travel to egypt uk

Is it safe to travel to Egypt? Travel advice from the UK explained

By Olivia Morelli

In light of the ongoing conflict between Israel, Hamas and Iran, there are concerns about the safety of travellers visiting nearby regions. Below, find everything you need to know about the UK advice for visiting Egypt, including the latest update from FCDO.

What does the FCDO say about travel to Egypt?

The UK Foreign Office has updated their advice on travel to Egypt following military activity and explosions in Iran, Syria and Iraq. While it doesn’t explicitly advise against travel to Egypt as a whole, it does advise caution and notes ongoing unrest in the country: “In response to events in Israel and the OPTs, a number of demonstrations have taken place in Egypt and protests have been planned, including after Friday prayers. Demonstrations could take place at short notice, with a heavy security presence in place. You should avoid large gatherings, demonstrations and protests,” says the gov.uk website .

The FCDO website also highlights the following areas as places to avoid travelling to, and reminds travellers that “travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice. Consular support is also severely limited where FCDO advises against travel”. For the full advice, check gov.uk .

• Within 20km of the Egypt-Libya border
• North Sinai
• Northern part of South Sinai
• The eastern part of Ismailiyah Governorate
• Hala’ib Triangle and Bir Tawil Trapezoid
• Western Desert (the area west of the Nile Valley and Nile Delta regions, with some exceptions)

Always check FCDO Egypt page for the latest advice, as the situation is changing rapidly.

Are flights still operating to Egypt?

At the time of publishing, flights are still continuing to run between the UK and Egypt. Typically for UK airlines, the flight path crosses over Italy, other parts of Europe and across the Mediterranean before reaching Egypt (instead of crossing over any Middle Eastern territories).

Can I cancel my holiday to Egypt?

Holidays to Egypt are operating as usual and the FCDO is not advising against all travel to the country, so cancellations might be tricky. But as the situation is continuously developing, we would advise talking to your holiday provider, airline and hotel to discuss options for postponing the trip. If the advice changes and advises against all travel to Egypt, it is likely that you would be able to cancel and get a refund without penalty.

Accessibility Links

Is it safe to travel to Egypt right now? 2024 travel advice

This is the latest foreign office advice following iran’s military action against israel and the introduction of egypt’s buffer zone on the border with gaza.

G iven the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, travellers may be worried about whether it’s safe to visit other countries in the region — especially following reports of strikes by Israel on Iran. On April 19, Israel reportedly launched a retaliatory attack on Iran , in response to missile and drone attacks on Israel on April 13. The UK Foreign Office has not updated its advice, but rather cautions tourists that the situation is “changing fast” and to monitor its advice pages.

Iran’s military attack on Israel on April 13. In Egypt, the main tourist resorts — Cairo, Nile cruise stops including Luxor and Aswan, and the Red Sea resorts of Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh — are all still considered safe to travel to by the UK government. However, there are several regions along its borders where the Foreign Office currently advises against travelling to. This includes the border with Gaza at Rafah, where Egypt has built a buffer zone in anticipation of Israel’s ground offensive against Hamas in Rafah.

More generally, you should stay vigilant for things like petty crime, and avoid protests and demonstrations. The Foreign Office also states that it is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check that it provides sufficient cover before travelling. Here’s what you need to know.

What’s the latest government advice about travelling to Egypt?

There are no travel advisories in place for popular tourist spots in Egypt such as Cairo, cities along the Nile including Luxor and Aswan, and resorts by the Red Sea such as Sharm el-Sheikh and Hurghada.

However, the Foreign Office currently advises against all travel to the Governorate of North Sinai, which includes the crossing at Rafah, and within 20km of the Egyptian/Libyan border (excluding El Salloum, where it advises against all but essential travel).

Advertisement

It also advises against all but essential travel to the following areas:

• The northern part of the Governorate of South Sinai beyond the St Catherine-Nuweiba road, except for the coastal areas along the west and east of the peninsula • The eastern part of Ismailiyah Governorate east of the Suez canal • The area west of the Nile Valley and Nile Delta regions, excluding Luxor, Qina, Aswan, Abu Simbel and the Valley of the Kings, the Governorate of Faiyum, the coastal areas between the Nile Delta and Marsa Matruh, the Marsa Matruh-Siwa Road, the oasis town of Siwa, the Giza Governorate north-east of the Bahariya Oasis, the road between Giza and Farafra (except the road between Bahariya and Siwa where all but essential travel applies), Bahariya Oasis, Farafra, and the White Desert and Black Desert • The Hala’ib Triangle and Bir Tawil Trapezoid

Following US and UK strikes on Houthi bases in Yemen in January and February 2024, the Foreign Office said: “Military activity is currently under way in response to attempts by Houthi militants to prevent movement of international shipping in the Red Sea. While the area of activity is limited to the Red Sea and Yemen, there is a possibility that travel advice for nearby countries could change at short notice. You should continue to monitor travel advice and follow any relevant instructions from local authorities.”

This advice is still current. In addition, terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Egypt, according to the Foreign Office, and targets could include destinations popular with tourists. Most attacks are in the North Sinai region, but they may take place in other parts of the country too.

The risk is heightened during public holidays and festivals, such as Christmas and Ramadan, and is particularly high around religious sites, large public gatherings and places frequented by foreigners. Stay vigilant and carry your photo ID with you at all times.

Has Egypt been affected by the Israel-Hamas conflict?

Broadly, the Foreign Office warns that the border between Israel and Egypt (Taba) could close at short notice. Visitors should check with local authorities before trying to cross. It also warns that since fighting broke out in southern Israel and Gaza, demonstrations (often at short notice) have taken place. Tourists should be vigilant and avoid large gatherings and protests.

On October 27, 2023, an official confirmed that a drone fell near a medical facility in the Red Sea resort of Taba, near the Israeli border, injuring six people. Authorities are investigating.

Separately, two Israeli tourists and their local guide died after a police officer opened fire on a group of Israeli tourists in Alexandria on October 8, 2023, according to reports by the Israeli foreign ministry. This has not been confirmed by Egyptian authorities.

• Is it safe to travel to Israel right now? • Is it safe to travel to Turkey right now? • Is it safe to travel to Dubai right now? • Is it safe to travel to Cyprus right now? • Is it safe to travel to Morocco right now?

Is Cairo safe?

Yes, Cairo is considered safe to visit by the Foreign Office and this advice has not changed since the US and UK joint strikes on Houthi bases in Yemen in January and February 2024. The same general travel advice that applies to other parts of the country also applies to Cairo.

However, it’s a big and busy city so it’s still worth staying vigilant for petty crime. Female travellers should also take care — as in other parts of the country, harassment and sexual assault can and do happen.

Is it safe to travel to Sharm el-Sheikh?

Sharm el-Sheikh reopened to British tourists in October 2019, four years after a bomb exploded on a Russian plane carrying 224 tourists and crew. Security measures were increased at the Red Sea resort: x-ray scanners in hotels; security walls; and high perimeter fences around the airport were installed.

The area of Sharm el-Sheikh is now deemed safe to travel to by the Foreign Office. This advice has not changed since the US and UK launched joint strikes on Houthi bases in Yemen at the beginning of 2024.

Is it safe to travel to Hurghada?

Hurghada, a popular Red Sea resort, is also deemed safe to travel to by the Foreign Office. Again, travel advice has not been amended for the resort following the strikes on the Houthi bases in Yemen.

• Best hotels in Hurghada • Best things to do in Hurghada

Can you drink alcohol in Egypt?

Egypt is an Islamic country. While attitudes are more relaxed in tourist resorts, customs can be very different elsewhere and more strict during Ramadan. Public drinking, for example, can lead to arrest — alcohol is only permitted in a licensed restaurant or bar.

Possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs can lead to long prison sentences or even the death penalty. Visitors should be aware that what is legal in the UK may not be legal in Egypt. In 2017, for example, a British woman was jailed for three years for taking painkillers into the country. Tramadol, an opioid painkiller, is a prescription drug in the UK but is illegal in Egypt.

What about taking photos in Egypt?

Be aware of what you’re photographing. Taking pictures of military installations (strictly prohibited), embassies, government buildings, churches and even infrastructure such as train stations can lead to arrest. If you want to photograph any Egyptian citizens, you must have written permission from them; photographing children is not permitted.

Taking or sharing photographs that are perceived to be damaging to the country’s image is also forbidden. Similarly, making strongly negative comments about Egypt or its politics, including on social media, can lead to you being detained.

• Best all-inclusive hotels in Egypt

What are Egypt’s entry restrictions?

For entry into Egypt, you’ll need at least six months of validity on your passport. You’ll also need to apply for a tourist visa to visit most of the country. These can be obtained online before you travel or on arrival at dedicated desks inside the airport. This is valid for up to three months.

If you’re travelling to the resorts of Sharm el-Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba or Taba, you can get a free entry permission stamp upon arrival for stays of up to 15 days. You’ll have to get a visa if you want to stay longer or visit other places.

Do I need vaccines for Sharm el-Sheikh?

There are no essential vaccine requirements for visiting Egypt. However, the NHS suggests that it’s advisable to have polio and tetanus jabs. You may also want to consider hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies and typhoid.

General safety advice for travelling in Egypt

In terms of safety on the ground, it pays to be vigilant. Protests take place frequently and foreigners taking part in political activities in the country could be detained or subjected to other measures.

The Foreign Office says: “If you become aware of any nearby protests, marches or demonstrations, you should move away from the immediate area as the atmosphere could change quickly and without warning. Police have previously used water cannons, tear gas, birdshot and live ammunition for crowd control.”

At popular tourist spots, visitors can be harassed for money or to buy things. There’s also a risk of theft and mugging, even in taxis. Travelling as part of an escorted tour can help reduce the risks. If you are a victim of crime, you should contact the local tourist police who can help you make a report.

Public displays of affection can also be frowned upon.

Is Egypt safe for female travellers?

In general, yes, it is safe for female travellers. However, there have been reported incidents of sexual assault and harassment in the country, including some affecting minors. Most of the reported incidents have taken place in the Red Sea region and, according to the Foreign Office, are often committed by someone the victim had already met, including hotel workers and excursion staff.

The Foreign Office advises: “Female travellers should exercise caution when travelling alone, particularly at night, in buses, taxis and microbuses. If you are travelling on public transport including microbuses, avoid being the last passenger left on board.”

• What can women do to stay safe while abroad?

Is Egypt safe for LGBT travellers?

It can be problematic for LGBT travellers. While homosexuality is not technically illegal in Egypt, according to the Foreign Office, the charges of “debauchery” and “sexual deviance” have been used to prosecute LGBT people in the past. Sixty-six people were arrested in 2017 on debauchery charges after waving a rainbow flag at a concert in Cairo, for example. Again, attitudes are more relaxed in tourist areas but public displays of affection are likely to cause issues.

