Summary: Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies are now easily accessible in Egypt thanks to the emergence of trustworthy exchanges operating in accordance with the Central Bank of Egypt (CBE). These platforms provide streamlined deposit options for Egyptian Pounds (EGP) via bank transfers or credit card payments, facilitating the secure growth of digital assets in the country.

Our team of experts has evaluated the leading exchanges active in Egypt to guide you towards the most compliant and reliable alternatives. Focusing on their adherence to local regulations, low fees, Arabic language support and EGP deposit options, we present the top 5 crypto trading platforms for Egyptian investors:

  1. Bybit - Best Overall Exchange in Egypt
  2. Binance - Best Alternative Exchange
  3. OKX - Best Choice for Beginners
  4. Gate.io - Best Non-KYC Crypto Exchange
  5. Kraken - Best for Regulatory Compliance
Table of Contents

Best Crypto Exchanges in Egypt 

Our experts have developed a methodology to rank the top cryptocurrency platforms in Egypt. This evaluation considers elements such as compliance with the Central Bank of Egypt (CBE) regulations, security measures, transparency standards (including audit outcomes), fees, features, supported cryptocurrencies, and more. Continue reading for a thorough examination of the best 5 Egyptian exchanges.

1. Bybit

Bybit is the best cryptocurrency exchange for Egyptian investors as it provides free and instant EGP deposits. It provides a wide range of over 1000 digital assets, enabling easy buying, selling, and trading at competitive fees of 0.01% for taker orders and 0.07% for maker orders. Remarkable for its extensive suite of services, it offers staking, lending and borrowing services, a crypto card, an IDO Launchpad, and an NFT marketplace. Particularly, it serves Egyptian users with customized deposit methods such as Egyptian bank transfers, the prevalent Fawry payment system, and globally accepted debit and credit cards.

  • ‍Minimum Deposit: 500 EGP for first-time deposit.
  • Supported Assets: 1000+ Cryptocurrency.
  • Regulation: Registered in Egypt.
  • Fees: Costs include a 0.1% fee for spot trading, 0.01% fee for maker orders, and 0.06% for taker orders on futures markets. Deposits and withdrawals in EGP are completely free of charge.
Bybit - Best Overall Exchange in Egypt.
Bybit - Best Overall Exchange in Egypt.

2. Binance

Binance has a great reputation that comes from its extensive range of 350 supported cryptocurrencies, stringent security measures, and adherence to regulations within the region. It provides Egyptian users with a multifaceted trading experience, accommodating both beginner and veteran traders with its dual interface feature. The platform also offers an assortment of services, such as spot and futures trading, crypto staking, crypto loans, establishing it as the supreme choice for crypto enthusiasts. Notably, Binance features the fastest Egyptian Pound (EGP) deposit capabilities, further elevating its attractiveness.

  • ‍Minimum Deposit: 3000 EGP for first-time deposit.
  • Supported Assets: 350+ Cryptocurrency.
  • Regulation: Not registered in Egypt.
  • Fees: Costs include a 0.1% fee for spot markets and 0.02% for maker orders, and 0.06% fee for taker orders on futures markets. Deposit and withdrawal fees vary depending on the method.
Binance - Best Alternative Exchange.
Binance - Best Alternative Exchange.

3. OKX 

OKX prides itself on its significant daily volume across both its spot and derivatives markets. Designed to cater to the needs of Egyptian traders, it offers an extensive selection of more than 150 crypto derivatives contracts and 400 spot markets, facilitating effortless buying, selling, and trading experiences with competitive fees starting at 0.1% for both maker and taker orders. It distinguishes itself with a variety of services such as staking, futures trading, an NFT marketplace, and their own blockchain for decentralized finance (DeFi) named OKC Chain. It can also be used entirely in Arabic, making it perfect for investors in Egypt.

  • ‍Minimum Deposit: 1000 EGP for first-time deposit.
  • Supported Assets: 400+ Cryptocurrency.
  • Regulation: Registered in Egypt.
  • Fees: Costs include a 0.3% fee for spot trading, 0.02% fee for maker orders, and 0.05% for taker orders on futures markets. Deposits and withdrawals in EGP vary depending on the payment method.
OKX - Best Choice for Beginners.
OKX - Best Choice for Beginners.

4. Gate.io 

Gate.io is acknowledged as the leading non-KYC cryptocurrency exchange in Egypt. This platform is attractive to users who prioritize privacy, enabling crypto transactions without the need for personal information disclosure. This implies Egyptian investors can deposit, withdraw, and trade funds without undergoing identity verification. Gate.io exhibits a wide array of over 1700 cryptocurrencies for trading. It guarantees competitive fees and a safe trading environment reinforced with security measures like cold storage and two-factor authentication. With its extensive portfolio of cryptocurrencies and no demand for KYC, its a great option for users across Egypt.

