{"id":6740,"date":"2026-06-17T14:58:33","date_gmt":"2026-06-17T12:58:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/babmsr.com\/en\/?p=6740"},"modified":"2026-06-17T14:58:36","modified_gmt":"2026-06-17T12:58:36","slug":"the-traditional-coffeehouses-of-upper-egypt-become-stadiums-for-the-pharaohs","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/babmsr.com\/en\/2026\/06\/17\/the-traditional-coffeehouses-of-upper-egypt-become-stadiums-for-the-pharaohs\/","title":{"rendered":"The Traditional Coffeehouses of Upper Egypt Become Stadiums for the Pharaohs"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
In the historic coffeehouses of Assiut and Luxor, generations of football fans unite under the banner of the Pharaohs, preserving a vibrant, century-old ritual of community, passion, and the beautiful game.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Within the ancient coffeehouses of Assiut and Luxor, whose walls cradle hundreds of interconnected tales stretching back to the 1940s and 1950s, football remains the common language uniting devotees of the enchanting game across generations. With Egypt\u2019s national team participating in this year\u2019s World Cup in America, these traditional maqhas<\/em> (traditional coffeehouses) have once again transformed into vital sanctuaries for football enthusiasts, who follow the matches with fierce passion from the very heart of Upper Egypt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Al-Sikka Al-Hadid Coffeehouse<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
“I have frequented the Al-Sikka Al-Hadid Coffeehouse for more than a decade, and its inception dates back to the early 1950s,” says Joseph Jamil, 48, a resident of Assiut. “This establishment has witnessed diverse generations, each possessing distinct mindsets and cultures. Every generation has its own way of expression, yet they are all anchored by a singular, consuming passion for football.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He continues: “Throughout my years coming here, I have watched dozens of local and international matches. It has always been a space that gathers fans of all sporting allegiances. When Al Ahly plays Zamalek, or when Egypt competes in African tournaments or the World Cup, the coffeehouse fills to the brim with supporters who arrive to consume the matches amidst an atmosphere of pure fervor and delight.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A Popular Influx and Communal Refuges<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Jamil notes that a massive influx of patrons still favors the traditional coffeehouses of Assiut, as they represent the closest and most affordable option for many citizens. Crucially, they do not impose the added financial burdens, such as the “service tax” levied by modern, upscale cafes. Consequently, these popular institutions remain the preferred destination during major tournaments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Jamil explains that the public in Assiut longs for large viewing screens in public squares capable of accommodating vast crowds, particularly for the Egyptian national team’s fixtures. He laments that certain satellite networks have monopolized the broadcasting rights, depriving some of the ability to watch. He points out that everyone possesses an immense longing to witness the Pharaohs in the World Cup, or at the very least, to view the matches via terrestrial Egyptian television, ensuring accessibility for every ordinary citizen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Speaking to Bab Masr<\/em>, Joseph Jamil emphasizes that sports in Assiut command immense popular interest. New generations of youth within the governorate\u2019s athletic clubs remain fiercely dedicated to following the matches, whether in traditional coffeehouses or modern cafes, to immerse themselves in the athletic atmosphere and dissect the tactical details of the game.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Among the most striking contemporary shifts in Assiut is the burgeoning interest among young women in football. They have begun following the sport and watching matches in cafes just like their male peers, marking a significant cultural evolution in Upper Egypt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Reflecting on the evolution of fandom, Joseph perceives a stark contrast between the spectators of yesteryear and those of today. In the past, support was characterized by a certain serenity and sportsmanship. Today, however, a heightened sense of football fanaticism prevails, occasionally escalating into friction between rival supporters. Nevertheless, he insists that every fan expresses love for their team in their own unique way, hoping that competition will ultimately remain bound by the respect and sporting camaraderie that once ruled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He concludes: “Amidst the fragrant history preserved by Assiut\u2019s ancient coffeehouses, football endures as one of the most vital bonds uniting the people of Assiut. It grants them shared moments of joy and belonging under a single roof, regardless of their age or sporting loyalties.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With a smile that never leaves his face throughout our encounter, Uncle Mohamed Essam Hisham, 69, sits behind his desk. As the manager of Assiut’s “Al-Nile Coffeehouse,” he is a devout lover of Al Ahly SC. Beside him hangs a large photograph of the Egyptian national team, carrying the collective hope for the Pharaohs to reclaim their formidable prowess.<\/p>\n\n\n\nOpen-air grandstands during international tournaments – Photo: Jasmine Mehana<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
A Historic Maqha Fragrant with the Past<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
“The Al-Nile Coffeehouse was established in the 1940s, and it carries a long history of memories and tales,” Uncle Essam tells Bab Masr<\/em>. “For decades, it has welcomed the public of Assiut, evolving over time into one of the most prominent popular hubs bringing together friends and football purists.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He adds that the coffeehouse serves as an emotional release valve for the public. When an important match approaches, vast numbers of fans begin converging to witness the spectacle amidst an atmosphere of intense loyalty, cheering for their favorite club or the national team, at which point the fervor reaches its absolute zenith.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He explains that attendance swells dramatically during Egypt’s national fixtures. The coffeehouse overflows with fans determined to track every play, sharing collective moments of tense anticipation, anxiety, and unbridled joy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Football as a Breath of Life<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Uncle Mohamed observes that generations differ markedly in their manner of support. The spectators of the past were calmer and less easily provoked, whereas the emotional outbursts of the current generation have amplified, fueled by the evolution of sports media and social networks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“I am deeply enamored with football,” Hisham continues. “I make it a point to travel to Cairo to attend matches inside the stadium and experience the atmosphere firsthand. Live viewing bestows a completely different sensation of happiness.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He asserts that the “Al-Nile Coffeehouse” remains one of the most prominent testaments to Assiut’s love for the game. As one of the oldest establishments in the governorate, it preserves its status to this day as a hallowed gathering place for fans and devotees of the enchanting ball.<\/p>\n\n\n\nPatrons gather under the glow of the screen at a traditional Assiut establishment – Photo: Jasmine Mehana<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