• Is it safe to go diving in the Red Sea? • Best hotels in Egypt

Sign up for the Times Travel Newsletter here

Related articles

14 things to know to help you plan the perfect trip to Egypt

Aug 18, 2023 • 9 min read

Plan the perfect trip to Egypt with these essential tips on etiquette, health and safety © Grant Faint / Getty Images

Egypt’s  rich history reverberates through its modern-day culture. There’s plenty to do that will engage all your senses, from majestic ancient sights to lively streets rife with aromatic foods, and the vibrant and eclectic nightlife.

To fully indulge in all the excitement, there are some things you should consider, including the country’s cultural traditions. But worry not: this guide to planning and packing along with tips on health, safety and etiquette will have you ready for the a fantastic experience in Egypt.

1. Consider getting your visa in advance

Bags in one hand and paperwork in the other is all many travelers need to get on a plane and fly to Egypt. If you’re eligible , you can get a renewable single-entry tourist visa on arrival for USD$25, valid for 30 days. However, if you’re missing any documents or if there’s a problem processing your visa on arrival, you may be denied entry.

If you prefer a multiple-entry visa or want to avoid lines at the airport, you can apply for an e-Visa through the official government portal before travel to avoid any entry issues or delays.

2. Prepare a rough itinerary

There’s so much more to Egypt than the pyramids, and planning ahead will help you avoid a logistical nightmare. Plan your days by area (especially in major cities where traffic is both intense and unpredictable) so it’s easier to move around between locations.

If you’re a beach lover , there are plenty of destinations on the North Coast or Naama Bay for diving or snorkeling trips. If you’re an avid explorer and prefer something off the beaten track , Egypt’s lesser-known gems – like the stunning Siwa Oasis  – are absolutely worth the adventure.

Egypt truly caters to every kind of traveler, and the best way to create a personalized experience is to focus on what’s important to you and plan accordingly.

3. Learn some basic Arabic phrases

Whipping out Google Translate for quick questions about directions can be helpful, but organic responses to basic niceties will prove useful. 

Most Egyptians are eager to help when asked, but you might need to tie up a few odds and ends in Arabic with unilingual locals. They also come in handy if you need to fend off hustlers or persistent merchants. Learning a few words and phrases like “ al salam alaykom ” (hello), “ shukran ” (thank you), “ aywa ” (yes), “ la’a ” (no), and “ ma’ al-salama ” (goodbye) will go a long way.

4. Don’t underestimate Egypt’s weather – both hot and cold 

Sunscreen is key if you don’t want to spend the better half of your vacation huddled up with ice packs. This is especially true if you’re visiting during the summer, but holds up throughout the year.

July is the hottest month, with temperatures ranging anywhere from 34.7°C (94.5°F) to a scorching 43.3°C (109.9°F). Yet, despite its year-round sunny skies, Egypt’s overall desert climate makes winters especially cold – the kind of cold that creeps beneath your clothes and gives you chills right down to your bones.

It doesn’t help that the poorly insulated buildings barely keep the freezing weather at bay, so you have to talk yourself into going outside because it’s warmer outdoors than it is indoors. Temperatures drop as low as 10°C (50°F) at times, so if you’re visiting between October and March , make sure to pack some warm clothes along with your sunscreen. 

5. Pack for the heat, but keep it conservative

Egypt is known for its cotton, and what better place to wear cotton than here. Pack airy breathable clothes, and break out all the pastels and bright colors in your closet. Most people in major cities dress casually and embrace comfort over fashion. But remember that Egypt is a country with primarily conservative locals.

You can’t go wrong with loose clothing, and exposing too much skin is generally frowned upon. Men can sport tank tops if they’re comfortable with a few extra stares, but short shorts are not advisable, and women should avoid low-cut tops, short shorts/skirts or revealing dresses.

Beach destinations bend these unspoken rules, however, and locals are accommodating to visitors, so if you're heading for the beach, you don't need to leave all your shorts and sundresses behind.

6. Keep transportation in mind when booking accommodation

While booking your lodgings, look into modes of transportation in the surrounding area. If you’re planning a short time in your destination, opt for lodgings central to the sights on your itinerary or close to a metro station so you don’t waste too much time stuck in traffic. If you’ve got more time, you can opt for something a little less central, but remember that you could spend a chunk of your time traveling. 

Cairo and Giza are mostly accessible using the metro system, and if you’re a female traveler we recommend you seek out the carriages reserved for women.

Some destinations will require further planning, and white taxis and Uber rides are your best bet. If you opt for a white taxi, always make sure the meter’s running before you hop in, and hail it a few meters away from your hotel for a cheaper ride. Avoid taxis that don’t use meters and aren’t very tourist-friendly. Long-distance buses and domestic flights are an option too, depending on your budget.

7. Be mindful of your etiquette at religious and historic sites

It’s important to not just dress appropriately but to also be mindful of local etiquette especially at certain sights.

Visiting a mosque? Take off your shoes before entering and, if you’re female, cover your head. 

At a historic site? Don’t touch the antiquities and always use cameras without the flash.

On the beach? Yes you can sport your best swimsuit and relax, but like every place in the world, there’s always a code of conduct. Be observant and if in doubt, do what the locals do.

Local tip: Photography is encouraged at tourist sites, but don’t photograph people without their consent, and don't take photos where it is explicitly prohibited.

8. Avoid public displays of affection

We’ve established that Egypt leans toward conservative, and this extends to public displays of affection. While holding hands with your partner won’t garner much attention, limit your public physical interactions to what would be considered mild and proper. 

Platonic kisses on the cheek are a common greeting between friends in Egypt but, depending on your surroundings, should be limited to members of the same sex.

9. Bring small bills and be prepared to tip

Tipping in Egypt is still standard practice, especially in the service industry. Tips, or baksheesh , can range from 5 EGP (<$0.50) to 100 EGP ($5.50), depending on who you are paying and where.

Egypt is largely cash-oriented, so pick up both large and small bills when you’re exchanging currency to make payments and tipping easier.

Restaurants and cafes are easier to figure out, with 10-15% of the bill being customary, and loose change is the norm for food purchases from street vendors. Higher tips are usually reserved for people who provide you with long-term services, such as drivers and tour guides. While you’re not required to tip delivery services, taxis, and ride-hailing apps, you can round up the bill if you’ve had a satisfying experience. 

10. Haggling for souvenirs is part of the experience

From papyrus papers and traditional souvenirs to carefully crafted silverware and hand-painted ceramics, markets in Egypt are a treasure trove. But if you feel like something is overpriced, don’t shy away from haggling.

While vendors aren’t particularly fond of the back-and-forth, it’s all part of the experience and no matter what you pay in the end you can convince yourself it was a great deal.

Don’t attempt to haggle in bigger shops in or outside tourist attractions, and if there’s an official price posted on the product, it’s usually non-negotiable.

Pro tip: Keep your eyes and ears open and gauge the price range of similar items in nearby stores so you can tell if you’re being overcharged. Haggling is mainly confined to souvenir spots, souks (markets) and less formal selling areas. 

11. Don't drink the tap water and beware of food carts

To dodge any stomach bugs that might ruin your Egyptian adventure, avoid drinking tap water unless it’s filtered, especially if you have a sensitive stomach. Pack a good water-filtering system or do like the locals and use bottled water. 

While Egyptian cuisine is one of the country’s best assets, and the temptation to sample it every chance you get is understandable, some carts improperly store their food. It can be difficult to tell as a visitor, so it may be wise to opt for local shops instead. They often offer similar food but are generally safer to indulge to your heart’s content.

12. Flood season is June to September

Flooding is an issue in Egypt in June to September, but it’s usually mild and mostly limited to some coastal areas. It’s always a good idea to activate news alerts on your phone anyway and keep an eye on the local news.

The floods are usually easy to manage, but roads can be impacted, especially in some areas in South Sinai.

13. Solo female travelers may receive unwanted attention

If you’re a woman traveling on your own , keep an eye out for harassers, scammers and hustlers who may be pushy and persistent. Confident interactions are often key to driving them away, but calling out for assistance or announcing you’ll involve the police can be a good deterrent as well. 

As a rule of thumb, try to avoid interactions with individuals in suspicious settings, like quiet alleyways, dark street corners, and empty spots, and look for crowds with women and children if you feel unsafe. Never get into a taxi or Uber with anyone but the driver. Ride in the carriages reserved for women on the metro in Cairo. And, as is sadly the case in most of the world, avoid walking alone late at night.

14. Tourist police can assist you in an emergency 

Egypt is generally considered safe to visit, but if you face any issues that you believe require law enforcement interference, look for police officers with a tourism police badge on their shoulders – it’s a navy blue half sleeve with a gold eagle in the middle, and “Tourism and Antiquities Police” written at the bottom. They are stationed at every tourist destination in Egypt and can also be reached by dialing 126 from any Egyptian mobile number.

If you’d rather file a complaint later, you can dial 19654 and communicate directly with the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities. It's also a good idea to keep the number of your home embassy or consulate handy.

Pro tip: Invest in an Egyptian SIM card upon arrival. They’re cheap and will make local interactions much easier for you. Vodafone, Etisalat, Orange and WE are Egypt’s top mobile service providers; you can find their booths in the final hall on your way out of Cairo International Airport. 

This article was first published July 2022 and updated August 2023

Explore related stories

Destination Practicalities

Mar 12, 2024 • 4 min read

With tombs, pyramids and towering temples, Egypt brings out the explorer in all of us. This handy month-by-month guide shows the best time to visit Egypt.

Mar 4, 2024 • 4 min read

Jan 18, 2024 • 4 min read

Jan 11, 2024 • 7 min read

Jan 11, 2024 • 4 min read

Dec 8, 2023 • 7 min read

Aug 17, 2023 • 5 min read

Aug 10, 2023 • 7 min read

Dec 20, 2022 • 3 min read

Oct 26, 2022 • 9 min read

Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

UK Edition Change

• UK Politics
• News Videos
• Paris 2024 Olympics
• Rugby Union
• Sport Videos
• John Rentoul
• Mary Dejevsky
• Andrew Grice
• Sean O’Grady
• Photography
• Theatre & Dance
• Culture Videos
• Food & Drink
• Health & Families
• Royal Family
• Electric Vehicles
• Car Insurance deals
• Lifestyle Videos
• UK Hotel Reviews
• News & Advice
• Simon Calder
• Australia & New Zealand
• South America
• C. America & Caribbean
• Middle East
• Politics Explained
• News Analysis
• Today’s Edition
• Home & Garden
• Broadband deals
• Fashion & Beauty
• Travel & Outdoors
• Sports & Fitness
• Sustainable Living
• Climate Videos
• Solar Panels
• Behind The Headlines
• On The Ground
• Decomplicated
• You Ask The Questions
• Binge Watch
• Travel Smart
• Watch on your TV
• Crosswords & Puzzles
• Most Commented
• Newsletters
• Ask Me Anything
• Virtual Events
• Betting Sites
• Online Casinos
• Wine Offers

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged in Please refresh your browser to be logged in

Egypt travel: Is it safe to visit and what are your rights if you have a trip booked?

