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Egypt Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 13, 2023, egypt - level 3: reconsider travel.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Reconsider travel to Egypt due to  terrorism . Exercise increased caution in Egypt due to  the Embassy’s limited ability to assist dual national U.S.-Egyptian citizens who are arrested or detained.

Do not travel to:

• The Sinai Peninsula (with the exception of travel to Sharm El-Sheikh by air) due to  terrorism .
• The Western Desert due to  terrorism .
• Egyptian border areas due to  military zones .

Country Summary: Terrorist groups continue plotting attacks in Egypt. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, and have targeted diplomatic facilities, tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, western businesses, restaurants, resorts, and local government facilities. Terrorists have conducted attacks in urban areas, including in Cairo, despite the heavy security presence. Terrorists have targeted religious sites, to include mosques, churches, monasteries, and buses traveling to these locations.

Due to risks to civil aviation operating within or in the vicinity of Egypt, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) and/or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR). For more information U.S. citizens should consult the  Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices .

Local law prohibits protesting or demonstrating without a permit. Being near anti-government protests can draw scrutiny from Egyptian police and security forces. U.S. citizens have been detained for participating in protests and for posting content on social media perceived as critical of Egypt or its allies.

The U.S. Embassy may have a limited ability to provide consular services to dual U.S.-Egyptian citizens. Egyptian law considers dual citizens to be Egyptian citizens.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Egypt.

If you decide to travel to Egypt:  

• Stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners.
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Obtain comprehensive medical insurance that includes medical evacuation.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)   to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on   Facebook   and   Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report   for Egypt.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest   Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the   Traveler’s Checklist .

Sinai Peninsula – Level 4: Do Not Travel The Sinai Peninsula remains a particularly dangerous area, with frequent attacks on security forces and civilians.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens anywhere in the Sinai Peninsula as U.S. government employees are not authorized to travel to these areas (with the exception of the beach resort of Sharm El-Sheikh; travel to Sharm El-Sheikh is only permitted by air). Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Travel Advisory Levels

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Egypt Trips & Tour Packages

Awesome ancient wonders, endless golden sands and atmospheric local souqs make Egypt the ultimate travel destination.

You’ve got to see it to believe it in Egypt – the chaos of Cairo (seriously, this city never stops); the bustling bazaars; the imposing glory of the Pyramids of Giza, and the world’s most famous lion with a human head (the iconic Sphinx).Only in Egypt can you sail into the sunset on a felucca cruise along the Nile, marvel at the world's most spectacular temple complexes, wander through Luxor’s Valley of the Kings, and then float facing towards the sky in the glittering expanse of the Red Sea. Take a moment as time stands still in Egypt.

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Egypt at a glance

Capital city.

Cairo (population 9.4 million)

107.5 million

Egyptian pound (EGP)

(GMT+02:00) Cairo

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin)

Learn more about Egypt

Best time to visit egypt.

Egypt is blessed with lots of sunshine and very little rain. Generally, the hottest months are June to August, and the coolest month is January. Rainfall is negligible, except on the coast, with rain usually occurring during the winter months (December to March).

During the summer months (from June to August), daily temperatures can reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius) - perfect for snorkeling and soaking up the sun on the beaches of Sinai, but can prove challenging for some in the crowded streets and souqs of Cairo.

Choose to escape the crowds by traveling from March to May or September to November when the weather is milder, and there's the opportunity to experience Egypt during Ramadan and the celebrations of Eid (which marks the breaking of the fast). If you are planning to travel during Ramadan, it's important to consider that many restaurants and shops will either be closed or operating at reduced hours.

Read more about the best time to visit Egypt

Culture and customs

Life in Egypt has been in a state of flux since the 2011 revolution. Many of the issues that motivated so many to take to the streets in protest continue to be points of contention, but Egyptians remain hopeful, relying on religion, family and humor to get them through, like they have for thousands of years. A strong sense of community binds people across the country. Families and communities support each other and there is a prevailing sense that everyone is in it together. For all these reasons, most express great pride in being Egyptian, despite their nation’s recent turmoil.

As a largely Muslim country (about 90% of the population is Muslim while most of the remaining 10% identify as Coptic Christian), Islam permeates daily activities. Life revolves around the five daily prayers and everything is closed on Friday, the Muslim holy day. A wide array of cultural norms, including how people dress and interact with the opposite sex, are influenced by religion. Women are largely defined by their role as a mother and matron of the house, whereas men are expected to be the provider.

Many Egyptians consider their country the gateway between the West and the rest of the Arab world, and take pride in their ability to mix tradition with modern influences. This mixing is most apparent in major cities, such as Cairo and Alexandria, where American fast-food chains can be found next to traditional cafes, secular attitudes are more common, and pop music rings through city streets.

Food and drink

With fragrant spices, fresh fruit and vegetables, and delicious sweets on offer, culinary adventures in Egypt are guaranteed. On many Intrepid trips you'll be given the opportunity to dine with a local family – this offers a great chance to see how meals are prepared and learn more about the ingredients.

Things to try in Egypt

1. Hamam mahshi

A north African delicacy, hamam – roasted pigeon stuffed with cracked wheat and rice – can be found on the menu of most traditional Egyptian restaurants. You may need a few to fill up though, as they don’t contain a lot of meat. And be careful of all the tiny bones.

2. Ta'ameya (falafel)

Crunchy on the outside, and moist on the inside, these deep-fried balls of spiced fava beans are a Middle Eastern vegetarian staple. Usually served in a pita with salad, pickles, and sesame-based tahina - buy it at a street stall for a quick, cheap meal.

Shops specializing in this popular ‘poor man’s dish’ can be found throughout Cairo. A hearty mix of rice, macaroni and lentils, chickpeas, and fried onions, koshary is topped with a tomato-vinegar sauce.

4. Ful medames

Don't leave Egypt without trying the classic dish of ful medames, which can be traced back to pharaonic times. Consisting of slow-cooked fava beans, served with olive oil, parsley, garlic, and lemon juice - add some spice by seasoning with chili paste and eat with bread.

5. Pastries

Delicious, sweet pastries are found in restaurants, markets, and cafes in Egypt. Never was there a better time to live by the adage ‘Life is short, eat dessert first’.

Egypt is a mostly Muslim country, and any consumption of alcohol here is relatively low-key. There are many fantastic alternatives. Juice stands are common on main streets offering freshly squeezed banana, guava, or mango juice. Karkadai is a chilled, crimson drink brewed from hibiscus leaves (served hot in the winter). And tea (or shai) is the beverage of choice for most Egyptians, which is sipped throughout the day and with meals.

Read more about what to eat in Egypt

Read more about what to drink in Egypt

Geography and environment

Located in the northeast corner of Africa, Egypt shares its borders with Israel and the Palestinian Territories, Libya, and Sudan, as well as the Mediterranean Sea to the north and the Red Sea to the east. The two seas are connected by the man-made Suez Canal.

The remote triangle-shaped peninsula is largely characterized by limestone and desert, but also has a vibrant coral reef along the Red Sea coastline. Hot, dry desert covers most of the country’s terrain, with the Western Desert occupying much of the west, and the Arabian (or Eastern) Desert stretching the length of the eastern coast. These two regions are dissected by the Nile River, which runs the length of the country, emptying into the Mediterranean Sea. The Nile Valley, a narrow fertile band extending from the river, is the country’s only fertile land and where 98% of the population lives.

History and government

Recent history.

Napoleon Bonaparte, the infamous pint-sized French leader, invaded Egypt in 1798, seeking to set up a French colony. However, not long after, the French were repelled, and Egypt became a part of the Ottoman Empire once again.

From 1882, the British Army occupied Egypt to protect the Suez Canal. Muhammad Ali officially ruled from the early 1800s, and his family and successors continued to rule for decades (alongside and during British occupation) until overthrown by a military coup in 1952.

During World War II, Egypt became a crucial element in Britain's defense. The Italian Army tried to advance into Egypt in 1940 but was stopped by the British Army at Mersa Matruh. Egypt continued to serve as a vital base for British troops during World War II and despite the disruption, Egypt's shopkeepers and retail trade benefitted from the thousands of Allied troops staying in Egypt.

In 1953, Egypt was officially declared a republic, and a year later, Colonel Nasser was declared Prime Minister, then President. In 1979, after decades of confrontation with neighboring Israel, the historic Egypt-Israel Peace Treaty was signed. This agreement made Egypt the first Arab country to officially recognize Israel as a country - a significant step in the peace process. More recently, in February 2011, large-scale protests and mass demonstrations resulted in the removal of President Mubarak after decades of autocratic rule.

