Egypt

The Land of Pharaohs
and Timeless Mysteries

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Egypt, a country bridging Northeast Africa and Southwest Asia, is renowned for its ancient civilization along the Nile River. The country's landscape is dominated by the Nile Valley and Delta, vast deserts, and coastal areas along the Mediterranean and Red Seas. With a history spanning over 5,000 years, Egypt is home to iconic monuments like the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx.

The warm, dry climate and the Nile's annual flooding have shaped Egyptian culture and agriculture for millennia. Modern Egypt, with its population of over 100 million, blends ancient traditions with contemporary challenges. Egyptian cuisine features dishes like koshari and ful medames, reflecting its cultural heritage. Despite economic hurdles, Egypt remains a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and travelers alike, offering a unique blend of ancient wonders and modern Arab culture.

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Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into Egypt.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date from Egypt.

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: Citizens from several nations, including some African and Arab League countries, can enter Egypt with a valid passport and stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa.
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from nations not on the visa-exempt list must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering Egypt, either through an embassy or upon arrival at major airports and ports (subject to approval).

Special Entry Provisions

  • Holders of valid, multiple-entry Schengen visas (previously used in a Schengen state) can enter Egypt without an additional visa.
  • Citizens with valid, multiple-entry US or UK visas (previously used in the issuing country) can enter without an Egyptian visa.
  • Holders of valid residence permits from Schengen states, the US, or the UK can enter without a visa.

ID Card Entry

  • No countries are permitted to enter Egypt using only a national ID card. A passport is mandatory for all travelers.

Visa Types

  • Type "C" Visa: Allows entry and stay for 30 days within 180 days (extendable to 90 days with approval). Can be single, double, or multiple entry, with validity up to 3 years.
  • Type "D" Visa: For stays longer than 90 days. Valid for one year with a 90-day stay period, allowing application for a residence permit.

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa-free stays are typically limited to 90 days within a 180-day period for eligible countries unless extended.
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules apply for work, study, or long-term stays; contact the nearest Egyptian embassy or consulate.
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements (e.g., vaccination certificates or testing) via the Egyptian Ministry of Health.
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Driving in Egypt

Current Toll Roads

  • As of 2025, Egypt has several toll roads, including:
    • The Cairo-Alexandria Desert Road (M40).
    • The Cairo-Suez Road.
  • Toll rates vary based on vehicle type and distance traveled. For the most current rates, visit the official Egyptian Road Authority website: https://www.era.gov.eg/

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Toll rates: Vary by vehicle type (cars, trucks, buses) and distance; check the Egyptian Road Authority for updates.
  • Payment Methods:
    • Cash: Egyptian Pound (EGP) is accepted at all toll booths.
    • Credit/Debit Cards: Major cards are accepted at most toll booths.
    • Electronic Toll Collection: An e-toll system is implemented on major highways; check https://www.era.gov.eg/ for updates.

Driving in Egypt

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 40 km/h
    • Rural roads: 80 km/h
    • Highways: 110 km/h
  • Road conditions: Vary; urban roads in Cairo, Alexandria, and Luxor are generally good, but rural roads can be poorly maintained, especially in desert areas. Exercise caution, particularly at night or in remote areas.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver’s license for stays up to 6 months; longer stays require an Egyptian driver’s license.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: Egypt does not use a vignette system, but tolls are required on certain roads—check locally.
  • Road Safety: Remain vigilant due to aggressive drivers, poor road conditions in rural areas, and occasional banditry in desert regions. Avoid night driving outside urban areas.
  • GPS and Maps: GPS is generally reliable, but keep an updated physical map as a backup, especially in remote areas.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 122 for police, 123 for ambulance, or 126 for fire (national emergency number 112 also works).

Useful Links

Currency Menu

Egypt Currency

The official currency of Egypt is the Egyptian Pound (EGP).

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 EGP
  • Coins: 5, 10, 25, 50 piastres; 1 EGP
  • Symbol: £E or EGP

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services available at banks, Cairo International Airport, and major hotels.
  • ATMs widely available in urban areas for direct EGP withdrawals (major UK, US, and Euro cards accepted).

Payment Methods

  • Cash is preferred, especially in rural areas.
  • Credit/debit cards are accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments in tourist areas like Cairo, Luxor, and Sharm El Sheikh.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans.
  • Carry some cash for small purchases and rural areas.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when using cards.
  • For current exchange rates, visit the Central Bank of Egypt website: https://www.cbe.org.eg/en/exchange-rates
Laws Menu

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Egypt

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travellers in Egypt, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Strict penalties for possession or trafficking, including lengthy prison sentences or execution. Even small quantities can lead to criminal charges.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Public intoxication is frowned upon and may result in fines or detention.
    • Smoking banned in indoor public spaces and on public transport.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Avoid discussing sensitive political or religious issues, especially related to the government or regional conflicts.
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are not explicitly illegal, but public displays of affection may attract unwanted attention or legal scrutiny. Same-sex marriage is not recognized. 2SLGBTQI+ travelers should exercise caution.
  • Photography: Restricted near government buildings, military sites, or critical infrastructure like the Suez Canal. Always ask permission for portraits of locals.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 1L spirits | Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over $10,000 USD (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, weapons, endangered species products.
  • Counterfeit goods (may face fines or confiscation).

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 21 days at the airport via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR).

Complaints

  • Submit grievances to the Egyptian Tourism Office or local police stations.

Beach Access

  • Public beaches must allow free access within 2.5 meters of the shoreline. Wheelchair access is legally mandated on major beaches like those in Alexandria and Sharm El Sheikh.

Key Resources

Safety Menu

Egypt Safety

Egypt is generally safe for travellers, with low crime rates in tourist areas and a reputation for hospitality. However, travellers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in Egypt.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) is rare but possible in crowded areas like markets or tourist sites in Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan. Violent crime against tourists is extremely uncommon but can occur in remote areas or near borders.
  • Solo/Female Travelers: Egypt is considered safe for solo travelers in tourist areas, with locals often assisting visitors. Women should avoid isolated areas at night and dress conservatively to respect local customs.

Road Safety

  • Driving can be challenging due to aggressive drivers, heavy traffic, and poor rural road conditions.
  • Avoid night driving outside urban areas due to limited lighting and road hazards.
  • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety:
    • Avoid tap water; drink bottled water.
    • Practice safe eating habits to prevent travelers’ diarrhea.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, typhoid, polio, hepatitis B, rabies (for long-term stays), and COVID-19.
    • Yellow Fever: Required only if arriving from a risk country.
  • Insect-Borne Diseases: Use insect repellent to guard against malaria, dengue, and schistosomiasis (near water bodies).
  • Altitude Sickness: Minimal risk, as no areas exceed 2,629 meters (Mount Catherine).

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: Private facilities like the As-Salam International Hospital in Cairo offer higher standards. Rural areas often lack advanced care.
  • Pharmacies: Available in cities; stock essential medications.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 112 (works for police, ambulance, and fire).
  • Ambulance: 123 | Fire: 126 | Police: 122.
  • Tourist Police (Cairo): +20 2 126 000 000.

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Rent a 4x4 for rural or desert areas. Check insurance coverage for rentals.
  • Hiking: Use local guides for remote trails (e.g., Mount Sinai).
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid discussing sensitive political or religious issues.
  • Air Quality: Pollution can be high in Cairo; monitor via the World Air Quality Index.

Key Links

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Flying to Egypt

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