Advice levels
What does this mean?Exercise a high degree of caution in Egypt overall due to the threat of terrorism.
See Safety
Do not travel If you're already in this location, you should consider leaving if it’s safe to do so. If you do travel, get professional security advice. Your travel insurance policy might be void. The Australian Government may not be able to help you.Do not travel
Do not travel to:
- within 40km of Egypt's border with Libya due to the high threat of terrorist attack
- the Governorate of North Sinai, including the Taba-Suez Road due to the high threat of terrorist attack and violent crime.
See Safety
Reconsider your need to travel Avoid non-essential travel. Do your research and check that your insurer will cover you. If you do travel, take extra precautions to protect yourself from security and health risks.Reconsider your need to travel
Reconsider your need to travel to the following locations due to the threat of terrorism:
- North of the St Catherine-Nuweiba Road in South Sinai except for the coast
- the Ismailiyah Governorate east of the Suez Canal
- West of the Nile Valley and Nile Delta regions except for the areas listed under ‘Exercise a high degree of caution’
- the Haila’ib Triangle and Bir Tawil Trapezoid and within 20km of the border with Sudan.
See Safety
Overview
Safety
- Conflicts in the Middle East could result in an increase in tensions elsewhere in the region and may result in airspace closures, flight cancellations and other travel disruptions.
- Demonstrations and protest activity may also occur, and local security situations could deteriorate with little notice. Avoid all demonstrations and protests.
- There's a high threat of terrorist attacks and violent crime in the Governorate of North Sinai.
- The Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt may be closed or have highly restricted access which is subject to change at short notice. It has been subject to air strikes during the current conflict.
- Terrorists have attacked popular tourist locations, resulting in deaths and injuries. More attacks are likely. Be alert to possible threats.
- Terrorist groups in Egypt have targeted Christians in the past. Take care, particularly during major religious periods and at religious sites.
- You're at risk of kidnapping in Egypt. Take extra precautions.
- Violent crime can happen. Take extra care if you're a woman and alone. Don't leave valuables unsecured in your hotel room or unattended in a public place.
- Women, particularly foreigners, are frequently subject to unwelcome male attention.
Full travel advice: Safety
Health
- Infectious diseases are common. These include hepatitis, filariasis and rabies. Only drink boiled or bottled water. Avoid contact with dogs and cats.
- Don't swim in fresh water, including the Nile River, to avoid waterborne diseases such as bilharzia (schistosomiasis).
- Dengue and malaria are present. Use insect repellent and make sure your accommodation is insect-proof.
- Cairo can have very high levels of pollution and dust. If you suffer from breathing difficulties or a lung condition, seek medical advice before travel.
Full travel advice: Health
Local laws
- Making public comments that criticise the Egyptian government, security forces, or Islam can be illegal. Police have arrested foreign visitors who posted critical social media.
- There are severe consequences for carrying illegal drugs, including the death penalty, long prison sentences or deportation.
- You need approval to bring satellite phones and radio communications equipment into Egypt. Apply to the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology before you leave. The use of drones is illegal.
- Egyptian family law differs significantly from Australian law. Before you become involved in a local legal matter, get legal advice, including on family and business legal matters.
- Although same-sex relationships are not explicitly criminalised in Egypt, the charge of 'debauchery' has been used to prosecute LGBTQIA+ people. There is little public acceptance of homosexuality in Egypt. Avoid any public displays of affection.
- Sex outside of marriage is illegal. Dress standards are very conservative, particularly for women. Wear modest clothes that cover your legs and upper arms.
Full travel advice: Local laws
Travel
- Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Egypt for the latest details.
- Foreign journalists need accreditation from the Egyptian Press Centre before arrival. There are severe punishments for journalists working without accreditation.
- There are landmines in some coastal and desert areas. Get advice from local authorities before you travel and do not travel off marked paths or roads. See Landmines in Egypt for further information.
- Australian-Egyptian dual nationals are treated as Egyptian. This will limit your access to consular assistance. Always travel on your Australian passport if possible. This doesn't mean you will receive special treatment in terms of local law.
Full travel advice: Travel
Local contacts
- The Consular Services Charter tells you what the Australian government can and can't do to help when you're overseas.
- For consular help, contact the Australian Embassy in Cairo.
- To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy’s social media accounts.
Full travel advice: Local contacts
Full advice
Safety
Terrorism
Although the greatest terrorist threat is in North Sinai, terrorist attacks could occur anywhere in Egypt. Potential targets include:
- religious sites
- tourist locations
The last major attacks occurred in 2019, but more attacks could happen at any time without warning.