Early history

Ancient Egypt has been the focus of much fascination, investigation, speculation, and intrigue. It's hard to escape the education system without having studied Ancient Egypt in some way. Drawn in by the mighty pyramids, mysterious hieroglyphics, distinct burial rituals and animal-headed gods - scholars, students, historians, and travelers are all amazed by this civilization which has endured cycles of dynastic rule, invasion, and natural disasters.

Through key archaeological finds, historians have been able to unravel some of the mysteries of this great land. What is known is that the daily life of the average Egyptian usually involved working in agriculture with the waters of the Nile providing fertile ground for planting crops. Egyptians usually lived in modest homes with children and domestic pets. Professions were usually inherited - so if your father was a farmer, then so were you.

While most Egyptians led simple lives, dynasties of Pharaohs led lavish lifestyles, with the most well-known being Ramses II, Hatshepsut, Akhenaten, Tutankhamun, and Cleopatra. Huge monuments, imposing pyramids, golden artifacts, and detailed paintings all hold details about pharaonic rule and succession, as well as commonly held beliefs about religion and the afterlife.

Spanning centuries and full of drama worthy of a soap opera, the epic history of Ancient Egypt is complex and we suggest you read about it before visiting.

Top places to visit in Egypt

1. nile river.

Sail down the mighty Nile River on a traditional Egyptian felucca.

Trip: Egypt Experience

Trip: Explore Egypt & Jordan

Dive into the warm, glittering waters of the Red Sea on a snorkeling adventure in Hurghada.

Trip: Jordan & Egypt Express

Trip: Explore Egypt

Trip: Egypt Family Holiday

3. Alexandria

Discover the historic wonders of Alexandria, an ancient port city that locals call the Bride of the Mediterranean Sea.

Trip: Jordan & Egypt Uncovered

Experience the bustling energy of Cairo and shop for souvenirs at Cairo's Khan al-Khalili bazaar.

Trip: Egypt Adventure

5. Mt Sinai

Hike to the summit of Mt Sinai, which many believe is where Moses received the ten commandments.

Trip: Discover Egypt & Jordan

Explore the impressive chapels, pylons and obelisks of Karnak Temple.

Trip: Egypt, Jordan, Isreal & the Palestinian Territories

7. Abu Simbel

These massive monuments dedicated to Ramses II and Queen Nefertari are seriously impressive.

8. Valley of the Kings

King Tut’s treasures may be long gone, but his hieroglyphic-covered tomb remains an incredible sight to see.

Trip: Essential Egypt

Trip: Epic Egypt, Jordan & Isreal & the Palestinian Territories

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Top 10 ancient wonders of Egypt

1. grand designs.

The original grand design - monumental and magnificent - the Pyramids of Giza are an impressive achievement in ancient engineering. Towering above the desert sands and standing proudly for centuries, the first glimpse of these stunning structures will render visitors breathless.

2. Stony enigma

Be captivated by the mysterious aura of the Great Sphinx of Giza. This monolithic mythical beast possesses a lion’s body and a human head - and has sat quietly in the desert sands for eons. Gaze at the Sphinx and try to work out the riddle of its existence.

3. Mighty Nile River

No trip to Egypt is complete without visiting the Nile River - the life force of Egypt that has flowed for centuries. A provider of irrigation, an essential travel route, home to hippos and crocodiles, and now a source of leisure for locals and travelers alike, the Nile is an aquatic link to Egypt’s ancient heritage.

4. Terrific temples

Discover an enormous open-air museum like no other. The awe-inspiring Temples of Karnak are filled with stately statues, immense columns, and gigantic gateways. Explore this intriguing site and be left in no doubt about the brilliance of the ancient Egyptian civilization.

5. Holy mountain

Embark on a trek to the top of Mt Sinai and witness an incredible golden sunrise to remember. A place of worship for many faiths, a pilgrimage to Mt Sinai reveals stunning scenery, an ancient monastery and historic chapels. An iconic highlight of Egypt for believers and non-believers alike, Mt Sinai is not to be missed.

6. Double happiness

Located in the Nile Valley, the unique Temple of Kom Ombo is a ‘double temple’ and a rare archaeological find. Dedicated to two gods, a visit here is a true highlight of an Egyptian escapade. Marvel at the well-preserved wall reliefs, try to decipher the hieroglyphics and honour the craftsmen who created this wonder.

7. Museum magic

Step into a dazzling world of antiquity at the Egyptian Museum. Be amazed by the glittering treasures recovered from King Tutankhamun’s tomb – with jewelry, furniture, chariots and that famous gold funerary mask, this pharaoh was certainly prepared for the afterlife.

8. Roman ruins

The Roman ruins of Kom el-Dikka in Alexandria may not be the biggest, but they are certainly among the best-preserved in Egypt, if not the world. Soak up the atmosphere of the Roman amphitheater and imagine it in all its glory - packed with 800 spectators ready for action.

9. Colossal characters

Near the modern city of Luxor stand the imposing Colossi of Memnon. These massive stone statues of Amenhotep III, while badly damaged, still maintain an unmistakable air of authority. Stand below them and be dwarfed by the scale of these tremendous figures.

10. The ancient heart of Cairo

Wander the cobbled streets of Islamic Cairo and uncover the ancient heart of this chaotic city. Admire mosques, palaces and houses, and peruse the goods on offer at one of the world’s oldest bazaars. Dating back to medieval times, the Khan al-Khalili bazaar is where people have traded goods for centuries.

Souqs – or open-air bazaars – are both the best place to shop in Egypt and attractions in their own right. The biggest and most famous souq is the 500-year-old Khan El Khalili Bazaar in Cairo. Within the maze of narrow streets and laneways lie stalls selling jewelry, glass, copper, spices and artisan goods, along with more standard tourist fare. Quality can vary greatly so spend some time shopping around.

Like many markets around the world, bargaining is the norm, but Egyptians take it to another level. Expect to be offered tea (it can take that long) and for elaborate theatrics from the seller. While bazaars in Cairo tend to sell everything, visit Aswan’s bazaar for spices, incense, and basketwork, and Luxor for cheaply priced alabaster figurines and vases. It's also a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country.

Things to buy in Egypt

You’ll often see spices piled high in bazaars. In addition to making a great photo for Instagram, they’re often a good buy as long as you keep a couple of things in mind. Always buy whole spices rather than ground to ensure freshness and skip the ‘saffron’ – it’s actually safflower and tastes like dust.

2. Glassware

Hand-blown Muski glass, recognizable by its air bubbles, comes in brilliant shades of blue and green and purple and has been made in Egypt since medieval times. Be careful with this purchase though as it’s extremely fragile.

3. Cartouche

A kind of nameplate written in hieroglyphics. Most gold or silver shops sell these and many can customize them by engraving your name.

Festivals and events

Eid al-fitr.

After fasting for an entire month, Muslims celebrate the end of Ramadan with Eid al-Fitr, or ‘Feast of Breaking the Fast’. For three days, starting on the first day of the tenth month of the lunar calendar, people celebrate with feasts, family, and festivals. Look for vendors selling kahk cookies (nut-filled cookies covered in powdered sugar) while taking in the festivities, a tasty treat synonymous with Eid for many locals.

Eid al-Adha

Arguably the most important holiday in Egypt, the ‘Feast of Sacrifice’ is not one for vegetarians and vegans. About 70 days after Eid al-Fitr, sheep, and goats are slaughtered (often in the middle of the street) for a mighty feast.

Sham el-Nessim

Each year on March 21st, Egyptians celebrate the coming of spring by spending the day outdoors. Join the locals for this ancient holiday by packing a picnic and heading to a park or public garden.

Abu Simbel Sun Festival

As if the two temples dedicated to Ramses II and Queen Nefertari weren’t impressive enough, they were constructed in such a way that twice a year, the sun’s rays reach its innermost chambers and illuminate three stone gods that reside within, while leaving Ptah (god of the underworld) in the dark. And those days just happen to be Ramses’s birthday (October 21) and coronation (February 21). Coincidence? We think not.

Read more about festivals in Egypt

Similar destinations

We have a variety of similar destinations, trips and routes that you could consider! Tie another trip into your holiday, or, see how we can help you get from A to B. We have tours departing from a number of locations across Africa. The options below may be of interest:

Cairo to Madaba

Amman to Madaba

Tours from Cairo

Tours to Cairo

Egypt or Jordan?

Further reading

Egypt travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do you need a visa to travel to Egypt?

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveler. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information. Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your nationality. Check the Essential Trip Information section of the itinerary for more information.

Is tipping customary in Egypt?

Tipping is customary for pretty much all services in Egypt. A tip of 10–15% is customary at cafes and restaurants and loose change is acceptable for food purchases from street vendors and markets. It’s also a good idea to tip local guides and drivers USD$2.50-3 per day.

What is the internet access like in Egypt?

Internet access is growing in Egypt, with internet cafes and Wi-Fi hotspots becoming increasingly common in large cities, especially Cairo, though access may be limited in smaller towns and remote areas.

