Egypt Travel Safety Guide

Tourist harassment, scams, and pressure selling are common around major sights. Be firm and keep moving when you do not want a service.

Heat, sun, dehydration, and air quality can be harder on visitors than expected, especially in summer or in Cairo.

Photography near security, police, government, bridges, canals, and some infrastructure can cause trouble. Ask first when in doubt.

Drug laws are strict and public behavior that seems minor elsewhere can be treated more seriously.

For Cairo and major cities, app-booked rides are usually easier than negotiating random street taxis. Uber and Careem are practical mainstream options in Egypt.

Crossing the road can feel aggressive. Do not assume pedestrian crossings will be strongly respected.

Currency is Egyptian pound (EGP). Cash still matters a lot, even when cards work in better hotels, larger restaurants, and tourist businesses.

ATM, taxi, and forced-shopping style scams can target tourists. Use bank ATMs, agree on fares in advance when not using an app, and be cautious with unsolicited help.

Cairo, Red Sea resorts, Upper Egypt, and Sinai do not feel the same. Security posture and logistics differ a lot by region.