BACKGROUND: Schneiderian first rank symptoms are included in the most influential operative diagnostic criteria, such as the ICD-10 and the DSM-IV. Many studies have examined their prevalence in the West, but their prevalence in non-Western countries still needs to be explored given that cultural beliefs are so different. AIMS: The aim of this study is to shed some light on Schneiderian first rank symptoms (FRS) as they occur in patients with schizophrenia in Egypt. METHOD: Forty-two patients were interviewed, their demographic characteristics studied and FRS elicited. The SPSS computer program was used to analyse the data. RESULTS: The prevalence rate of FRS was found to be 67%, which is similar to previous studies both in the East and the West. The study also showed that demographic variables had no significant relation to the prevalence of FRS except for nationality and social status. CONCLUSION: Schneiderian first rank symptoms transcend cultural barriers. However, strong cultural beliefs about the influence of supernatural forces on humans should nonetheless be carefully considered in eliciting delusions of control, influence or passivity.