Can I use my cell phone in Egypt?

Cell phone coverage is generally good in Egypt’s urban areas, but may not be available in remote and desert areas. Ensure global roaming is activated with your service provider before leaving home.

What are the toilets like in Egypt?

Squat toilets are most common in Egypt, although Western-style flushable toilets can be found in larger hotels and some tourist areas.

What will it cost for a...?

Egypt's unit of currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Here's what you can expect to pay for a:

A couple of pastries = EGP 49 Cup of tea or coffee = EGP 35-50 Falafel sandwich from a street stall = EGP 92 Sit-down dinner at a local restaurant = EGP 100-300

Can I drink the water in Egypt?

Drinking tap water isn’t recommended in Egypt. Remember to avoid drinks with ice and to peel fruit before eating it. Help the environment and try to avoid buying bottled water. Instead, fill a reusable water bottle with filtered water. Ask your leader or hotel where to find filtered water.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Egypt?

Credit cards are usually accepted by modern hotels, large retailers, and tourist sites but are less commonly accepted by smaller vendors in remote areas. Always carry enough cash for smaller purchases in case credit cards are not an option.

What is ATM access like in Egypt?

ATMs are commonly found in larger cities, like Cairo and Alexandria, near shopping centers, tourist areas, and 5-star hotels, but are far less common in small towns and rural areas. Make sure you have enough cash before leaving urban areas.

What public holidays are celebrated in Egypt?

• 7 Jan: Coptic Christmas
• 28 Apr: Coptic Easter*
• 25 Apr: Sinai Liberation Day
• 28 Apr: Sham el-Nessim*
• 1 May: Labor Day
• 5 Jun: Eid al-Fitr*
• 23 Jul: National Day
• 12 Aug: Eid al-Adha
• 11 Sep: Coptic New Year
• 1 Sep: Islamic New Year*
• 6 Oct: Armed Forces Day
• 10 Nov: Birth of Prophet Mohammed*
• *Please note many of these public holidays are religious holidays and change each year as they are celebrated according to the Islamic lunar cycle. For a current list of public holidays in Egypt go to World Travel Guide's website.

Is Egypt a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

Discretion is advised for LGBTQI travelers in Egypt. Though homosexuality is not officially outlawed, gay men have been prosecuted using debauchery and public morals laws and given long prison sentences. Be aware that signals are ambiguous in Egypt as men commonly hold hands, link arms and greet each other with a kiss on the cheek. As long as you use common sense, travel in Egypt should not be a problem.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting Equaldex  or ILGA before you travel.

If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at the time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travelers who do not wish to share a room.

What to wear in Egypt

Summer temperatures can get very high, so light fabrics like linen, cotton and athletic gear made to take the heat are best. If you’re traveling outside of winter, don’t underestimate the cool change that can come in the evenings, especially if you’re spending the night in the desert or on a Nile cruise. Avoid packing anything in white – desert dust will quickly turn those light-colored clothes a not-so-delightful shade of brown.

How will I travel around Egypt?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.

Where will I stay in Egypt?

Traveling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavor to provide travelers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.

When traveling with us in Egypt you may find yourself staying in a:

Felucca Glide down the Nile on a traditional Egyptian felucca; sleep on deck under the stars as the sun slides away for the day - a must-do experience while in Egypt.

Homestay Be welcomed into the home of a local family and experience the cuisine, culture and customs of Egypt firsthand during your stay. A truly authentic travel experience like no other.

Desert camp Travel deep into the White Desert to camp under the stars amid surreal scenery. This is a rare chance to experience the remote wonder and isolation of the Egyptian desert.

With calming Red Sea views and fresh sea breezes, this rustic breach abode is all about life’s simple pleasures.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What is it like traveling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you’re about to embark on your first trip, traveling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organizing amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), traveling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

Does my trip to Egypt support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to Egypt directly support our foundation partner, Animal Care in Egypt . 

Animal Care in Egypt  

Animal Care in Egypt (ACE) cares for sick or injured working animals, like horses and donkeys, in Upper Egypt. Donations from our trips help ACE provide free veterinary care and fund education programs that empower local people with the knowledge and skills to best look after their animals. 

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Does my Intrepid trip include airfare?

While our Intrepid trips include many modes of transport, from tuk-tuks to overland vehicles, bullet trains and feluccas, airfare to and from your home country is not included in your tour package.

Find cheap flights to Egypt from $348

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Good to know

Faqs - booking egypt flights, what transport options are there from hrg to the city center.

Hurghada (HRG) is approximately 4.3 miles (7 kilometers) from the city center, and the journey time ranges from 12 to 20 minutes. The Bus by HURGHADA is the suggested mode of transportation. It is straightforward to go to Hurghada, in particular, by bus, which may take you directly from the airport. A taxi is the fastest and most affordable method of travel and takes around 12 minutes.

What are family services at Cairo International Airport?

If you are traveling with a child, consider taking them to the children's play area in the domestic and international departures areas. Nursing stations are located at the currency exchange. If you are a breastfeeding mother needing some discretion and assistance, go to the information counter at the airport.

Which is the best airport to fly to in Egypt?

Cairo International Airport is most likely where international passengers flying to Egypt will land. Travelers can take advantage of several valuable amenities, including hotels, dining options, and duty-free stores. The Hotel Novotel Cairo Airport and Le Meridien Cairo Airport are located on the airport's grounds. The Novotel Cairo Airport hotel is close to the airport and five minutes by a complimentary shuttle from the terminals. You can use Egypt Air for the flight to Cairo airport.

What lounges are there at Cairo International Airport?

The first and second floors of Terminal 1's airside are home to the first-class lounge. By paying at the door, using a prepaid lounge card, or enrolling in a membership program, you can visit and access the lounge. Pearl Assist, the first-class lounge, and Ahlein – Premium Lounge are all in Terminal 2, and one can access them with a prepaid lounge pass or lounge membership program. You might have access to the lounges listed below if you are a first- or business-class passenger: Saudia Al-Fursan Golden Lounge in Terminal 2 and the Emirates Lounge. Almeisan Lounge, El Tier Lounge (Domestic),Egyptair Alioth Lounge, Gienah Lounge and Kochab Smoking Lounge are located at Terminal 3.

Can I get an electronic visa for Egypt?

Yes, you can and it’s the most convenient method of obtaining a visa for travel to Egypt. The visa entitles you to multiples entries into the country up to 3 months from date of issuance and you can stay for 30 days. Further information can be found online about processing fees and procedures.

Which airport is closest to the city of Luxor?

Luxor is an ancient city world-famous for its temple complexes in the Upper Egypt region of the country. Hurghada Airport to the northeast is the closest of the major international hubs and from there, you can get a local flight into Luxor Airport (LXR) or you can make the 4h drive by car or other ground transportation.

How can I visit Lake Nasser?

Lake Nasser is an artificial lake that was constructed after the Aswan Dam was built and is regarded as a tourist attraction in the south of Egypt. Hurghada Airport is closest as the most southern of the main Egyptian hubs, however, you can connect from Alexandria, Cairo or Sharm El-Sheikh to Luxor Airport and enjoy a boat ride down the Nile River.

How easy is it to obtain Egyptian pounds at the airport?

All major international airports in Egypt have ample facilities in terms of currency exchange offices as well as automated teller machines to take care of any cash conversions you may need. So, after your flight from the US to Egypt, you can rest assured that you will be able to get some cash to make it to your hotel.

How long is the flight to Egypt?

An average nonstop flight from the United States to Egypt takes 18h 31m, covering a distance of 6433 miles. The most popular route is New York - Cairo with an average flight time of 10h 20m.

What is the cheapest flight to Egypt?

The cheapest ticket to Egypt from the United States found in the last 72 hours was $401 one-way, and $643 round-trip. The most popular route is New York John F Kennedy Intl to Cairo and the cheapest round-trip airline ticket found on this route in the last 72 hours was $663.

Which airlines fly to Egypt?

Egypt Air flies the most frequently from the United States to Egypt.

What are the most popular destinations in Egypt?

The next most popular destinations are Alexandria (3%) and Hurghada (1%). Searches for flights to Sharm el-Sheikh (1%), to Luxor (0.2%) and to Marsa Alam (0.1%) are also popular.

