Planning a trip from Egypt to Israel requires careful consideration of border crossings, security measures, and necessary documentation. This article provides detailed information to help you navigate your journey smoothly.
Entry and Exit Requirements
The Government of Israel administers immigration and security controls at its international land crossings with Jordan and Egypt, as well as at Israel’s airports and seaports. All persons seeking to enter or depart Israel, the West Bank, or Gaza are subject to immigration and security screening.
General Requirements
- All travelers are subject to immigration and security screening, which may include prolonged questioning and physical searches.
- Entry or exit may be denied consistent with Israeli law.
- Individuals denied entry have the right to an immigration court hearing, but they will be detained during the proceedings.
Specific Requirements for U.S. Citizens
- U.S. citizens must have an approved Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL) to enter Israel for business or tourism purposes for stays up to 90 days.
- Israeli citizens, including those with dual U.S. citizenship, must enter and depart Israel using their Israeli passports in accordance with Israeli law.
- Due to a passport backlog, Israeli citizens are temporarily allowed to enter and depart Israel on non-Israeli passports until December 31, 2025.
Please note that the decision to admit or deny a traveler admission to Israel is entirely made by the State of Israel. The U.S. Embassy does not control this process and cannot intervene on an individual’s behalf.
Border Crossings between Egypt and Israel
The primary land border crossing consistently open for visitors traveling from Egypt to Israel is the Egyptian border crossing near Taba. Here's what you need to know about this and other crossings:
Taba Border Crossing
- Location: Near the Taba Red Sea resort.
- Transportation from Egypt:
- Bus from Cairo: Tickets cost between US$4 and US$8, and the journey takes approximately 8 hours and 45 minutes.
- Bus from Sharm El-Sheikh: The cheapest option is by bus, costing around US$5.
Historically, there was a local bus connecting central Eilat to the crossing. It is reasonable to assume it still exists, facilitating travel to and from Eilat.
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Other Border Crossings
Israel has diplomatic relations with both Jordan and Egypt, and open land border crossings. The Allenby/King Hussein crossing can have long waiting times, so the northern or southern crossing may be preferable depending on your travel plans.
Security Measures and Questioning
Be prepared for thorough security checks and questioning when entering Israel, especially if you have recently visited Egypt or Jordan. As one traveler noted, "Israel has the most strict questioning/screening process of any country I have encountered."
- Answer all questions honestly and patiently, even if they seem repetitive or irrelevant.
- Security personnel may ask about your travels in Egypt and Jordan.
- A security search of your luggage is routine.
Important Considerations
Travel Advisories
Before traveling to Gaza, please see the Travel Advisory. Review the current Travel Advisory for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza for detailed information regarding the terrorism threat.
Safety and Security
- Terrorism: Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack, including knives, firearms, and vehicles, to target crowds.
- Mortar and Rocket Fire: In the event of mortar or rocket fire, a “red alert” siren may be activated. Treat all such alerts as real and seek shelter immediately.
- Crime: The crime rate is moderate in Israel and the West Bank. Parked vehicle break-ins are common at tourist sites. Do not leave valuables unattended.
- Demonstrations: Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations, as they can be unpredictable.
Health and Medical Information
Modern medical care and medicines are available in Israel. However, some hospitals in Israel, most hospitals in the West Bank, and all hospitals in Gaza may fall below Western standards.
- Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage for overseas travel.
- Carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.
- Exercise caution when purchasing medication in Israel due to the prevalence of counterfeit drugs.
Legal Information
You are subject to the local laws of the locations you visit or reside in. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking illegal drugs in Israel and PA-administered areas are severe.
Read also: Learn Arabic in Egypt: Guide
Individuals expressing views considered incitement to violence or hate speech by the Government of Israel may face criminal penalties.
If you are arrested in Israel, request that the U.S. Embassy be notified immediately. U.S. citizens arrested in Israel for criminal or security offenses are entitled to legal representation provided by the Government of Israel.
Other Important Tips
- Road Safety: Israeli roads and highways tend to be crowded. The Government of Israel requires that all occupants of passenger cars always wear seat belts.
- Counterfeit Goods: Be aware that counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent and may be illegal.
Crossing Points Between Israel, Egypt and Jordan
Entering Israel via the land borders with Jordan and Egypt is a popular alternative to flying into Israel, particularly for tourists who are travelling more widely in the Middle East, or arriving from a city from where there are no direct flights to Tel Aviv. Entry via the land borders is generally simple, with transportation links from the crossings to the nearby towns, plenty and frequent.
Here is some useful information to consider:
| Border | Opening Times | Closed |
|---|---|---|
| Allenby Border Crossing | Sunday to Thursday between 08:00 and 17:30, and Friday and Saturday between 08:00 and 15:30 | Yom Kippur and the first day of the Muslim Feast of Sacrifice |
| Aqaba Border Crossing | Sunday to Thursday between, 06:30 and 15:30 | The border is currently closed on Fridays and Saturdays, Yom Kippur and the first day of the Muslim New Year. |
| Jordan River Border Crossing | Sunday to Thursday between 08:30 and 15:30 | Friday and Saturday |
Disclaimer: Border crossing times are subject to change, please check before travelling.
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By following these guidelines and staying informed, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip from Egypt to Israel.
Crossing border Israel - Egypt by foot
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