Travel Warning for Egypt

Is it safe to vacation in Egypt? Which regions and places should travelers avoid due to partial travel warnings? These are questions many travelers may ask. We have summarized everything important regarding travel warnings for Egypt in an understandable way.

The Federal Foreign Office warns against traveling to the northern Sinai Peninsula, the Egyptian-Israeli border area (except for the immediate coastal region and the town of Taba), and remote areas of the Sahara, advising against unaccompanied trips and land travel in southern Sinai. Pro-Palestinian and anti-Israeli demonstrations occasionally occur in public spaces.

Overall, the security situation in Egypt remains stable and calm, it is reported.

Exercise caution when traveling in tourist areas along the Red Sea.

Be especially alert in busy places.

Avoid demonstrations and large gatherings, such as those after Friday prayers outside mosques.

Stay away from Coptic facilities during holidays (e.g., the Coptic Christmas on January 7).

Stay informed about local media, your travel operator, and the Federal Foreign Office.

Those traveling to Egypt can expect luxury for little money. This is also reflected in our Egypt offers that take you to the land of the pyramids for a low price. However, many vacationers feel insecure due to the current partial travel warning issued by the Federal Foreign Office for Egypt, and some even fear a trip to a country that has been undergoing changes since the 2011 revolution. But what does the travel warning actually mean for travelers and what should you currently keep in mind during your vacation in Egypt?

Following the attacks on Coptic churches in Alexandria and Tanta near Cairo on April 9, 2017, Egypt's President Abd al-Fattah Al-Sisi declared a state of emergency, which was lifted on October 25, 2021. Many of the freedoms and action capacities granted to the military and security forces during the state of emergency still apply today. However, tourists have rarely been affected by this in recent years.

The Federal Foreign Office had already issued a partial travel warning for Egypt before the attacks on Coptic Christians in the country. The ministry continues to advise caution in the current travel and safety guidelines for Egypt. In particular, demonstrations and gatherings should be avoided during your vacation in Egypt.

The reason for the current partial travel warning for Egypt is the increased risk of terrorist attacks, as seen in recent incidents in Cairo, northern Sinai, Alexandria, and Tanta. Therefore, it is better to avoid travel to the northern Sinai Peninsula, the Egyptian-Israeli border area, and the border region with Libya and Sudan. The town of Taba on the Sinai Peninsula is exempt from the partial travel warning. A travel warning exists for the Gaza Strip due to the ongoing war.

What is a partial travel warning?

A partial travel warning means that the recommendation against traveling to a country does not apply to the entire country, but only to certain places or cities within the country.

Excursions in southern Sinai, including coastal towns such as Sharm el-Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba, and Taba along the Red Sea, should only be undertaken in the company of knowledgeable locals for your own safety. Special permits and a tourism ministry-approved travel provider are required for trips to remote western and southern desert regions. In general, it is advisable to consult professional providers for desert tours.

Popular vacation destinations like Hurghada, El Gouna, and Marsa Alam are not directly affected by the travel warning for Egypt. However, travelers are urged by the Federal Foreign Office to avoid large gatherings and to exercise caution. Many of the excursions leaving from popular tourist spots are accompanied by state security forces.

If you wish to experience Egypt on an individual trip, you should move around the country with increased caution. A dose of common sense and being mindful of local customs is always beneficial when traveling in foreign countries. For example, you should always keep in mind that Egypt is an Islamic country. The Federal Foreign Office recommends against land travel without knowledgeable local guidance.

The Federal Foreign Office provides Egyptian vacationers with some advice to enhance safety. In addition to the recommendation to avoid certain places, the ministry advises continuously monitoring current news and undertaking excursions and land travel only with knowledgeable and licensed guides. Travelers should follow the instructions of local security forces and are advised to avoid large gatherings and remain in contact with their travel operator.

The Federal Foreign Office also points out that "critical remarks about Egypt and political comments, including on social media, may be considered a criminal offense such as defamation of Egypt or the president, or can be classified as 'spreading false rumors' and may lead to prosecution [of individuals]"

Vacation Guru Tip:

You can reach the tourist police at the number "126". The local police number is "122", where you can usually connect with someone who speaks English.

What are your thoughts on the subject? Does the partial travel warning for Egypt deter you from vacationing in the land of the pyramids? Personally, we have always felt safe during our numerous visits to Egypt. Especially in tourist resorts, the hotel staff welcomes you with great hospitality and security forces are also keen on providing tourists with a good feeling. Safety is highly prioritized during organized excursions to attractions. Whether you want to take a package trip to Egypt is a decision you must make personally.