How does KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a given destination and date is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Egypt

• Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Egypt flight deals.
• Consider flying to Borg El Arab International Airport (HBE) if you're headed to the North Coast of Egypt. The airport serves as the leading international entry point for the Nile Delta Region and Alexandria.
• If you are flying from Washington, D.C. to Cairo, you can take direct flights from Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) to Cairo International Airport (CAI). Egypt Air is the only airline that offers nonstop flights.
• Pets are welcome at Hurghada International Airport (HRG). There are two designated pet relief areas: one for domestic travelers in the arrivals hall and one for international travelers in the departures hall.
• Cairo International Airport is a primary hub for Nile Air, Egypt Air, and other airlines. The airport has three terminals, and they are linked by a shuttle. It is the most significant and busiest airport in Egypt. Sun and beach enthusiasts primarily use the airports in Hurghada, Marsa Alam (RMF), and Sharm El Sheikh (SSH).
• If you plan to tour the country in Egypt rather than remaining in one particular city, consider booking open-jaw tickets instead of the standard round-trip ticket. Open-jaw tickets will save you time and money, allowing you to get back to Montreal from a different airport other than your arrival airport.
• Sharm El-Sheikh Airport (SSH) is the gateway to the Sinai Peninsula where the popular resort town that bears its name is located and if you are interested in uncovering the charms of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aqaba, there is no better starting point for a flight from the US to Egypt.
• Choose Cairo International Airport (CAI) for your flight from the US to Egypt to gain entry to the capital city in the north. This will also grant you access to the Suez Canal to the east and the pyramids of the Giza plateau to the west as well as being a springboard to the interior regions of the country west of the River Nile.
• The northern coast of Egypt where it abuts the Mediterranean Sea from Sidi Barrani near the Libyan border past Port Said to Al Arish near the border with Israel is covered by Borg El Arab International Airport (ALY), otherwise known as Alexandria Airport. This airport is the main hub for the area, including the Qattara Depression to the west of the city.
• Hurghada International Airport (HRG), or Hurghada Airport, is centrally positioned along the east coast of Egypt on the banks of the Red Sea. From here, you can trek across the Eastern Desert towards the Nile River where it passes through the cities of El Minya, Mallawi and Asyut, and cross it into the central region of the White Desert.
• The oasis at El Kharga is a major rest point between the Nile River to its left and the bulk of the Western Desert to its right. Normally it takes over 7h to drive from Hurghada to the oasis, but this has been made easier by flying directly into El Kharga Airport (UVL).

Top 5 airlines flying to Egypt

Delta did an awful job w logistics at DTW. Missed connection. We were there an hour early. SUCKED

Inflight entertainment stopped working as we taxi to runway and never worked again until landing and taxi to gate. Grrrr

Had to run to make it only to have the flight delayed to wait for all the late connectors Second drink service skipped up

Boarding was a sh!t show. JFK BOARDING was awful. The agent called three sections at a time Clogging the area then yelling at people to not block the walk way. How are you going to call delta one , premium select and comfort plus at once and the yell at highest paying passengers. Need to do a lot better and the flight attendants in the galley need to understand that their voices travel. They were talking about others and everyone in the cabin heard them

Uncomfortable seats on 14 hour flight. Mediocre food. On time and great crew.

Please see my lengthy description on MSP to Atlanta survey. Tailbone is killing me from old hard seats. Seat would not recline and were not near exit row. Entertainment did not work properly and couldn’t use. No audio and touch screen failed. 3 plus hours of discomfort in narrower seats than previous flight not in comfort plus. Very dissatisfied and deserve comfort plus charges refunds, at the very least, for both my wife and I. The plane needs to be retired. Please feel free to contact me directly for further details.

MSP to Atlanta was much better than Atlanta to St. Kitts. Paid $180 each for myself and wife for Delta comfort from Atlanta to St. Kitts. Seats were more narrow and obviously old and worn out. Tailbone is killing me. Seat would not recline. Seats behind reclined and we were not an exit row or in front of an exit row. Entertainment did not work in that the movie jumped forward and back and there was no audio. The plug in the arm rest was loose. Flight attendant tried “resetting” the video for my seat but no good. She never checked back. Someone else near me had the same issue. Touch screen was unresponsive. No where near as comfortable as MSP to Atlanta flight. 3 plus hrs. flight time without the basic amenities and not even remotely close to comfortable but paid for Comfort plus. I will be very disappointed if I have the same on my return “Comfort Plus” flight St. Kitts to Atlanta. At the very least my wife and I should be refunded for round trip “Comfort Plus” charges. Please feel free to contact me directly for more details.

public website still broken for years randomly blocking browsers with privacy options active after loading a page maybe once. check-in on laptop was almost impossible but eventually randomly worked. had to print pass at airport since couldn't get back in to load digital pass on mobile firefox or chrome. red eye flight so smooth onboarding, plenty of room to spread out, easy offboarding. onboard wifi instructions mention vpn can cause problems connecting but fails to also mention private dns. no printed or built in menu list, seems weird to require personal device to point at qr code link for menu which does not even allow direct ordering. people with health condition risk related dietary restrictions trying to avoid for example cholesterol and sugar are left guessing what they can order either way without nutritional info highlights (cranberry juice was minute maid cocktail with as much suger as typical can of soda). tap to pay wasn't working and always seems sketchy to manually enter card info. good movie variety, so limited tv was okay.

It wasn't really their fault it was the horrible winds and we just got unlucky.

Great experience overall. Check in at Austin was congested as they only have about 6 check in kiosks, one was broken, and there was a lot of Spring Break travelers.

Quality of service on board was very inconsistent. FA service primarily seemed robotic and they barely engaged with passengers

I’m unclear why I had to pay extra for assigned seats as Turkish airlines did not honor the seating. We were placed across the aisle from each other on TK 34, and were seated behind one another on TK 694. Because my name was misspelled on e-ticket (Klawiter, instead of Klawitter) I could not log onto website to get the connection gate number in Istanbul. The monitors in the airport were a jumbled mess 1/2 Arabic and 1/2 English.

On line check in needs a lot of improvement. I tried and gave up.

Food not good, flight attendants not the best, not accommodating very ruff

the female flight attendant was racist towards me. I could tell she treated the two other passengers next to me with more softness.

Oh my god! For an13 hour flight they serve you food just one time. Also don’t be thirsty they give you a little small cup of soda to drink. They seem like their goal is to feed you one so they don’t have to be bothered with you. It quite surprise for such a long flight there are several times to eat at least three and the food was well lackluster. The food and lack of offering drinks which were always hot no ice provided.

We were traveling first class. Checkin counter lady and her manager, both were in bad mood and did not treat us well about checking in the handbag. The gate agent took care of it right away. I travel Turkish twice a year in first class. No one has ever refused to check in the hand bag. Not sure, why this agent and her manager refused. Everything else was excellent.

The 787 economy was a disaster for long haul. The space was too little compared to 777 or 747. Also the extremely low tray table behind the seat made any dining effort a nightmare. However, the movies were up to date, and the food taste was good, despite of terrible serving process caused by small space.

A little bit more comfort. It’s tight space around the seats. But all else is great and a smooth flight!

0ur assigned seats were given to other individuals when we boarded the plane. We were given new boarding passes with new seats all the way at the back of the plane. The reason given to us was that there were issues with the seats. We found out that there were no issues, and someone else's were seated on those.

The seats were broken, crew didn’t really care about service, boarding was not priority for business class, my bags arrived last

Comfortable flight with decent legroom and good seats. The crew were helpful and courteous and managed well with the stressful boarding and the chaos that’s involved. The food was decent, more than expected from a short flight like this. The only reservation I have was that the crew allowed passengers to board With massive amounts of hand luggage which were piled up on the empty seats next to passengers and and it was a risk to all passengers in the case of turbulence or emergency landing. I’ve never seen this ever on any flights I have boarded with many other airlines.

Flight was supposed to take off Saturday at noon. Bumped for unknown reasons until 2 am, then 9 am, then noon, then we don’t know. Not weather related. Dismal and non existent customer service. No 24/7 relations. Couldn’t get my bag back to attempt to get on another flight until 5pm Saturday. Will never take this airline again!

Greater clarity in organizing line-ups for the various boarding groups would have made it easier for all. Due to the many children, the announcements could not be heard clearly enough, so a simplicity in organization would have helped.

I had a great experience with EGYPTAIR. They offered me to check in my handbag which made it very easy since I use a cane. Thank you to EGYPTAIR crew for making sure everyone is receiving the right services.

The flight was delayed numerous times with inconsistent updates and very ambiguous information. When it was finally cancelled the logistics of handing out vouchers and rebooking was extremely chaotic. Meal vouchers were completely inadequate for the airport restaurants, and not even accepted at some. All-in-all, it was a very disappointing experience.

Terrible. The flight from Islamabad to London took 3 hours more then previously planned, I missed my connection to Chicago, and instead had to go New York, spend an extra day before arriving at my final destination. The return leg of the journey was similar. The connection time in Qatar was shrinked to less then an hour unannounced, I had to scramble to barely make it to my flight to Islamabad. Terrible experience, never using British airways again.

The crew on this flight were attentive, efficient and friendly. It really made for an enjoyable flight.

