Buying appliances and electronics in Egypt: warranty, approvals and checks
Appliances, computers and cameras can be bought from authorised shops, electronics markets or private sellers in Egypt. Here is what to confirm before paying.
Your rights when buying from a shop
- Article 17 of Consumer Protection Law No. 181 of 2018 gives the buyer 14 days from receipt to exchange or return goods without giving a reason. Exceptions include perishable goods, goods made to the buyer's own specification, goods damaged by the buyer, and books and software.
- The Consumer Protection Agency says defective goods can be exchanged or returned within 30 days of receipt.
- Durable goods carry a legal warranty against manufacturing defects of at least two years. Keep the invoice and the warranty card.
- If a dispute arises, you can file a complaint with the Consumer Protection Agency. Gather the invoice, messages and photos first.
Approvals and voltage
- Wireless devices such as routers and two-way radios must meet NTRA type-approval requirements.
- Some home appliances must meet mandatory EOS standards. Check the label and the language of the manual.
- Egypt uses 220 V at 50 Hz, and the common plug is the European two-round-pin type. Check that devices brought from China are compatible.
Checking used electronics
- Test every function with the device plugged in. Let fridges and air conditioners run long enough to check cooling.
- Ask when it was bought and whether it is still under warranty, and ask for the original invoice.
- Meet in daylight in a public place, ideally with someone who speaks Arabic.
- Do not transfer money or pay a deposit before you have seen the item.
- Ask for the seller's ID and write a short receipt with both names, the item, its serial number and the handover date.
Related shops and markets
Abdel Aziz Street electronics market
Cairo · Downtown · Shopping area / market
Downtown street near Al-Ataba packed with appliance, phone and accessory shops, wholesale and retail. Check a phone's IMEI in Telephony and inspect it before buying.
City Stars
Cairo · Nasr City · Shopping area / market
Large mall complex in Nasr City with brand stores, a good place to buy goods with an invoice and warranty.
Hours and what is sold can change, so check before you go. Wang Fu has no business relationship with the places listed and does not vouch for their goods.
Official and public sources
- CPA FAQ: exchange and return rules
- Consumer Protection Law No. 181 of 2018 (WIPO Lex)
- National Telecom Regulatory Authority (NTRA)
- Egyptian Organization for Standardization (EOS)
Need an interpreter to come along, or want to post a real sale or rental?