Egypt

Although the greatest terrorist threat is in North Sinai, terrorist attacks could occur anywhere in Egypt. Targets might include:

• Egyptian security forces
• religious sites
• government buildings
• large public gatherings
• tourist locations, including those visited by foreign nationals

To stay safe:

• consider the level of security at places you plan to visit
• have a clear exit plan in case of a security incident
• report suspicious activity or items to the police
• monitor the media for new or emerging threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the advice of local authorities

If there's a terrorist attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe to do so. Continue to avoid the area in case of secondary attacks.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide. Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places. 

Governorate of North Sinai

There's a high threat of terrorist attacks and violent crime in the Governorate of North Sinai, including the Taba-Suez Road. Do not travel to North Sinai.

Terrorists or criminals could target you, or you might be included in violence directed at others.

There is a significant presence of armed security forces and police in governorates throughout the country, including North Sinai. Curfews may be imposed on very short notice.

The Rafah crossing between Gaza (Palestine) and Egypt may be closed or have highly restricted access for long periods and is subject to change at short notice. The Gaza side of the border has been subject to air strikes in recent years.

If, despite our advice, you decide to travel to North Sinai:

• seek professional security advice
• arrange contingency plans and personal security measures
• note that our ability to provide consular assistance may be extremely limited

More information:

• Terrorism

The security situation in the region remains unpredictable and could deteriorate with little or no warning.

Suspected drones and projectiles have impacted areas along the Gulf of Aqaba, including in Taba, close to Egypt's border with Israel's Red Sea port of Eilat, and in the Red Sea resort town of Nuweiba, north of Dahab. Be alert to possible strikes. 

Stay alert, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

Demonstrations and protests

Protests can occur across Egypt. 

Clashes between rival protesters or security forces have resulted in many deaths and injuries. Foreigners, including journalists, have been among the victims. 

Security forces have targeted foreign journalists. Egyptian authorities have arrested, detained or questioned journalists.

Protest hotspots

Protests can happen anywhere and at any time, although strict security clampdowns have been preventing protests in recent years. However, the following places and times are common focal points for demonstrations:

• Tahrir Square and surrounding streets, including the nearby British and US Embassies and Garden City area, in Cairo
• the Al-Ittihadiya Presidential Palace in Heliopolis, Giza
• the area of the Raba Al-Adawiya Square in Nasr City
• Fridays following midday prayers
• the anniversary of the 2011 revolution on 25 January and the days leading up to this public holiday

Under Egyptian law, it's illegal for:

• more than 10 people to gather without notice
• foreigners to participate in protests and demonstrations

Authorities may arrest foreigners who participate in protests.

Egyptian authorities may impose curfews and restrictions on movement at short notice.

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent. To protect yourself during periods of unrest:

• avoid demonstrations, rallies and large crowds
• monitor the media for possible unrest and avoid those areas
• obey any curfews and respect local laws
• follow the advice of local authorities
• be prepared to change your travel plans

Protests may disrupt transport. Contact your airline or travel agent to check.

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Petty crime is low in Cairo. Violent crime is rare but can occur, including armed robbery, sexual assault, incidents involving minors, carjacking and burglary.

Take extra care if you're a woman and alone. Women may be physically and verbally harassed or assaulted, including when using public transport and walking in public areas.

Ensure children and young people are always accompanied by known or trusted people and not left alone with hotel or entertainment/excursion staff. If you feel uncomfortable, leave the area and seek help from the hotel or local authorities. The Tourist Police can be contacted on 126 or 122 if you're a resident of Egypt.  

Taxi and rideshare drivers have assaulted passengers, including foreigners (See Travel).

To protect yourself from crime:

• don't leave valuables outside a safe in your hotel room or unattended in a public place
• be alert to pickpockets and bag snatchers in tourist areas, particularly after dark
• read reducing the risk of sexual assault before you go

If you're the victim of a crime, report the incident to the tourist police immediately.

If you don't report a crime before you leave, you may not be able to seek prosecution later.

More information:

• Advice for women

Drink spiking

Methanol poisoning

Cyber security

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological, and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas whilst travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk. 

Kidnapping is a risk in Egypt. There is a threat of terrorist kidnappings in North Sinai. Terrorist attacks have occurred frequently in this area and have targeted foreign nationals.

If, despite our advice, you travel to an area with a high risk of kidnapping, our ability to provide consular assistance in these destinations will be limited. 