The crew on this flight were excellent. They were friendly and attentive. It really made the flight more enjoyable.

They canceled my flight , they put me on a different flight that was delayed and the connection was lost . They lost my luggage. And now I’m stuck with any of my belongings.

British Airways canceled our plane and gave us a new flight scheduled to leave in only three hours, so we had to drop everything and rush to the airport. The new itinerary only left us a one hour layover in Madrid, which was too short because the plane landed late and so we missed our connecting flight. We were then booked onto a flight scheduled to take off 8 hours later, and were not given any compensation or remedial measures.

Seat layout, flight/club attendant service, food variety and quality could have been better. Business class Standard is visibly low compared with 6 other airlines that we have traveled for the past two years.

Despite many attempts to work out a change, neither British Airways nor Kayak nor Chatdeal would allow us to cancel or change this flight so we lost all of the payments when we were not able to fly. Absolutely terrible customer service. We will never use either of the services again.

It said that there was wifi. During the flight there was no wifi and while waiting at the gate the phone services already got cut off so I wasn’t able to say I am taxiing from the gate to my husband. This left me with an uncomfortable feeling. So I was waiting on the WiFi connection during flight and that never happened.

Asked for a wheelchair multiple times. Got denied the wheelchair in London layover.

Good. But there food was poor quality and 95% of movies didn't have English subtitles

I thought they had rebranded themselves in every aspect but it was quite the opposite. The food was terrible the service was sub-par. Overall it was not a good experience.

Service from staff was poor, food choices were limited. Air plane was not clean or hygienic and seemed like not cleaned for days. Seats were uncomfortable.

service from stAff was barely there , food choices were limited. AirPlane was not clean and seemed like it was not cleaned for days.. Seats were very uncomfortable.

I paid for premium seats and the last minute they changed the aircraft for a bigger one, they bumped me to another seat which was NOT at all comfortable for an 11 hour flight, will fight for a refund!!

The landing was catastrophic. I was very scared. I thought it were my last lminues. Pilotes should be more experienced

ALL services were good. An announcement should’ve been made at the end of the flight that filling out a customs form would not be necessary anymore for USA travelers entering Philadelphia.

The flight was smooth, the premier economy seats were comfortable, the flight crew were excellent. The on board food, however, was AWFUL. I suggest bringing your own food on board.

The flight was smooth, our premier economy seats were comfortable, the flight crew were especially fine - attentive, cheerful. The food, however was AWFUL. I advise bringing your own on board.

The service on board should have been better fast service

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14 things to know to help you plan the perfect trip to Egypt

Aug 18, 2023 • 9 min read

Plan the perfect trip to Egypt with these essential tips on etiquette, health and safety © Grant Faint / Getty Images

Egypt’s  rich history reverberates through its modern-day culture. There’s plenty to do that will engage all your senses, from majestic ancient sights to lively streets rife with aromatic foods, and the vibrant and eclectic nightlife.

To fully indulge in all the excitement, there are some things you should consider, including the country’s cultural traditions. But worry not: this guide to planning and packing along with tips on health, safety and etiquette will have you ready for the a fantastic experience in Egypt.

1. Consider getting your visa in advance

Bags in one hand and paperwork in the other is all many travelers need to get on a plane and fly to Egypt. If you’re eligible , you can get a renewable single-entry tourist visa on arrival for USD$25, valid for 30 days. However, if you’re missing any documents or if there’s a problem processing your visa on arrival, you may be denied entry.

If you prefer a multiple-entry visa or want to avoid lines at the airport, you can apply for an e-Visa through the official government portal before travel to avoid any entry issues or delays.

2. Prepare a rough itinerary

There’s so much more to Egypt than the pyramids, and planning ahead will help you avoid a logistical nightmare. Plan your days by area (especially in major cities where traffic is both intense and unpredictable) so it’s easier to move around between locations.

If you’re a beach lover , there are plenty of destinations on the North Coast or Naama Bay for diving or snorkeling trips. If you’re an avid explorer and prefer something off the beaten track , Egypt’s lesser-known gems – like the stunning Siwa Oasis  – are absolutely worth the adventure.

Egypt truly caters to every kind of traveler, and the best way to create a personalized experience is to focus on what’s important to you and plan accordingly.

3. Learn some basic Arabic phrases

Whipping out Google Translate for quick questions about directions can be helpful, but organic responses to basic niceties will prove useful. 

Most Egyptians are eager to help when asked, but you might need to tie up a few odds and ends in Arabic with unilingual locals. They also come in handy if you need to fend off hustlers or persistent merchants. Learning a few words and phrases like “ al salam alaykom ” (hello), “ shukran ” (thank you), “ aywa ” (yes), “ la’a ” (no), and “ ma’ al-salama ” (goodbye) will go a long way.

4. Don’t underestimate Egypt’s weather – both hot and cold 

Sunscreen is key if you don’t want to spend the better half of your vacation huddled up with ice packs. This is especially true if you’re visiting during the summer, but holds up throughout the year.

July is the hottest month, with temperatures ranging anywhere from 34.7°C (94.5°F) to a scorching 43.3°C (109.9°F). Yet, despite its year-round sunny skies, Egypt’s overall desert climate makes winters especially cold – the kind of cold that creeps beneath your clothes and gives you chills right down to your bones.

It doesn’t help that the poorly insulated buildings barely keep the freezing weather at bay, so you have to talk yourself into going outside because it’s warmer outdoors than it is indoors. Temperatures drop as low as 10°C (50°F) at times, so if you’re visiting between October and March , make sure to pack some warm clothes along with your sunscreen. 

5. Pack for the heat, but keep it conservative

Egypt is known for its cotton, and what better place to wear cotton than here. Pack airy breathable clothes, and break out all the pastels and bright colors in your closet. Most people in major cities dress casually and embrace comfort over fashion. But remember that Egypt is a country with primarily conservative locals.

You can’t go wrong with loose clothing, and exposing too much skin is generally frowned upon. Men can sport tank tops if they’re comfortable with a few extra stares, but short shorts are not advisable, and women should avoid low-cut tops, short shorts/skirts or revealing dresses.

Beach destinations bend these unspoken rules, however, and locals are accommodating to visitors, so if you're heading for the beach, you don't need to leave all your shorts and sundresses behind.

6. Keep transportation in mind when booking accommodation

While booking your lodgings, look into modes of transportation in the surrounding area. If you’re planning a short time in your destination, opt for lodgings central to the sights on your itinerary or close to a metro station so you don’t waste too much time stuck in traffic. If you’ve got more time, you can opt for something a little less central, but remember that you could spend a chunk of your time traveling. 

Cairo and Giza are mostly accessible using the metro system, and if you’re a female traveler we recommend you seek out the carriages reserved for women.

Some destinations will require further planning, and white taxis and Uber rides are your best bet. If you opt for a white taxi, always make sure the meter’s running before you hop in, and hail it a few meters away from your hotel for a cheaper ride. Avoid taxis that don’t use meters and aren’t very tourist-friendly. Long-distance buses and domestic flights are an option too, depending on your budget.

7. Be mindful of your etiquette at religious and historic sites

It’s important to not just dress appropriately but to also be mindful of local etiquette especially at certain sights.

Visiting a mosque? Take off your shoes before entering and, if you’re female, cover your head. 

At a historic site? Don’t touch the antiquities and always use cameras without the flash.

On the beach? Yes you can sport your best swimsuit and relax, but like every place in the world, there’s always a code of conduct. Be observant and if in doubt, do what the locals do.

Local tip: Photography is encouraged at tourist sites, but don’t photograph people without their consent, and don't take photos where it is explicitly prohibited.

8. Avoid public displays of affection

We’ve established that Egypt leans toward conservative, and this extends to public displays of affection. While holding hands with your partner won’t garner much attention, limit your public physical interactions to what would be considered mild and proper. 

Platonic kisses on the cheek are a common greeting between friends in Egypt but, depending on your surroundings, should be limited to members of the same sex.

9. Bring small bills and be prepared to tip

Tipping in Egypt is still standard practice, especially in the service industry. Tips, or baksheesh , can range from 5 EGP (<$0.50) to 100 EGP ($5.50), depending on who you are paying and where.

Egypt is largely cash-oriented, so pick up both large and small bills when you’re exchanging currency to make payments and tipping easier.

Restaurants and cafes are easier to figure out, with 10-15% of the bill being customary, and loose change is the norm for food purchases from street vendors. Higher tips are usually reserved for people who provide you with long-term services, such as drivers and tour guides. While you’re not required to tip delivery services, taxis, and ride-hailing apps, you can round up the bill if you’ve had a satisfying experience. 

10. Haggling for souvenirs is part of the experience

From papyrus papers and traditional souvenirs to carefully crafted silverware and hand-painted ceramics, markets in Egypt are a treasure trove. But if you feel like something is overpriced, don’t shy away from haggling.

