The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

In 1890, Egypt experienced its first brush with the automotive world when Prince Aziz Hassan brought the French-made De Dion-Bouton to Cairo. This early car, which reached speeds of 20 km/h, shocked citizens, who mistook it for a ghostly phantom. The roads of the time were not suited for such a marvel, being more accustomed to horse-drawn carriages.

From Luxury to Accident: The Evolution of Driving in Egypt

By 1901, car ownership had progressed, with Prince Muhammad Ali Tawfiq acquiring another vehicle. His adventurous driving led to Egypt’s first car accident in 1904 when he collided with a cart. This incident marked the beginning of Egypt’s complex relationship with automobiles.

Paving the Way: Egypt’s First Road and Car Service Milestones

Khedive Abbas Hilmi spearheaded the development of Egypt’s infrastructure by introducing the first paved road between Cairo and Alexandria. The road project, completed in 1910, was crucial in facilitating car travel, as was the establishment of the first car service centre in 1908. By this time, Cairo boasted around 101 cars, while Alexandria had 56.

Women Take the Wheel: Breaking Barriers in Egyptian Automotive History

via Dostor 

In a groundbreaking moment for gender equality, Abbasiya Ahmed of Alexandria became the first woman to receive a driver’s license in Egypt, the Arab world, and Africa. She received her license in 1920. The automotive landscape continued to evolve, with King Farouk, an avid car enthusiast, receiving a red Mercedes from Hitler in 1938. The Royal Automobile Club, founded in 1924 under King Fouad’s patronage, also played a pivotal role in the growth of car culture in Egypt.

The Founding of Egypt’s First Automobile Club: A Milestone in 1905

via Arab News

In 1905, inspired by the French Automobile Club, Egypt established its own automobile club. Prince Aziz Hassan was appointed president, and the club’s headquarters was set up on Al-Shawarby Street in Cairo. Membership cost 6 pounds initially, with an annual fee of 5 pounds, and required owning a car, which was priced between 4 and 5 pounds at the time.

The First Car Race and the Club’s Revival

via Cairo 24

The Royal Automobile Club, as it was later known, hosted its first car race in Shubra in 1905. However, World War I halted further events. The club was revived in the early 1920s and renamed the Royal Automobile Club by King Fouad. King Farouk, a prominent member, owned a luxurious car with convertible seats and a refrigerator and used it for private trips until the name changed to the Egyptian Automobile Club in 1952.

Glamour on Wheels: Notable Car Owners of the Era

Image via Antika: Samia Gamal & Farid Al Atrash

During this period, several notable actresses, including Hind Rostom, Tahia Carioca, Berlanti Abdel Hamid, Zouzou Hamdi El Hakim, Samia Gamal, and Laila Murad, became car owners, adding to the allure and status associated with automobiles in Egyptian society.

For a glimpse into Egypt’s automotive heritage, the Royal Automobile Museum in Cairo offers a fascinating journey through this rich history.