Cairo/Islamic Cairo

1280px File:Mohammed-ali-basha-mosque - Mohammed Ali mosque Islamic Cairo is the name commonly given to the core of medieval Cairo, a part of the city remarkably different from the modern Downtown neighborhood and the suburbs to the West.

Cairo/Islamic Cairo Halal Travel Guide

Islamic Cairo is not more or less Islamic than the rest of the city, but it's the area of the city which holds the most and the greatest and the most famous Islamic monuments. Many of these raised by the Fatimid caliphs who founded the city Cairo (preceded by Fustat or Old Cairo). Unlike Islamic quarters in other city's, people, often quite poor, continue to live by historic monuments and masjids. A huge, bustling center of worship, trade, shopping and commuting - it's a must-see for any visitors and deserves at least a couple of days exploring.

How to travel to Cairo/Islamic Cairo

The station Bab El-Shaaria GPS 30.054562,31.257267 (باب الشاعرية), on Metro line 2 and is located just northeast of the neighborhood,

What to see in Cairo/Islamic Cairo

File:Muizz Street.GIF|Map of al-Muizz Street and the main thoroughfare in Islamic Cairo Suhaymi Screen - Bayt Al Suhaymi: An Ottoman merchant's house The attractions listed here are listed from north to south, starting at the Bab al-Futuh (Gate of Conquest) at the northern edge of the Fatimid city walls. The route follows al-Muizz Street (Sharia al-Muizz), which is dedicated to pedestrian traffic between 8AM and 11PM.

• Al-Hakim Mosque - One of the largest Fatimid masjids in Cairo. It was originally decreed in 990 by the famously eccentric caliph Al-Hakim bi-Amr Allah ("Ruler by God's Command") who, among other things, prohibited eating grapes or playing chess. Increasingly paranoid towards the end of his reign, he disappeared without a trace at age 36. The mosque has been used as a prison, a warehouse and an elementary school before being restored (or, rather, rebuilt) as a mosque in 1980.
• Bayt al-Sihaymi - Possibly the best-preserved Ottoman merchant house (16-17th century) in Cairo. Little visited and a place of quiet beauty. It's a museum now.
• Qalawun Complex - Built by Mamluk Sultan Al-Nasir c. 1304 in honor of his father Qalawun. The complex contains a mosque, a madrasah (Islamic school) and the mausoleum where Sultan Qalawun is buried. The mausoleum in particular is often described as the world's second most beautiful, second only to the Taj Mahal, which it slightly resembles.

The giant Khan el-Khalili market (see #Buy|Buy) starts after the Qalawun complex, lining the streets and alleyways up to al-Azhar Street.

• Midan Hussein and Sayyidna al-Hussein Mosque - One of the most sacred Islamic sites in the nation and the Middle East and the mosque hosts the shrine in which the head of Ibn al-Hussein and the grandson of Muhammed the Prophet, is alleged to have been buried. The present building dates to 1870 and replaces a much earlier 12th century mosque. The Midan (square) before the mosque forms one of the most convenient access points to the Khan el-Khalili.
• Al-Azhar Mosque - Founded in 970, al-Azhar is one of Cairo's oldest masjids and the world's oldest operating university.
• Al-Azhar Park - The Al-Azhar Park is overlooking Darb al-Ahmar and the Citadel. Built on a garbage dump, it's today a green lung of Cairo and a pleasant area to stroll around and enjoy magnificent views of the city. It hosts a restaurant in a modern castle-style building and several good cafes. The theater has musical events almost every evening.

The following sights are around Midan Sala ad-Din (Saladin Plaza), just north of the Citadel. To reach this area, continue down al-Muizz up to Bab Zuweila then turn left onto Darb al-Ahmar (commonly called Sharia at-Tabana).

