Egypt

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers 

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.  

• Dial 123 for all emergencies in Egypt
• For the U.S. Embassy in Egypt dial +20-2-2797-3300 to report crimes or emergencies (after calling local authorities). You may also report crimes to the U.S. Embassy in Egypt here. 

Areas to avoid  

U.S. citizens should avoid traveling to these areas:  

• Northern and Middle Sinai Peninsula: Terrorist attacks on security forces and civilians still occur but are becoming increasingly rare. The U.S. government can only provide limited emergency services. U.S. Government employees may only travel to Sharm-El-Sheikh and nearby areas along the Red Sea coast due to limited emergency infrastructure in Middle Sinai Peninsula. 
• All Egyptian border areas: Under military control. Movement of non-military people and vehicles is restricted, and in some cases, prohibited. 
• Parts of the Western Desert 
• Libyan and Sudanese borders  

Be cautious and check the news if traveling to Southern Sinai, along the Red Sea. 

• Sharm-El-Sheikh 
• Dahab and Taba 
• St. Catherine’s Monastery and Mt. Sinai 

You should only travel to the Black Desert and White Desert with a licensed tour company.  Stay alert throughout the country due to the threat of terrorism. 

Terrorism 

Globally, terrorist groups and their supporters aim to attack U.S. citizens abroad with methods such as knives, firearms, and vehicles. 

Terrorists target crowds with little or no warning at: 

• Religious sites (mosques, churches, monasteries, and buses traveling there) 
• Local government buildings, and diplomatic facilities (embassies) 
• Tourist spots 
• Transportation centers 
• Shopping malls 
• Restaurants and Western businesses  
• Resorts 
• Urban areas 

The Egyptian government has boosted security at tourist sites to address safety concerns. But challenges remain, and the threat of terrorism exists.  

Tips to stay safe 

U.S. citizens must always be aware of their surroundings: 

• Check local news and reports. 
• Avoid demonstrations. 
• Keep a low profile. 
• Carry copies of your passport and visa and a cellphone with service in Egypt. 
• Save the U.S. Embassy’s phone number +20-2-2797-3300. 
• It is illegal to photograph police stations, military barracks, and certain other sensitive public buildings. 
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).

Egyptian borders 

Travelers must get permission and a travel route from the Egyptian Military Intelligence and the Tourist Police to access:  

• Borders with Libya 
• Borders with Sudan
• Borders with Israel 
• Parts of the Sinai Peninsula off paved roads  

Arrangements must be made through a local or overseas travel agency.  

Landmines 

There are World War II-era unexploded landmines in these areas: 

• The Sinai Peninsula 
• Mediterranean coast west of Alexandria 
• Eastern Desert between Cairo and the Suez Canal 

Pay attention to warning signs in these areas. 

Crime 

Crime levels in Cairo and Alexandria are moderate. 

• Most crimes against foreigners are crimes of opportunity, like purse snatching and pickpocketing. 
• Harassment of women, including foreigners, is a problem in Egypt. It can include vulgar comments, gestures, indecent exposure, and unwanted physical contact. 
• Tourists should beware of overcharging and scams in tourist areas. You may encounter aggressive vendors in shops, at temples, and archaeological sites. Some will offer “free” gifts that lead to money demands. Most sites have tourist police available to help in uncomfortable situations. 

Demonstrations  

Demonstrations happen occasionally and are unpredictable.  They occur as a result of political or economic issues, on holidays, and during international events. 

• Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 
• Past demonstrations have turned violent. 
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories. 

International scams  

Internet romance and financial scams are common in Egypt. Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams  and learn how the FBI can help.

How to avoid scammers

Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to. Instead of helping, refer them to the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. We will work with local authorities to assist them.  

Common scams include:  

• Romance or online dating  
• Money transfers  

If using dating apps or websites:  

• Inform friends and family of your location. Meet in a busy public place. Avoid eating or drinking anything suspicious.   
• Set up a video call in the initial stages.  
• Do a reverse image search on the profile picture.  
• Don't go to bars or nightclubs alone.  

Look for red flags such as:   

• People who say they live in a remote location.  
• Profiles that were recently created or seem too good to be true.  
• Receiving unwanted emails or letters.   
• The pace of the relationship is moving too quickly.  
• Requests for money.  

Technology use abroad 

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safety practices: 

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving.  
• Use reputable, U.S. based VPN or VoIP applications.   
• Don’t connect to unknown public Wi-Fi networks.  
• The Egyptian government does not allow visitors to enter with drones or satellite phones.  Any drone or satellite phones brought into Egypt will be taken by the Egyptian government and not returned. 
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens. 

