Middle East and North Africa

Local laws reflect the fact that Egypt is predominantly a Muslim country. You should respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions at all times and be aware of your actions to ensure that they do not offend other cultures or religious beliefs.  This is especially important during the holy month of Ramadan or if you intend to visit religious areas.  For more general information see our Travelling During Ramadan page.
 

The government does not interfere with the practice of Christianity but encouraging conversion to the Christian faith is illegal.

 

Egypt is also a conservative society.  You should dress modestly, especially when visiting traditional areas like mosques and souqs (markets).  Women's clothes should cover their legs and upper arms. Public displays of affection are frowned upon. What may be acceptable in the tourist resort areas may be frowned upon in other areas.

Visitors and residents should carry photographic ID at all times. Your passport must contain a valid visa.

Drinking in the street and anywhere other than a licensed restaurant or bar is not allowed and can lead to arrest.

Possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs is a serious offence and can, even for possession of small amounts, lead to lengthy prison sentences (25 years), life imprisonment or the death penalty. Those convicted to life imprisonment on drugs charges will normally spend the rest of their life in prison with no possibility of parole or pardon.

Photography of or near military official installations is strictly prohibited.  Don’t photograph officials without their consent.  Plane spotting is not advised in any circumstances.  You may be detained or arrested if you use binoculars near an airport.

Although homosexuality is not in itself illegal under Egyptian law, homosexual acts in public are illegal and homosexuals have been convicted for breaching laws on public decency.

Women are advised to take extra caution when travelling alone as there have been cases of harassment and sexual assault, including rape.

 

Egyptian family law is very different from UK law and particular caution is needed when, for example, child custody becomes an issue.  Please see o0ur parental child abduction page.

For more general information for different types of travellers see our Your trip page.