Buying and selling second-hand goods safely in Egypt
Selling things when moving house or returning to China is common. These points protect both sides.
For buyers
- Shop return rules usually do not apply to sales between private people, so inspect the item yourself before paying.
- 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.
For sellers
- Describe the condition and age honestly, with real photos.
- Hand over only after the money has actually arrived. Refuse any "overpay and refund the difference" request; it is a common scam.
- Sign out of accounts and factory-reset phones and computers before selling.
Common scams
- Being asked for a "deposit" or "shipping cost" before you can see the item.
- A payment screenshot with no money actually received. Trust only your bank or wallet notification.
- An "urgent sale" far below the usual market level.
Related shops and markets
Souq El-Gomaa (Friday market)
Cairo · Shopping area / market
Large open-air market held every Friday near the Imam El-Shafie mausoleum: pets, used clothes, shoes and assorted goods. It is crowded, so watch your belongings; check an animal's health and vaccinations before buying.
Souq El-Azbakeya book market
Cairo · Downtown · Shopping area / market
Downtown market for new and used books, including textbooks, Arabic titles and old editions.
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
Need an interpreter to come along, or want to post a real sale or rental?