The popular tourist destination borders israel and the red sea, both of which have seen conflict in recent days and months, article bookmarked.

Find your bookmarks in your Independent Premium section, under my profile

Sign up to Simon Calder’s free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts

Get simon calder’s travel email, thanks for signing up to the simon calder’s travel email.

Tourists with trips booked to Egypt may be wondering whether it’s safe to travel to the country’s popular cities and resorts amid ongoing conflict in neighbouring Israel and Gaza, as well as recent airstrikes from US and UK forces against Houthi rebels in Yemen.

The main tourist areas in Egypt are still considered to be generally safe. The country has kept its borders open, and airlines and holiday companies are continuing to operate in the country.

Egypt has so far avoided being drawn into the conflicts, despite its proximity to the Red Sea and the Israeli airstrikes that hit the area near the border with Gaza in October.

Houthi rebels have been attacking Red Sea shipping since mid-November , with the UK and US launching retaliatory strikes in the last few days. On 14 January, David Cameron raised the prospect of further UK airstrikes in Yemen.

But what is the current situation, and what are your rights if you have an upcoming trip booked? Here are the key questions and answers.

What is happening in the Red Sea?

Houthi rebels – a Yemen-based group backed by Iran who have been fighting the government since 2014 – have been attacking Red Sea shipping with drones and missiles since 19 November, in what was originally claimed to be targeted action against Israeli interests in support of Palestine.

Once they began to attack ships indiscriminately, the US mobilised a naval coalition to protect shipping. According to the UK Ministry of Defence, 15 per cent of global seaborne trade passes through the Red Sea.

On 11 January, US and UK forces bombed several Houthi sites in Yemen, in the south of the Red Sea. On 15 January, tensions were raised further when Houthi rebels struck a US-owned ship in the Gulf of Aden.

How far is Israel from Egypt?

Though Israel directly borders Egypt, most of the country’s major cities and tourists sites are a substantial distance away, and so Egypt has avoided much of the Israel-Gaza conflict.

Sharm el Sheikh is the closest destination, though it is still over two-and-a-half hours’ drive away from the nearest border town and over five hours away by road from the area around the Gaza border. Cairo , Alexandria, Hurghada and Luxor are even further away.

Are flights to Egypt operating as normal?

Flights from the UK to Egypt are still operating as planned, though may be subject to delays from non-related events.

The usual flight path from the UK to Egypt goes down through Italy and across the Mediterranean, and does not enter Israeli airspace.

What if I have booked a package holiday to Egypt?

Package holidays are operating as usual. If you have an upcoming trip booked and want to postpone, get in touch with your tour operator or holiday provider; they may offer some flexibility. However, if not, there is currently no grounds for travellers to expect a refund if they cancel, nor to claim the money back through travel insurance, as the Foreign Office (FCDO) has not issued a blanket “avoid all non-essential travel” advisory for Egypt as it has done for Israel.

If FCDO advice changes to advising against all travel, you can cancel a package holiday without penalty for a full refund.

What is the Foreign Office travel advice for Egypt?

The most recent FCDO advice was published on 12 January. Regarding activity in the Red Sea, it said that “military activity is currently underway in response to attempts by Houthi militants to prevent movement of international shipping in the Red Sea.

“While the area of activity is limited to the Red Sea and Yemen, there is a possibility that Travel Advice for nearby countries could change at short notice. You should continue to monitor Travel Advice and follow any relevant instructions from local authorities.”

Regarding the conflict in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, the Foreign Office states: “The Israeli government has declared a state of emergency across the whole country. International borders in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs) could close at short notice. As a result, the land border into Israel from Egypt at Taba could close with little notice. 

“The Rafah border crossing partially opened on 1 November. This is primarily to facilitate the evacuation of seriously wounded Palestinians and some foreign nationals. We understand that the crossing will continue to be open for controlled and time-limited periods to allow specific groups of foreign nationals, including British nationals, to cross.

“It is for the Egyptian and Israeli authorities to determine who is permitted to cross, and when. Movement to the Rafah crossing and beyond is at your own risk. You should only travel if you judge it is safe to do so.”

Anyone travelling to Egypt should carefully check the most up-to-date advice before travelling.

The FCDO does not warn against travel to any of the main tourist destinations in Egypt, including Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Alexandria and the two Red Sea resorts of Sharm el Sheikh and Hurghada.

The website references the recent attack in Alexandria, stating that “on 8 October 2023, an Egyptian police officer is reported to have shot and killed two Israeli tourists and an Egyptian tour guide in Alexandria. A third tourist was injured”.

It advises travellers to “remain vigilant at all times”.

The FCDO advises against all travel to destinations anywhere within 20km of the Egypt-Libya border (except for the town of El Salloum, where it advises against all but essential travel) and the Governorate of North Sinai.

It advises against all but essential travel to:

• The northern part of the Governorate of South Sinai, beyond the St Catherine-Nuweibaa road, except for the coastal areas along the west and east of the peninsula
• The Ismailiyah Governorate east of the Suez Canal
• The Hala’ib Triangle and the Bir Tawil Trapezoid

The area west of the Nile Valley and Nile Delta regions, except for:

• Luxor, Qina, Aswan, Abu Simbel and the Valley of the Kings
• The Governorate of Faiyum
• The coastal areas between the Nile Delta and Marsa Matruh
• The Marsa Matruh-Siwa Road
• The oasis town of Siwa
• The Giza Governorate north-east of the Bahariya Oasis
• The road between Giza and Farafra (but they advise against all but essential travel on the road between Bahariya and Siwa)
• Bahariya Oasis, Farafra, the White Desert and Black Desert

It adds that “terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Egypt”, and there is a particular risk in North Sinai. It lists five recent attacks between 2022 and 2018 that have taken place in Cairo, the Minya province and near the Suez Canal.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article

Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.

New to The Independent?

Or if you would prefer:

Want an ad-free experience?

Hi {{indy.fullName}}

• My Independent Premium
• Account details
• Help centre

Find cheap flights to Egypt from £73

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight from the united kingdom to egypt departing on 22/5. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to egypt.

Save 28% or more Compare multiple travel sites with one search.

Track prices Not ready to book? Create a price alert for when prices drop.

Filter your deals Choose cabin class, free Wi-Fi and more.

Bundle and save Save money when you bundle your flight + hotel.

Best Egypt Flight Deals

Cheapest return prices found by our users on KAYAK in the last 72 hours

Good to know - Cheap tickets to Egypt

Faqs - booking egypt flights, when is the best time to visit egypt.

If you want to avoid the crowds and get the best possible flight deals, head to Egypt in the spring, from March to April or in Autumn, which is October and November. During these times the summer crowds have left, the weather is cooler and the flights are slightly cheaper than those during high peak months. You'll also find more direct flights available during these times. Fly from London Gatwick Airport (LGW) to (SSH) during these periods for the cheapest flight deals.

What should I know about stopover flights to Egypt?

Flights with one stop are available from London to Egypt and offer the best deals, which balance ticket prices and travel times. You'll have your choice of leaving from any of the five major London-based airports for one-stop flights and mostly change planes at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW).

Are there non-stop flights to Egypt?

There are direct flights on Egypt Air and British Airways from London to Cairo, and there are airlines such as TUI Airways and Thomas Cook Airlines that operate direct flights from London Stansted (STN) and London Gatwick (LGW), respectively.

I want to visit the Mausoleum of Aga Khan, which is the best airport?

The closest airport to the Mausoleum of Aga Khan is Aswan International Airport (ASW), which can be reached from the UK with a stopover in Cairo on Egypt Air. From the airport in Aswan, you can travel the remaining 13 mi by road.

Where should I fly to in Egypt if I want to visit Nuweiba?

If you are going to Egypt to visit the Coloured Canyon, you will need to travel to the city of Nuweiba. From the UK, you can book a flight into Sharm El Sheik and then arrange to take land transport to Nuweiba and the Coloured Canyon.

I am only going to visit Alexandria, what is the best airport to use?

Alexandria has an airport that receives regional and domestic flights, so it might be a good idea to book a flight into Cairo International Airport and then book an onward flight to Alexandria. Alternatively, you could hire a car or book a bus transfer from Cairo to Alexandria.

How long is the flight to Egypt?

An average direct flight from the United Kingdom to Egypt takes 8h 56m, covering a distance of 2412 miles. The most popular route is London - Cairo with an average flight time of 4h 50m.

What is the cheapest flight to Egypt?

The cheapest ticket to Egypt from the United Kingdom found in the last 72 hours was £82 one-way, and £160 round-trip. The most popular route is London Heathrow to Cairo and the cheapest round-trip airline ticket found on this route in the last 72 hours was £249.

Which airlines fly to Egypt?

easyJet, Egypt Air & Air Canada fly the most frequently from the United Kingdom to Egypt.

What are the most popular destinations in Egypt?

Based on KAYAK flight searches, the most popular destination is Cairo (56% of total searches to Egypt). The next most popular destinations are Hurghada (21%) and Sharm el-Sheikh (19%). Searches for flights to Alexandria (2%), to Luxor (1%) and to Marsa Alam (0.7%) are also popular.

How does KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a given destination and date is likely to change within 7 days, so travellers know whether to wait or book now.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Egypt

• Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Egypt flight deals.
• If you are wanting to visit the famous pyramids of Giza or the Great Sphinx of Giza, you'll need to Cairo Airport (CAI), which is about 30 miles from the airport. There are two ways to get from the airport to the pyramids. The most popular is by taxi. Catching a taxi is the quickest most direct way, and takes only 1 hour. You can catch the bus, which is cheaper, but you'll have to change buses on the route.
• When looking to find cheap flights to Egypt from London, you'll find leaving from either London Stansted Airport (STN) or London Luton Airport (LTN), and arriving at Sharm El Sheikh International Airport (SSH) are the cheapest available deals. SSH is the third-busiest airport in Egypt, and is a hub for EygypAir and Air Cairo.
• When looking for cheap flights to Egypt, if you are attending the spectacular globally visited, Abu Simbel Sun Festival, which is on the 21st of February and the 21st of October, each year, and celebrates King Ramses II’s ascension to the throne, remember to be flexible with your travel dates. Flying into Egypt on these dates sees a drastic increase in flight prices.
• Egypt has several airports that provide onward connections to other destinations in the country. Cairo is the main hub offering flight connections to the rest of Egypt. If you are spending time on the Nile, think about flying into Luxor or Aswan, or travel to Hurghada if you want to explore Red Sea coast of Egypt.
• If you are looking at flights to Egypt so you can indulge in some diving, consider booking flights into Sharm El Sheik International Airport (SSH) which is a short taxi ride away from the resorts in Sharm El Sheik. Alternatively, you can book a flight into the airport in Hurghada and get a ferry across to Sharm El Sheik.
• For visitors wanting to spend time in the Nile Valley, there are two main cities with airports here – Luxor and Aswan. If you want to visit the Valley of the Kings, then the closest airport is Luxor International Airport (LXR), which serves as the main hub for visitors to this area. Once you have arrived at the airport you will need to travel overland to the Valley of the Kings.
• Visas are required for British passport holders who want to travel to Egypt. Although you can get a visa when you arrive at the airport in Egypt, it is advisable to get one online or at an Egyptian consulate before you fly to avoid queuing at the airport. If you do buy a visa at the airport, you will need to pay for it in Sterling, US dollars or Euros. British nationals who are holidaying for less than 15 days in one of the resorts on the Gulf of Aqaba, such as Sharm El Sheikh or Dahab, will not need a visa.
• It is better to buy Egyptian pounds once you have arrived in the country as you will get a better rate for them than you would do buying them outside. There are ATMs and bureau de change counters at the main airports where you can obtain some local currency to pay for your trip from the airport.

