Where is it better to exchange cash in Hurghada: a bank, an ATM, or a hotel reception?
Based on 3 discussions with 4 participants · Last activity: 9 days ago
TL;DR
Based on traveler reports, a bank is usually the safest option to exchange US dollars in Hurghada: ATM rates are generally similar, but machines can glitch, while hotel reception often offers a worse rate. In Makadi, exchange options are more limited, so some travelers pay directly in USD or use QR payment when available.
What the community said
If an ATM debits your card but does not dispense cash, travelers in Hurghada report that this is usually treated as a standard ATM error: contact the bank right away, and the money is typically refunded to your account within a few days.
9 days ago ATM
If an ATM in Hurghada keeps your card, you may quickly get offers of help from people nearby, but the safer approach is to deal only with bank staff or the bank’s official support line.
9 days ago bank staff
Recent reports say banks in Hurghada were operating in late June and early July, although VTB sometimes had technical issues, so it is better not to rely on just one bank.
9 days ago VTB
For exchanging physical US dollars, travelers consider a bank the best option, especially when you specifically need currency exchange rather than just a cash withdrawal.
9 days ago bank cash exchange
In Makadi, exchanging cash is harder than in central Hurghada, so some travelers simply pay in US dollars directly or use QR-code payment if the seller accepts it.
9 days ago Makadi
According to traveler feedback, ATM exchange rates are usually similar, and the bigger difference is often between using a bank or ATM versus exchanging money at a hotel reception desk.
9 days ago hotel reception
Currency exchange at banks in Hurghada can be slow, so if you choose a bank, allow extra time and avoid leaving it until the last minute.
9 days ago