Entry Requirements
Visa requirements for Egypt depend on which passport you hold. Check the Traveller visa tool to see whether your passport needs a visa and, if so, how long you can stay.
Check if you need a visa for EgyptEmergency Numbers
- Police
- 122
- Ambulance
- 123
- Fire
- 180
Currency
- Name
- Egyptian Pound
- Code
- EGP
- Symbol
- E£
Power Outlets
- Outlet types
- Type C, Type F
- Voltage
- 220V
- Frequency
- 50Hz
Time Zone
EET (UTC+2) — no daylight saving
Best Time to Visit
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
May–September is very hot (40°C+) in Upper Egypt and Luxor
Tipping Customs
| Venue | Typical | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurants | 10% | Often not included — ask if in doubt |
| Tour guides | $2–5 per person per day (USD accepted) | — |
| Hotel staff | E£20–50 per service | — |
| Taxi | Round up; negotiate fare before you get in | — |
| Anyone who helps you | E£5–20 (baksheesh) | Small tips expected for most services — carry small notes |
Dress Code
- Women: cover shoulders and knees in public; loose clothing is more comfortable in heat
- Both: bring a scarf — required to enter mosques and some temples
- Swimwear stays at the resort pool or Red Sea beach
- Men in shorts outside of tourist areas may attract attention
Social Etiquette
- Greet with the right hand; handshake between men common; wait for a woman to extend her hand first
- Remove shoes before entering a mosque
- Avoid public displays of affection
- During Ramadan: no eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours
- Bargaining is expected in markets — start at 50% of the asking price
Local Laws
Laws change. Verify current rules with your country's official travel advisory before departure.
- Photography of government buildings, military installations, and bridges is prohibited
- Drug offences carry severe penalties including lengthy prison sentences
- LGBTQ+ activity is illegal under 'debauchery' laws
- Importing Israeli-stamped passports can cause issues at border — check current guidance
- Drone use requires a permit from the Civil Aviation Authority
Common Phrases
| English | Local | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello / Peace be upon you | السلام عليكم / As-salamu alaykum | ah-SAH-lah-moo ah-LAY-koom |
| Thank you | شكراً / Shukran | SHOOK-ran |
| Please | من فضلك / Min fadlak (m) / Min fadlik (f) | min FAD-lak |
| You're welcome | عفواً / Afwan | AHF-wahn |
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