To reduce your risks from terrorism:
- 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 an attack, leave the affected area as soon as it's safe to. Continue to avoid the area in case of secondary attacks.
Terrorism is a threat worldwide.
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.
North Sinai is under a long-term state of emergency.
The Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt may be closed or have highly restricted access for long periods and is subject to change at short notice. It has been subject to air strikes during the current conflict.
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:
Security Situation
Conflicts in the Middle East could result in an increase in tensions elsewhere in the region and the security situation could deteriorate with little notice. Avoid all demonstrations and protests. Peaceful protests and rallies can turn violent at short notice. Be aware, follow the advice of local authorities and monitor local media for updates.
There's a high threat of terrorist attacks and violent crime in the Governorate of North Sinai.
The Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt may be closed or have highly restricted access for long periods and is subject to change at short notice. It has been subject to air strikes during the current conflict.
In October 2023, suspected drones and projectiles 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. Monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities.
Civil unrest and political tension
The security situation in the region remains unpredictable and could deteriorate with little or no warning.
Be alert and monitor local media for updates.
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. Serious sexual assaults on women, including foreigners, have occurred during demonstrations.
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:
Crime
Violent crime
Violent crime is rare but can occur, including armed robbery, sexual assault, incidents involving minors, carjacking and burglary.
Petty crime remains low in Cairo, although the declining economy and ensuing financial hardship have seen reports of increased crime.
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 violent 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:
Drink spiking can happen anywhere. Be alert to the potential risks, and don't leave food or drinks unattended. Pay attention when your drinks are being mixed. Stick to reputable venues and avoid homemade alcoholic drinks due to the risk of methanol poisoning. Get urgent medical help if you suspect you’ve been a victim.
More information:
Cyber security
You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.
Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.
More information:
Kidnapping
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. Terrorists have targeted foreign nationals. There is a high threat of terrorist kidnappings in South and North Sinai. Terrorist attacks occur frequently in these areas.
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:
Tours and adventure activities
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.
Climate and natural disasters
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.
Find out about emerging natural disasters from the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System.
Health
Travel insurance
Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave.
Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.
If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.
If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.
Confirm:
- what activities and care your policy covers
- that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away
Physical and mental health
Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.
See your doctor or travel clinic to:
- have a basic health check-up
- ask if your travel plans may affect your health
- plan any vaccinations you need
Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.
If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.
More information:
- General health advice
- Healthy holiday tips (Healthdirect Australia)
Medication
Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.
If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Egypt. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.
Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:
- what the medication is
- your required dosage
- that it's for personal use
More information:
Health risks
Infectious diseases
Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common, including these listed by the World Health Organization:
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.
More information:
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
Medical care
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.
Local laws
Local law
You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.
If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.
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:
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:
Australian laws
Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.
More information:
Dual citizenship
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:
Local customs
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.
Travel
Visas and border measures
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.
Check with your travel provider for the latest information and monitor the travel advice of the country you're planning to transit through. There are no direct flights to Australia, but there are flights via a transit hub to Australia.
More information:
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.
Other formalities
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.
More information:
Passport
Validity
Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.
Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.
You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.
The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.
Lost or stolen passport
Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.
Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.
If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:
- In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service.
- If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.
Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier
Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.
More information:
Money
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:
Local travel
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.
More information:
- Landmines in Egypt (Government of Egypt)
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 Strip
If, despite our advice, you plan to cross from Egypt into the Gaza strip:
- read our advice on Israel, the Gaza Strip and the West Bank
- 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 the Gaza Strip using the Rafah border crossing.
If you enter the Gaza Strip through this border, you must leave the same way.
You may be delayed in the Gaza Strip 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 on an organised tour guarded by police escorts.
There's a high threat of terrorist attacks within 50km 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:
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:
Rail travel
Train travel is generally safe, but accidents do occur.
In March and April 2021, two train accidents occurred in North and South Egypt. The accidents caused many deaths and injuries.
There have been a number of train derailments on the Cairo-Aswan line. Several people were injured when a train derailed between Aswan and Luxor in 2016.
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 provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.
Check Egypt's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.
More information:
Local contacts
Emergencies
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.
Consular contacts
Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
For consular help, contact:
Australian Embassy, Cairo
11th floor, World Trade Centre
1191 Corniche el Nil
Boulac, Cairo, Egypt
Phone: +20 2 2770 6600
Fax: +20 2 2770 6650
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