Nightlife & the Arts in Cairo

The Cairo cultural scene defies preconceptions. You can go to a concert of classical Arabic music in a restored medieval house, watch dervishes whirl in an old palace, then take in a performance of La Bohème by the Cairo Opera Company, and end the night on a disco dance floor. Although the traditional culture is more visible, a hip "global" scene thrives behind closed doors. Occasionally the two meet in a fusion style—a jazz concert of trumpet and oud (an Arabic stringed instrument) for example—that is unique to this city.

Most major five-star hotels have casinos that are open until sunrise, with all the usual games (roulette, blackjack, slot machines, and so forth) and horrifically poor odds.

If you're interested in belly dancing, avoid the brothels and rip-off joints on Shara al-Haram (Pyramids Road) that masquerade as belly-dancing clubs.

Foreign films are subtitled in Arabic and usually start 30 minutes after the scheduled time (arriving 15 minutes after that time is usually fine). Theaters have reserved seating. Also note that most embassies have cultural centers that show original-language (and uncensored) movies—well worth looking into if you're in the mood to see a film.

For the latest listings and movies, check the English-language al-Ahram Weekly, Middle East Times, the fortnightly Cairo Times, or the monthly Egypt Today. Always call ahead to double-check performances.

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