The Joy of the Patron: The Ultimate Measure of Success<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Football enthusiasts in Luxor mirror those of Assiut, possessing the exact same fervor and deep-seated love. Among Luxor\u2019s most celebrated venues is the “Ana El-Masry” (I Am the Egyptian) coffeehouse, which opened its doors in 2011.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
According to its proprietor, Hassan Shawky, the establishment has been strictly dedicated since its founding to broadcasting every major tournament, whether the World Cup, the Africa Cup of Nations, the Egyptian Premier League, or European championships.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He adds: “My primary focus is to attract patrons by providing absolute comfort, which, in my view, is the secret to increasing daily attendance. We are also careful not to compel customers to order a specific number of drinks during a match, nor do we inflate our prices, as happens in alternative venues.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Great Screens and Expanding Horizons<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
“In the beginning, the coffeehouse started with a modest 32-inch screen and an internet connection that cost a mere 20 pounds a month on an open package system,” Shawky Hassan recalls. “We provided comfortable chairs for the spectators and air conditioning to combat Luxor’s perennially soaring temperatures. Over time, the venue expanded; we increased the seating capacity and upgraded to three 55-inch screens, equipped with BeIN Sports receivers so viewers can enjoy sharper resolution and crystal-clear audio, which is vital for drawing a crowd.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He continues: “Among our most prominent regulars are the fans of Zamalek and Al Ahly. They are accustomed to watching matches here, whether their clubs’ games or the World Cup, coordinating via phone to agree on arrival times.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Furthermore, all patrons enjoy the total freedom to chant, raise flags, and wear their team jerseys. The World Cup matches, in particular, unite various social classes and football lovers in general. In fact, the coffeehouse operates until the early hours of the morning due to matches broadcast past midnight.”<\/p>\n\n\n\nFans gathering at El-Khaima coffeehouse to witness the tournament – Photo: Amany Khairy<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
The Digital Alternative<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
As for the football fans of Luxor, Ahmed Al-Dhawi, 45, shares his journey: “I began supporting football when I was ten years old, roughly 35 years ago. I chose Zamalek, watched all their matches, and even have my own custom team flag. I also follow the English Premier League, either at home or at a coffeehouse in the city. At home, I maintain a strong internet network that allows for seamless viewing.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He continues: “However, when it comes to the Al Ahly and Zamalek derbies, I prefer to watch at home due to the heated arguments that can erupt among fans, as some people become intensely emotional during the match. But for World Cup games, I usually seek the outdoors, because it gathers fans of all teams under the unified banner of the Egyptian flag.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Al-Dhawi adds: “When it comes to football specifically, I grant my four children complete freedom to choose the team they wish to support. Only my eldest daughter champions Al Ahly, while the rest support Zamalek and watch the matches alongside me at home. If Zamalek wins an important fixture, I present them with gifts or pocket money to express my joy.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Cult of the Coffeehouse<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Mohamed Fawzy, a veteran football fan, has long frequented a circuit of traditional coffeehouses to watch matches, including “Umm Kulthum,” “Ana El-Masry,” “Horus,” and “Haj Abdo,” alongside his lifelong companions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He explains that he vastly prefers traditional maqhas<\/em> over modern cafes, because they afford him greater liberty to immerse himself in the collective anxiety and raw excitement of the crowd, which infuses the viewing experience with a distinct pleasure. He adds: “Even watching football requires a certain mazaj<\/em> (mood or state of mind). In modern cafes, a fan remains static in their seat, and the absolute maximum they can do is offer a polite, quiet clap.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He continues: “As fans, we don’t care to watch just any match simply because it is part of the World Cup or the Africa Cup of Nations. What truly captivates us is the artistry of the players and the collective performance of the team. There must be professionals who deliver beautiful football, because we cheer for the beautiful game itself, not just the names on the jerseys.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He concludes: “As for the Egyptian national team, the support will swell to even grander proportions if they manage to reach the quarterfinals or beyond. In any case, there is nothing quite like celebrating by raising flags and donning sports jerseys, a ritual that many fans here hold sacred.”<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
In the historic coffeehouses of Assiut and Luxor, generations of football fans unite under the banner of the Pharaohs, preserving a vibrant, century-old ritual of community, passion, and the beautiful game. Within the ancient coffeehouses of Assiut and Luxor, whose walls cradle hundreds of interconnected tales stretching back to the 1940s and 1950s, football remains …<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":38,"featured_media":6741,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[33],"tags":[4533,4535,4530,4534,4531,34,4532],"class_list":["post-6740","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-upper-egypt","tag-assiut-culture","tag-community-passion","tag-football-fans","tag-luxor-match-screening","tag-traditional-coffeehouses","tag-upper-egypt","tag-world-cup"],"yoast_head":"\n
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