While vendors aren’t particularly fond of the back-and-forth, it’s all part of the experience and no matter what you pay in the end you can convince yourself it was a great deal.

Don’t attempt to haggle in bigger shops in or outside tourist attractions, and if there’s an official price posted on the product, it’s usually non-negotiable.

Pro tip: Keep your eyes and ears open and gauge the price range of similar items in nearby stores so you can tell if you’re being overcharged. Haggling is mainly confined to souvenir spots, souks (markets) and less formal selling areas. 

11. Don't drink the tap water and beware of food carts

To dodge any stomach bugs that might ruin your Egyptian adventure, avoid drinking tap water unless it’s filtered, especially if you have a sensitive stomach. Pack a good water-filtering system or do like the locals and use bottled water. 

While Egyptian cuisine is one of the country’s best assets, and the temptation to sample it every chance you get is understandable, some carts improperly store their food. It can be difficult to tell as a visitor, so it may be wise to opt for local shops instead. They often offer similar food but are generally safer to indulge to your heart’s content.

12. Flood season is June to September

Flooding is an issue in Egypt in June to September, but it’s usually mild and mostly limited to some coastal areas. It’s always a good idea to activate news alerts on your phone anyway and keep an eye on the local news.

The floods are usually easy to manage, but roads can be impacted, especially in some areas in South Sinai.

13. Solo female travelers may receive unwanted attention

If you’re a woman traveling on your own , keep an eye out for harassers, scammers and hustlers who may be pushy and persistent. Confident interactions are often key to driving them away, but calling out for assistance or announcing you’ll involve the police can be a good deterrent as well. 

As a rule of thumb, try to avoid interactions with individuals in suspicious settings, like quiet alleyways, dark street corners, and empty spots, and look for crowds with women and children if you feel unsafe. Never get into a taxi or Uber with anyone but the driver. Ride in the carriages reserved for women on the metro in Cairo. And, as is sadly the case in most of the world, avoid walking alone late at night.

14. Tourist police can assist you in an emergency 

Egypt is generally considered safe to visit, but if you face any issues that you believe require law enforcement interference, look for police officers with a tourism police badge on their shoulders – it’s a navy blue half sleeve with a gold eagle in the middle, and “Tourism and Antiquities Police” written at the bottom. They are stationed at every tourist destination in Egypt and can also be reached by dialing 126 from any Egyptian mobile number.

If you’d rather file a complaint later, you can dial 19654 and communicate directly with the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities. It's also a good idea to keep the number of your home embassy or consulate handy.

Pro tip: Invest in an Egyptian SIM card upon arrival. They’re cheap and will make local interactions much easier for you. Vodafone, Etisalat, Orange and WE are Egypt’s top mobile service providers; you can find their booths in the final hall on your way out of Cairo International Airport. 

This article was first published July 2022 and updated August 2023

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• Section 10 - African Safaris
• Section 10 - Saudi Arabia: Hajj & Umrah Pilgrimages

CDC Yellow Book 2024

Author(s): Noha Farag

Destination Overview

Infectious disease risks, environmental hazards & risks, safety & security, availability & quality of medical care.

The Arab Republic of Egypt covers a land area of approximately 1 million km2, the same size as Texas and New Mexico combined; >95% of the country is desert. With an estimated 106 million people, Egypt accounts for one-fourth of the Arab world’s population. Egypt has long been considered the cradle of civilization and may be the oldest tourist destination on earth. Throughout the world, Egypt is synonymous with the legends of the Pharaohs, the Great Pyramids, treasure-laden tombs, and hieroglyphs. Travelers visit Egypt to see ancient monuments and timeless river vistas along the Nile Valley. Egypt possesses one-third of the world’s monuments and is considered “the Mother of the World” by Arabs.

A typical visit to Egypt includes arrival in the capital city of Cairo, one of the largest cities in Africa and the Middle East, with a population of approximately 22 million. Cairo today is a modern, cosmopolitan mix of Arab, African, and European influences. Travelers generally spend at least a few days in Cairo seeing the Egyptian Antiquities Museum, National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (where the mummies are now housed), Pyramids at Giza, Citadel and Mosque of Al-Azhar, and Khan al-Khalili bazaar.

Most travelers include an Upper Nile River cruise as part of their itineraries (see Box 10-04 ). Egypt is a beach destination, with thousands of miles of Mediterranean and Red Sea coastlines. Alexandria, Egypt’s second largest city, with 5.5 million people, is located on the Mediterranean Sea and has a string of beaches and seafood restaurants. The World War II battlefield of El-Alamein lies along the Mediterranean coast, and divers will find an array of sunken cities and wartime wrecks to explore offshore. For a truly relaxing beach vacation, travelers can visit one of the many resorts along the North Coast referred to as “Sahel.” The resorts offer a wide array of very private secluded beaches as well as beaches with an active night life scene.

Egypt’s Red Sea coast has reefs offshore, with diving and snorkeling traditionally centered in Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh. Edged by coral reefs and teeming with tropical fish, the Sinai Peninsula has excellent diving, snorkeling, and beaches; Sharm El Sheikh is the most developed and visited area of the Sinai. Visits to Mount Sinai (7,497 ft [2,285 m] above sea level) and Saint Catherine’s Monastery in the mountainous interior are popular destinations, especially with religious pilgrims. Adventure travelers favor desert jeep safaris and camel treks to remote oases and spectacular wadis . Travelers start in Cairo or Assyut and follow the “Great Desert Circuit” through four oases and the White Desert.

Map 10-15: Egypt

View Larger Figure

In addition to being up to date on routine vaccines, travelers to Egypt should obtain hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines. Detailed Egypt-specific travel advice can be found on the Egypt destination page .

Enteric Infections & Diseases

Hepatitis a.

Hepatitis A virus (see Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 7, Hepatitis A ) is transmitted through ingestion of contaminated food or water. Those who are fully vaccinated against hepatitis A have lower risk of infection. Instruct travelers to follow food and water safety precautions (see Sec. 2, Ch. 8, Food & Water Precautions ).

Travelers' Diarrhea

In most large international tourist hotels, the tap water is adequately chlorinated, but bottled water is generally provided for drinking. Tap water is not safe to drink outside of international tourist hotels because it might come from private water tanks not audited by the Ministry of Health. Eating thoroughly cooked meat and vegetables in tourist hotels, on Nile River cruise ships, and in tourist restaurants is generally safe. Eating raw or undercooked ground meat or shellfish should be avoided. As in many developing countries, the safety of uncooked vegetables and salads is questionable. The risk of travelers’ diarrhea in Egypt is high. Travelers affected by travelers’ diarrhea should hydrate to replace lost body fluids and minerals and use antimotility medications (e.g., loperamide). Clinicians could consider prescribing an antibiotic for travelers to Egypt to empirically self-treat travelers’ diarrhea (see Sec. 2, Ch. 6, Travelers’ Diarrhea ).

Respiratory Infections & Diseases

Coronavirus disease 2019.

All travelers going to Egypt should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines .

Sexually Transmitted Infections & HIV

Although the reported prevalence of HIV in Egypt is low, following standard precautions for prevention of sexually transmitted diseases is always advised. Egypt has historically had an alarmingly high prevalence of hepatitis C. However, in 2014 Egypt launched an intensive national elimination campaign that has led to a significant reduction in the prevalence of hepatitis C.

Soil- & Waterborne Infections

Schistosomiasis.

Egypt implemented a campaign to eliminate Schistosoma mansoni and Schistosoma haematobium, which were endemic. Although Egypt has made significant progress towards eliminating schistosomiasis, travelers should avoid wading, swimming, or other contact with freshwater, including the Nile River and irrigation canals. Swimming in saline pools of desert oases, chlorinated swimming pools, the Mediterranean Sea, or the Red Sea does not pose a risk for acquiring schistosomiasis (see Sec. 5, Part 3, Ch. 20, Schistosomiasis ).

Vectorborne Diseases

Mosquitoes and other biting insects can be problematic for travelers. Avoiding insect bites will prevent local discomfort and irritation and reduce the risk of vectorborne diseases (see Sec. 4, Ch. 6, Mosquitoes, Ticks & Other Arthropods ). Consider vectorborne diseases in the differential diagnosis of travelers with fever returning from Egypt (see Sec. 11, Ch. 4, Fever in the Returned Traveler ).

Dengue & West Nile virus

Dengue (see see Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 4, Dengue ) has been reported rarely in travelers who visited Egypt. Although some studies indicate that West Nile virus transmission is widely distributed, infections in returning travelers appear to be rare.

Isolated local transmission of malaria was last reported in Aswan Governorate in 2014. Although CDC does not recommend malaria prophylaxis for people going to Egypt, travelers should practice insect bite precautions.

