Egyptians celebrate Valentine's Day despite political unrest

Love was surely in the air and streets of Egypt as the young community shunned Salafist sheikhs' calls to avoid Valentine's Day celebrations. Despite the current deteriorating political and economic situation in the country, a large number of young men were seen shopping for gifts, whilst young females hit the stores to buy aftershaves for their significant other half. Cafes, restaurants and stores were swarming with couples celebrating February 14 as Egyptians put aside the issues of their country for the day to spend time with their nearest and dearest. Arabstoday spoke to Ahmed, who told us he had bought a bouquet of flowers for his fiancé to express his love to her, adding he would spend the day with her and her family at their home. Another youngster, Ali told us he had spent three hours searching for a teddy bear for his fiancé, whilst Nesrine opted for a bottle of perfume as a simple gesture of her love. Many shopkeepers were delighted with the outcome stating an increase in sales for Valentine's Day. However, a number of sheikhs strongly opposed the celebrations, stating that Valentine's Day violated both Islam and Christianity, with spokesperson for Egypt’s Watan Party, Ahmed Badie declaring that Muslims should not celebrate it at all.