Top 5 airlines flying to Egypt

It was a nightmare. I booked business class ticket from Ediburgh to Beirut via Istanbul to attend a funeral. I had a wonderful experience flying to Istanbul from Edinburgh. Then I could not get a boarding pass issued to Beirut. It seems that although they booked me and I had a reservation number, I had no seat allocated and the flight was full. I was asked to go from one desk to another and made to wait for 2 hours. I missed my flight as I did not have a seat assigned and it was full. The only option was to put me on the next flight, 6 hours later, for a fee of over $400. They said that was the best they can do to 'help me' and to 'take it or leave it'. Well, I was not about to be bullied; I stood my ground. I booked and paid premium for the journey, which was confirmed. The eventually accepted to not charge me extra and i waited a total of over 8 hours in the airport with no compensation. On top of my grief with the risk of missing the funeral service, I had to put up with their indifference and condescending attitude. They spoke about me in Turkish thinking I would not understand (I hold a British passport) in front of me. When they eventually handed my passport and boarding pass back to me, I showed them I was born in Istanbul and that I understood everything and said a condescending 'thank you' back to them in Turkish. You should have seen their faces. I said that consumers have rights and it is a shame that Turkish Airlines does not have good customer service to at least acknowledge and apologize for errors committed by the airline. Blaming the me, the client, for such an error and placing unreasonable ultimatums, rudeness and dismissiveness to be rid of me, particularly when I was vulnerable and visibly grieving was really shocking... The airline taints the city of Istanbul and the people of Türkiye. Such a shame.

for the very long way the flight has to be more confortable it was very dirty the wc was not clean

A good airline, but at checking in, they allocated seats for my wife, and I far away from each other, and to change them, they wanted a payment, such a bad policy, it leaves a bitter taste in the mouth All was good on the plane, good food, but the air hostess was abrupt and a bit rough dealing with the passengers, but one has to find excuses for staff working under pressure

The airplane from IAD to Istanbul was too old. The chairs were to tight and uncomfortable. I continued my travel from Istanbul to Bangkok. This airplane was better and newer than the first one. Even food was better.

Process for on line checking needs a lot of improvement. Very frustrating.

Staff didnt want to work, had to get up to get food and ear plugs myself even after calling the attendant multiple times. Both bags were not recieved in Dubai, called the next day to confirm bags were recieved and had to go to airport to pick up the bags. Now coming back to LAX one bag made it and the other bag is still missing.

I found it okay. Did not think the food was that great. And the service could have been better. Seat was a little cramped. Delay getting to Istanbul made me rush all the way across the airport to get to the connection. This was a not good experience.

I requested a special meal (kosher) several months ahead of the flight . It was listed on the Turkish air website that I had a kosher meal. In-flight, there was no kosher meal. I was not able to eat during the nearly 8-hour flight. There also was no kosher meal on the second leg of the trip. The flight attendants said there was nothing they could do. They had no idea why the kosher meal was not provided. Very bad meal service.

They lost my luggage and it took a long time to let us know it was lost.

Total chaos with baggage check in…..rude staff in Seattle. And faulty seating/entertainment systems. Unable to log in to WiFi desperate being a member. Kept on getting errors. Never again. Definitely not what’s expected from a Star Alliance member airline.

I have been traveling for over 30 years, and this was THE worst experience ever. The guy that was checking in at Dubai, didn’t have any professionalism or curtesy. During the flight, You had to wait a while just to get something to drink. They didn’t transfer all my luggage, even after they made me pay $155 extra for one small gallon of Zamzam water, and that luggage is still missing after three days of my arrival. NEVER AGAIN..,

The flight was cancelled with very little info at the airport. Absolutely mess with no option to reschedule flights without paying fortune for business class.

Despite paying business class, the angle seat was uncomfortable. The crew was just ok. The baggage checkin was a mess at JNB.

The seats were broken, crew didn’t really care about service, boarding was not priority for business class, my bags arrived last

Comfortable flight with decent legroom and good seats. The crew were helpful and courteous and managed well with the stressful boarding and the chaos that’s involved. The food was decent, more than expected from a short flight like this. The only reservation I have was that the crew allowed passengers to board With massive amounts of hand luggage which were piled up on the empty seats next to passengers and and it was a risk to all passengers in the case of turbulence or emergency landing. I’ve never seen this ever on any flights I have boarded with many other airlines.

Flight was supposed to take off Saturday at noon. Bumped for unknown reasons until 2 am, then 9 am, then noon, then we don’t know. Not weather related. Dismal and non existent customer service. No 24/7 relations. Couldn’t get my bag back to attempt to get on another flight until 5pm Saturday. Will never take this airline again!

Greater clarity in organizing line-ups for the various boarding groups would have made it easier for all. Due to the many children, the announcements could not be heard clearly enough, so a simplicity in organization would have helped.

I had a great experience with EGYPTAIR. They offered me to check in my handbag which made it very easy since I use a cane. Thank you to EGYPTAIR crew for making sure everyone is receiving the right services.

I was at the airport on time , I checked in my luggage . The plane was delayed and the gate was change. The flight board did not give information . I did not get chance to fly. I am going to make a claim for it

Never flown with LH before so all in all wasba good experience. Also good to know that approx 24hrs prior the flight opens up for being able to organise the seating free.

It was a short flight, no real service (which is okay). Very bumpy because of weather.

I'm Canaadian. I hate Air Canada. I used to give them a pass on their international service. No longer, They suck across the board now! Old planes, exhausted staff bad food and shitty entertainment. Your seats need reupholstered! Start with that...

Good experience. Food was great and passengers helped rearrange seats so our family could be seated together

Great flight. Left on time, not very crowded. Quiet and the right temperature.

No eye patches , socks given out for overnight flight! The snack on the short haul was a cube of chocolate! The seat was uncomfortable for a long haul - not enough cushioning!

I paid a lot of money for seat selection and was miserable for flight duration

Lufthansa lost our luggage. After a lot of chasing on our part we got it back. The main problem is that there was no office in Bogota to help us outside of flighttimes. The customer service phone lines had no data on our luggage. I think Lufthansa need to invest in managing communications over lost luggage or this will end with everyone taking more luggage out of hold.

Very good service. One of my journey was by bus. But they advised by plane. Wrong information

The trip itself was good. I have given only good as rating, because my first flight has been cancelled by a different airline and that caused disruption in my trip. I spent over ten hours in Luton airport and that caused me high tiredness, sickness, because of the very early initial trip. easyJet staff has been professional and friendly.

Very pleasant crew, working hard on a full plane. Delay by a broken seat. However crew made back 60% of the delay.

Delayed and then further delayed with no announcement made so that all the passengers (who were standing in the jetty) could hear. We stood there for well over 20 minutes. We were further delayed through weather but no one explained that to us until the pilot made an announcement when finally on board

easyJet need to ensure that whether pre-booking seats or not children aren’t split from their parents the crew spent the majority of boarding asking passengers to move to accommodate two families. Surely the system identifies minors on a booking !!!!! It was all very frustrating to watch and caused delays which I’m sure cost easyJet more in the long run rather that automatically allocating families with minors seats together automatically.

Not great! Rude staff in London and the worse baggage reclaim I’ve ever seen. Great staff in flight but doubt I’ll fly with them again

Staff had been really impolite at the boarding area and for both ways charged high extra fees without a reason. For the check-in luggage which was measured 3.5 kg and was confirmed by the stuff to cost 40 € , 60 Euros had been purchased from our credit card. When confronted staff did call us both liars and claimed to never have announced anything. Flight back , when not wanting to press a backpack in a measuring metal instead of hand measuring , staff got angry that one did not follow her order, which was than escalated by the team. Although carrying a baby anyways staff did not offer any help in the unreasonable process and than charged again extra money. Cabine crew has been friendly but this experience LL lead to not booking easy jet at all in the future. Check in process in Edinburgh anyways chaotic,to the family check-in and disabled check-in everybody else was guided for check in process, so people just getting in between each other, not possible to monitor your own stuff.

As you would expect from a budget airline Left and arrived on time, no frills, not even a glass of water offered But you get what you pay for

I had an emergency escape seat. The attendant gave the extrA briefing to my side of the aisle but didnt direct it at all to the other where my wife was sitting

Boarding great. Didn’t eat or drink so can not comment.

Total jobs worths over carry on bags, charged £96 extra for bags that were clearly hand luggage

We paid to have overhead carry-on baggage. When we got to the gate we were told that our carry on bags would need to be checked and go below because the flight was full. Notably we were nowhere near the last people to board and about 30 other passengers also had to check their carry-on bags. Other than that the flight was fine.

Very bad plain although I paid A business class ticket I was stuck in a stiff fixed seat without any entertainment or Wi Fi for 5 hours I will never ever book a flight on British airline.

Self check in Kiosk did not recognize that I had prepaid for my luggage. This caused a 40 minute delay even though I had my British Airways email receipt for the prepaid luggage.

Crew were very friendly and helpful. They explained to us in detail the delay in our takeoff due to the storm that rolled in from Belfast and did their best to make up the time. Always great to fly BA!

Staff were very helpful. The free WiFi for messages was also very useful to keep in touch

Crew was more interested on looking at their phones than welcoming passengers during boarding.

The crew was very attentive and kept busy serving a variety of treats!

Terrible. Missed my flight to final destination because of delayed British Airways flight. Had to spend 12 hours in airport and $1500 for new plane tickets

The crew on board were all very pleasant and happy to help. The flight had the old business class seats. The departure board in the business lounge did not update and kept on saying ' gate open' but never said boarding. When I got nervous about the departure time and walked to the gate I was told off rudely for being late.

Offered vegetable curry when it was actually tofu which I don’t care for.

Book Cheap Egypt Plane Tickets

Cheapest flights to Egypt from the United Kingdom found in 2024

Recent return flight deals

Search by stops, search by airline, search by price, recent one-way flight deals, last minute flights to egypt, last minute flight, train and bus deals, flights to egypt, return flight deals:.

