If you’re planning to travel to Egypt in 2026 or 2027, here’s an important warning: many old U.S. dollar bills (such as series from 1992, 1996, 2003, or any bills that are damaged, stained, or torn) are no longer accepted in the country. In practice, this means that shops, restaurants, guides, and even some tourist services in Cairo, Luxor, or Aswan may refuse these bills without notice. The main reason is the high number of counterfeit notes that have circulated in recent years, which has made the Egyptian market much stricter with cash payments.
To avoid headaches, the recommendation is simple: bring only newer U.S. dollar bills, preferably from the 2013 series or later, and in perfect condition (no tears, stains, or marks). This is especially important for travelers from countries like Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, Colombia, and the Dominican Republic, where older bills are still common. Many people only realize this issue upon arriving in Cairo—and end up stuck. So prepare in advance and make sure your trip goes smoothly!