Just remember to cover up from your shoulders to below the knee. While women are expected to dress more conservatively than men, even the fellas should leave the short shorts and tight singlets at home. Also, avoid packing anything in white.
While white was always cooler in the Egyptian heat, I also found that the sand, dirt, and general "yuck" that was prevalent around Cairo and Egypt was not great for white or very light colored clothing!
Pants, t-shirts, and long-sleeve shirts are acceptable as clothes to wear in Egypt. Avoid wearing shorts or sleeveless shirts to fit in with local customs. Men do not need a head-covering scarf to enter mosques.
Packing a couple of tunics and long-sleeved shirts that you can slip over the top of your outfits is also a good idea for easy layering in more conservative areas. For mosque visits, female travellers should wear clothing that covers from ankle to elbow as well as decolletage and hair.
Egypt, being a predominantly Muslim country, is naturally conservative (not like the Gulf States or Saudi Arabia) but the average people are careful in what they wear. The dress code in Egypt for women is considered conservative by western standards and it is respectful to obey this code.
How to dress when visiting Egypt? (Men & Women) | What to Pack for Egypt? | What to Wear in Egypt?
Do female tourists have to cover up in Egypt?
It's a personal choice and not something that's legally required. Tourists aren't required to or expected to cover their heads. Throw a scarf or shawl into your bag in case you find yourself visiting a mosque that does require a headscarf.
If you leave the hotel area and walk in places like Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh, there are no restrictions on the usual clothing. We recommend women to wear something with their shoulders covered. Because of the strong sun and also out of respect for the country in which you are staying.
Flip-flops and sandals are ideal for the beach, or even just walking around your hotel, but not such a good choice for your Egypt guided tours. Firstly, they aren't the best for walking, but more importantly, the sand gets really hot and can burn your feet.
Aside from beachside resort cities, it is not recommended for female tourists to ever wear shorts in Egypt. Before traveling to Egypt for the first time, many travelers ask us what clothes to bring.
If you're travelling outside of winter, don't underestimate the cool change that can come in the evenings, especially if you spend the night in the desert or on a Nile cruise. A light fleece or jacket should be sufficient to keep you warm on Egypt's chillier nights.
It is considered impolite to point the toe, heel or any part of the foot toward another person. Showing the sole of one's shoe is also impolite. Modest dress and presentation is highly valued in Egyptian culture. Greetings often occur before any form of social interaction.
The statement is vague in many ways, but it clarifies that it criminalizes sharing photographs that could “damage the country's image.” Also avoid taking photos of the police or military, as taking anything of strategic importance could be grounds for imprisonment, even if you did not take the photo in bad faith.
There are lots of stones, rocks and other objects which you can accidently kick when you visit the pyramids in Egypt. Sandals also don't offer any support for your feet or ankles. A good pair of leather walking shoes or a pair of good quality breathable trainers are far more suitable for visiting the pyramids.
It's very casual in Egypt. No chance of blending in with the locals anyway, so white tennis shoes aren't a faux pas. Wear what's comfortable at home. Be prepared to get whatever shoes you bring very dusty - for that reason my daughter's beige shoes were better than white.
As far as respectable clothing goes, tourists wear almost anything, but you will receive far less harrassment if you dress modestly. Tunics tops are big in Cairo, but just avoid tank tops, sleeveless tops, and and any gap between your shirt and bottom. Any loose, short-to long-sleeved shirt will be entirely acceptable.
If you wear pants/capris, make them white or a light color, if possible. Jeans, even white jeans, can be hot. (Update: Best to not take jeans unless you're wearing them in the evening, they are just too heavy/hot. Stick with light, cotton pants, dresses or shorts.)
As a tourist you aren't expected to wear a hijab or any other hair or facial covering in Egypt. What is this? The only exception to this is if you're visiting a mosque – in that case, you do indeed need to respect the fact that you're entering a religious building and cover up.
But, as Egypt is an Islamic country it is to be expected. Remember, everyone is in the same boat. Wearing shorts, strappy tops, mini skirts, clothing that reveals too much flesh is a big NO. It will draw a lot of attention and, most importantly, it's seen as disrespectful to locals.
Toilet paper - You can always buy toilet paper while there or take some from your hotel. If you're particularly worried about hygiene, also bring your travel toilet seat covers. Note - don't flush anything down the toilet in Egypt, not even toilet paper. The pipes can't handle it.
Supportive, comfortable shoes with a good tread on them would then be a must. In the cities, if you are comfortable in sandals or open-toes shoes — go for it! Just be prepared for your feet to get a bit dusty.
WHAT NOT TO WEAR IN EGYPT – on the streets if you don't want to be stared at. Consider leaving valuable jewelry, like cherished rings, at home if you anticipate your fingers swelling due to the heat. This precaution can help prevent accidentally leaving them behind in hotels upon departure.
The overall travel advice for Sharm El Sheikh is for tourists to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity to Police. There is a risk of terrorism in Sharm El Sheikh. Sharm El Sheikh is a popular resort in the Red Sea that has suffered a decline in tourism due to a rise in terrorism in the past few years.
Egypt is conservative. Very conservative. You won't find couples cuddling and kissing in public, as any type of public affection is a big no-no (even handholding isn't really approved of).
Although the dress code is more relaxed in hotels and tourist resorts like Sharm El Sheikh, many travellers will feel more comfortable covered up. Always remember Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country, and it's important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or local markets.
