Parking Fees

The American University in Cairo administration has reduced the parking fees by 50 percent for faculty, staff and students to 1500 L.E per year and to 750 L.E per semester for this year only.

"I wouldn't get a permit if it wasn't reduced, but now it's wonderful," said Basma Ezz, a political science graduating senior. "Of course I got the permit."

A number of the AUC community members enjoyed the free parking since the beginning of the fall semester.

However, all vehicles have been required to display a valid parking permit in order to park on campus since Sunday, September 28.

Still, others prefer to park themselves off campus to avoid paying any fees.

"I park in the desert, and I don't even leave my car with a car attendant," said Ahmad Moneeb, a political science graduating senior. "I didn't get a parking pass, and I wouldn't. It's unreasonably expensive even after the reduction, and it already costs me much to fuel my car as I come from Mohandessen."

Moreover, the AUC administration has refunded those who have already purchased a parking permit.

According to Gamal Sultan, a political science professor, parking in EL-Bostan near old campus used to cost him 30 L.E per a day. Now, thanks to the new reduced parking fees, it costs only 35 L.E per a week.

"Parking fees were over exaggerated, but now they are reasonable, I think." said Sultan.

Despite being refunded as well, students who take the AUC bus are filing complaints that the bus service fees should be reduced too.

"No, they shouldn't reduce the bus fees as well," said Letitia Gasser, a political science graduating senior. "Buses make effort to pick us from the nearest point to our homes and take us to the new campus while parking is just a free slot and one shouldn't pay much for it."