Egypt - United Kingdom

Cabin classes:

Browse origins:.

• Flights  » 
• United Kingdom

Browse destinations:

• Worldwide  » 

Can UK citizens travel to Egypt?

UK citizens and British passport holder are welcome to travel to Egypt. In fact, UK citizens account for a large percentage of the foreign nationals who visit the Land of the Pharaohs each year.

So, if you are a British citizen and your travel plans include a visit to Egypt, you have absolutely nothing to worry about. All you need in order to visit Egypt is a valid passport, a valid visa, and a plane ticket.

Discover → The Best Egypt Tours from UK

Design Your Custom Egypt Tour

Explore Egypt your way by selecting only the attractions you want to visit

Can UK Citizens Travel to Egypt and Get a Visa on Arrival?

Yes, as a UK citizen, or someone who will be traveling on a British passport, you can get a visa on arrival at any of Egypt’s international airports, including Cairo International Airport, Sharm El-Sheikh International Airport, and Hurghada International Airport. For UK citizens, there are no special visa requirements. Other than a valid passport with at least six months validity remaining, UK citizens do need to provide any other travel documents. Your passport must also have at least one blank page.

A visa-on-arrival is a tourist visa which allows you to remain in the country for up to 30 days. To obtain your visa on arrival, simply join the queue at one of the bank kiosks in the arrivals hall at the airport, fill out a visa application form, and then pay the visa fee. As of the time of writing, the fee for a 30-day single entry tourist visa was US$25.

Consider Applying for an Egypt E-Visa

Egypt’s E-Visa system is very streamlined, very efficient, and very convenient. Simply visit the Egyptian government’s Egypt e-Visa Portal and set up an account. You will then receive an email notification asking you to confirm your account. Once you have confirmed your account, log in and then click on the “Apply Now” tab. Choose between a single-entry tourist visa and a multi-entry tourist visa. Follow the onscreen instructions, and then pay the visa fee using your credit card or debit card.

Travelers are advised to apply for their visa at least 10 days prior to their departure date, although the approval process usually takes anywhere from three to seven business days. Once your application has been approved, you will need to log back into your account so that you can download and print your visa which you will need to present to an immigration officer on arrival in Egypt.

As of the time of writing, 30-day single entry E-Visas cost US$25, while multi-entry E-Visas cost US$60. E-Visas are only issued for tourism purposes.

Applying for your Visa at an Egyptian Embassy

Like all foreign nationals, British nationals can also apply for a valid visitor visa at an Egyptian embassy. This is by far the least convenient option, and the approval process can take up to two weeks or longer. The visa fees are the same as they are for an E-Visa and a visa on arrival.

Covid-19 Entry Rules in Egypt

Like nearly every country in the world, the Egyptian government imposed strict entry requirements in order to try and curb the spread of Covid-19. Entry rules, included things like mandatory quarantine on arrival, a machine readable Covid test certificate, and proof of Covid-19 vaccination status. However, in June 2022, the Egyptian authorities removed the last remaining Covid-19 travel restrictions.

So, can UK citizens travel to Egypt now even if they have not had any Covid-19 vaccines? Yes, Egypt is once again 100% open for international travel, and visitors are no longer required to show proof of vaccination against Covid-19. Covid-19 tests are also no longer required, although visitors are advised to get tested if they experience any Covid-19 symptoms.

In-Depth: Do You Need Covid Vaccine to Travel to Egypt?

Medical insurance for Travel to Egypt

Can UK citizens travel to Egypt if they don’t have medical insurance? Yes, mandatory health insurance is not a visa requirement, meaning you can visit Egypt regardless of whether you have medical insurance or not.

While insurance may not be mandatory, it is highly recommended that all travelers should have good medical insurance when visiting Egypt, or any other foreign country, for that matter. It is also recommended that you get cover that includes medical evacuation insurance.

In-depth: Do I Need Health Insurance to Travel to Egypt?

Can Same Gender Couples Travel to Egypt?

Can UK citizens travel to Egypt as a gay couple? Yes, but discretion is recommended. While Egypt has no laws prohibiting homosexuality, same gender relationships and same gender marriages are frowned up.

Egypt is a conservative Muslim-majority country where public displays of affection are viewed in a very negative light and even more so if it involves two people of the same sex. If you are in a same sex marriage, it is not going to prevent you from obtaining a valid visa, but once you are in the country, it is best not to publicize your sexuality.

In-Depth: Is it Safe for Gay Couples to Travel to Egypt?

Health Risks in Egypt

First and foremost, you should only ever drink bottled water while you are in Egypt because tap water is not safe to drink. Contaminated water can cause serious illness, and completely ruin what would otherwise have been an amazing vacation.

It is also worth noting that Hepatitis A is a very real health risk in Egypt. Hepatitis A is spread by contaminated water and contaminated food. Visitors can become infected regardless of where they eat and/or where they stay during their trip to Egypt. To this end, it is highly recommended that you get a Hepatitis A vaccine before you visit.

To be on the safe side, you should consider consulting a travel health professional to see which vaccines are recommended for travel to Egypt. Can UK citizens travel to Egypt if they haven’t had any vaccines? Yes, but doing so is not without risk, and it is not something which we would recommend.

Booking a Dream Holiday to Egypt

As so many people have discovered, Egypt is the sort of country that is best explored with a professional guide by your side. Sure, you can travel through Egypt on your own and without a guide, but you will miss out on so much. The best way to experience the true magic of this fascinating country is by way of professionally designed Egypt tour packages .

So, can UK citizens travel to Egypt right now? Yes, and we believe that no other travel company is better equipped than we are to ensure that your trip to the Land of the Pharaohs will flawless and totally unforgettable, with lifelong memories guaranteed.

Check out our epic range of private guided Egypt tours now and book your dream trip to Egypt today.

Explore Egypt and the Middle East your way by selecting only the attractions you want to visit

12-Day Cairo, Nile Cruise And Red Sea Stay

10-Day Luxury Nile Cruise and Cairo Tours

10-Day Egypt and Jordan Luxury Tours

8-Day Cairo to Abu Simbel Tour w/ Nile Cruise

8-Day Egypt Holiday Tour – Cairo and Nile Cruise [By Train]

8-Day Best of Egypt Tour – Cairo and Nile Cruise [By Air]

Egypt travel information.

Full Safety Guide: Is It Safe to Travel to Egypt?

What are the Must Visit Places in Egypt?

Egypt Travel Tips: This You Need to Know

How to Plan a Trip to Egypt – Start Here!

Best Time to Visit Egypt and When to Book!

What to Pack for Egypt (Simple Packing List)

Last Updated on March 25, 2024

You might also like

We Don't Just Sell Amazing Tours, We Make Dreams Come True!

Private tours since 1955.

Award-Winning Service

Create your dream trip.

Design Your Custom Tour

Middle East Chevron

Jordan Chevron

What to Do If You Have Upcoming Travel to Egypt, Jordan, or Lebanon

By Jessica Puckett

This is a developing story and will be updated with more information.

In recent weeks, the war between Israel and Hamas has seeped further into surrounding areas of the Middle East. Violence has reached the southern stretch of the Red Sea, where Houthi rebels have attacked cargo ships off the coast of Yemen, and the US has responded with its own airstrikes. On Israel’s border , clashes between Israel and the Hezbollah militant group in Lebanon continue to intensify.

While it's a no-brainer to reconfigure plans located in the immediate conflict zone, many travelers with upcoming trips to the surrounding region are wondering what to do. Is it safe, or responsible, to embark on a Nile cruise in Egypt at the moment? Or to continue on with a visit to Petra, in Jordan? The questions have become only murkier as the conflict expands.

Following a regional security alert issued by the State Department in October that advises US citizens throughout the Middle East to “take caution,” some travelers have responded by canceling trips, while others have pressed on with plans under the guidance of travel providers.

One luxury tour group, Red Savannah says that all travel they have arranged for clients in Egypt and Jordan is continuing as normal. “While we are holding off selling Lebanon, we believe that Egypt and Jordan continue to be safe destinations to visit,” says George Morgan-Grenville, CEO of Red Savannah. “Feedback from clients who traveled over Christmas was incredibly positive.”

According to data from the travel booking company Hopper, Jordan is currently seeing increased demand from US travelers compared to January of last year. US travel demand to Lebanon has dropped relative to other countries in the region, while bookings for Egypt have remained flat, Hopper tells Condé Nast Traveler.

For many, there's an emotional calculation to make when planning travel to countries in close proximity to conflict zones. “Every person has their own unique risk threshold,” says Dave Dennis, executive director of Cornerstone Safety Group, a risk management organization that supports travel companies. “An acceptable risk for one person can be very different from another.”

We asked safety and industry experts to share advice for travelers considering trips to Lebanon, Jordan, Egypt, and the Red Sea in the near future. Here's what travelers should know—from what's happening on the ground, to government advisories, to which choices other travelers are making.

Jump ahead:

Should you travel to Jordan right now?

Should you travel to egypt right now, should you travel to lebanon right now.

• Should you take a Red Sea cruise right now?
• Additional tips

The US State Department has kept Jordan under a “Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution” travel alert that it first issued on July 13. The only regions that travelers are instructed to avoid are the country’s borders with Syria and Iraq, its refugee camps, and Zarqa, Rusayfah, and the Baqa’a neighborhood of Ayn Basha due to ongoing safety concerns, according to the department’s guidance.

“Jordan, being further from regional unrest, remains at a Level 2 advisory, which is a common category for many regions globally,” says Dennis. As such, most tours throughout Jordan continue to operate as scheduled, and visitors can visit highlights like the Dead Sea , the Wadi Rum desert, Petra, and the capital city of Amman.

The Jordanian Tourism Board told the Times of London in January that the country remains safe for international travel: “In light of the recent developments in Gaza, we want to emphasize that Jordan continues to be a safe and welcoming destination for tourists from around the world,” the agency said in the statement. “Our commitment to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all visitors remains unwavering and we want to reassure everyone that Jordan’s borders are open to tourists.”

Egypt's alert level from the State Department hasn’t changed since July 13, and remains at a “Level 3: Reconsider Travel.” Tourists should continue to avoid travel to the Sinai Peninsula, the land bordering Israel and Gaza and to the east of Cairo, as it is a “particularly dangerous area,” according to the department.

In a December 20 security reminder , the US Embassy in Cairo advised US travelers in Egypt to maintain situational awareness and personal security vigilance, exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests, and to keep a low profile.

Many group tours, like Red Savannah's, which visit sites like the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, the Valley of the Kings , and Karnak Temple in Luxor, are continuing as normal. But even as many trips forge ahead, some operators are seeing significant cancellations. One firm in Egypt, Amisol Travel, has seen just 40 to 50% of its typical bookings from February and September 2024, according to the New York Times .

Nile River cruises are also continuing to operate as planned. The only changes at this time are cancellations of post-cruise land packages through Israel—most lines have removed these add-on tours for the near future.

