In Egypt, tourists are expected to observe several laws, customs and restrictions that may be different from those in their own countries. It is important to remember that none of the rules should be taken lightly and travelers should pay close attention to regulations and warnings from the government.
Here are a few things you should not do in Egypt:
1. Do not take photos of military or government buildings or personnel, airports, harbors, railway stations and bridges.
2. Do not bring official documents or items with you to Egypt that have not been previously approved by the Egyptian authorities.
3. Do not bring, buy, or carry any weapons, ammunition, explosives or military-style or antiques items without permission.
4. Do not talk negatively or disrespectfully about the government, the President, or controversial political parties. This could lead to arrest or deportation.
5. Do not bring religious materials or items of a political nature into the country without permission.
6. Do not buy or carry drugs, as they are strictly prohibited and violators face penalties that can include lengthy jail terms and/or large fines.
7. Do not smoke in public places. This is illegal and violators may be fined or arrested.
8. Do not drink alcohol in public places. This is also illegal and violators may be fined or arrested.
9. Do not engage in any kind of gambling activities.
10. It is illegal to be nude or topless in public places.
Finally, always be respectful of the local culture and traditions and observe local laws and customs. This will help ensure that your stay in Egypt is a safe and enjoyable one.
What shouldn’t you do in Egypt?
When visiting Egypt, there are a few things travelers should not do in order to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Most importantly, visitors should not attempt to photograph or film any military or government sites.
Additionally, they should also avoid taking pictures of any religious structures, such as mosques or temples, unless they have been given explicit permission from the religious caretaker. Travelers should also be careful not to insult or try to convert people when engaging in conversations about religion, as doing so is likely to offend local people.
Tourists should also be aware of their personal safety when in Egypt, and should avoid exploring alone in unfamiliar areas, especially at night. They should stay away from large crowds and demonstrations, and should take extra precaution when dealing with strangers.
As with any country, pickpocketing and scams exist and travelers should avoid displaying large amounts of expensive jewelry or indulging in illegal activities such as public intoxication and drug use.
Finally, when visiting Egypt, tourists should respect local customs and dress conservatively, refraining from wearing tank tops and shorts, particularly in rural areas. Respect for local customs and laws will help ensure that the tourist experience in Egypt is a positive one.
What places to avoid in Egypt?
When visiting Egypt, there are a few places that you may want to avoid in order to ensure your safety. Tourists should avoid parts of the Sinai Peninsula other than the Red Sea resorts and the cities of Al Arish, Nabq and Sharm El Sheikh due to the persistent terrorist threat, and should exercise caution in Cairo and other cities due to ongoing civil unrest.
In addition, travelers should avoid all demonstrations that could turn violent.
Tourists should also be aware of petty thefts and scams, especially in tourist areas and should keep their valuables in a safe place. It is also important to avoid any unauthorized dealers who try to sell antiquities, as this is considered a crime in Egypt.
Finally, tourists should avoid staying or driving through desert and rural areas at night. These areas may be difficult to navigate and are not well-lit, so travelers should be sure to have enough fuel and a satellite phone in case of an emergency.
What is considered rude in Egypt?
In Egypt, a variety of social norms are considered rude, and visitors should take care when in the country to avoid cultural faux pas. Some of the behavior considered rude in Egypt includes:
-Public displays of affection, such as kissing or hugging, is considered highly inappropriate and offensive.
-Pointing or staring is also considered rude.
-Interrupting or raising your voice to make a point is also frowned upon.
-Speaking negatively or being overly critical or sarcastic is seen as both disrespectful and insulting.
-Gestures like giving the “thumbs up” sign or crossing your fingers can be considered rude.
-It is considered impolite to refuse food or beverages offered by an Egyptian host.
-Smoking in public places is generally not encouraged and is considered rude.
-It is also considered rude to refer to someone by just their first name if you are not close friends or family.
-Tipping is not expected in most restaurants and is not required. However, it is considered polite to leave small change for the waiter or cab driver.
-It is considered disrespectful for women to show too much skin, as wearing revealing clothing is seen as unladylike.
Is kissing in public allowed in Egypt?
Kissing in public is generally frowned upon in Egypt. According to Islamic teachings, public displays of affection like kissing and cuddling are seen as inappropriate. Muslims in Egypt, and other countries, strive to maintain their modesty in public, and kissing in public is seen as a violation of these teachings.