• Sultan Hassan Mosque - Finished in 1363, this mosque was raised by the Mamluk Sultan Hassan and lying below the fortress and next to the much more recent rifaii mosque, it's maybe the primary example of the Islamic mamluk dynasty. One of the largest masjids in Egypt and the Arab world, it was used as a school for different Islamic (sunni) schools of thought and also contains a mausoleum.
• Rifaii Mosque - Built in 1911, this mosque holds the tombs of a great number of Egyptian aristocrat families and also the last Shah of Iran, who retreated to Cairo after being ousted from power in his country.
• Ibn Tulun Mosque - Raised in 877 by the Abbasid governor, this mosque has a style reminiscent of the Samarra mosque in Iraq, quite different from other Egyptian masjids. Built on a six-acre site and the mosque was large enough to accommodate all of the city's males for Friday prayer. The mosque has an open interior and the minaret and the oldest in Egypt, is accessible for a little baksheesh.

File:مشهد بانورامي لقلعة صلاح الدين الأيوبي - Citadel

Citadel

The Citadel was built between 1176 and 1183 by Saladin and the Muslim caliph who defeated the Crusaders. It was the center of Egyptian government until Khedive Ismail moved his palace to the new Abdeen Palace in 1860. The Citadel is famous for its great views over Cairo (as far as the Pyramids of Giza) and is home to three masjids and several museums of indifferent quality. Music events are sometimes performed in evenings, check out local entertainment guides. LE140, LE70 students (December 2022).

• Mohammed Ali Mosque - Built inside the Citadel by the famous Egyptian regent Mohammed Ali between 1830 and 1848 and site of his tomb.
• National Police Museum Opening Hours: Daily 9AM–4:30PM
• Al-Gawhara Palace Museum - The palace of Egyptian ruler Mohammad Ali, built in 1814. The architecture is a mixture of European and Ottoman influences.
• Carriage museum - An exhibition of royal horse carriages, mostly from the 19th century.
• Egyptian National Military Museum - The official museum of the Egyptian military. Contains a separate display for each war fought by modern Egypt. Airplanes and vehicles can be seen outside the museum. The architecture and design of the building might be more impressive than the exhibits themselves.

Further afield

• Saint Samaan The Tanner Monastery - Thit is one of several decorated Coptic Christian churches, built inside caves, that were enlarged by the Zabbaleen where the Zabbaleen (garbage people) live and work.
• City of the Dead - el'arafa - A Islamic necropolis and cemetery made of regular houses and wall but without roofs, inside of which and between still people are living.

Top Muslim Travel Tips for Cairo/Islamic Cairo

Walks

Apart from shopping and spotting Islamic architecture, popping through the fascinating streets of medieval Cairo is probably the most popular alternative left to do in this part of the city. A recommended walk is to start up by the al-Azhar Mosque. Take in the mosque, visit Bayt al-Suhaymi before making your way to Bab al-Zuwayla. From there, head down Darb al-Ahmar and stop at the Blue Mosque before the Citadel. Leave the castle for another day and head to Sultan Hassan and the Rifaii mosque. If you have more energy left, make Ibn Tulun Mosque your last stop before heading to Sayyidna Zeinab.

Muqattam Hills

Muqattam Hills is located on the outskirts of Cairo, just beyond the Citadel. The Church of Saint Simeon the Tanner is located at the foot of the hills, which Pope Shenuda III has visited several times. On a cliff wall is a depiction of prayers of Saint Simeon the Tanner and Pope Abraham. Muqattam Hills also provides a spectacular view of Cairo.

Shopping in Cairo/Islamic Cairo

Kairo Al Hussein Mosque BW 1 - Sayyidna al-Hussein Mosque

• Khan el-Khalili - Cairo's giant souq (market). The khan, built in 1382, was originally a hub for traveling traders in the Fatimid era. Today, it's the most visited tourist market in Egypt. Almost any kind of souvenir can be purchased here, but also quality produce is still to be found. Venture out of the tourist market and you'll find bustling local trade. Among other things you'll find Islamic clothes, scarves, belly-dancing equipment, furniture, water-pipes and of course Gold, silver and jewels. Haggling is the rule of the day and merchants used to tourists often state very high prices at first.
• Tent Market - سوق الخيمة - If your dream is to bring a Bedouin tent back from the nation, thit is the place to go. Dating to the 17th century, thit is Cairo's last remaining covered market and these days the wares on offer range far beyond tents.