GPS apps

Prior to using any GPS apps, research the route to make sure it’s safe. The shortest path may not be the safest. 

Online maps and navigation apps may not be up to date with ongoing construction of highways and bridges, especially in major cities like Cairo. 

Victims of crime 

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. If you don’t report a crime before leaving Egypt, you won’t be able to seek prosecution later: 

• For the U.S. Embassy dial +20-2-2797-3300.
• To report crimes to the local police dial 122.
• For Egypt’s Child Emergency Help line dial 16000.
• For Egypt’s National Council for Women dial 15115.
• For the Tourist Police to send complaints for investigation dial 126. 

The Embassy cannot intervene in legal disputes. The U.S. Department of State provides information. We can: 

• Help you find appropriate medical care. 
• Help you report a crime to the police. 
• Contact family or friends with your written consent. 
• Provide general information about the victim’s role during the local investigation. 
• Provide a list of local attorneys (does not imply support).   
• Inform you of victim’s compensation programs in the United StatesIssue an emergency loan for repatriation to the U.S. or limited financial support in cases of poverty. 
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home. 
• Replace a stolen or lost passport. 

Sexual assault 

Victims of sexual assault may wish to contact the U.S. Embassy.  However, local assistance and support are limited. Women who have been sexually assaulted may contact Egypt’s National Council for Women (NCW) or: 

• Dial 15115 or via WhatsApp: 01007525600.    

Victims will be referred to health, legal, psychosocial or shelter services.  

The NCW and the Ministry of Health and Population have established Safe Women Clinics across Egypt. These clinics offer medical assessments, referrals to specialized departments, and post-rape kits. The Embassy can help connect you with these resources. 

Women who report sexual assault and domestic violence to local police in Egypt often have few options for help. In some cases, victims have even been accused of adultery or other crimes.  

Tourism 

Tourism activities are widespread in Egypt.   

• There are safety and accessibility limitations at many tourism sites.    
• Private vendors may offer services that are not regulated.    
• Appropriate medical care is available only in or near major cities or tourist areas.    
• Urgent medical treatment options are limited. 
• There have been multiple fatal accidents involving tourist boats along the Red Sea coast of Egypt, specifically boats used for overnight scuba-diving trips. 

U.S. citizens should check overseas insurers. They should consider buying medical evacuation insurance for care and transport.  

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties 

U.S. citizens must follow local laws. If you break a law, even by mistake, you can be expelled, arrested, or jailed.   

• If you’re starting a business or a licensed profession, you must seek information from local authorities before operating. 
• Egyptian police can stop, question, and detain people without cause. Not carrying proper ID, like a passport, may result in detention and questioning. 
• Suspects can be held for months without charges. You may not have access to immediate legal counsel during criminal investigations. 
• U.S. citizens have been detained for several days in non-criminal cases, including immigration issues. 
• Local laws require permits for protests. Being near anti-government demonstrations can attract police attention, including searches of personal devices. U.S. citizens have been detained for posting content on social media seen as critical of Egypt or its allies. 
• Punishments in Egypt often can be harsher than in the United States. For example, drug offenses carry severe penalties, including life in prison or the death penalty. 

You may be prosecuted in the U.S. for crimes committed abroad regardless of local laws.  

For more information, learn about crimes against minors abroad and resources from the Department of Justice.

Arrest notification 

If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to inform the U.S. Embassy immediately.  Arrested individuals should avoid signing untranslated documents from the police that they do not understand.   

Dual U.S.-Egyptian citizens 

Egyptian law considers dual U.S.-Egyptian nationals to be Egyptian citizens. 

Egyptian authorities will not notify the Embassy if a dual national is detained. They will not provide information to the United States about the alleged crime. Additionally, consular officers must obtain authorization from Egyptian authorities to visit U.S. citizen detainees. 

• Family members or friends can notify the ACS Unit at U.S. Embassy Cairo if the arrested U.S. citizen is unable to.  
• U.S. citizenship doesn’t protect you against detention or arrest by Egyptian authorities. You could face prolonged interrogations and detention. 
• U.S. citizens arrested in Egypt can be deported, even without a conviction.  
• The Government of Egypt has asked detained U.S.-Egyptian citizens to give up their Egyptian citizenship to be deported to the U.S. 

Currency 

• Bringing more than $10,000 into or out of Egypt is illegal. If you do, the extra money may be taken, and you could face other penalties.  
• Egypt places limits on the quantity of gold that individuals may import into Egypt.  

Drones 

Bringing any type of drone to Egypt, including small personal ones, is strictly prohibited. Violating this rule can lead to severe penalties. This includes the death penalty for using a drone to support terrorists.  Drones may be confiscated and not returned. 

