In Egypt, the side hustle culture is growing rapidly. Many freelancers have mastered how to showcase their talents to a global audience and, consequently, bag big-paying clients.

But while landing international clients is getting easier, one problem remains stubbornly difficult: getting paid.

This article walks you through how to fix it, with extra tips on how to maximise earnings.

Why are side hustles booming in Egypt?

Egypt has one of the youngest populations in the Middle East and Africa, with approximately 60% of its population under the age of 30. With rising internet access, affordable digital tools, and platforms like TikTok, Fiverr, Upwork, and even Etsy gaining traction, it’s no surprise that more Egyptians are finding income opportunities online.

For many, it’s a way to supplement income, save in foreign currencies, or even escape traditional employment altogether. But a common thread among all these hustles is the need to get paid by clients or platforms operating outside of Egypt.

Also read: How Fiverr freelancers in Egypt can receive payments easily in 2025

What’s the biggest challenge? Receiving international payments

Despite growing opportunities, Egyptian side hustlers face some persistent roadblocks when it comes to payments:

• Most local bank accounts don’t support direct USD, GBP, or EUR transfers.
• Traditional wire transfers are slow, expensive, and may not always work.
• Currency conversion fees can eat into your earnings.
• Setting up foreign bank accounts usually requires international residency or long paperwork trails.

All this means many freelancers end up waiting too long for payments or losing money in the process.

So, how can you receive international payments in Egypt with Grey?

Grey is a borderless banking platform built specifically for freelancers, remote workers, and digital creators in Africa and beyond.

With Grey, you can create free virtual bank accounts in major currencies like USD, EUR, and GBP. That means you can receive payments from clients or platforms in their preferred currency.

Once the funds land in your Grey account, you can either hold them or convert them to Egyptian Pounds (EGP) at competitive rates. No long bank queues, no surprise deductions, no paperwork headaches.

Here’s why it works so well:

• Global reach: Accept payments from Amazon, Upwork, TikTok, freelance clients, or agencies.
• Multi-currency wallets: Hold funds in multiple currencies and convert only when you want to.
• Real-time exchange rates: Say goodbye to bad rates and hidden fees.
• Quick local withdrawals: Transfer to your Egyptian bank account or wallet in minutes.
• Transparent fees: What you see is what you pay. No mystery charges.

Grey simplifies international earnings for side hustlers, freelancers, and small business owners alike.

How do you set up a Grey account in Egypt?

It’s easier than setting up a local bank account. Just follow these steps:

Sign up

Visit grey.co or download the Grey app on your smartphone. Click “Sign Up” to create your free account.

Verify your identity

Upload a valid Egyptian ID or passport and proof of address (like a utility bill or bank statement). This step ensures your account is secure and compliant with financial regulations.

Get your foreign account details

Once verified, you’ll be able to generate USD, GBP, or EUR account details complete with routing numbers, IBANs, and SWIFT codes. These are real, working accounts.

Share your account details with clients or platforms

Simply plug in your Grey banking details to start receiving payments.

Convert and withdraw‍

Log in to your Grey dashboard anytime to convert your foreign currency earnings to EGP at competitive rates, and withdraw them instantly to your Egyptian bank account or mobile wallet.

Also read: How to get an instant USD debit card in Egypt

Tips to maximise your earnings and reduce payment friction

Here’s how you can ensure you maximise the earnings from your side hustle:

• Choose platforms that support international bank transfers (like Upwork or Payoneer-compatible networks)
• Send invoices with clear currency and payment terms
• Use Grey’s multi-currency feature to hold funds until exchange rates are favourable
• Avoid early conversion if you don’t need local currency right away
• Always confirm your client has your updated banking details

Also read: How to receive Amazon payments in Egypt

With Grey, Egyptian freelancers and side hustlers no longer have to deal with outdated banking restrictions or lose money to conversion fees. You can now receive your international earnings as if you lived in London, New York, or Berlin while staying in the cities of Giza, Cairo, or Alexandria.

Create your Grey account today or download the app to enjoy inclusive global banking, designed to help you carry your dreams across borders.

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