About .eg domain
.eg is the country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for Egypt. It is a ccTLD managed by the Egyptian Universities Network (EUN), which serves as both the registry and sponsor. The extension was delegated in November 1990. It operates with a structured system of second-level domains, and registrations can occur directly at the second level or under specific third-level categories.
Who can register .eg domain
Registration is open to entities with a connection to Egypt, but it is not universally open. A key requirement is that the registrant must have a local representative within the country or host the domain's DNS on servers located in Egypt. Eligibility and required documentation vary significantly depending on the chosen second-level domain (e.g., .com.eg, .org.eg, .edu.eg). For example, companies must provide commercial registry documents, government entities need official letters, and individuals registering a .name.eg domain must submit a copy of their national ID card.
How to register .eg domain
- First, search for your desired domain name's availability on the registry's official website or through an accredited .eg registrar, ensuring the name aligns with the registry's naming rules, which prohibit generic names without proof of relevance.
- Select your preferred second-level domain category (e.g., .com.eg for commercial use) and prepare the specific documentation required for that category and your entity type, such as a commercial registry for a local company or a trademark certificate for an international one.
- Submit your application and supporting documents through an accredited registrar or directly to the registry portal, paying the required registration fee to complete the checkout process.
- After submission, the registry will review your application and documents; upon approval, you must configure your domain's DNS to point to Egyptian nameservers as mandated by the local presence rule.
Typical uses of .eg domain
The .eg extension is predominantly used by entities operating within or targeting Egypt. It is a popular choice for Egyptian businesses, government agencies, educational institutions, and non-governmental organizations to establish a clear local identity and credibility. Commercial enterprises often use .com.eg, while universities utilize .edu.eg or .eun.eg. Individuals may register .name.eg for personal sites. The choice of a specific second-level domain signals the registrant's sector and helps users immediately identify the website's Egyptian affiliation and purpose.
Tips for registering .eg domain
- The minimum registration term is typically one year, and domain names must be at least two characters long, starting with a letter or number.
- Domain names must correspond to the entity's name or the nature of its work; registering generic names requires providing evidence of relevance or ownership.
- For companies based outside Egypt, registration under most categories requires a trademark registered in Egypt or internationally under the Madrid System, along with having a local agent.
- The registry explicitly forbids registering a domain name for the primary purpose of reselling or leasing it later.
Frequently asked questions about .eg domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .eg domain?
As of today, .eg domains start from $238.00/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $529.49/yr across 4 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .eg domains?
NameBeta tracks 4 registrars that support .eg domain registration, with the cheapest option at $238.00/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .eg domain?
The registry for .eg domains is EUN, administered by Egyptian Universities Network (EUN), Supreme Council of Universities.
Who can register a .eg domain?
Registration eligibility is determined by both the registrant's entity type and the chosen second-level domain. For instance, .gov.eg is strictly for government bodies, while .com.eg is for commercial entities. All registrants must fulfill the local presence rule, either through a local representative or by using Egyptian DNS servers. Required documents range from a national ID for individuals to commercial registries, trademark certificates, or official government letters for organizations.
Can I transfer a .eg domain between registrars?
Transferring a .eg domain between registrars is possible but is subject to the registry's policies and the domain's status. The process typically involves unlocking the domain at the current registrar and obtaining an authorization code. It is crucial to ensure the domain is not within a redemption period or any other lock status, and that all contact information, especially for the local administrative contact, is up-to-date to facilitate the transfer approval.
What are the rules for choosing a .eg domain name?
The domain name must be derived from the entity's official name or the nature of its work; otherwise, it is considered generic and requires supporting evidence. Names of prophets, religious symbols, countries, cities, or legal persons are expressly forbidden. The name must begin with a letter or number (A-Z, 0-9), contain no spaces, and be at least two characters in length.
Can I register a .eg domain if I have a trademark?
Yes, trademark ownership can be a pathway to registration, especially for foreign companies. To register a domain matching a trademark, you must provide proof of ownership. For international companies, the trademark must be registered in Egypt or be an international registration under the Madrid Convention administered by WIPO. This requirement is common for registrations under categories like .com.eg.
What happens if I violate the registry's content rules?
The registry's general terms prohibit use that violates public morals, order, or offends religions, countries, or legal persons. Violating these rules can lead to the suspension or revocation of the domain name by the registry. It is the registrant's responsibility to ensure the website's content complies with these accepted values and the specific terms agreed upon during registration.
Are there different rules for different second-level domains like .edu.eg or .org.eg?
Yes, each second-level domain has specific eligibility criteria and document requirements. For example, registering a .edu.eg domain requires a decision document for establishing the educational institute, while .org.eg is for national associations and requires their establishment document. .gov.eg necessitates an official letter from a government agency. Always check the precise requirements for your chosen subdomain before applying.