  • ‍Minimum Deposit: 900 EGP for first-time deposit.
  • Supported Assets: 1700+ Cryptocurrency.
  • Regulation: Not regulated in Egypt.
  • Fees: Costs include a 0.1% fee for spot trading and deposits and withdrawals in EGP are completely free of charge
Gate.io - Best Non-KYC Crypto Exchange.
Gate.io - Best Non-KYC Crypto Exchange.

5. Kraken

Kraken is identified as the optimal cryptocurrency exchange for beginners in Egypt. Its sturdy platform offers features that address the foundational needs of new investors, such as user-friendly interfaces, educational resources, and simple buying/selling features. The exchange also provides beginner accounts with additional features, like responsive customer support and reasonable deposit limits, making it a favored selection among novice investors. Apart from trading services, Kraken gives users access to staking on numerous tokens with attractive APY up to 25%. It also boasts an NFT marketplace where beginners can explore trading various projects.

  • Minimum Deposit: 2000 EGP for first time deposit.
  • Supported Assets: 200+ Cryptocurrency.
  • Regulation: Regulated in Egypt.
  • Fees: Costs include a 0.26% fee for spot trading, and the maker/taker rebate is 0.02%/0.05%. Deposit costs vary between 0.5% - 2% depending on the method and withdrawals are free.
Kraken - Best for Regulatory Compliance.
Kraken - Best for Regulatory Compliance.

Is Cryptocurrency Regulated in Egypt?

The country’s stance on digital asset regulation embodies a mix of vigilant oversight and progressive adaptation, vital for its evolving financial landscape. The primary oversight of the cryptocurrency market in Egypt is managed by the Central Bank of Egypt (CBE), focusing on advancing market growth while protecting Egyptian investors.

These entities implement regulations specifically designed for crypto enterprises in Egypt. These encompass comprehensive Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter-Terrorist Financing (CTF) measures, aligning with global financial compliance standards. Its dedication to establishing a secure, transparent, and efficiently regulated framework includes customizing these procedures to oversee and control cryptocurrency activities within its jurisdiction.

How to Buy Bitcoin in Egypt

Bybit emerges as a fitting choice for Egyptian enthusiasts in the digital currency realm. This platform offers streamlined deposits in Egyptian Pounds, with diverse options including bank transfers, card payments, and digital wallets, tailored to Egypt's financial ecosystem. Bybit provides a wide array of over 970 digital crypto assets, catering to diverse investment preferences.

Here's a short guide to buying Bitcoin in Egypt:

  1. Account Creation: Initiate by setting up an account on Bybit. Complete the essential identity verification steps for enhanced security and to meet regulatory requirements.
  2. Deposit Egyptian Pounds: Head to the 'Buy Crypto' section and opt for ‘EGP’ as your preferred deposit currency.
  3. Select Bitcoin: Browse through the available cryptocurrencies and choose Bitcoin. Next, pick a payment method that aligns with your convenience.
  4. Invest in Bitcoin: Specify the amount you're planning to invest in Bitcoin and click 'Buy' to effortlessly conclude your transaction.
Buy Bitcoin in Egypt via Bybit.
Buy Bitcoin in Egypt via Bybit.

Egyptian Tax Requirements

In Egypt, the Ministry of Finance sets forth the regulatory guidelines for cryptocurrency taxation, establishing explicit rules for both individual and corporate entities. Egyptian residents possessing digital currencies must declare these assets for taxation, potentially impacting their income tax liabilities. In contrast to some countries, Egypt applies income tax on gains accrued from personal cryptocurrency investments.

For Egyptian enterprises and self-employed professionals, digital currencies are considered as business assets. Consequently, profits or capital gains arising from cryptocurrency dealings are subject to taxation. Earnings from activities like mining, staking, or lending digital tokens fall under business income and are taxed in line with Egypt's prevailing income tax rates. Furthermore, Sales Tax might be applicable to specific cryptocurrency-related activities, in accordance with Egypt's Sales Tax laws.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the emerging cryptocurrency market in Egypt offers a promising landscape for investors, balancing regulatory oversight with innovative growth. Our comprehensive analysis of the top cryptocurrency exchanges operating in Egypt, including Bybit, Binance, OKX, Gate.io, and Kraken, provides a reliable guide for navigating this dynamic market. 

Each platform is carefully evaluated for its compliance with the Central Bank of Egypt's regulations, user-friendliness, and range of services, ensuring that both novice and seasoned investors can make informed decisions. With the evolving regulatory framework and the increasing accessibility of digital assets, Egypt's cryptocurrency sector stands poised for continued expansion, presenting a unique opportunity for investment.