Egypt is a popular holiday destination in North Africa, attracting numerous tourists annually. However, safety concerns often arise, especially given regional instability and global events. This article provides a comprehensive overview of safety considerations for travelers planning a trip to Egypt, covering various aspects from travel advisories to local customs and practical tips.
The Sinai Peninsula is an area where increased vigilance is advised.
Current Travel Advisories for Egypt
The United States State Department currently classifies Egypt under a "Level 3 - Reconsider Travel" advisory. This indicates that while travel is permitted, tourists should be aware of potential risks and consider their decision carefully.
The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advises against traveling to parts of Egypt, and they list Cairo as “See our travel advice before traveling,” which means you should bear their listed safety warnings in mind as you plan your trip.
It is important to stay informed about the current safety situation in Egypt and review travel advisories before your trip.
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Specific Areas to Consider
Travel to Gaza should be avoided. Travelers to Gaza from Egypt should read the Travel Advisory for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza.
The Sinai Peninsula is considered very dangerous, and government employees are generally not authorized to travel there freely. If you do not, you may be denied entry. You must get work permits through your employer.
The more unstable areas of the Northern Sinai Peninsula have been off-limits to tourists for over a decade.
The area of Egypt's Western Desert that is not safe for tourists to visit is the area within 50 kilometers of the border with Libya.
Northern and Middle Sinai Peninsula: Terrorist attacks on security forces and civilians still occur but are becoming increasingly rare.
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All Egyptian border areas are under military control.
The Egyptian government has boosted security at tourist sites to address safety concerns.
Is it Safe to Visit Specific Cities?
- Cairo: The Foreign Office does not advise against travel to Cairo at the present time. However, it’s a big and busy city so it’s still worth staying vigilant for petty crime.
- Sharm el-Sheikh: The Foreign Office no longer advises against travel to the area of Sharm el-Sheikh. Security measures were increased at the Red Sea resort: x-ray scanners in hotels, security walls and high perimeter fences around the airport were installed.
- Hurghada: The Foreign Office does not advise against travel to Hurghada, a popular Red Sea resort, at present.
- Alexandria: Yes, Alexandria is totally safe, despite being the second largest city in Egypt.
Safety Tips and Advice for Traveling in Egypt
Being aware of your surroundings is key to staying safe in Egypt.
In terms of safety on the ground, it pays to be vigilant.
At popular tourist spots, visitors can be harassed for money or to buy things. There’s also a risk of theft and mugging, even in taxis.
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Here are some essential safety tips to consider when planning your trip:
- Engage with Reputable Tour Operators: Consider working with an Egypt Guide or Company. Companies (like Egypt Adventures Travel) can connect you with vetted and trusted Egyptian guides and partners, who can handle all of the logistical details for your time in Egypt.
- Stay Informed: The U.S. Embassy in Cairo posts relevant security alerts and updates as necessary.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP): This is a free service provided by the U.S. State Department, and allows travelers to get real-time text message updates from the relevant embassy wherever they are traveling.
- Avoid Demonstrations: Before you head out for the day, check the news to see if there are any potential demonstrations, and be especially cautious on Fridays after prayer time (early afternoon) when protests usually happen.
- Avoid Talking Politics: Egyptians have been talking a lot recently about the war in Israel and Gaza. As best you can, avoid these conversations entirely, or if engaged in one.
- Be Culturally Aware: Public displays of affection can also be frowned upon.
- Dress Modestly: Wearing loose-fitting clothes that do not display much flesh will reduce unwanted attention and keep you cool. While wearing shorts is acceptable in some touristy areas, it's more respectful to wear longer pants or skirts, especially when visiting religious sites such as mosques or conservative parts of the city.
- Secure your belongings: Bring a cross-body bag or fanny pack to ensure that the safety of your valuables is entirely (and literally) in your hands, especially in crowded spots like Khan Al Khalili.
- Research routes: Prior to using any GPS apps, research the route to make sure it’s safe.
- Consult travel advisories: The US Department of State currently classifies Egypt under a Level 3 Travel Advisory: Reconsider Travel. The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advises against traveling to parts of Egypt, and they list Cairo as “See our travel advice before traveling,” which means you should bear their listed safety warnings in mind as you plan your trip.
Specific Safety Considerations
For Female Travelers
In general, yes, it is safe for female travellers. However, there have been reported incidents of sexual assault and harassment in the country, including some affecting minors.
The Foreign Office advises: “Female travellers should exercise caution when travelling alone, particularly at night, in buses, taxis and microbuses. If you are travelling on public transport, including microbuses, avoid being the last passenger left on board.”
For LGBT Travelers
It can be problematic for LGBT travellers. While homosexuality is not technically illegal in Egypt, charges under “debauchery” laws have been used to prosecute LGBT people in the past, according to the Foreign Office.
Water and Food Safety
Avoid tap water on its own and in your drinks to avoid getting sick, as it’s often not safe to consume.
Photography Guidelines
Be aware of what you’re photographing. Taking pictures of military property (strictly prohibited), embassies, government buildings, churches and even infrastructure such as train stations can lead to arrest. If you want to photograph any Egyptian citizens, you must have written permission from them; photographing children is not permitted.
| Emergency Type | Number |
|---|---|
| Police | 122 |
| Ambulance | 123 |
Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip
- Learn Some Arabic Phrases: Say “asslamu alayku” (peace upon you) before talking to someone.
- Download Useful Apps: Uber, Careem and Didi are all ride-sharing apps and using these will help you avoid arguing over fares with taxi drivers (especially at the airport).
- Haggle Over Prices: Haggling over prices is part of the local experience.
- Be Prepared for Delays: Time is a famously flexible concept in Cairo. Be ready for things to be delayed or changed at the last minute, or for a surprise wedding to cause a sudden postponement.
By staying informed, respecting local customs, and taking necessary precautions, visitors can enjoy a memorable and safe trip to Egypt.
Is it safe to travel to Egypt? | Egypt Travel Tips
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