Egypt has one of the oldest and richest cultures on the planet, and millions of tourists flock there every year. If you’re one of those million, you might be wondering what kind of souvenirs you should buy your friends. After all, Egypt is far too beautiful a place to settle for a keychain at the hotel gift shop. Keep reading for 15 amazing Egypt souvenirs ideas while visiting Egypt. 

1. Statue Replicas
 

There are two famous statue replicas that you will find all over Egypt: Bastet and the scarab. The scarab is a small blue beetle that represents “Rah”, the greatest of the Egyptian gods who was said to have created himself from nothing. The symbol represents creation, resurrection, regeneration, and renewal. 

A small Bastet statue would also be a wonderful gift. Egypt was known for revering their domesticated cats, even going so far as mummifying them upon their death. Bastet was the feline goddess who protected Lower Egypt and guarded homes against evil and vermin.  
 

2. Hookah Shisha
 

If you know your friends or family appreciate hookah, what better to get them than an authentic shisha pipe straight from Egypt? Coffee shops all across Egypt are full of old men chatting, sipping strong coffee, and enjoying afternoon hookah.

Almost all shops throughout the country will sell them, and they come in all shapes and sizes. Most will be made of either thick glass or polished brass, and they range anywhere from less than 30cm all the way to 2 meters tall. 

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3. Papyrus
 

For centuries, Egyptians saved their paintings and writings on a type of paper known as papyrus. This particular paper was local and woven from plants found in the river Nile’s delta. Archeologists had thought that the practice was lost in time, but they rediscovered how to make it back in the 1940’s. Ever since, it has been a coveted staple in the art world. You can find paintings on real papyrus in any Egyptian market. They can be quite expensive but are well worth it. 
 

4. Treasure Chests
 

The Middle East once had a booming pearl trade, and this can be seen today in their abundance of “Mother of Pearl” wooden boxes that are sold throughout Egypt. Sizes range from large chests all the way down to small jewelry boxes. They’re made of either rosewood or beech wood and decorated with everything from real Mother of Pearl to colored glass or even plastic. 
 

5. Jewelry
 

Egyptians value gold and silver jewelry much more than other countries because they believe it is a safer investment than putting your money in a bank. For this reason, every bazaar or market you come to will have the most beautiful and unique jewelry you’ve ever seen. Follow the Egyptian way and invest your money in a beautiful cartouche with hieroglyphs or a small ankh pendant. Whether you’re shopping for a friend or looking for a good investment, Egyptian jewelry is as unique as it is precious. 
 

6. Incense 
 

Egypt is known for exotic scents and flavors, and the easiest way to bring those scents home with you is by buying incense at the local market. The most famous is “agar-wood”, which is made from the resin of dying Aquilaria trees. Of course, there are many other scents available, as well. You can purchase them either in their loose raw form or as well-known Bokhor incense sticks. 
 

7. Camel Skin Products
 

Depending on your country of origin, you will likely view certain animal products as more normal, i.e. wool, silk, alligator skin, bear skin, etc. You will quickly notice that Egypt is no different. Many of their most high-quality products are made from camel skin. Purses, slippers, paintings, and blankets made of soft and strong camel skin can be found everywhere and make for an amazing Egypt souvenir for a family member or friend. 
 

8. Dried Dates
 

Dried dates are a staple in the Middle East and one of Egypt’s main exported fruits. The sugar content of one date can be up to 80%, but they are simple sugars and won’t spike your blood sugar. They are even full of vitamins and minerals like potassium, iron, phosphorus, and vitamins B1, B2, B3, and A. These delicious, dried fruits are a perfect Egypt souvenir for anyone with a sweet tooth. 
 

9. Ceramics and Pottery
 

Egypt was the first country in history to discover that covering pottery in enamel would protect it from intense heat and keep it from cracking. Ever since then, the country has been known for its exquisite wine vases, dishes, cups, perfume bottles, etc. Egyptian potters still use the same techniques that they did in the times of the pharaohs, and you cannot go wrong by picking up a unique piece of pottery from the market for yourself or a close friend. 
 

10.  Belly Dancing Costume
 

If you love to dance or know someone who does, a belly dancing costume would make for a perfect Egypt souvenir. These vibrant and intricate outfits are very popular in tourist areas and are the perfect representation of the exotic and mysterious Arabic culture. However, make sure not to wear the outfit in public. They are traditionally only worn by dancers among friends in private. 

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11.  Copper Kitchenware 
 

Up until the last century, a marriage was not traditionally seen as finalized until the bride possessed a complete set of copper kitchenware. While this is no longer common practice, Egypt still has some of the most beautiful and intricate copper home décor you will ever see. You’ll find pots, pans, hanging platters, tea cups, coffee mugs, and anything else your heart could desire. These Egypt souvenirs are affordable and won’t break as your travel back to your home country. 
 

12.  Cotton Jilbabs & Burqas
 

Egypt is widely known for its beautiful cotton, and none is more vibrant and distinct than the jilbabs and burqas you see in the streets. A burqa is a women’s headwear that covers the hear and the bottom half of the face. They are sometimes brightly colored and often have gems and coins that signify the woman’s status. A jilbab is a cotton dress or robe, and they come in all different colors and patterns. They come in both men’s and women’s sizes and are common in markets across Egypt.