Emergency Help Abroad – Egypt

Crime & Legal Awareness

A concise overview of the key laws, legal expectations and enforcement practices travellers should understand before visiting Egypt — including behaviours that may be acceptable in the UK but carry stricter penalties or different interpretations abroad.

1. STRICT DRUG, WEAPON & ALCOHOL LAWS

• Possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs carries severe penalties, including long prison sentences.

• Carrying weapons, including knives and pepper spray, is heavily restricted.

• Alcohol is only legal in licensed venues; drinking in public is prohibited.

• Drink-driving is strictly illegal and harshly punished.

• Attempting to bring drugs into the country can result in immediate arrest.

2. RESPECT FOR CULTURE, PUBLIC MORALS & ENVIRONMENT

• Egypt is a conservative, majority Muslim country — modest dress is expected, especially at religious sites.

• Public displays of affection may cause offence.

• Disrespecting mosques, religious objects or local customs is taken seriously.

• Littering at beaches, historic sites or natural areas is prohibited.

• Swearing or rude gestures in public can lead to fines or arrest.

3. PUBLIC BEHAVIOUR & CIVIL ORDER

• Police may request identification; travellers should carry their passport or a copy.

• Avoid discussing politics, the military or religion — these topics can be sensitive.

• Public drunkenness or disorderly behaviour can result in detention.

• Scams can occur near historical sites, taxis and markets — remain cautious.

• Bribery is illegal and can worsen any situation.

4. TRAVEL, TRANSPORT & ADMINISTRATIVE OFFENCES

• Traffic laws are enforced; speeding and unsafe driving can lead to fines.

• Using unlicensed taxis or unofficial drivers can be unsafe — use authorised services.

• Road conditions vary; accidents are common — avoid unnecessary night travel.

• Entering restricted areas, especially near borders or military zones, is prohibited.

• Overstaying your visa can lead to fines or travel delays.

5. PHOTOGRAPHY, DRONE & SECURITY RESTRICTIONS

• Photographing bridges, airports, military sites or government buildings is forbidden.

• Drone use is banned without prior approval from authorities.

• Some museums and archaeological sites restrict photography or require a paid permit.

• Always ask before photographing locals, especially in rural areas.

6. ENVIRONMENTAL & SAFETY LAWS

• Swimming may be restricted in certain areas due to strong currents or protected marine life.

• Removing coral, shells or artefacts from protected sites is illegal.

• Desert trekking or hiking in remote zones often requires permits and registered guides.

• Fires are prohibited in many desert and natural areas.

• Disturbing wildlife or protected habitats is illegal.

7. RESPECT FOR NATURE, CULTURE & HERITAGE SITES

• Damaging or climbing on ancient monuments, pyramids or temples is strictly prohibited.

• Removing stones, pottery or archaeological items is illegal.

• Entering tombs or restricted heritage zones without permission is forbidden.

• Purchasing antiquities without verified provenance is illegal and items may be seized.

What You Shouldn’t Do - Behaviours Travellers Should Avoid.

These are important behaviours and actions to avoid to stay respectful, safe and aligned with local expectations. Remember that what feels relaxed or acceptable in the UK may carry very different cultural or legal implications in Egypt.

• Don’t photograph military sites, government buildings or bridges, as this is strictly forbidden and can lead to questioning.

• Don’t wear very revealing clothing away from beach resorts, particularly in Cairo and rural Upper Egypt.

• Don’t disrespect mosques or prayer areas, including entering during prayer times or without modest dress.

• Don’t accept unsolicited guiding near major sites, especially around the pyramids, unless a price is agreed in advance.

• Don’t climb or lean on ancient monuments, as this causes damage and is illegal at protected sites.

• Don’t drink tap water, and rely on bottled or filtered alternatives.

• Don’t engage in public displays of affection, which can draw unwanted attention.

• Don’t ignore warnings about strong Nile currents, especially in Aswan or Luxor.

• Don’t travel into deserts alone, and always use licensed guides for remote excursions.

• Don’t underestimate heat in summer, where temperatures can exceed 40°C.

• Don’t forget that Friday is a day of prayer, affecting opening times and transport.

• Don’t rely purely on card payments, as cash is essential in many markets and shops.

• Don’t accept drinks from strangers in nightlife areas, for safety reasons.

• Don’t buy antiquities or artefacts, as exporting them is illegal.

• Don’t disrespect local sensitivities during Ramadan, such as eating publicly before sunset.

• Don’t board unofficial taxis, and use recognised services or ride apps instead.

• Don’t swim in the Nile near major cities, where pollution levels can be high.

• Don’t shout or behave aggressively in negotiations, as respectful bargaining works better.

• Don’t underestimate desert wildlife, particularly snakes and scorpions.

• Don’t assume women can visit all religious spaces freely, as some areas may have restrictions.