To reduce the risk of kidnapping:

• always be alert to your personal security and surroundings
• get professional security advice for travel in locations with a heightened kidnap risk
• check your accommodation has appropriate security measures
• avoid isolated locations, particularly when travelling alone
• notify family or friends of planned travel and share your location
• avoid talking about your money or business affairs
• use ATMs in public places and during daylight hours
• avoid giving personal details to strangers online or over the phone

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers. Ransom payments to kidnappers have funded further terrorist attacks and criminal activity. Ransom payments to terrorist groups are likely to contravene Australian counter-terrorism financing laws. 

More information:

• Kidnapping
• Scams that affect travellers
• Reducing the risk of piracy

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes for:

• hot air balloon flights and boat tours
• water sports, such as scuba diving
• adventure activities, including quad biking and kite surfing 

If you plan to do an adventure activity:

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• check tours are well equipped with food, medical supplies and emergency communications
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Safaris and camping

Always use a tour operator when camping, and check with the operator if camping is permitted by local authorities in the areas you plan to camp. 

Authorities have banned safaris and camping in the area near Bahariya Oasis until further notice. This includes the western and southern parts of Oases–Siwa and Oases Road. Camping in the White Desert may also be banned.

Egypt, particularly Cairo, experiences earthquakes. Find out about local safety procedures in case one strikes.

Sand and dust storms occur between March and May.

If a natural disaster occurs, follow the advice of local authorities.

More information:

• Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System.

Infectious diseases

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common, including these listed by the World Health Organization:

• hepatitis
• filariasis
• rabies

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• don't swim in fresh water, including the Nile River, to avoid waterborne diseases, such as bilharzia (schistosomiasis) (World Health Organization)
• avoid contact with dogs and cats

Get urgent medical attention if bitten by an animal.

Ask your doctor about health risks and vaccines before you go.

More information:

• Infectious diseases

Insect-borne diseases

There have been limited dengue outbreaks in recent years.

To protect yourself from insect-borne disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Air pollution

Cairo regularly experiences very high levels of air pollution and dust.

Get medical advice if you suffer from breathing difficulties or a lung condition.

More information:

• IQAir

The standard of medical facilities in Cairo is enough for routine illnesses. Elsewhere, facilities can be very basic. Treatment can also be costly. Many require up-front payment.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you'll need to be evacuated to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive and hard to organise. Ensure you have sufficient travel insurance to cover the costs.

There’s no agreement between Australia and Egypt for free healthcare. Tourists must pay for all medical care, even if they need to stay in hospital or be evacuated. This can be very expensive. Make sure your travel insurance covers you. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

When you travel to another country, you must follow their laws. Even if they seem strict compared to Australia's. Before you go, learn about the local laws in that country.

The Australian Government is limited in how and when we can help if you're arrested overseas. We can't get you out of trouble or out of jail. Understand our limits. Read the Consular Services Charter.

Criticising authority

Authorities may treat public comments that criticise the Egyptian Government, security forces or Islam as illegal. Police have arrested foreigners who published critical social media posts, including 'liking' pages.

Drugs

Possessing illegal drugs can lead to the death penalty, long prison sentences or deportation.

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Family law

Egyptian family law differs significantly from Australian law, particularly in relation to divorce, child custody and support.

Before you become involved in a local legal matter, get legal advice, including for family and business legal matters.

It's important to know your rights and responsibilities under Egyptian law (see Travel).

Marriage laws

If you want to get married in Egypt, check the legal requirements before you travel. You can do this either through the Australian Embassy in Cairo or the Egyptian Embassy in Canberra.

Other laws

In Egypt, it's illegal to:

• have sexual relations outside marriage
• take photos of bridges and canals, including the Suez Canal
• take photos of military personnel, buildings or equipment

The Egyptian Government doesn't interfere with the practice of Christianity, but preaching is illegal. If you're considering preaching in Egypt, seek local legal advice beforehand. Follow the advice of local authorities. 

LGBTQIA+ laws

LGBTQIA+ individuals face significant social stigma and discrimination in Egypt. Egyptian law does not explicitly criminalise same-sex relationships, however, people have been charged with 'committing an indecent act in public and breaching public morality' and penalised with imprisonment. 

LGBTQIA+ people and advocacy groups have reported harassment, intimidation, arrests, and other forms of abuse, including by police. 

There are also reports that authorities have used social media, dating websites, and mobile phone apps to entrap people suspected of being gay or transgender in the act of 'debauchery,' which is a criminal offence that carries severe sentences. 

There is little public acceptance of homosexuality in Egypt.

