for less than $10. Mobile calls range from 7 cents to 18 cents per minute, the rate being determined by the operators or owners of the store.
[Note: In Egypt, it is only known as "Mobile" PRONOUNCED: /MO-BA-YEL/]
[Note: 1$ USD = 5.85 EGP, subject to Central Bank official rate changes]
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