Opening a barbershop in Egypt is a realistic way to run your own business, but you need a clear picture of upfront and ongoing costs. Rents and costs vary by city—Cairo and Giza are generally more expensive than Alexandria or smaller cities—and by the size and fit-out of your shop. Everything in this guide is in Egyptian pounds (EGP / E£). For licensing and legal steps, see How to start a barbershop.
How much does it cost to open a barbershop in Egypt: quick answer
Small barbershop (1–2 chairs): EGP 120,000 – EGP 380,000. Medium (3–4 chairs): EGP 380,000 – EGP 900,000. Premium (Cairo): EGP 1,500,000+. These figures include equipment, rent (deposit plus first months), fit-out, licences and working capital.
Rent and premises: what to expect in Egypt
Rent is one of the biggest fixed costs. Prime streets and city centres cost more; suburbs and smaller cities are cheaper. Below are indicative monthly rents.
- Cairo (Zamalek, Maadi, Heliopolis, Nasr City, Downtown): EGP 8,000 – EGP 35,000+ per month.
- Cairo/Giza (other areas): EGP 4,000 – EGP 18,000 per month.
- Alexandria (prime areas): EGP 5,000 – EGP 22,000 per month.
- Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh (tourist areas): EGP 6,000 – EGP 28,000 per month.
- Luxor, Aswan, other cities (centre): EGP 3,000 – EGP 12,000 per month.
- Smaller cities: EGP 2,000 – EGP 8,000 per month.
Landlords often ask for 1–2 months’ deposit and advance rent. Factor in at least 2–3 months’ rent for deposit and first payments.
Equipment and licences
For a 1–2 chair setup, expect roughly EGP 48,000 – EGP 150,000 on chairs, mirrors, clippers, scissors, wash basins and basic furniture. Licences and registrations can add EGP 6,000 – EGP 25,000. More detail: how to start a barbershop.
Management software
Barbería Club helps you manage appointments and clients from day one. You can try Barbería Club for free.
Cost breakdown by shop size (EGP)
| Item | Small | Medium | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Equipment | EGP 48,000 – 150,000 | EGP 132,000 – 330,000 | EGP 330,000 – 660,000 |
| Rent (deposit + 2 months) | EGP 18,000 – 75,000 | EGP 36,000 – 130,000 | EGP 60,000 – 195,000 |
| Fit-out, licences, marketing | EGP 16,000 – 55,000 | EGP 32,000 – 105,000 | EGP 55,000 – 185,000 |
| Working capital | EGP 18,000 – 58,000 | EGP 36,000 – 115,000 | EGP 72,000 – 175,000 |
| Total (EGP) | EGP 120,000 – 380,000 | EGP 380,000 – 900,000 | EGP 900,000 – 1,500,000+ |
Profitability and ways to save
Typical gross margin for a well-run barbershop in Egypt is 55–70%. Break-even often occurs within 6–12 months if location and pricing are right. To keep costs down: consider second-hand equipment, negotiate rent, use low-cost marketing (Google Business Profile, Facebook/Instagram) and efficient booking software.
Local SEO and visibility in Egypt
Claim and optimise your Google Business Profile (name, address, phone, hours, photos, services). Use keywords like “حلاقة رجالي [منطقة]” or “barbershop [city]” on your site and listings. Encourage Google reviews for local ranking.
Frequently asked questions
How much money do I need?
A small barbershop usually needs EGP 120,000–380,000; a medium one EGP 380,000–900,000. A premium shop in Cairo can exceed EGP 1,500,000.
Is it profitable?
Yes. With a good location and operations, many barbershops hit break-even within 6–12 months.
What licences do I need?
Register your business (commercial register), obtain a trade licence from the local authority, and comply with health regulations. Full steps: how to start a barbershop.
How much does the owner make?
An owner who also cuts might earn EGP 15,000–42,000 per month in a small shop. With 3–4 barbers, owner income often reaches EGP 35,000–85,000 or more per month.
Opening a barbershop in Egypt step by step
For licensing and legal requirements, see our guide: How to start a barbershop.