Navigation
Select Country
Map Layers
Egypt
- Key travel risks in Egypt include the potential for petty crime such as pickpocketing and scams in crowded tourist areas and occasional safety concerns related to road conditions and erratic driving.
- As a result of poor economic conditions, protests persist in major cities (e.g., Cairo and Alexandria); however, strict security measures act to deter widespread unrest.
- There is a latent risk of terrorism in Egypt, with attacks historically targeting security forces and government facilities, particularly in North Sinai and occasionally in urban centers like Cairo.
Risk Factors
- There remains a moderate risk of kidnapping, primarily in remote desert regions and North Sinai. While kidnappings usually impact locals, foreigners have been targeted.
- Attacks by militants happen intermittently, especially in North Sinai, mainly aimed at security personnel and Egypt's Coptic Christian community. While the level of militant activity in Cairo and popular tourist destinations has witnessed a decline since 2018, the presence of militant groups still poses a threat. Reduce the amount of time spent near potential targets for terrorist attacks, such as security forces and government buildings, places of worship, foreign embassies, and busy public areas.
- Petty and violent crime has risen in recent years. Petty criminality, such as bag-snatching and pickpocketing, is common in major cities such as Cairo. Stay vigilant and keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots.
- Sexual harassment remains a significant issue throughout the country. Women, particularly when traveling alone, should exercise extra caution in urban centers after dark. Public transportation is not advised for solo female travelers.
- The risk of crime is lower in Egypt’s resort areas, though normal precautions are still recommended.
- Intercity city buses, particularly luxury or private providers, are safer and have a better safety record than city buses. Cairo’s metro system is generally efficient and safe. Due to an aging rail network, the national rail system is not recommended.
- Taxis are widely available, though frequently in poor condition and drivers often speak only Arabic. Rather than hailing a taxi off the street, it is preferable to arrange taxis in advance through a reputable hotel or agency or hire a car and driver.
- Ride-sharing apps, such as Uber, are also common in large cities and are an acceptable means of transportation.
- Although there have not been large-scale protests in recent years, the risk of major demonstrations driven by socio-economic conditions persists. Security forces are known to use forceful measures to disperse protests, which raises the risk of violence.
- Stay aware of the potential for public agitation and protests in Egypt and avoid large gatherings.
- There is an overall low risk from natural events; seasonal flooding, occasional earthquakes in Northern Egypt, extreme temperatures, and sandstorms are the primary concerns. During the Khamsin season (April-early June), sand storms are common and can lead to flight cancellations.
- There remains a heightened threat from Islamist militants in North Sinai, who are known to target security forces and minority groups and have been engaged in an intra-state conflict with the Egyptian security forces. The risk of kidnapping is significantly elevated in North Sinai.
- The risk of crime is higher in western parts of the country due to the presence of bandits and organized criminal groups.