In Egypt, Swahili has a prominent role as it is used in teaching, religious activities and journalism related with East African Countries. This is a sign of the good relations between Egypt and East African areas where Swahili is used. These relations are also based on the religion of Islam. Translations from Swahili into Arabic and vice versa play a special role in the cultural exchange between Egypt and Swahiliphone East Africa. Two Egyptian institutions are especially active in translation, the university of Al-Azhar and the National Centre for Translation. This article gives an overview of translation activities in Egypt and discusses their opportunities and challenges.