Halal Restaurants & Food in Cairo/Islamic Cairo

Islamic Cairo is the best place for quality eating, although some Halal restaurants can be found in the Khan al-Khalili area.

• Al-Gahsh - الجحش - This budget restaurant, its name meaning "the mule," is purported to serve the best foul in Cairo. Its location--opposite one of Cairo's most revered masjids, Seidna Zeinab and its proximity to Ibn Tulun--makes it an necessary part of any visit to this part of the city.
• Egyptian Pancake House - This place serves sweet Egyptian pancakes (fateer) and Middle Eastern style Pizzas for LE20-35.
• Naguib Mahfouz Restaurant - This upscale restaurant caters to tourists, but offers nice food in an air-conditioned setting.
• GAD - near Al-Azhar mosque
• Kushari - There is a good kushari shop at the junction of Al Mansouria and Saleh al Gaafari.
• Pizzeria - Another good address is a pizzeria on Al Mansouria, near Arabian nights hotel.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Cairo/Islamic Cairo

Cairo/Islamic Cairo - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Cairo/Islamic Cairo, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Cairo/Islamic Cairo. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Cairo/Islamic Cairo and its surrounding regions. With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Cairo/Islamic Cairo. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values. The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Cairo/Islamic Cairo. Key components include: Halal-Friendly Accommodations in Cairo/Islamic Cairo: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Cairo/Islamic Cairo. Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Cairo/Islamic Cairo: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Cairo/Islamic Cairo, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Cairo/Islamic Cairo. Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Cairo/Islamic Cairo, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations. Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Cairo/Islamic Cairo, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values. Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Cairo/Islamic Cairo and beyond. Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Cairo/Islamic Cairo, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Cairo/Islamic Cairo, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Cairo/Islamic Cairo without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients." The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Cairo/Islamic Cairo is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Cairo/Islamic Cairo. About eHalal Travel Group: eHalal Travel Group Cairo/Islamic Cairo is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values. For Halal business inquiries in Cairo/Islamic Cairo, please contact: eHalal Travel Group Cairo/Islamic Cairo Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Cairo/Islamic Cairo

eHalal Group Cairo/Islamic Cairo is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Cairo/Islamic Cairo. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Cairo/Islamic Cairo. At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Cairo/Islamic Cairo ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property. For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Cairo/Islamic Cairo. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living. If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Cairo/Islamic Cairo, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values. For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Cairo/Islamic Cairo are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io

Ramadan 2024 Celebrations in Cairo/Islamic Cairo

Ramadan 2025 in Cairo/Islamic Cairo

Ramadan concludes with the festival of Eid al-Fitr, which may last several days, usually three in most countries.

The next Ramadan shall be from Friday, 28 February 2025 to Saturday, 29 March 2025

The next Eid al-Adha shall be on Friday, 6 June 2025

The next day of Raʾs al-Sana shall be on Thursday, 26 June 2025

The next day for Mawlid al-Nabī shall be on Monday, 16 September 2024

Muslim Friendly Hotels in Cairo/Islamic Cairo

• io//2023-09-16&checkOut=2023-09-17&6658&&Arabian+Nights+Hostel&hotelId=259321&&.Zz07075e1bf0ea4456971d0a4-206204 Arabian Nights Hotel - A good hotel. Typical price about LE100 for a single room and shared bathroom with AC, no heater. There is a good roof balcony and free wifi access.

Stay Safe

Khan el-Khalili is infamous for its pickpockets. Stay on your guard in crowds, but don't be afraid to venture into the smaller, darker alleys — they're very safe and you'll find the more interesting shops here.

Copyright 2015 - 2024. All Rights reserved by eHalal Group Co., Ltd.
To Advertise or sponsor this Travel Guide, please visit our Media Kit and Advertising Rates.