Is It Safe to Travel to Egypt Right Now?

For some time now, Palestine and Israel have been locked in an official conflict following an unprecedented attack from the Gaza Strip. Thousands of civilians have been kidnapped and killed as a result. Egypt shares borders with both Israel and Gaza. Currently, the border with Gaza is closed, but is it safe to travel to Egypt right now?

Egypt is a land of contrasts, attracting tourists to its Red Sea coast resorts like Hurghada and Sharm el Sheikh, as well as to historically rich cities such as Cairo and Luxor. Despite the ongoing conflict between Israel and Gaza, which are neighboring regions, tourist areas in Egypt are generally secure, characterized by a significant police presence ensuring safety. While recent news of a policeman killing two Israeli tourists and their guide in Alexandria may raise concerns, current indications suggest that traveling to Egypt is safe.

The latest advisory from the Spanish Foreign Ministry strongly advises against traveling to areas beyond Cairo, Alexandria, Alamein (northern Mediterranean coast), Luxor, Aswan, the Red Sea coast resorts on the African mainland, and Sharm el Sheikh. Extreme caution is urged in these regions. Moreover, the Ministry recommends avoiding the Sinai Peninsula and the Rafah Passage due to their high-risk nature. The U.S. Department of State advises about reconsidering travel to Egypt overall, while the office travel from the UK advises avoiding some parts of Egypt.

If you intend to visit these areas, it’s highly recommended to utilize the services of a reputable travel agency and minimize road travel, especially in the Sinai Peninsula. Egyptian authorities often conduct surprise document checks and may provide escorts on certain routes. Avoiding solo excursions to remote areas is also advised.

Be sure to thoroughly review the terms and conditions of any contracts with travel agencies, as they may differ from European or American standards. Complaints from Spanish tourists regarding service quality have prompted this caution.

While there haven’t been recent terrorist attacks targeting tourist destinations in Egypt, security has significantly improved. However, like any other country, the risk of Islamist terrorist attacks cannot be entirely ruled out.

Given sporadic closures and openings of borders with Libya and Sudan for foreign travelers, attempting to cross them is strongly discouraged, especially considering recent incidents involving Spanish citizens.

These travel advisories for Egypt are current as of March 20, 2024. The latest update from travel offices underscores the need for continued vigilance and recommends visiting only established tourist cities or beach resorts, as other areas of the country remain unstable due to active terrorist militias.

If you choose to travel to Egypt, exercising extreme caution is imperative, as with any destination.

Stay well-informed about the security situation in Egypt, utilizing media outlets and travel advisories for updates.

Always carry all necessary documentation with you and heed the instructions of local authorities regarding security matters.

While the risk of terrorist attacks in Egypt is generally low, exercise heightened caution in North Sinai, where there have been instances targeting military installations and security checkpoints until last year.

Exercise particular vigilance in areas witnessing protests or demonstrations, as well as in crowded places.

To prevent incidents of common crime, ensure the security of your accommodation by keeping doors locked, and remain cautious while driving, especially at night, by keeping vehicles locked. Protect personal belongings against theft, both by securing them and by avoiding situations where snatch thefts can occur. In case of victimization, report incidents to the tourist police before departing Egypt, preferably in the presence of a representative from your travel agency.

Be aware that Egyptian authorities have arrested and prosecuted individuals for posting opinions deemed libelous or slanderous, particularly on social media platforms.

Refrain from public displays of affection, as they are culturally frowned upon. Additionally, note that homosexual acts are illegal and could lead to imprisonment.

Carrying drones or similar devices in personal luggage is strictly prohibited in Egypt, and there have been cases where Spanish citizens were detained and fined for this offense, with devices confiscated without the possibility of retrieval.

Exercise caution when photographing public spaces or official buildings.

When arranging visits to workplaces in Egypt, assess the risks arising from labor disputes, as incidents have occurred where employers or foreign workers were affected by such situations.

Due to Egypt’s location in an active seismic zone, adhere to established safety protocols in the event of earthquakes.

Exercise caution as a pedestrian, and if driving, consider hiring a car with a driver and valid insurance. Nighttime driving is strongly discouraged due to poor road conditions and lack of signage on certain routes. Additionally, be aware of areas with limited mobile network coverage.

Facilities in Egypt are often not adapted for people with reduced mobility, and caution is necessary due to the presence of minefields in certain areas, such as the Mediterranean coast west of Alexandria, the Arabian Desert between Cairo and the Suez Canal, and much of the Sinai Peninsula.

Although Egypt’s railway network is undergoing renovation, accidents have occurred on some lines, notably Cairo-Alexandria and Cairo-Luxor, frequently used by tourists.

Reported accidents involving boats on Nile cruises or underwater safaris highlight the importance of obtaining detailed information on vessel conditions and safety measures before embarking, as well as verifying the professional qualifications of the crew.

While piracy is not a significant issue in the Red Sea compared to the Horn of Africa, sailing in convoy and informing local coastal authorities when using small boats is advisable. In emergencies, maintain communication with loved ones, your travel agency, and, if necessary, the Embassy of your country in Cairo.