“We continue to closely monitor the situation in Israel and Gaza and have canceled a select number of Jerusalem extensions for our Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary,” says a January 11 statement on Viking’s website. “All of our departures in Egypt are operating as scheduled. Our top priority is the safety and wellbeing of our guests, crew and partners on the ground."

In recent months, AmaWaterways has been making similar cancellations ​​of extended land tours through Israel. “Guests with the post-cruise Israel package scheduled to depart on Secrets of Egypt & the Nile itinerary starting in Cairo up to and including June 21, 2024 will be refunded for the Israel land portion as well as the Cairo to Tel Aviv airfare,” the line said in an emailed statement. “There are no other changes to any other Egypt river cruise or associated land packages.”

Despite most Nile itineraries continuing as planned, lines are seeing an uptick in cancellations from passengers. "The impact has been pretty severe, quite honestly, for the first quarter of 2024," Pamela Hoffee, president of Avalon Waterways, told Travel Weekly in early December. "Close to half of our guests canceled for the first quarter of 2024. The rest of the year has not seen as much impact."

As of October 17, the US State Department has had a “Level 4: Do Not Travel” warning for Lebanon. The advisory was last updated on December 19 and recommends US citizens do not travel to the country “due to crime, terrorism, armed conflict, civil unrest, kidnapping, and Embassy Beirut’s limited capacity to provide support to US citizens."

Jessica Puckett

María Casbas

CNT Editors

The advisory "speaks to inherent dangers of the region and the lack of immediate emergency services if a traveler was in need of assistance from government agencies,” says Dennis.

Clashes between the Israeli military and the Hezbollah militants in Lebanon have continued at the countries’ borders for months. Now, it's appearing more likely that serious conflict could spread even farther into Lebanon. The head of Israel’s military, Chief of the General Staff Herzi Halevi, said on January 17 that the IDF is increasing readiness for “fighting in Lebanon,” CNN reported .

“The State Department recommends that US citizens in Lebanon leave now, while commercial flights remain available, due to the unpredictable security situation,” says a security alert from the US Embassy in Beirut issued on November 4. (At the time of publication, no new security alerts have been issued from the Embassy in Beirut since).

What's happening with cruises in the Red Sea?

Some cruise lines have begun canceling or changing itineraries that were set to transit through the Red Sea, due to the heightening conflicts there. According to Seatrade Cruise News , MSC has canceled three sailings that had stops through the Red Sea and Middle East: a March 30 voyage on MSC Virtuosa sailing from Dubai to Southampton, England; an April 3 sailing on MSC Splendida from Cape Town to Genoa, Italy; and an April 21 sailing on MSC Opera from Dubai to Genoa.

Silversea has also canceled an upcoming voyage aboard Silver Moon from Dubai to Mumbai that was slated to depart on January 26. “Affected guests and their travel agents have been informed of the reprotection options,” Silversea told Traveler in an emailed statement. “The voyage between Mumbai and Singapore, scheduled between Feb 11 and Feb 29, is currently scheduled to proceed as planned. Our global security team continues to closely monitor the situation in the region and will make any additional changes if required.”

Additional tips for considering travel to the region

1. consider postponing instead of canceling.

The standard guidance in the travel industry, even in harrowing situations, is that postponing a trip is usually a better option than canceling, if you can swing it. That way, local workers and/or travel businesses don't completely lose out on travelers' support, particularly at a time of need. “We highly recommend postponing, or rebooking to another region, over canceling all together,” says Matt Berna, president The Americas for Intrepid Travel. "More than ever the world needs intrepid travelers. We want travelers to do and see incredible things, and for those experiences to have positive social and economic impacts on the host communities they visit.”

One benefit for travelers post-pandemic is that the majority of operators now offer flexible changes and postponements. “Since COVID-19, we have seen a trend towards rebooking flexibility in the travel industry,” says Christina Tunnah, general manager Americas for travel insurance provider World Nomads. “Many US-based airlines retained the credit and rebooking policies from the peak of COVID-19. If you booked with a tour provider, contact customer service to understand what kind of policies may apply in this type of situation.”

Some tour companies allow cancellations within a certain window or will give a voucher toward a future trip if you’d like to postpone. “Should a client feel uncomfortable about traveling, we will always do our best to offer a postponement,” says Morgan-Greenville of Red Savannah.

Jerry Sorkin , a travel specialist with Iconic Journeys Worldwide , says his company gives customers the option to reschedule and apply 100% of their funds toward a future tour to the same destination, up until 30 days before their trip. (Travelers who want to cancel their trip within 30 days of their departure will have to rely on travel insurance for refunds.) “If they did not take out travel insurance, they did so at their own risk and signed a document when booking with us that they had declined to take out travel insurance,” Sorkin says. These types of cancellation policies are standard throughout the industry, which makes understanding travel insurance policies all the more important.

2. Purchase travel insurance

“We always recommend purchasing travel insurance as soon as you invest in your flights, accommodations, and other travel costs,” says Tunnah. “All policies are different, so be sure the policy you select offers the coverage you are most concerned with, such as trip cancellation or trip interruption. And always be sure to read your policy details.” For instance, trip cancellations due to war, invasion, or hostilities between nations are generally excluded from travel insurance policies, but some may offer coverage for terrorist incidents that occur in your departure or destination city, according to Tunnah. (World Nomads’ travel insurance policies for US residents offer trip cancellation coverage in the event a terrorist incident occurs within 30 days of the scheduled departure date, for instance.)

3. Reference international sources during research and consider traveling with a local tour operator

If you decide to go ahead with your trip, there are still precautions to take, too, and ways to be as informed as possible. “I always advocate for travelers to research the areas visited, purchase travel insurance, and talk to insurance providers about coverage and emergency support options should a need arise,” says Dennis, the risk management expert. “Some travel insurance policies won't cover regions listed as a Level 4 (Do Not Travel) government rating, so it's important to verify exemptions prior to travel." Dennis also suggests traveling with a reputable, locally experienced operator: "These organizations typically have deep connections with the communities they visit and are responsible for making itinerary adjustments based on local circumstances.”

In your research, try to include international media sources for the most holistic picture of what’s happening in the area. “It's important to seek out information from multiple sources to find a balanced understanding of regional safety and security,” Dennis says. “This may include reviewing US, UK, Canadian, and even Australian State Department travel warnings, local embassy updates, and if available, gaining access to information from professional security organizations. Each resource may have slight variations of information depending on the audience they serve, so it's important to gather as many perspectives as possible for a balanced approach.”

4. Have an emergency plan

As a precaution, US tourists on international trips should always sign up for the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive important safety alerts from the US embassy in the country they are visiting. Enrolling is free, only takes a few minutes, and will help the embassy contact you in the event of an emergency.

It’s also a good idea to make sure loved ones at home have key information about your travels. “Personally speaking, when I travel internationally, I always leave a copy of my itinerary, passport, and travel insurance policy with my family,” Dennis says. “I also make a check-in plan, so they know when to expect a call, text, or email.”

More than anything, making these difficult travel decisions is about building up a sense of personal intuition for what feels safe and enjoyable.

This article has been updated since its original publish date.

Recommended

Grand Hyatt Amman

Four Seasons Hotel Amman

Middle East Travel Guide

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Travel warning for Brits heading to Egypt and Morocco as situation 'changing fast'

B ritish tourists planning trips to Egypt and Morocco are being alerted to rapidly changing situations in the Middle East, following serious events over the weekend. The UK government has issued fresh travel guidance for those visiting these increasingly popular holiday spots known for their value resorts and hot climates.

The update comes after Iran launched an attack on Israel last week, prompting the Foreign Office to revise its advice for British nationals travelling to Egypt and Morocco, even though neither country was directly involved in the strike. According to the latest information on the gov.uk website, the Foreign Office has advised: "On 13 April 2024 Iran carried out military action against Israel. Monitor this travel advice and other media as the situation is changing fast. Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram."

READ MORE - Edinburgh pub used as filming location in hit Netflix series Baby Reindeer

READ MORE - Dunelm's £32 'luxurious' bedding set that's 'like sleeping in a posh hotel'

For Egypt, which shares a land border with Israel, there are specific cautions regarding certain areas. The government's advice includes: "FCDO advises against all travel to within 20km of the Egypt-Libya border, except for the town of El Salloum (where we advise against all but essential travel)."

Additionally, Brits are urged to avoid North Sinai, South Sinai, the Hala'ib Triangle, the Ismailiyah Governorate east of the Suez Canal, and various parts of the Western Desert west of the Nile Valley and Nile Delta regions.

The authority highlighted: "There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times. Terrorism is a risk across Egypt, particularly in North Sinai. Attacks could be indiscriminate.", reports the Mirror .

"The authorities in Egypt have a significant security presence across the country, including armed security officers at important sites, critical infrastructure and road checkpoints. Extra measures are in place at tourist sites."

"There is a heightened threat of terrorism in and around religious sites and during religious festivals, such as the month of Ramadan and the Christmas period (including Coptic Christmas in January). Terrorist attacks have occurred over local holiday weekends."

It cautioned about potential kidnappings by terror groups near the border and remote desert areas stating: "British nationals are viewed as legitimate targets, including those engaged in tourism, humanitarian aid work, journalism or business sectors. If you are kidnapped, the reason for your presence is unlikely to serve as a protection or secure your safe release."

The Foreign Office has updated its travel advice for Morocco, issuing new alerts to British visitors. The update includes a stark warning: "On 13 April 2024 Iran carried out military action against Israel. Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Morocco. There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times."

Additionally, the risk of terrorism due to local sympathies has been highlighted: "There is an increased threat linked to the number of Moroccans sympathetic or belonging to Daesh (formerly ISIL) and other extremist groups. Authorities regularly disrupt terrorist cells. While there have been no recent kidnappings of foreign nationals in Morocco, it cannot be ruled out."

Foreign travel advice

Get advice about travelling abroad, including the latest information on coronavirus, safety and security, entry requirements and travel warnings.

Countries or territories

226 Countries or territories

Countries starting with A

• Afghanistan
• Antarctica/British Antarctic Territory
• Antigua and Barbuda

Countries starting with B

• Bonaire/St Eustatius/Saba
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• British Indian Ocean Territory
• British Virgin Islands
• Burkina Faso

Countries starting with C

• Cayman Islands
• Central African Republic
• Cook Islands, Tokelau and Niue
• Côte d'Ivoire
• Czech Republic

Countries starting with D

• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Dominican Republic

Countries starting with E

• El Salvador
• Equatorial Guinea

Countries starting with F

• Falkland Islands
• Federated States of Micronesia
• French Guiana
• French Polynesia

Countries starting with G

• Guinea-Bissau

Countries starting with H

Countries starting with i, countries starting with j, countries starting with k, countries starting with l.