Physical contact between anyone, not just couples, is seen as inappropriate in the public sphere in Egypt. However, if couples are in more private spaces, like enclosed restaurants, the potential public display of affection may be more accepted.
Is Egypt not tourist friendly?
No, Egypt is a very welcoming and tourist-friendly destination! There are few countries in the world that can boast such an impressive combination of incredible historical sites, fascinating culture and warm hospitality, and Egypt is no exception.
The country is home to some of the world’s most impressive archaeological wonders, including the Great Pyramid at Giza, the Valley of the Kings and the Temples of Karnak, as well as many stunning beaches and some of the most vibrant cities in the Middle East.
Egypt has become accustomed to tourists and welcomes them with open arms. In Cairo, the capital city, there are numerous attractions, from the bustling markets to the ancient Islamic monuments. Visitors to Egypt should also explore the Red Sea resort towns of Sharm el Sheikh and Hurghada, which offer superb diving and snorkelling opportunities.
As far as safety for tourists is concerned, Egypt is generally safe for tourists as long as they use common sense. Tourists should always be aware of their surroundings and be respectful of the local culture and customs.
In conclusion, Egypt is a great destination for tourists looking to explore the history and culture of one of the world’s oldest civilizations. With the friendly locals, fascinating attractions and the beauty of its ancient sites, Egypt is truly a must-see destination.
What are the do’s and don’ts in Egypt?
When visiting Egypt, it is important to recognize and respect local customs and traditions. Here are some do’s and don’ts that should be kept in mind:
DO’s:
– Dress modestly in public areas, especially when visiting religious sites.
– Follow local laws and customs.
– Respect personal space and avoid public displays of affection with someone of the opposite gender.
– Ask permission before taking photos of people or in restricted areas.
– Tip hotel, restaurant and taxi staff at least 10-15 %.
– Enjoy the local street food and shops.
DON’T’s:
– Don’t wear beachwear or swimwear unless you are at the beach or a pool.
– Don’t touch someone or their belongings without permission.
– Don’t bring or consume alcohol outside of licensed hotel and restaurant premises.
– Don’t take photographs of the military or at military sites.
– Don’t disrespect religious sites or behave inappropriately in places of worship.
– Don’t bargain too aggressively. A reasonable offer should be made and accepted by both parties.
What do I need to know before traveling to Egypt?
Before traveling to Egypt, there are a few key points to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
The most important thing to remember when planning a trip to Egypt is to research the area and know your destination. Egypt is a diverse and multifaceted country that offers a variety of experiences—from breathtaking ancient ruins to coastal retreats to vibrant cities.
Knowing the cultural, political, and religious history of the country can help you make the most of your experience. Also, ensure you have up to date information regarding recommended travel restrictions and safety regulations.
In addition to researching the destination, make sure to plan ahead. Plan your accommodation and have a general itinerary made as early as possible. Consider seeking out online resources, books, or speaking to locals to acquire an idea of the best places to visit.
Having transportation arranged in advance is also important since public transportation can be unreliable or not available in certain areas.
When it comes to the actual journey, ensure that your personal documents are valid and in order before leaving your home country, such as passport and visa requirements, if applicable. Travel insurance is also advised in case of any unfortunate events.
Ultimately, having an understanding and appreciation for the local culture and respecting the customs should help make your trip to Egypt as smooth and memorable as possible.
Can you brush your teeth with tap water in Egypt?
Yes, you can brush your teeth with tap water in Egypt. Tap water in Egypt is generally safe to drink, however it is not ideal. Generally, tap water in Egypt is of good quality but is very hard, meaning it is high in minerals like calcium carbonate.
It also contains some bacteria which are considered safe, but not as clean as bottled water or water that has been treated by a filtration system. Due to this, while it is safe to brush your teeth with tap water in Egypt, it is not recommended.
It is best to use bottled water or filtered water to brush your teeth in Egypt.
Is there a dress code for tourists in Egypt?
Yes, there is a dress code for tourists in Egypt. It is important to dress conservatively, regardless of gender, to respect the culture and maintain modesty. Men should avoid wearing shorts, and when going to mosques and holy sites, full-length pants should be worn.
Women should also wear full-length pants or skirts, and tops should have sleeves and shirts should not be sheer. Although it is not necessary, a head scarf may also be worn by women. It is also recommended for both men and women to avoid wearing clothing that displays political or religious slogans.
Furthermore, it is important to be respectful of local customs and avoid wearing beachwear or swimsuits in public places other than beaches.
Does Egypt require Covid test?
