Know Before You Go: Visiting Egypt
Entry Requirements and Visas
Egypt's economy depends heavily on tourism, making it relatively easy to enter the country. Most visitors can obtain a visa without difficulty, though requirements vary by nationality.
Egypt offers three main types of visas: Tourist Visas (valid for 3 months or less, single or multiple entry), Entry Visas (for work, study, or other non-tourism purposes), and Transit Visas (rarely needed). An e-Visa (online visa) is available for many countries—check your government website for eligibility.
Many Western visitors can obtain a visa on arrival at major entry points for US$25. Citizens of the UK, EU countries, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, the Russian Federation, Serbia, Ukraine, and the United States fall into this category. Other nationalities, including those from China, India, Malaysia, Pakistan, Thailand, and numerous African and Middle Eastern countries, must arrange a visa in advance through an Egyptian consulate or embassy.
A special exemption allows visitors entering at Taba or Sharm el-Sheikh airport to receive a free 14-day visa for the Sinai peninsula, including Sharm el-Sheikh, Dahab, and St. Catherine's Monastery. However, to visit Cairo and other Egyptian cities outside the Sinai, a full Egyptian visa is required in advance.
A valid passport is required for all non-Egyptian visitors. Residence permit holders can re-enter Egypt within the permit's validity period or six months without needing a new visa.
Money and Currency
Egypt's currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). ATMs are widely available in major cities and tourist areas for withdrawing local currency. Money changers are common, and most major currencies are accepted.
If paying the visa-on-arrival fee of US$25, you need not carry US dollars specifically—most major currencies including euros and British pounds are accepted by visa officers and exchanged at reasonable rates, even in small denominations.
Health
Consult your doctor or a travel medicine clinic before departure regarding recommended vaccinations and any health precautions specific to Egypt. Standard travel insurance is advisable.
Staying Safe
Exercise caution and stay informed about current conditions. Register with your embassy before traveling. Keep emergency contact information for your country's diplomatic mission readily available. Tourist police are present in major tourist destinations and can assist visitors.
Staying Connected
Egypt's international dialing code is +20. Mobile SIM cards from local providers are readily available and affordable. Major telecommunications companies offer prepaid plans suitable for tourists. Internet connectivity is widely available through mobile networks and WiFi in hotels and cafes.
Local Customs and Etiquette
Islam is Egypt's official religion. Dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites or outside tourist areas. Remove shoes when entering mosques or homes. Greeting with "As-salamu alaykum" (peace be upon you) is respectful; the response is "Wa alaikum assalam" (and upon you be peace).
Photography rules vary by location. Always ask permission before photographing people, and be aware that photography is restricted at certain monuments and military installations. Egyptians value hospitality; accepting tea or small gifts is customary.
Arabic is Egypt's official language. While English is spoken in tourist areas, learning a few basic Arabic phrases is appreciated and helpful.
Getting Around
Multiple airports serve different regions: Cairo International Airport is the primary entry point; Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh airports offer budget-friendly alternatives for Red Sea access; and Luxor International Airport serves the upper Nile region. Ferry services connect Aqaba (Jordan) to Nuweiba on the Sinai peninsula. Bus travel is an affordable option from neighboring countries, though journeys can be lengthy (7–10 hours from Taba to Cairo).