When visiting Egypt, be careful to avoid drinking tap water, discussing politics or religion, and visiting large, unpermitted gatherings. Dress conservatively to respect local customs, particularly at religious sites, and be aware of common tourist scams and persistent vendors. Female travelers should be vigilant regarding harassment.
Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Egypt. Terrorist attacks could be indiscriminate including in places visited by foreign nationals. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities. Be vigilant in crowds and large gatherings.
Egyptians are conservative and doing things like making out with your girlfriend/boyfriend in public is considered offensive, rude, or disrespectful. A public hug is less offensive, especially if greeting a spouse or family member you haven't seen in a while.
In Egypt, it is not acceptable to dress immodestly, especially at religious sites, with women expected to cover their shoulders and knees. Public displays of affection are frowned upon, and disrespecting local customs and religious practices is also unacceptable.
Egypt Tour Was NOT What We Expected (I wish they told us...)
What is the number one crime in Egypt?
According to the survey, theft of car (71.4 per cent), car hijacking (56.3 per cent) and theft of motorcycle (43.8 per cent) are the types of crime most frequently reported to the police, while only 1.3 per cent of the cases of corruption is brought to the attention of the police.
These Egypt travel tips on local customs and etiquette will help you navigate with confidence. Intimate behaviour in public (kissing and cuddling) is a no-no, and even holding hands is disapproved of.
Choose clothing made of natural fibers – cotton, linen, silk or mix of these. White or light colours reflect the heat, darker colours will make you feel it more.
For one-time services, like in restaurants or hotels, a $5 tip is considered very good. Remember, it's best to tip in Egyptian pounds in Egypt. But, U.S. dollars are also accepted. Following the local tipping customs can make your visit better for everyone.
In Egyptian culture, the right hand is used for all things clean and good—handing over gifts, eating from the communal dish—and the left hand for everything dirty and impure (yes, the dreaded bum gun). Never eat with your left hand, and always hand over money or gifts with your right or both hands.
It's not safe to travel to certain high-risk areas like Haiti, Russia, Belarus, and Afghanistan (avoid all travel), while many other countries like Mexico, Turkey, Thailand, and parts of Israel and Palestine have specific regions with "do not travel" advisories due to ongoing conflict, terrorism, or instability. Always check your government's travel advisories (like the U.S. State Dept or UK FCDO) for the latest updates, as risks can change rapidly.
While Egypt is known for its warm hospitality, it is still a conservative society, especially when it comes to public displays of affection. Couples, whether married or not, should refrain from holding hands, kissing or hugging in public, as these behaviours are generally frowned upon.
Making public comments that criticise the Egyptian government, security forces, or Islam can be illegal. Police have arrested foreign visitors who posted critical social media. There are severe consequences for carrying illegal drugs, including the death penalty, long prison sentences or deportation.
Many types of crime exist. Criminologists commonly group crimes into several major categories: (1) violent crime; (2) property crime; (3) white-collar crime; (4) organized crime; and (5) consensual or victimless crime.
The Ten Plagues of Egypt in Order are: water turning to blood, frogs, lice, flies, livestock pestilence, boils, hail, locusts, darkness, and the killing of firstborn children. These plagues are recorded in the Bible, and were sent by God after Pharaoh refused to let the Israelites leave Egypt.
Capri pants, maxi dresses, or even shorts would work too, as long as the shorts are cut long (knee length). Dresses or skirts are fine… unless you are planning on riding a horse or camel!
Check with your bank what it'll cost to use your card for payments in Egypt. Most big hotels, established stores, and restaurants will accept Mastercard and Visa, and contactless payments are common. Smaller hotels, cafés, shops, and markets are more likely to expect cash.