Yes, Egypt does require Covid tests for those entering the country. As a part of the country’s measures to stop the spread of the virus, travelers must present a negative Covid-19 test taken within 72 hours from the date of their departure.
This test should be an RT-PCR test and the test results must be presented electronically. Failing to provide a valid Covid-19 test will result in denial of entry. Additionally, all travelers must present a valid health insurance card that covers Covid-19-related expenses.
Is Egypt friendly to tourists?
Yes, Egypt is very friendly to tourists. In general, the locals are known for being welcoming and hospitable to visitors of their country. Although there are certain areas that it is best to avoid due to safety concerns, overall, Egypt is considered a safe country to travel in.
In fact, it is such a popular destination for tourists that it was estimated to attract about 12 million foreign tourists in 2019.
Egypt is a great place for many different types of trips. Nature lovers will enjoy exploring the vast desert spaces and the Red Sea coast, historians can visit several ancient sites such as the Pyramids of Giza, while foodies can indulge in the varied cuisine of this fascinating country.
Egyptians also have a vibrant nightlife which provides plenty of opportunities to try out traditional shows, bars, and clubs.
In terms of safety, there are some areas where tourists are advised to exercise caution. Certain parts of North Sinai and the Western Desert, around the border with Libya, are not recommended. You should always check up to date travel advice, and be particularly aware of your surroundings when in tourist, transit and entertainment areas.
Despite this, Egypt is considered a safe and friendly tourist destination. Locals are generally welcoming and there is no shortage of incredible sites, fantastic food and vibrant nightlife to engage in.
What are the COVID rules for Egypt?
The Egyptian government has announced a range of preventative measures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, with two different systems in place.
First, all citizens and foreign visitors traveling from, to, or within Egypt must follow the Ministry of Health’s guidelines for social distancing, personal hygiene, and avoidance of contact with members of the public, including those entering or leaving the country.
Second, all people entering or leaving the country must complete an online health questionnaire, which will be used to determine if a person should be subject to a mandatory PCR test or another form of testing.
All travelers must have a negative PCR test result, or have proof of vaccination, prior to their entry into Egypt. Those who test negative on arrival are advised to self-isolate for a minimum of 7 days and will be monitored daily by the health authorities.
People arriving from abroad must download and activate the Wataa application, which allows the government to monitor and detect possible cases of COVID-19. All travelers must also fill out a personal declaration form as well as a sponser information form.
In addition, all people who arrive from areas considered high-risk for the virus must complete an additional period of self-isolation for 14 days.
Furthermore, all public spaces are required to follow strict safety protocols, and the wearing of a face masks is mandatory for anyone leaving the home.
In summary, the COVID rules for Egypt are that all travelers must follow the Ministry of Health’s guidelines, complete an online health questionnaire, provide proof of a negative PCR test or proof of a vaccination, download and activate the Wataa application, and fill out a personal declaration and sponser information form.
Those arriving from high-risk areas must self-isolate for 14 days. Lastly, face masks are mandatory in all public spaces.
Do female tourists have to cover up in Egypt?
Yes, female tourists have to cover up in Egypt. As a conservative Islamic country, Egypt has certain social and cultural norms that dictate how people should present themselves in public, especially women.
Women should cover their arms and legs, as well as keep their shoulders and neck covered. Travellers should also avoid wearing tight-fitting or revealing clothing. Although slightly more relaxed than other Islamic countries, these expectations are still upheld in Egypt.
Moreover, it is especially important to respect local customs and dress codes when visiting religious places, such as mosques. Choosing to dress modestly is essential for any woman visiting Egypt.
Does Egypt have women’s rights?
Yes, Egypt does have women’s rights. Under Egyptian law, women are equal citizens to men in terms of their civil and political rights, including the rights to an education, to choose their place of residence and to own property.
Women in Egypt are also legally entitled to inherit from their families, although the amount of inheritance may be less than that of a man. As of 2018, about 18 percent of parliament seats are held by women, up from 2.6 percent in 2011.
Similarly, literacy rates among women have slowly been rising over the last several decades. While there is still more progress to be made to establish true equality for women in Egypt, there is evidence of improvement.
For example, in 2000, a personal status law was passed that for the first time gave women the right to file for divorces without the need for a judge’s approval. Women’s rights activists in Egypt continue to work towards further improvements such as increased access to education and employment opportunities, closing the gender wage gap, increasing female representation in leadership roles, and expanding the legal freedoms of Egyptian women.