More information:

• Advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers

Some Australian laws still apply even if you’re in another country. You could be charged in Australia if you break these laws overseas.

More information:

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

If you're an Australian-Egyptian dual national, local authorities will treat you as an Egyptian, even if you travel on an Australian passport.

This limits our consular services if you're arrested or detained.

If possible, always travel on your Australian passport.

Dual nationals living in Egypt for long periods need proof of Egyptian citizenship, such as a national identification card.

Male dual nationals who haven't completed military service usually don't need to enlist. However, they must get an exemption certificate before they can leave Egypt. Get one from the nearest Egyptian embassy, consulate, or Ministry of Defence Draft Office.

If you're arrested, request local authorities inform the Australian Embassy.

More information:

• Dual nationals

Ramadan

The Islamic holy month of Ramadan is observed in Egypt. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws during this time.

Avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public or in front of people who are fasting.

Orthodox Easter is observed by the Christian community, as is Christmas Day, which is celebrated on 7 January in Egypt.

The work week is Sunday to Thursday. Egypt's customs, laws, and regulations follow Islamic practices and beliefs. Exercise common sense and discretion in dress and behaviour.

Dress conservatively. Knee-length or longer dresses and long sleeves are preferable for women, and men should not wear shorts outside tourist areas. Respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities. Overt public displays of intimate affection are frowned upon in Egyptian culture.

If in doubt, seek local advice.

Visas 

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Egypt for the latest details. To pay for a tourist visa on entry, you must have a non-Egyptian credit card or US dollars in cash.  Bring the required amount, as ATMs may not disperse USD or other foreign currency.

More information:

• Egypt Electronic Visa Portal

Border with Israel

The land border crossing between Israel and Egypt (Taba Border Crossing – Menachem Begin Crossing) is currently open, but crossings may close without notice and for an unknown period of time. If you're departing Israel to Egypt, check the latest public information from local authorities in both Israel and Egypt to determine if border crossings are open before travel. 

You'll need to pay for a tourist visa and a land border entry fee for entry to Egypt. For the visa, you must have a non-Egyptian credit card or US dollars in cash. For the land border entry fee (payable in Egyptian Pounds) an ATM is available in the terminal. Plan for possible delays and make sure you have a supply of food, water and medication.

The security situation in the region remains unpredictable and could deteriorate with little or no warning.

Children

Children of Egyptian fathers must have their father's approval to leave Egypt. Authorities may ask for proof of this approval before allowing the children to leave.

Journalist accreditation

Foreign journalists must get accreditation from the Egyptian Press Centre before arrival. You need this if your visit is for work purposes. The Press Centre is part of the Egyptian State Information Service.

Punishments are severe for journalists working without accreditation.

Communications equipment and drones

You need approval to bring satellite phones and radio communications equipment into Egypt.

Apply to Egypt's Ministry of Communications and Information Technology well in advance of your trip. Authorities are likely to confiscate equipment brought in without clearance.

The use of drones, for any purpose, is illegal. Authorities will confiscate drones on arrival.

Pest control

If you arrive in Egypt by road, officials may check your car for pests. Follow the advice of local authorities.

Yellow fever vaccination

You need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Egypt if you arrive from a country where yellow fever is widespread. Some airlines may want to see one when you leave.

Find out about returning to Australia after exposure to yellow fever.

More information:

• Countries where yellow fever is a risk

Validity

Lost or stolen passport

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

The local currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP).

You can take up to EGP 5000 in cash when travelling to or from Egypt.

You must declare all foreign currency amounts over $US 10,000 or equivalent. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

If you're visiting as a tourist, you may need to pay $US or euros for your accommodation. Most well-established hotels and resorts accept card payments. ATMs are available in most established areas.

Consult your financial institution prior to your travel.

More information:

• Embassy or Consulate of Egypt

Consider the security situation and risks to your safety in different locations (see Safety).

Landmines

There are landmines in some areas, notably:

• the desert areas around El Alamein
• stretches of coastline near Marsa Matruh
• the western shore of the Gulf of Suez
• the Sinai Peninsula

Before you go, tell local authorities of your planned travel. Ask them about current risks and precautions for your route and destination. Do not travel off marked paths or roads.

Travel restrictions and disruptions

If you travel around Egypt, you may be stopped at military and civilian checkpoints. Officials at checkpoints have detained and harassed foreigners.