• Liechtenstein

Countries starting with M

• Marshall Islands
• Myanmar (Burma)

Countries starting with N

• Netherlands
• New Caledonia
• New Zealand
• North Korea
• North Macedonia

Countries starting with O

Countries starting with p.

• The Occupied Palestinian Territories
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Pitcairn Island

Countries starting with Q

Countries starting with r, countries starting with s.

• São Tomé and Principe
• Saudi Arabia
• Sierra Leone
• Solomon Islands
• South Africa
• South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
• South Korea
• South Sudan
• St Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha
• St Kitts and Nevis
• St Martin and St Barthélemy
• St Pierre & Miquelon
• St Vincent and the Grenadines
• Switzerland

Countries starting with T

• Timor-Leste
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Turkmenistan
• Turks and Caicos Islands

Countries starting with U

• United Arab Emirates

Countries starting with V

Countries starting with w.

• Wallis and Futuna
• Western Sahara

Countries starting with Y

Countries starting with z, get updates for all countries, is this page useful.

• Yes this page is useful
• No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone.

Travel warning for any British tourist heading to Egypt and Morocco with situation 'changing fast'

The Foreign Office has updated its travel advice for Brits heading to Egypt and Morocco following an attack by Iran on Israel last week. The warning says the situation is changing fast

• 20:57, 16 Apr 2024
• Updated 09:26, 17 Apr 2024

Brits have been issued updated travel advice if they expected to visit Egypt or Morocco in the wake of serious events in the Middle East this weekend.

Egypt and Morocco,have gained popularity in recent years as holiday destinations boasting great value resorts, scorching weather . But the government has updated the travel advice for those travelling to either nation this year after an attack by Iran on Israel last week.

Egypt and Morocco were not included in the strike, but travel advice has been updated on the gov.uk website for both countries. The Foreign Office stated: "On 13 April 2024 Iran carried out military action against Israel. Monitor this travel advice and other media as the situation is changing fast. Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram ."

Egypt, which borders Israel by land, has a number of warnings attached to travel to and within the country. The government states: "FCDO advises against all travel to within 20km of the Egypt-Libya border, except for the town of El Salloum (where we advise against all but essential travel)."

It also wants British people to stay away from North Sinai, South Sinai, the Hala'ib Triangle, the Ismailiyah Governorate east of the Suez Canal and a number of regions in the Western Desert west of the Nile Valley and Nile Delta regions.

The authority adds: "There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times. Terrorism is a risk across Egypt, particularly in North Sinai. Attacks could be indiscriminate."

"The authorities in Egypt have a significant security presence across the country, including armed security officers at important sites, critical infrastructure and road checkpoints. Extra measures are in place at tourist sites."

"There is a heightened threat of terrorism in and around religious sites and during religious festivals, such as the month of Ramadan and the Christmas period (including Coptic Christmas in January). Terrorist attacks have occurred over local holiday weekends."

It warned of a threat of kidnapping by terrorist groups near the border and remote desert areas saying: "British nationals are viewed as legitimate targets, including those engaged in tourism, humanitarian aid work, journalism or business sectors. If you are kidnapped, the reason for your presence is unlikely to serve as a protection or secure your safe release.

Have the tensions in the Middle East affected your travel plans? Vote in our poll HERE to have your say.

The Foreign Office also issued new warnings for visitors to Morocco. It highlighted: "On 13 April 2024 Iran carried out military action against Israel. Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Morocco. There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times."

"There is an increased threat linked to the number of Moroccans sympathetic or belonging to Daesh (formerly ISIL) and other extremist groups. Authorities regularly disrupt terrorist cells. While there have been no recent kidnappings of foreign nationals in Morocco, it cannot be ruled out."

MORE ON Foreign Office

Get email updates with the day's biggest stories.

• Company History
• Mission Statement
• Philippines
• South Africa
• Afghanistan
• American Samoa
• Antigua and Barbuda
• British Virgin Islands
• Burkina Faso
• Canary Islands
• Cayman Islands
• Central African Republic
• Christmas Island
• Cocos (Keeling) Islands
• Cook Islands
• Cote d'Ivoire
• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Dominican Republic
• Easter Island
• El Salvador
• Equatorial Guinea
• Falkland Islands
• Faroe Islands
• French Guiana
• French Polynesia
• Guinea-Bissau
• Liechtenstein
• Madeira Islands
• Marshall Islands
• Netherlands
• New Caledonia
• New Zealand
• Norfolk Island
• North Korea
• North Macedonia
• Northern Mariana Islands
• Palestinian Territories
• Papua New Guinea
• Pitcairn Islands
• Puerto Rico
• Republic of the Congo
• Saint Barthelemy
• Saint Helena
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• Saint Martin
• Saint Pierre-et-Miquelon
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• Sao Tome and Principe
• Saudi Arabia
• Sierra Leone
• Sint Eustatius
• Solomon Islands
• South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
• South Korea
• South Sudan
• Switzerland
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Turkmenistan
• Turks and Caicos Islands
• U.S. Virgin Islands
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States
• Wake Island
• Western Sahara
• Travel Vaccines
• Travel Health Consultations
• Travellers’ Diarrhea Kits
• Dengue Fever Prevention
• Malaria Prevention
• Chikungunya Prevention
• Zika Prevention
• Ebola Virus
• Yellow Fever
• Hepatitis A
• Japanese Encephalitis
• Hepatitis B
• Tickborne Encephalitis (TBE)
• Tetanus-Diphtheria-Pertussis
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella
• Influenza (Flu)
• Blood Tests
• Vitamin Injections
• Physician Referral Program
• London – Euston Travel Clinic

Travel Vaccines and Advice for Egypt

Egypt’s 3,000 year history is rich and complex, filled with more than just mummies and pyramids. This land has ties to people and places that existed milleniums ago.

There are many sights to see in Egypt. The pyramids of Giza, the oldest of the original seven wonders of the world, remain still largely intact. The life-giving Nile River. The legendary tomb of King Tut.

But, as many sights as there are in Egypt, recent conflict in and around the country has increased the risks of travel there.

Do I Need Vaccines for Egypt?

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Egypt. The National Travel Health Network and Centre and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Egypt: hepatitis A , hepatitis B , typhoid , yellow fever , polio , rabies and tetanus .

See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunisations:

• Hepatitis A – Food & Water – Recommended for most travellers to the region, especially if unvaccinated.
• Hepatitis B – Blood & Body Fluids – Accelerated schedule available
• Tetanus – Wounds or Breaks in Skin – Recommended for travellers to most regions, especially if not previously vaccinated.
• Typhoid – Food & Water – Jab lasts 3 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator.
• Yellow Fever – Mosquito – Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
• Rabies – Saliva of Infected Animals – High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals.
• Polio – Food & Water – Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended.

See the tables below for more information:

Decisions should be made based on travel plans and whether there is an increased personal risk for contracting certain diseases.

Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Egypt?

Egypt requires visas for all types of travel. eVisas are available for obtaining your visa before a trip. On arrival visas are also available. Passports must be valid for at least six months upon entry. Proof of yellow fever vaccination may be required if you are travelling from a region where yellow fever is present.

Sources: Embassy of Egypt and GOV.UK

What is the Climate Like in Egypt?

Egypt only has two seasons – a hot summer and a moderate winter. In general, Egyptian days are warm or hot and nights are cool or even cold. While the majority of Egypt is desert, there are four peculiar physical regions with different climates.

The Nile Region

• Nile Delta – The ancient city Alexandria is located in the Nile Delta. This area was created by the world’s longest river and is the most expansive oasis in the world. The delta comes on to north of Cairo and extends farther north to the Mediterranean Sea. This region has a hot desert climate. But, the most northern part closest to the sea is the wettest region in the country. It has higher humidity and more moderate temperatures, reaching no higher than 32 degrees.
• Nile Valley – This region includes the two major Egyptian cities Luxor and Aswan. The Nile Valley is hot and dry, with very little precipitation. The summer months get especially hot, with daytime temperatures reaching highs of up to 41 degrees at the peak of the summer. Nighttime temperatures dip down to around 21 degrees at the lowest points. The winter months are much more moderate with less fluctuation from night to day.

Western Desert

The Pyramids of Giza are located in the northeast corner of this region.

This region is one of the driest areas in the Sahara Desert. It spans from the Mediterranean Sea south to the Sudanese Border, and from the Libyan border east to the Nile River Valley. The area rarely sees any rain. Hot, dry sandstorms, called khamsins, are common in the spring months and can be dangerous.

Temperatures vary greatly. In summer months, temperatures can get up to 44 degrees during the day and 7 degrees at night. In winter months, temperatures fluctuate less, but the desert can get to 50 degrees during the day and as low as 30 degrees at night.

Eastern Desert

The Eastern Desert is mountainous. The topography increases east of the Nile to become dry, rocky downs, the Red Sea Mountains, at elevations around 1,900 meters or higher. This is a dry, desolate area that is isolated from the rest of the country. There is not much in this part of the country because it is not suitable for agriculture or other sustained settlements.

Sinai Peninsula

This is a triangular peninsula that connects Asia with Africa. It is also known as the Sinai Desert because of its arid climate. The rest of Egypt is to the West, Israel and the Gaza Strip to the east. The Mediterranean Sea is to the north and the Red Sea is to the south.

The peninsula has two distinctly different climates. The northern part of the peninsula, closer to the Mediterranean, is dry and intensely hot during the summer and sees more rain during the winter. The southern part, closer to the Red Sea, is at higher elevation and is more prone to clouds, especially near the tops of the downs. The temperatures fluctuate a little more, getting cooler at night. Humidity is higher near the coasts on the peninsula.

Is Egypt Safe?

Non-essential travel to Egypt is not recommended. The government of the UK has issued travel warnings to Egypt.

Travellers should avoid going to the Western Desert toward the Libyan border and the Sinai Peninsula due to an unpredictable security situation.

When travelling to coastal resorts, exercise a high degree of caution.

Travellers should use reputable Egyptian travel agencies if they still decide to make the trip. Those agencies are informed about the security issues and will know how to best advise.

Egyptian Rules, Customs and Laws

Public Behaviour

• Intimate behaviour and any sort of public displays of affection including cuddling, kissing and even hand-holding are seen as inappropriate.
• When visiting a home, it is customary to bring a small gift and remove shoes before entering.
• Egyptians have peculiar functions for the two hands. The left hand is to be used for “unclean” functions, like putting on shoes or wiping in the rest room. It’s is seen as unhygienic to put food into the mouth or into a communal food bowl with that hand. The right hand should be used for greetings and eating.

Conversation

• Egyptians are passionate about certain subjects and conversations about those subjects, including Israel, Islam and Palestine, should be treated carefully. There is potential for serious offence if careful consideration is not taken, especially when expressing opinions about religion.
• Dress should be modest. Shorts are considered acceptable only near the coastal resorts, and shirts for both men and women should cover the shoulders. Immodest clothing encourages disapproval from the Egyptians as well as gropers.
• Be conscious of dress when visiting mosques or other sacred places. Travellers should be especially modest, with women covered from wrist to ankle and men covered from below the shoulder to below the knee. Travellers should also remove their shoes or wear overshoes.

