عايز فاتورة لو سمحت

You start with عايز (Ayiz) if you are a man. If you are a woman, you must say عايزة (Ayza). This is a tiny but vital grammar rule! Then you add فاتورة (fatoura) for the receipt itself. Always finish with لو سمحت (law samaht) to keep the vibe respectful. It is like a magic spell for getting your paperwork. Just say it clearly to the waiter or cashier. They will know exactly what you need and usually bring it quickly.

Use it at the end of a meal at a restaurant. Use it when buying clothes at the mall. It is perfect for when you need to track your spending. If you are on a business trip, you will definitely need this for your expenses. Even at a small grocery store, it is perfectly okay to ask. It shows you are organized and serious about your money. Plus, it helps avoid any confusion about the final price.

Don't use it at a tiny street stall selling grilled corn or prickly pears. They do not have printers, and you will get a very confused look! Avoid it when a friend treats you to coffee. Asking for the bill then would be a bit awkward and clinical. Also, if you are in a very high-end business meeting, use something softer. ممكن الفاتورة؟ (Moumkin el-fatoura?) sounds a bit more sophisticated and less demanding in those formal settings.

In Egypt, the concept of a "fatoura" has changed over the years. Historically, many small shops didn't give receipts at all. Now, with modern tax laws and digital systems, almost everyone does. It is a sign of a "modern" and official transaction. Interestingly, the word فاتورة actually comes from the Italian word "fattura." It is a cool linguistic relic of Egypt’s cosmopolitan history and its long-standing trade ties with Europe.

If you just want the total price, say الحساب كام؟ (El-hisab kam?). If you want to be extra polite, try ممكن الفاتورة من فضلك؟ (Moumkin el-fatoura min fadlak?). In a taxi, you might ask for a وصل (wasl), which specifically means a voucher or a handwritten receipt. If you are in a rush, you might say الفاتورة بسرعة لو سمحت (The bill quickly, please), though use that one sparingly!