Counterfeit and pirated goods 

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common but may be illegal according to local laws.   

• They may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.   
• You could get fined or forced to give your goods to the authorities if you try to bring them back into the U.S.  
• U.S. Customs and Boarder Protection, The Truth Behind Counterfeits 

Cultural property 

Egyptian law is strict on antiquities. This includes historic coins, ceramics, and architectural elements.  

• It is illegal to remove antiquities from archaeological sites and other places in Egypt.  
• Intentional damage to antiquities, such as inscribing, painting, or attaching ads, is illegal.  
• The trade, sale, or export of antiquities is heavily regulated.  
• Travelers can be prosecuted for looting, damaging, showing disrespect at cultural or governmental sites, or smuggling antiquities out of Egypt. Buying antiquities is also illegal. Penalties include fines and/or imprisonment: 

Faith-based travelers 

• Faith-Based Travelers
• International Religious Freedom Report -  review country reports 
• Human Rights Report - review country reports 
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers 

International volunteers 

• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad 

Gay and lesbian travelers 

Gay and lesbian individuals face significant discrimination in Egypt.  

• Same-sex relationships are not illegal. But many report harassment and arrests, often by the police. 
• Authorities have been known to use social media and dating apps to trap suspected gay and lesbian people for “debauchery,” a crime that can lead up to 10 years in prison. Police have also confiscated rainbow flags and detained their owners.  
• Tips for Gay and Lesbian Travelers   
• Human Rights Report for Egypt (See section 6)  

Travelers with accessibility needs

Travelers with accessibility needs may find accessibility and accommodation difficult. 

• Most businesses and public places lack access for people with disabilities. Laws requiring access to transportation and communication aren't enforced. 
• Sidewalks can be limited, uneven, and sometimes used by cars and motorcycles. 
• Public transportation doesn’t have accommodations for the elderly or those with disabilities. Crosswalks are rare, and drivers have the right of way, so pedestrians should be very cautious. 

Students 

• Tips for Students Abroad
• FBI Travel Tips

Women travelers 

Women traveling in Egypt may face unique health and security challenges:  

• Avoid traveling alone.  
• Exercise caution in crowds, on public transportation, in rural areas, and in isolated sections of temples and pyramids.  The Cairo metro has separate cars for women which may reduce the possibility of harassment. 
• Groping has been reported in taxis and public places. 
• Women traveling alone or with children may be stopped, questioned, or harassed by authorities for not traveling with a male companion.  
• Egyptian men and women may need to show a marriage certificate to prove their relationship when checking into hotels. 
• The Embassy receives reports of U.S. citizen women experiencing domestic violence, sexual harassment, verbal abuse, and rape in Egypt. 

Some Egyptian NGOs support affected women. Victims may qualify for compensation, counseling, or relocation to the United States. 

Find more information about the specific risks that women face in Egypt through the Country Security Report and our travel tips for Women Travelers.

Health

Health resources 

• Egypt CDC Traveler Health Information 
• CDC Medical Tourism information 
• Travel Insurance
• World Health Organization Information on Egypt
• List of Hospitals and Doctors in Egypt

Emergency phone numbers 

• Dial 123 for medical emergencies

Ambulance services

Ambulances are rare, unreliable in most areas, and don’t have advanced medical equipment.   

• Ambulances and emergency crews often lack training.   
• Ambulance availability is improving. But Cairo traffic makes it hard to get them through. 
• In an emergency, travelers may prefer to take a taxi or car to the hospital rather than an ambulance.  

We highly recommend that all travelers review the CDC’s Health Advice for Travelers to Egypt.

Medical insurance 

• The U.S. government including Department of State, U.S. embassies and U.S. consulates do not pay medical bills.  
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not work abroad. 
• Make sure your insurance plan works abroad. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides more information on types of insurance available. 
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad don’t accept U.S. health insurance.  
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment “up front” prior to service or admission. 
• Credit card payment is not always available. Most care providers abroad only accept cash.  
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation. 

Healthcare    

• Emergency and intensive care facilities are limited.  
• Most Nile cruise boats don’t have a doctor, but some have a medical practitioner. 
• Hospitals in Luxor, Aswan, and Sharm-El-Sheikh are good, but they are inadequate at most other ports-of-call.  
• Beaches on the Mediterranean and Red Sea coasts are generally unpolluted. However, swimming in the Nile or its canals, walking barefoot in stagnant water, or drinking untreated water can expose people to bacteria and infections. They are also at risk of schistosomiasis (bilharzia). 
• The Embassy cannot give medical advice or services. A list of hospitals and doctors in Egypt  can be found on the Embassy website. 

