A Shopify alternative in Egypt: an online store in EGP and in Arabic
Why many merchants in Egypt look for a Shopify alternative, the differences in currency, payments, shipping and language, and how to move your products.
In this article
Short answer: if your customers are in Egypt, the right Shopify alternative is a platform priced in EGP, with no commission on sales, cash on delivery, Egyptian shipping companies and an Arabic dashboard. Elmatajer is built for exactly that market, and you can try it free for 14 days. If you sell mostly outside Egypt, Shopify may still suit you.
Why merchants in Egypt look for a Shopify alternative
- USD pricing: the cost moves with the exchange rate and needs an international card.
- Payment gateways: not every Egyptian gateway works directly, and extra fees may apply when using a third-party gateway — check their current pricing.
- Paid apps: local essentials such as per-area delivery fees or local carriers may need separate app subscriptions.
- Language: the dashboard and support are English-first.
Shopify vs Elmatajer
| Point | Shopify (in general) | Elmatajer |
|---|---|---|
| Subscription currency | USD | EGP — from EGP 299/month |
| Commission on sales | May apply depending on gateway and plan | None |
| Cash on delivery | As a manual method | On from day one |
| Cards and wallets | Depends on gateways in your country | Your own Paymob or Kashier account |
| Egyptian carriers | Usually via extra apps | Bosta, Aramex, Mylerz, ShipBlu with your account |
| Dashboard language | English-first | Arabic-first, English available |
| Trial | Trial period | 14 days free, no credit card |
Terms change — check each platform's official pricing before you decide.
Moving from Shopify
- Start the 14-day trial on the registration page.
- Export your products from Shopify and import them with a CSV file, then complete images and variants.
- Set payments and delivery areas, and place a test order.
- When ready, connect your domain to the new store.
FAQ
Can I move my products from Shopify?
Yes, with a CSV file: name, description, price and quantity in one go, then you complete images and details.
How much does it cost?
From EGP 299 a month with no commission. See the pricing page.
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