Suggestions for Women travelling in Egypt:

• Wear loose, opaque clothes that cover all immodest areas (chest, thighs, upper arms)
• When travelling alone on public transportation, sit with other women or, when offered, sit in carriages reserved for women
• When travelling with a man, wear a wedding ring. It is more respectable to appear to be married than “just friends”
• Appear confident and travel with purpose
• Avoid eye-contact with Egyptian men and appear standoffish rather than overly friendly
• When swimming in pools or open-air springs, wear a t-shirt and leggings
• If hassling or groping does occur, call out and make a scene

What Should I take to Egypt?

• Travel Documents – Ensure to have copies of all important travel documents, including your passport, visa, travel assurance, etc.
• Protection from the Sun – Be ready to prevent sunburns. Don’t forget sun cream of SPF 30 or higher, a hat and sunnies.
• Light, Breathable Cotton Clothing – Bring clothing that is easy to wash. Whether in Egypt’s coastal regions or arid desert areas, light clothing will help with comfort in the heat, even in winter months.
• Jacket – This will help protect against potential summer windstorms and also provide backup for when indoors get chilly from heavy air conditioning.
• Comfortable Shoes – Many of Egypt’s most exciting sites require at least some walking and sightseeing. In general, it is best to go with comfortable shoes.
• Health and Hygiene – Pack a basic medical kit filled with items that may not be readily available in parts of Egypt. Kits should include things like: bandages, antibacterial hand gel, pain relievers, anti-diarrhoea drugs and re-hydration salts.
• Egyptian Travel Adapter – To charge your phone, you will need a travel adapter made for Egypt.

Embassy of the United Kingdom in Egypt

If you are in Egypt and have an emergency (for example, been attacked, arrested or someone has died) contact the nearest consular services. Contact the embassy before arrival if you have additional questions on entry requirements, safety concerns or are in need of assistance.

British Embassy Cairo 7 Ahmed Ragheb Street Garden City Cairo Egypt Telephone: + 2 (02) 2791 6000 Emergency Phone: + 2 (02) 2791 6000 Fax: +2 (02) 2791 6133 Contact Form: Click Here

If you have any questions about travelling to Egypt or are wondering which jabs you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment by calling or book online now !

On This Page: Do I Need Vaccines for Egypt? Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Egypt? What Is the Climate Like in Egypt? Is Egypt Safe? Egyptian Rules, Customs and Laws Suggestions for Women travelling in Egypt: What Should I Take To Egypt? Embassy of the United Kingdom in Egypt

• Privacy Policy
• Automatic Data Collection Statement

Middle East: Is it safe to travel to holiday destinations as tension escalates?

Are you going to Turkey, Egypt or Israel on holiday? The Foreign Office has warned travellers to several countries to monitor advice after an Iranian attack on Israel pushed tension in the Middle East up another notch.

Thursday 18 April 2024 08:13, UK

Tension in the Middle East has ratcheted up again after Iran's attack on Israel, as the world waits to see how Benjamin Netanyahu's government will respond. 

With the threat of widening conflict, people due to travel through or over the Middle East may be asking if their plans may be impacted.

On Saturday, flight data showed dozens of journeys that would have travelled over the Middle East turned back after Iran fired more than 300 drones and missiles into Israel .

Here is what airlines are saying and the latest safety advice to travellers.

EasyJet scraps Tel Aviv flights

EasyJet has suspended all flights to Tel Aviv over safety concerns.

The budget airline told Sky News it has grounded its flights until 27 October at the earliest "as a result of the continued evolving situation" in the region.

Wizz Air customers could see schedule changes

Wizz Air cancelled flights to Tel Aviv on Sunday 14 and Monday 15 April before resuming its schedule.

But it said customers could experience schedule changes as it closely monitors the situation.

British Airways operating as normal

British Airways - which operates four daily return flights per week between Heathrow and Tel Aviv - said its flights were continuing to operate as planned, but it too was monitoring the situation.

Is it safe to travel to Turkey?

Turkey is a popular holiday destination for people from the UK with the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism saying that last year 3.16 million Britons made the journey there, according to Travel Weekly.

Yet, it borders a number of countries that the Foreign Office advises against travel to.

The vast majority of the country is considered generally safe for tourists, with some exceptions.

The Foreign Office advises against all travel within 10km of the border with Syria , and all but essential travel to the Sirnak and Hakkari provinces.

Is it safe to travel to Israel?

Some parts of Israel are considered "red zones" by the Foreign Office, with the government advising against all travel there.

For the rest of the country - including East Jerusalem and Tel Aviv - the advice is to travel only if it is essential.

Tourist Israel says around 220,000 Britons usually go to the country every year and the Foreign Office is advising against travel close to the border with Gaza, within 5km of the border with Lebanon and within 500m of the border with Syria.

You can see the full updated list of "red zones" on the Foreign Office advice pages.

Occupied Palestinian territories

The Foreign Office advises against all travel to Gaza and the West Bank.

Don't travel to Iran, Iraq, Yemen, Lebanon or Syria - Foreign Office

The Foreign Office advises against all travel to Iran, Syria, Lebanon and Yemen.

It advises against all travel to Iraq except to the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI), where it advises against all but "essential travel".

Can I safely go on holiday in Egypt?

The main tourist areas in Egypt are generally considered safe, including the capital Cairo, cities along the Nile and Red Sea resorts.

Over 1.5 million British Nationals visit Egypt every year, according to analysts Gitnux, and the areas the Foreign Office warns not to travel to include the Governorate of North Sinai, where the Rafah crossing to Gaza is located, and within 20km of the border with Libya.

Read more: Are we heading for World War Three? Experts give their verdicts What are Iran's military capabilities - and where could it strike?

Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News

Check advice on other Middle East states before you travel

Following Iran's attack on Israel, the Foreign Office issued a warning relating to several countries in the surrounding area, telling travellers to check for the latest information.

Included in this are popular destinations like Dubai (visited by more than a million Britons last year according to Travel Weekly) and Marrakech.

"On 13 April 2024 Iran carried out military action against Israel. Monitor this travel advice and other media as the situation is changing fast," the FCDO said in a statement.

The countries covered by the warning include Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Morocco, Tunisia, Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Bahrain, Kuwait, Libya, Jordan and Oman.

Anywhere else of concern?

Cyprus is near the region and has a large UK airbase but, as yet, there is no change in travel advice to the popular country.

Related Topics

• Israel-Hamas war
• Middle East

We've detected unusual activity from your computer network

To continue, please click the box below to let us know you're not a robot.

Why did this happen?

Please make sure your browser supports JavaScript and cookies and that you are not blocking them from loading. For more information you can review our Terms of Service and Cookie Policy .

For inquiries related to this message please contact our support team and provide the reference ID below.

• Entertainment

Irish deputy premier to travel to Egypt and Jordan to push for Gaza ceasefire

Micheal Martin is due to visit Cairo, Amman and the Rafah border crossing this week.

Ireland’s deputy premier is to travel to Egypt and Jordan to push for a ceasefire in Gaza and support efforts working towards a two-state solution.

The visit comes amid tensions in the Middle East following attacks between Israel and Iran, and after a strike on the densely populated city of Rafah in southern Gaza, in which 18 children and four adults were killed.

Israel has said it will carry out a ground offensive on the city located at the Egyptian border, despite international calls for restraint, including from the US and Ireland.

Tanaiste and minister for foreign affairs Micheal Martin said his visit would aim to put a focus back on the “brutal conflict” amid increased instability in the region.

He also said that he was “not satisfied” that Ireland’s and Spain’s calls in February for a review of the EU-Israel Association Agreement were getting the attention they require.

Mr Martin said in particular, they were calling for a review of whether Israel was fulfilling the human rights clauses of the agreement “because what has transpired in Gaza is absolutely unacceptable from a humanitarian point of view”.

“We are of the view in Ireland that humanitarian law has been breached and broken time and time again now,” he said.

He added that there are reservations from some member states on a review of the agreement, and said that the way in which a review would be carried out has not been decided.

The European Commission has yet to respond on whether a review will be conducted.

Mr Martin said he would raise the issue at the Foreign Affairs Council meeting in Luxembourg on Monday.

The Tanaiste is due to meet this week with Egyptian foreign minister Sameh Shoukry in Cairo and with Jordanian deputy prime minister and foreign minister Ayman Safadi in Amman.

“I very much look forward to meeting my counterparts in Egypt and Jordan,” Mr Martin said ahead of the trip.

“Both countries have been at the forefront of international efforts to bring about a desperately needed ceasefire and address the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, while maintaining a focus on longer-term political solutions.

“We will continue our discussions on how Ireland and other like-minded countries in Europe can support the resolution of this brutal conflict, including through the recognition of a Palestinian state and support for UN membership for Palestine.

“It is vital that we use any political capital that we have to generate momentum for a comprehensive regional peace, along the lines envisaged by the Arab peace plan.

“A two-state solution remains the only vision of the future that can ensure peace and security for both Israelis and Palestinians.”

Mr Martin is also due to travel to the Rafah border crossing between Egypt and Gaza to meet humanitarian partners and to visit UNRWA programmes supporting Palestinian refugees in Jordan.

“Against a backdrop of increased regional instability, we cannot lose sight of the urgency of addressing the current crisis in Gaza and the wider Israeli/Palestinian issue,” he said.

“My visit to Egypt and Jordan will focus on continuing my discussions with key partners on the need for an immediate ceasefire, the unconditional release of all hostages and full, safe and unhindered humanitarian access to Gaza.

“I will also focus on how Ireland can support regional efforts to return to a political pathway towards a sustainable and peaceful resolution of this conflict and a two-state solution.”

Speaking about Gaza, Mr Martin said: “We cannot and must not lose focus on the situation in Gaza, which remains extremely grave.

“I will use my visit to the Rafah crossing to highlight the impact of ongoing Israeli restrictions on humanitarian access, which prevents life-saving aid from reaching the people of Gaza.

“Up to 1.5 million people are sheltering in Rafah and the humanitarian consequences of any Israeli military operation in the area would be disastrous.

“It is vital at such a moment of humanitarian need and regional instability to demonstrate clear and unwavering support for the work of UNRWA which remains the backbone of the humanitarian response in Gaza and a pillar of regional stability.”

Man convicted of bludgeoning wife with shock absorber before setting fire to their home Plus Shrewsbury | 2 hours ago

'Disruptive' temporary traffic lights for gas works replaced with road closure Shrewsbury | 5 hours ago

Most unreliable train service revealed in study Transport | 8 hours ago

'Outstanding' Shrewsbury primary school in Wonderland after bowling over Ofsted inspectors Plus Education | Apr 25

Mum avoids jail over child neglect while three times the drink drive limit Plus Telford | 10 hours ago