Prescriptions 

You must carry prescription medications in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with Egypt’s Ministry of Health to ensure the medication is legal in Egypt.  

Vaccinations 

Travelers must be up to date on all recommended vaccinations, per CDC’s information.  

Further Health Information: 

• World Health Organization 
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Water quality and food safety  

• In many areas, tap water is not safe to drink.  
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe.  
• Many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless you ask for bottled water.   
• Ice for drinks may be made from tap water. 
• It is generally safe to eat freshly cooked food in hotels, on Nile cruise boats, and in popular restaurants.  
• When selecting a restaurant, choose a clean and well-known place.  
• Avoid all uncooked food including raw fruits and vegetables to avoid sickness. 

Adventure travel 

• Learn more about Adventure Travel 

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Egypt.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Transportation

Traffic laws 

• Traffic laws in Egypt are not strictly enforced. But foreigners may face extra scrutiny.  
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs could result in arrest or detainment. 

Road conditions and safety 

Driving in Egypt is extremely dangerous.

• Egypt has one of the highest rates of road deaths in the world due to: 
  • Unmarked surfaces 
  • Pedestrians and animals crossing streets 
  • Speed bumps along major highways 
  • Sandstorms and fog  
  • Vehicles without lights 
  • Vehicles without reflectors  
• Driving in Cairo can be very challenging for foreigners used to strict traffic rules. Even locals must stay alert in chaotic streets. Impatient drivers often ignore traffic rules, which police rarely enforce.  
• Most traffic lights in Cairo don’t work. Instead, police direct traffic using hand signals.
• Vehicle accidents are a major safety concern. 
• Consider using taxis or hired drivers instead of driving yourself.  

If you choose to drive:  

• Take extreme precautions and drive defensively.  
• At night, be ready for unlit vehicles, few road signals, and high-speed traffic. Watch for wrong-way drivers, pedestrians, and animals in the streets.  
• Be especially cautious during rare winter rains, which can create slippery roads and flooding. 
• Egyptian drivers are not familiar with driving in wet conditions, making this even more dangerous. 

Pedestrians should also be careful on busy streets, like Cairo’s Corniche and Alexandria’s Corniche along the Mediterranean. 

Public transportation  

• Public buses, Nile taxis, microbuses and trains are not safe.
• Train travel in Egypt has regular accidents involving mass casualties. 
• There have been multiple fatal accidents involving tourist boats along the Red Sea coast of Egypt, specifically boats used for scuba-diving trips. 

Embassy employees transport 

Due to security risks, U.S. Embassy employees are prohibited from: 

• Using buses, microbuses or trains (except the train from Cairo and Alexandria).  
• Traveling outside the greater Cairo and Alexandria areas by car. This is except for travel to beach resorts on the western side of the Red Sea and near Alexandria. 
• Traveling via privately-owned vehicles to any part of the Sinai Peninsula.  
• Traveling to the Western Desert with a privately owned vehicle. Embassy personnel may travel with a professionally licensed tour company.  
• Embassy personnel may travel to Siwa Oasis by the northern route, in a private vehicle 
• Please refer to our Driving and Transportation page for more information. 

Aviation safety oversight  

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Egypt’s Civil Aviation Authority as compliant with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Egypt’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page.

Maritime travel 

Mariners planning travel to Egypt should check the following:   

• U.S. Coast Guard Homeport Directory 
• U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Advisories 
• MARAD Active Maritime Alerts  
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings

Mariners planning travel to Egypt should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts on the Maritime Administration website. Information may also be posted to the websites of the U.S. Coast Guard and the National Geo-space Intelligence Agency (select “broadcast warnings”).  

The Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard is unable to determine if effective anti-terrorism measures are in place in Egypt ports as required by 46 U.S. Code § 70108. 

Weather and natural disasters

Weather events

Egypt experiences several weather events, including:

• Sandstorms: Common in spring. They reduce visibility and air quality, affecting daily life.
• Heatwaves: High temperatures, especially in the summer. They can reach extreme levels, sometimes exceeding 104 F.
• Flooding: Heavy rains, while rare, can lead to flash flooding in urban areas and near the Nile.
• Cold waves: In winter, the north may see unexpected cold spells. They can bring rain and low temperatures.
• Fog: Coastal areas may have dense winter fog, reducing visibility for travel.
• Drought: Low rainfall can cause drought, harming crops and water supply.

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources 

If you live abroad for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events.

• Learn how to prepare for life events like voting, getting married, or the birth of a child.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare or insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service. 

Embassies and consulates