Sinai

Rules apply to people entering the Sinai, including via the Ahmed Hamdi tunnel. When you enter, you must present one of the following:

• a valid form of ID with a Sinai address
• proof of ownership or rental contracts of property in the Sinai
• hard copy evidence of hotel reservations

Travel to the Sinai in a 4WD vehicle may be restricted if you don't hold a valid permit. Check the advice of local authorities before travel. 

Land borders

Egypt's borders are under military control.

The military restricts and, in some cases, bans the movement of civilians and vehicles.

You need permission to cross borders on the main sealed roads, including at the borders with Libya, Sudan, Israel and parts of the Sinai. Get permission from the Travel Permits Department of the Egyptian Ministry of the Interior.

Gaza (Palestine)

If, despite our advice, you plan to cross from Egypt into Gaza (Palestine):

• read our advice on Israel and Palestine
• check border crossing requirements with your nearest Egyptian embassy or the Ministry of the Interior in Cairo

You must get permission from Egyptian authorities to enter and exit Gaza using the Rafah border crossing.

If you enter Gaza through this border, you must leave the same way.

You may be delayed in Gaza for a long time, possibly weeks while waiting for approval to return.

The Australian Government can't influence the granting of approval or when the crossing will open. Our ability to provide consular help in Gaza is extremely limited.

Other borders

Road travel to Abu Simbel, 40km north of the Sudanese border, can be dangerous. If you do go, only travel with an organised tour guarded by police escorts.

There's a high threat of terrorist attacks within 40km of Egypt's border with Libya. Deadly attacks have occurred in the area.

Driving permit

You can't drive in Egypt on your Australian driver's licence.

Before arriving in Egypt, get an international driver's permit and get an embassy or consulate of Egypt to certify it.

Road travel

Road travel can be dangerous. 

Road conditions are very poor. Cars, buses and trucks frequently drive at high speed and without headlights at night.

Road accidents occur often.

Where possible, avoid travelling by road. Visit regional places, including Luxor, by other means.

More information:

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Take extra care if you plan to ride a motorbike. Be alert to the different road conditions.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis and Rideshare

Cairo and Alexandria have a lot of taxis. Rideshare services are available in Cairo and Alexandria.

In Cairo, taxis are white. In Alexandria, taxis are black and yellow.

All taxis should have a meter. The law requires drivers to use their meters. However, many taxi drivers will claim that the meter is broken and try to negotiate a fare.

Taxis rarely have seatbelts, especially in the back seats. 

Sexual harassment of women by taxi drivers is common.

Avoid taxis, especially if you're a woman and on your own. Ride share apps may be safer as you can track your driver's details and share the trip details with others.

If you use a taxi, travel with people you know or advise others of your planned travel and destination.

Public transport 

The Cairo Metro subway system is generally reliable.

Maintenance and safety standards of other public road and rail transport are very poor.

More information:

• Transport and getting around safely

Rail travel

Train travel is generally safe, but accidents do occur.

In August 2025, a passenger train traveling from Matrouh Governorate to Cairo derailed, killing 3 people and injuring 94 others.

Sea travel

Piracy and armed robbery are risks in the southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.

All forms of shipping are attractive targets for pirates. This includes commercial vessels, pleasure craft and luxury cruise liners.

The International Maritime Bureau issues piracy reports.

If you plan to travel by boat, be highly alert and cautious in the southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.

Scuba diving / aquatic activities

Sharks and other potentially dangerous aquatic animals are in Egyptian waters. Certain beaches and dive areas may be subject to temporary closures. Exercise caution and seek advice from local authorities. Ensure you dive with reputable and licensed operators.

Air travel

DFAT doesn’t give advice about how safe different airlines or flight paths are.

Safety risks and weather events may cause flight delays and cancellations. Contact your travel agent or airline to confirm your plans.

Check Egypt's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Fire and rescue services

Call 180 or 123.

Medical emergencies

Call 123.

Police

Call 122, 123 or contact the local police.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

The Australian Government aims to provide high quality consular assistance. There are limits to what we can do. Read the Consular Services Charter to understand how we can assist you overseas.

For consular help, contact:

Australian Embassy, Cairo

11th floor, World Trade Centre
1191 Corniche el Nil
Boulaq, Cairo, Egypt

Phone: +20 2 2770 6600
Email: cairo.austremb@dfat.gov.au
Website: egypt.embassy.gov.au
Facebook: Australia in Egypt
X: @AusAmbEGY

The Australian Embassy in Cairo operates on Sunday – Thursday.

The security situation may affect Embassy opening hours. 

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia