Dear Egyptians ... expat life isn't what you think

Many Egyptians have a strong belief that anyone who leaves Egypt for a job abroad gets a sudden meteoric rise in wealth. 

However, this is certainly not true and many do struggle to adapt and cover their daily expenses, with some even returning back to Egypt. 

What many fail to understand is that the expat life is never a walk in the park. 

There are certain difficulties expats live with every day. Most people forget about the value of friends and family and the role they have in daily life.  

Just because cars and electronic devices are less expensive abroad, doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s a reliable measure of wealth. 

After all, there are other expenses that are difficult to afford such as tax, rent and monthly household bills.

Another misconception some Egyptians have is that expats just aren’t Egyptian anymore. 

You’ll most likely hear comments such as “manta 5alas ba2et zayohom” (You’ve become one of them).

Sharing your experiences abroad with friends or family will mostly result in mixed reactions. 

Some may enjoy listening to your stories and others start doubting your patriotism. 

Their concern for your patriotism is usually followed by the famous question “bet7eb henak aktar walla Masr?” (Do you like living abroad or in Egypt?).