These graphics created by artist Yang Liu were not intended to show the differences between Egypt vs. Foreigners in particular, but rather to show the differences she saw between her home country of China and Germany, where she moved when she was 13.

But most of the graphics in her book East meets West ring true when it comes to Egypt and the West. Just see for yourself:

Waiting in line:

Cultural differences lines
Artwork by Yang Liu

Yes, yes, and yes! Lines are not lines in Egypt, they are massive free-for-alls where the boldest and sneakiest wins first. If you stand politely at the back of the “line,” or mass of people as it should be called, you’ll find that you will never actually make it to the front.

Making decisions

Cultural differences me
Artwork by Yang Liu

This graphic must be talking about individualism and collectivism, the first being that as an individual you can make your own choices, and the second being that you should do what is best for the group. Egypt is quite collectivist, and the West is very individualistic. One big example is how Westerners tend to move out quite young so that they can “depend on themselves and do their own thing.” Egyptians, on the other hand, usually live at home much longer which means they have to take into consideration the whole family when making decisions. Your mother doesn’t always mean what will the bowab think of you, but more what will the bowab think of us.

There are other very simple examples, like how Westerners like to split the check when out with friends, so everyone can pay for their own costs. Egyptians like to take turns paying for the group. It’s a “me” versus “us” mentality.

Talking in Restaurants

Cultural differences talking in restuarants
Artwork by Yang Liu

This one has to make you laugh, especially when you realize it could be as easily applied to movie theaters! Restaurants abroad in the West tend to be quiet and aiming for a peaceful dining experience. Not in Egypt! It’s a social event!

Telling the truth

Cultural differences telling the truth
Artwork by Yang Liu

The first thought that comes to mind here is the infamous “I’ll be there in five minutes!” Come on, in Egypt, we know you probably haven’t even left your house yet. Is that five Egyptian minutes or five German minutes? Because five German minutes actually means 300 seconds, so…

Expressing your opinion

Cultural differences opinion
Artwork by Yang Liu

Ever been to a business meeting in Egypt? Enough said.

For more about the graphics and the book published by art book authority Taschen, check it out here.