Yellow Fever

There is no risk of yellow fever in Egypt. Egypt does, however, require travelers ≥9 months old arriving from countries with risk for yellow fever virus transmission to provide proof of vaccination against this disease. For more details, seeSec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 26, Yellow Fever , Sec. 2, Ch. 5, Yellow Fever Vaccine & Malaria Prevention Information, by Country , and International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) .

Animal Bites & Rabies

As in most other low-income countries, rabies is endemic throughout Egypt. For most travelers on a package tour, the risk will be minimal. However, travelers should be aware there are large numbers of stray dogs and cats in urban and tourist areas and are thus advised to avoid contact with all animals, wild, feral, and domestic. Rabies vaccine is available in Egypt for preexposure and postexposure prophylaxis; human rabies immune globulin is also available (see Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 18, Rabies ). Shark attacks are rare in the Red Sea; however, sporadic incidents have been reported, including two attacks in 2020 and two in 2022.

Climate & Sun Exposure

Temperature and weather conditions vary widely in Egypt. The desert is extremely hot in summer (>100°F; >38°C) and can be cold in winter (<32°F; <0°C). Thirst is a late indicator of dehydration, and travelers should drink fluids regularly in the heat (see Sec. 4, Ch. 1, Extremes of Temperature ). Because sweat evaporates immediately, people can become dehydrated without realizing it. Travelers who are elderly or take diuretic, anticholinergic, or neuroleptic medications are at increased risk of heat-associated illnesses. To stay cool and protect themselves from sun exposure, travelers should wear a hat and lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, as well as use sunscreen.

Sandstorms occur sporadically in the desert. Desert sand, dust, and smog can cause eye irritation and exacerbate asthma or other lung disorders (see Sec. 4, Ch. 3, Air Quality & Ionizing Radiation ). Travelers who wear contact lenses should ensure to pack eyeglasses and contact lens care supplies.

The majority of criminal acts in Egypt are crimes of opportunity such as purse snatching and pickpocketing. Travelers should be alert to being overcharged for various services and for being victimized in scams common to tourist destinations worldwide. The Department of State advises against travel to Sinai Peninsula (with the exception of air travel to Sharm El Sheikh), the Western Desert, and border areas due to risk of terrorism. Military and police road checkpoints are common, and security services enforce official travel restrictions. Travelers should check the US Department of State Egypt International Travel Information for up-to-date information on travel restrictions and safety precautions before travel.

Traffic-Related Injuries

Traffic incidents are common in Egypt due to overcrowded roads and reckless driving. Travelers should wear seat belts at all times (see Sec. 8, Ch. 5, Road & Traffic Safety ). Pedestrians should be very careful because traffic rules are different in Egypt and pedestrians do not have right of way when in a crosswalk.

Hotels in Egypt are required by law to have an onsite clinic and resident physician. If further clinical care is required, the traveler would be referred to a hospital. Hospitals are available throughout the metropolitan areas. Most medications are available without a prescription; however, travelers should bring an adequate supply of any routine prescription medications (see Sec. 6, Ch. 3, . . . perspectives: Avoiding Poorly Regulated Medicines & Medical Products During Travel ).

Box 10-04. Nile River cruises

Nile River cruises are usually 3–7-day trips to Aswan and Luxor. Approximately 200 riverboats are based on the Nile, and the average boat accommodates 120 passengers. The largest boats accommodate upwards of 300 passengers; chartered yachts might have just a few cabins. Riverboats have a range of accommodations from basic to 5-star luxury, and nights aboard are generally spent cruising from one port to the next while enjoying the passing riverside scenes of ancient villages, minarets, traditional feluccas (small boats), and farmers in galabiyas (traditional dress worn by farmers).

When travelers disembark they can visit the High Dam and Philae Temple in Aswan or Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Valley of the Kings, and Hatshepsut Temple in Luxor. The temples of Edfu, Esna, and Kom Ombo are all a must-see.

Generally, the Nile is a slow, smooth river. The combination of diesel fuel, heat, and motion can, however, cause distress for travelers. Most travelers do not consider the possibility of motion sickness on a river, so they are unprepared. Onboard medical services vary greatly. Travelers who know that they are sensitive to motion should carry motion sickness medication (see Yellow Book chapter, Motion Sickness). It is also important to keep in mind that the living conditions on river cruises worldwide, not only in Egypt, could be associated with spread of highly infectious diseases. Examples of this were seen during the COVID-19 pandemic, when cruise ships served as foci for spread of the virus not only on the cruise ship but onward transmission globally.

The following authors contributed to the previous version of this chapter: Ann M. Buff and Erik J. Reaves

Bibliography

Guagliardo, Sarah Anne J, et al. COVID-19 on the Nile: A Cross-Sectional Investigation of COVID-19 among Nile River Cruise Travellers Returning to the United States, February–March 2020. Journal of Travel Medicine, 29 Dec. 2022, 10.1093/jtm/taac153.

Hassanin a, Kamel S, Waked I, Fort M. Egypt’s ambitious strategy to eliminate hepatitis C virus: a case study. Glob Health Sci Pract. 2021;9(1):187–200.

HIV, Global Hepatitis And Sexually Transmitted Infections Programmes. Criteria for Validation of Elimination of Viral Hepatitis B and C: Report of 7 Country Pilots . 1 Sept. 2022, www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240055292.

Saifullin MA, Laritchev, VP, Grigorieva YE, Zvereva NN, Domkina AM, Saifullin RF, Bazarova MV, et al. Two cases of Dengue Fever imported from Egypt to Russsia, 2017. Emerging Infectious Diseases 2018; 24 (4): 813-814.

Selim A, Radwan A, Arnaout F. Seroprevalence and molecular characterization of West Nile virus in Egypt. Comparative Immunology, Microbiology, and Infectious Diseases. Vol 71; 2020, 101473.

Yameny AA. The evolving schistosomiasis agenda 2017–2020 in Egypt: moving from control toward final elimination. J Biosci Appl Res. 2017; 3(2);48–54.           

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Is it safe to travel to Egypt? The data — and travelers — say yes

Tourism in Egypt was roaring back with a vengeance in 2023: The land of the pharaohs welcomed 14.9 million international visitors throughout the year, a record number since the pro-democracy uprising of 2011. For a country mired in economic woes, the visitor boom painted a promising trajectory.

That was threatened on Oct. 7, when Hamas attacked Israel and sparked a war alongside Egypt’s northeastern border a little more than 200 miles from Cairo. Almost five months later, the country has tempered its tourism expectations. And yet it’s continued to see growth in terms of international arrivals.

Egypt’s minister of tourism and antiquities, Ahmed Issa, says tourist arrivals were up 6% in the first seven weeks of 2024. That’s below the ministry’s projected 20% growth for the year, which would have ultimately meant 18 million annual visitors. “If it weren’t for the war, we would have much bigger numbers,” Issa says.

Who’s staying home is potentially even more important: Americans. The makeup of current visitors favors lower spenders who come on shorter trips, primarily from Europe, versus U.S. travelers who tend to stay longer and splurge. (Egypt’s tourism revenue reached $13.6 billion in the financial year ended July 2023, up 27% from a year earlier.) At a time when other major streams of revenue, such as Suez Canal receipts, have been slashed because of the Israel-Hamas war’s impact, drawing more U.S. visitors — who stay an average of 13 nights and visit multiple regions in a single trip, according to Egyptian tourism and antiquities minister Issa — remains paramount to Egypt’s overall economy.

In fact, Egypt is likely poised to enact a currency devaluation very soon in a bid to tackle the economic crisis; should that come to pass, it could yield significant deals for international visitors.

U.S.-based tour operator Abercrombie & Kent, which offers luxurious 10-day Nile cruises from $8,995 per person, and upscale travel agency Egypt Tourism USA, which also arranges trips to Jordan, say bookings aren’t coming in as fast and furious as they did last year, as Americans are taking a more cautious approach to traveling in the Middle East. London-based Jacada Travel has seen American tourists’ inquiries bounce back by 60% in January 2024 compared to September 2023, with particular interest in Nile cruises for later this year.

Google data on destination demand, analyzed by Bloomberg, paint a similar picture. Overall search volume for hotels and flights from the US to Egypt in the period from Oct. 7 through Feb. 2, 2024, is down 16% from the previous year and has yet to rebound to prewar levels. That’s a more significant drop in interest than seen by other Middle Eastern countries: Searches for the United Arab Emirates and Jordan, for instance, were down 1.3% and 8%, respectively.

But additional data suggest the fears may be misplaced. According to sentiment analysis from Spain-based tourism intelligence company Mabrian Technologies, Egypt has had a perceived security index of 86 out of 100 in recent weeks — a figure that represents how international visitors to the country describe their experiences on social media. That’s an improvement from 68.9 in mid-December 2023, though still below prewar levels of 92.4 in September 2023. A score of 100 means no complaints about safety were included in online posts about the destination.

