Is Cairo Tap Water Safe To Drink?

No, it's not advisable to drink the tap water.

Tap water in Cairo is treated and meets Egyptian drinking water standards. However, aging infrastructure can cause contamination risks after treatment.

Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

Many residents prefer bottled or filtered water due to concerns about pipe quality and potential microbial contamination. Boiling tap water is common practice.

International travelers are often advised to avoid tap water for drinking to prevent gastrointestinal issues, relying instead on bottled or purified water sources.

Last checked: 2025-04-25

Egypt is ranked as number 96 globally with a score of 53% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.

Source of Water in Cairo, Egypt

Cairo’s main tap water source is the Nile River, which provides the majority of the city's raw water supply.

Water is treated at several large plants along the Nile, including the Greater Cairo Water Treatment Plant and the Shubra El Kheima plant.

Groundwater from wells supplements surface water, mainly in suburban areas, but the Nile remains the primary source for most of Cairo's tap water.

Cairo Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in Cairo often lack consistent maintenance, increasing the risk of microbial contamination. Their safety varies widely.

Many experts advise against using public fountains for drinking without purification due to potential bacterial and chemical hazards.

Using bottled or filtered water is recommended over public fountains to minimize health risks associated with unsafe water.

Drinking Water Map

Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Cairo. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions.

Nearby Places

About the Author

Hi, I'm Emily Hartman, a researcher and water quality specialist with a background in public health.

I've spent the last few years studying how everyday water systems impact our health, and I'm passionate about making that information clear and useful for everyone.

Safe, clean tap water isn't just my job — it's something I truly care about.

Disclaimer

* The information provided on this website regarding the safety of tap water in Cairo is sourced from reputable sources such as the World Health Organization (WHO), local water authorities, and the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) from Yale University. While we strive to ensure accuracy and reliability, it's important to note that water quality can vary over time and may be subject to factors beyond our control. Users are encouraged to verify the current water quality status with local authorities or consult additional resources before making decisions regarding water consumption. We disclaim any liability for actions taken based on the information provided on this website.