Egypt

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

• religious sites and communities
• tourist locations

Terrorist groups have targeted Christians in recent years. They target Christians and their places of worship.

Take particular care:

• during major religious periods
• at holiday festivals
• at religious observances
• at religious sites

In recent years, terrorists have attacked several popular tourist locations. People have been killed or injured.

Most tourist sites and places of worship have a strong security presence.

On 4 August 2019, at least 20 people were killed by a car bomb in central Cairo.

In May 2019 and December 2018, bomb attacks on tour buses near the Giza pyramids killed and injured foreign tourists and a local tour guide.

From October to December 2017:

• a gunman shot dead nine people at a Coptic Church and shop in Helwan province, south of Cairo
• more than 300 people died in an attack on a mosque in North Sinai

From April to July 2017:

• 6 foreign tourists were stabbed at a Red Sea resort in Hurghada, resulting in 2 deaths
• a gunmen attacked a bus carrying Coptic Christians in Minya
• explosions occurred in Mar Guirgis (St George's) Church in Tanta and outside Morkoseya (St Mark's) Church in Alexandria

More attacks are likely.

Terrorists have set off small explosions in Cairo and throughout Egypt. People have been killed and injured, including bystanders. The attacks usually target security forces at:

• government buildings
• police facilities and checkpoints
• metro stations and trains
• universities

Possible targets for future attacks include:

• embassies and polling places
• hotels, holiday resorts, clubs, restaurants and bars
• banks, markets, shopping centres, supermarkets, cinemas and theatres
• schools and places of worship
• public transport, shipping ports and other infrastructure
• outdoor recreation events, commercial, public and tourist areas

The greatest terrorist threat is on the northern Sinai Province, where militant groups operate with more freedom. However, terrorists are active in other parts of Sinai and mainland Egypt, including Cairo.

Cooperate fully with security officials at airports and observe any additional security measures.

Sinai Province of the Islamic State and other extremist groups have made threats using social media and online statements. Their threats target Western nationals, institutions, and businesses in Egypt.

To reduce your risk of being a victim of terrorism, be alert to possible threats, especially:

• at tourist locations, religious sites, and crowded public places
• near police checkpoints and government buildings

To protect yourself 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 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. Continue to avoid the area in case of secondary attacks.

South Sinai

Attacks in South Sinai have included suicide bombings. Terrorists have also kidnapped foreign nationals.

Many bombings directly targeted tourists and their transport.

If you travel to South Sinai:

• avoid road travel outside of Sharm el Sheikh
• allow extra time to clear airport security
• contact your airline or travel agent for concerns about the security or safety of aircraft servicing Sharm el Sheikh
• have contingency plans and personal security measures in place

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. Don't 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.

In North Sinai:

• people are killed each week in terrorist and Egyptian military operations
• terrorist attacks occur frequently
• many personnel from Egyptian security forces have died
• a dusk-to-dawn curfew is in place from 7pm to 6am

The border crossing to Gaza at Rafah is closed most of the time. It's only open for short periods on an irregular basis. See Travel

There's a high risk of kidnapping in North Sinai.

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

• seek professional security advice
• arrange contingency plans and personal security measures

More information:

• Terrorism

Kidnapping

Kidnapping is a risk for travellers.

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

More information:

• Kidnapping

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. This includes Cairo, Alexandria, Suez, Port Said and Ismailia.

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. But 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

Violent crime

Violent crime is rare but can occur. This includes armed robbery, carjacking, sexual assault and burglary.

Petty crime remains low in Cairo.

Take extra care if you're a women and alone. Women may be physically and verbally harassed or assaulted. This includes when using taxis and walking in public areas.

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 crime, report the incident to the tourist police straight away.

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

More information:

• Advice for women

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards.

One death and 12 injuries occurred when a hot air balloon crashed near Luxor in 2017. A similar incident in Luxor in 2016 injured 22 tourists. In 2013, 19 deaths occurred in a hot air balloon accident in the same area.

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

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.

It doesn't include the White Desert in Farafra. But restrictions applying to Bahriya Oasis may disrupt access.

