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

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It’s not an exaggeration to say that Cairo is the mother of culture in the Middle East, as our beloved capital is packed to the brim with cultural hubs that take art to a whole other level with the performances offered. So if you’re looking for an artsy night out, allow us to recommend these nine cultural venues, which excel in honouring almost all kinds of arts on their stages—they’ll also remind you of why Cairo is considered the MENA region’s cultural guru!

Darb 1718

On the streets of Old Cairo, behind the Hanging Church and Amr Ibn El-Aas Mosque, there is a hidden gem! Darb 1718 is a non-profit organisation that cherishes contemporary art and culture, hosting fine art exhibitions, theatre, dance classes, concerts—it even possesses an outdoor cinema. Who would want to miss all that?

El-Sawy Culturewheel

El-Sawy Culturewheel, also known as El-Sakia, is one of the artsiest spots in Cairo! If you are ever in Zamalek, why not stop for its famed puppet show? Or even go for a musical performance of one of your favourite contemporary Egyptian bands. There are also poetry nights and a theatre for different kinds of art performances. 

Gallery Misr

Gallery Misr is an Egyptian art venue in Zamalek that takes pride in maintaining the essence of both contemporary and modern art with its out-of-this-world exhibitions! Trust us when we say this spot has everything you’ve ever needed to spend an unforgettable evening full of culture.

Picasso Art Gallery 

In 1996, a timeless art venue was created! Picasso Art Gallery has displayed Egyptian art for different generations for the past decades and is still going strong today! This venue has managed to adapt symbolism as a language when it comes to the magnificent artworks it shows. Its exhibitions have a special mood that you definitely don’t want to miss!

ROOM Art Space

On an almost daily basis, ROOM Art Space hosts events of various types, from live music and stand-up comedy to film screenings and more! This space also includes a café where you can get freshly brewed coffee. You can enjoy all of what it offers in its Garden City branch or its newest branch in New Cairo. 

Safar Khan Art Gallery

Safar Khan Art Gallery has the fortune of hosting outstanding exhibitions that are truly unmissable! Once again, in the Cairene art mecca that is Zamalek, this art gallery always has a fine relaxing mood that will make you feel like you are a part of something incredibly special. So treat yourself to an artsy night that we can guarantee you will remember for all eternity!  

Zamalek Art Gallery

Yes, Zamalek keeps outdoing itself when it comes to art, as Zamalek Art Gallery has been a hub for modern and contemporary Egyptian art for almost 20 years! Let us tell you that this place offers two simultaneous shows every month: One exhibit is for its established artists, and another for new talents. How admirable and inspiring is that?

Zawya

Are you into independent films that aren’t in Egypt’s mainstream cinemas? Then Zawya is your go-to cinema as it takes pride in screening documentaries, short films, and even experimental works by rising filmmakers. If luck is in your favour, you might even catch a masterclass or a discussion with Arab filmmakers. This level of entertainment is only available in Wust El Balad’s most unique cinema: Zawya!

SOMA Art

Taking the art game to a whole new level, SOMA Art is, of course, a Zamalek-based contemporary art gallery that offers an extensive exhibition programme and educational workshops and courses. If you want to commit to your artistic endeavours, then there’s no better way than paying SOMA Art a visit!