Stay
informed with our essential Egypt travel do’s and don’ts. Learn
local etiquette, cultural customs, and practical tips to help you
explore Egypt safely, respectfully, and confidently while enjoying
every moment of your journey.
• Dress modestly. Especially in rural areas and religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered.
• Remove shoes when required. Take them off before entering mosques or private homes when invited.
• Use your right hand. For eating, greeting and giving items; the left is traditionally considered unclean.
• Greet warmly. Saying “As-salamu alaykum” with a smile is respectful and appreciated.
• Tip generously (“baksheesh”). It’s customary for guides, drivers, hotel staff and porters.
• Accept tea or coffee when offered. Hospitality is sincere and declining may seem rude.
• Respect prayer times. Avoid interrupting or photographing worshippers.
• Bargain politely in markets. Negotiation is expected but should remain friendly.
• Learn a few Arabic phrases. Even small efforts are warmly received.
• Show interest in history and culture. Egyptians take pride in sharing their heritage.
• Don’t wear revealing clothing. Especially in traditional neighbourhoods or religious spaces.
• Don’t show public affection. Hugging or kissing in public can cause offence.
• Don’t photograph people, police or military sites without permission.
• Don’t disrespect religion. Avoid jokes or criticism about Islam.
• Don’t discuss politics or sensitive issues. Especially governance or religion.
• Don’t drink alcohol in public. Only in licensed hotels, bars or private venues.
• Don’t touch someone of the opposite sex unless they initiate.
• Don’t point directly with your finger. Use an open hand instead.
• Don’t enter mosques during prayer unless invited or permitted.
• Don’t underestimate traffic. Travel times can be long and unpredictable.
• Hospitality is sacred. Warm welcomes can feel insistent but are genuine.
• Family and elders are deeply respected. Courtesy is expected in all interactions.
• Friday is the holy day. Many businesses open late or close early.
• Tea culture builds connection. Sharing tea is a social ritual.
• Communication is expressive. Gestures and tone carry meaning.
• Time is flexible. Punctuality is viewed socially rather than strictly.
• Gender norms are traditional. Especially outside major cities.
• Bring a small gift when visiting homes. Pastries or sweets are ideal.
• Eye contact should be friendly, not intense. Especially across genders.
• Humour and warmth matter. A smile goes a long way.
• Carry small change. Useful for taxis, tips and market purchases.
• Use bottled water. Avoid ice unless you’re sure it’s purified.
• Download offline maps. Signal can drop in desert or rural areas.
• Sightsee early. Beat the heat and crowds.
• Pre-book key routes. Trains and flights between Cairo, Luxor and Aswan fill fast.
• Hire licensed guides. Book through hotels or trusted agencies.
• Use Uber or Careem. Safer than unmarked taxis.
• Wear sun protection. Hats and sunscreen are essential year-round.
• Keep cash available. Many small vendors don’t accept cards.
• Carry passport copies. Often requested at hotels or checkpoints.
• Felucca rides in Aswan are peaceful at sunset.
• Luxor’s temples shine at night. Cooler and less crowded.
• Street food is excellent. Try koshari and falafel from busy stalls.
• Cairo Metro is efficient. Includes women-only carriages.
• Shop markets in the morning. Friendlier and better value.
• Overnight trains save time. Cairo–Aswan is scenic and practical.
• Buy alabaster locally in Luxor. Family workshops offer better quality.
• Siwa Oasis at sunrise is unforgettable.
• Join a cooking class. A great way to experience real Egyptian food.
• Choose small-group desert safaris. More cultural depth and comfort.
• Avoid protests or political gatherings. Illegal for foreigners to join.
• Carry ID or copies at all times. Police may request identification.
• Follow photography laws strictly. Government and military sites are off-limits.
• Drug laws are severe. Penalties include imprisonment.
• Respect restricted desert zones. Curfews may apply near borders.
• Agree taxi fares in advance. Or use metered rides and apps.
• Women should dress conservatively at night. Stick to well-lit areas.
• Avoid tap water and risky food. To prevent illness.
• Medical care is best in cities. Limited in rural regions.
• Travel insurance is essential. Especially for evacuation or emergencies.
• Arabic is official. English is common in tourist areas.
• Speak clearly and calmly. Especially if there’s a language barrier.
• Avoid sarcasm. It may not translate well.
• Politeness smooths interactions. Smiling helps negotiations.
• Respect personal space. Particularly in conservative settings.
• Expect “Inshallah.” Patience is part of communication.
• Limit large hand gestures. Some Western gestures are misread.
• Wi-Fi is strong in cities. Weaker in rural areas.
• Use translation apps. Helpful off the beaten path.
• Use greetings like “Marhaba” and “Shukran.” They build instant goodwill.