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.

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

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. Consider whether you may be in a vulnerable category for COVID-19.

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)
• COVID-19 (Department of Health and Aged Care)

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 medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• how much you'll take
• that it's for personal use

More information:

• Medication

COVID-19

COVID-19 remains a risk in Egypt.

For information on Egypt's COVID-19 vaccination program, refer to the Ministry of Health website. You should consult your local health professional for advice on vaccine options, including assistance that may be available locally. The Australian Government cannot provide advice on the safety, quality and efficacy of vaccines that have been approved for use outside of Australia's regulatory process.

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 a mammal.

More information:

• Infectious diseases

Insect-borne diseases

In 2017, cases of dengue (Department of Health and Aged Care) were reported in Aswan and Hurghada.

There's a risk of malaria (World Health Organization) in El Faiyum Governorate from June through to October.

To protect yourself from disease:

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

Air pollution

Cairo can have high levels of pollution and dust.

If you suffer from breathing difficulties or a lung condition, get medical advice.

More information:

• Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency Air Quality Forecast

Medical facilities

The standard of medical facilities in Cairo is enough for normal 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 be evacuated to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive and hard to organise.

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.

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 from Australian law. This is particularly true in relation to divorce, child custody and support.

Before you become involved in a local legal matter, get legal advice. This includes 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. 

LGBTI laws

Same-sex relationships are not widely accepted.

Officials may detain and prosecute LGBTI persons under debauchery laws.

People have reported scams and fraud via dating apps and social media.

More information:

• Advice for LGBTI travellers

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

More information:

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

If you're an Australian-Egyptian dual national, you'll be treated as an Egyptian by local authorities, even if you travel on an Australian passport.

This limits the consular services we can give if you're arrested or detained.

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 done military service usually don't need to enlist. But they must get an exemption certificate before they can leave Egypt. Get one from the nearest Egyptian embassy or consulate or through the Ministry of Defence Draft Office.

More information:

• Dual nationals

Ramadan

The Islamic holiday 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.

Standards of dress and behaviour are conservative in Egypt, particularly for women. Wear modest clothes that cover your legs and upper arms. Take care not to offend.

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. 

Border measures

Check with your travel provider for the latest information and monitor the travel advice of the country you are planning to transit in. There are no direct flights to Australia, but some airlines fly to destinations where you can do onwards travel to Australia.

Egypt has lifted its COVID-19 restrictions across the country; however other measures may be introduced. Regularly check the advice of local authorities. 

In 2017, the UK government announced new restrictions on carrying electronic devices. These apply to passengers travelling from or through Egypt to the UK.

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.

Technology

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:

• Countries where yellow fever is a risk

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.

The local currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP).

When travelling to or from Egypt, you can take up to EGP 5000 in cash with you.

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 for your accommodation in $US or euros. Most well established hotels and resorts accept card payment. ATMs are available in most established areas.

Consult your financial institution.

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 Mersa 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.

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 do not 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 off the main sealed roads. This includes at 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 attack within 50km of Egypt's border with Libya. Deadly attacks have recently 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 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

Cairo and Alexandria have a lot of taxis.

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.

Not all taxis have seatbelts, especially in the back seats. Ride-sharing services are common in Egypt.

Sexual harassment of women by taxi drivers is common.

Avoid taxis, especially if you're a woman and on your own.

If you use a taxi, travel with people you know.

Public transport

The Cairo Metro subway system is generally reliable.

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

More information:

• Transport and getting around safely

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.

Air travel

EgyptAir Flight MS804 from Paris to Cairo crashed into the Mediterranean in May 2016. The cause of the plane crash remains unknown. Investigations continue.

In March 2016, a man wearing a fake bomb-vest hijacked EgyptAir Flight MS181, a domestic flight between Alexandria and Cairo. All on board were later released without harm. The incident wasn't politically motivated.

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:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, contact your:

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

Fire and rescue services

Call 180.

Medical emergencies

Call 123.

Police

Call 122 or contact the local police.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Contact your provider with any complaints about tourist services or products.

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
Twitter: @AusAmbEGY

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