In that regard, Egypt is ahead of its regional rivals: Tourist safety perception was lower in Turkey (84), Jordan (83.6) and Qatar (81.6) during the same period of February 2024, according to Mabrian Technologies data. (There’s no data currently available for Israel as tourism activity hasn’t yet returned there.)

Attraction and infrastructure upgrades

Now may be an opportune time to visit Egypt if you’re seeking to avoid the crowds and score deals, with Google data showing hotels priced 18% to 25% lower than usual. And it would mean contributing to the local economy. In 2019 tourism represented at least 9% of Egypt’s gross domestic product and employed 2.4 million people. You’d also be among the first to see a host of improvements in various parts of the country.

“Egypt spent 22% of its GDP over the past seven years on infrastructure,” says Issa, adding that the country is making improvements to draw 30 million visitors by 2028. “The quality of the infrastructure in Egypt today can sustain four or five times (the number of tourists it received in 2023).”

Increasing the number of luxury hotel rooms to accommodate high-spending visitors is a particular focus. The Waldorf Astoria Cairo Heliopolis (rates from $232) opened its doors this past August. The UAE just sealed a $35 billion deal with Egypt that includes developing the beachfront Ras El-Hekma, about a four-hour drive northwest of Cairo, into a luxury resort that would attract major hotel investments.

In a couple of months, visitors to Egypt can expect to find a wider deployment of hop-on, hop-off electric buses stopping at nine sights within the Giza pyramid complex; several new restaurants in the Giza compound also have opened over the past three years. A few miles away, the long-awaited Grand Egyptian Museum will be opening fully this year.

East of the pyramids, five archaeological sites are undergoing renovations, part of a plan to entice short-haul visitors to opt for multiple Cairo city breaks. Restoration is also underway at the 500-year-old Ottoman Mosque and at the palace of Muhammad Ali, who ruled Egypt in the early 19th century. Those are in addition to two restored towers now open to visitors at the Citadel of Cairo, an iconic 12th century landmark in the city’s skyline that was once the seat of government, as well as the new Imhotep Museum in Giza, which houses more than 300 archaeological pieces representing various dynasties.

Visiting will mean keeping an eye on government travel warnings. For Americans, the State Department advisory for Egypt hasn’t changed since July, when terrorism and potential attacks on tourist locations—including in Cairo—bumped it to Level 3: Reconsider Travel. The advisory’s areas of concern, however, are away from the major destinations, including beach resort hub Sharm el-Sheikh.

The safest approach for travelers heading to Egypt this year is to leave the planning to the experts, who can advise guests or make changes to itineraries if the situation should suddenly change. For those who plan on a luxury Nile cruise in the back half of the year, planning early will be key.

“Some of the top ships are sold out for October 2024 already,” says Alesha Walton, head of Middle East trip design at Jacada Travel. “So moving fast affords the best weather and room availability.”

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3521 International Court, NW Washington, DC 20008 TEL: 202.895.5400 TEL: 202.895.5408 FAX: 202.244.4319 FAX: 202.244.5131 For Consular inquiries, please contact: TEL: 202.966.6342 Email: [email protected] FB: Egyptian Consular Section in Washington, D.C.

We only serve applicants (except for Official & Diplomatic & Laissez Passer visas) from the following states: Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, N. Carolina, S. Carolina, Virginia, Washington, D.C., and West Virginia. If you reside in a state that is not listed above, kindly contact One of our consulates that has your jurisdiction from the link  here .

Pickup slip is required to retrieve the passport with the visa

Insufficient or incorrect applications will be returned at the applicant’s expense

Visa applicants are required to provide all the documents listed below. Any submissions with incomplete documents or missing copies will be returned

Visa Requirements

For Tourist Visa: AMERICAN PASSPORT HOLDERS ONLY

Applying in person at the Egyptian Consulate:

• Fully completed and signed visa application form with  ONE  photo stapled to the form  Download application form here
• ONE  copy of the completed application form with a photo
• ONE  2″ x 2″, recent high-definition personal passport photo on a white background (the photo must be no more than 6 months old)
• Actual passport plus  TWO  copies of the information page (that has the photo) (valid for at least 6 months on arrival) and has an empty Visa page
• Fees: $27 (Single Entry) or $62 (Multiple Entry/ applicant has to provide a ticket reflecting multiple entry into the country) cash. An exact change is required.
• One Copy of a round-trip ticket
• One Copy of the accommodation reservation in Egypt (Hotel reservation). If the visa applicant residing with a family member, he/she has to state the following on the visa application: Name of the family member/ relationship/ contact number/address)
• Driver’s license and a copy (must be a resident within the states we serve  here )

Applying for a visa by mail:

• One Copy of the accommodation reservation in Egypt (Hotel reservation). If the visa applicant will be residing with a family member, he/she has to state the following on the visa application (on the Details of Visit Section): Name of the family member/ relationship/ contact number/address)
• Please only provide express mail or certified mail (pre-addressed pre-stamped envelope) for the return of the passports/Documents. We do not take responsibility for any loss that may occur in mailing
• Mailing Address: Consulate of the Arab Republic of Egypt (Visa Section) , 3521 International Court, NW, Washington, DC 20008
• Fees: $27 (Single Entry) or $62 (Multiple Entry/ applicant has to provide a ticket reflecting multiple entry into the country) Cashier’s Check Only from a U.S. Bank  payable to the Consulate of Egypt  (We DO NOT accept MONEY ORDER or PERSONAL CHECKS)

For Tourist Visa: Non-AMERICAN PASSPORT HOLDERS ONLY

(except for the list of countries  here )

-Sudanese passport are advised to contact the consulate for further information before applying

• TWO  copies of green card (front and back) valid for more than 6 months; or work visa that is valid for more than 6 months with employment verification letter; or a student visa that is valid for more than 6 months with school verification letter
• TWO  photocopies of round-trip ticket or confirmed itinerary
• One copy of the accommodation reservation (Hotel reservation) in Egypt. If the visa applicant will be residing with a family member, he/she has to state the following on the visa application (on the Details of Visit Section): Name of the family member/ relationship/ contact number/address)
• Fees: $27 (Single Entry) or $62 (Multiple Entry/ applicant has to provide a ticket reflecting multiple entry into the country) cash (except for UK, Canada, Zimbabwe, and Nigerian passport holders, fees are on the link here: Click here for the visa fees ). An exact change is required.
• One copy of the accommodation reservation (Hotel reservation) in Egypt . If the visa applicant will be residing with a family member, he/she has to state the following on the visa application (on the Details of Visit Section): Name of the family member/ relationship/ contact number/address)
• Mailing Address: Consulate of the Arab Republic of Egypt (Visa Section), 3521 International Court, NW, Washington, DC 20008
• Fees: $27 (Single Entry) or $62 (Multiple Entry/ applicant has to provide a ticket reflecting multiple entry into the country) Cashier’s check from the bank addressed to the consulate of Egypt (except for UK, Canada, Zimbabwe, and Nigerian passport holders, fees are on the link here: Click here for the visa fees  ).  (We DO NOT accept MONEY ORDER or PERSONAL CHECKS)
• A copy of driver license (must be a resident within the states we serve  here )

Notes: For Uzbekistan passport holders applying for a visa 21 years old and under they require a visa and have to be accompanied by a parent to travel to Egypt.

www.visa2egypt.gov.eg  

• E-visa portal provides tourist visas only
• All inquiries must be directed to the help page on the E-visa website, not through any of the Egyptian consulates in the US
• Confirm that your country is eligible for the online service listed in the Q&A on the portal
• The above link is the only official link affiliated with the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs

For Business/Entry/Visit Visa: AMERICAN PASSPORT HOLDERS ONLY

Applying in person at the Egyptian Consulate

• TWO copies of the letter from the company indicating the detailed purpose of the trip and financial guarantee of the company / contractors with US government must provide an official supporting letter as well.
• TWO copies of the letter/invitation from the company/organization in Egypt
• Fees: $62 (Single Entry) or $87 (Multiple Entry/ applicant has to provide a ticket reflecting multiple entry into the country) cash. Exact change is required
• Fees: $62 (Single Entry) or $87 (Multiple Entry/ applicant has to provide a ticket reflecting multiple entry into the country)  Cashier’s Check Only from a U.S. Bank  payable to the Consulate of Egypt  ( We DO NOT accept MONEY ORDER or PERSONAL CHECKS)
• A copy of driver license (must be a resident within the states we serve  here

For Business/Entry/Visit Visa : Non-AMERICAN PASSPORT HOLDERS

( ONLY FOR APPLICANT’S NOT INCLUDED ON THE LIST OF COUNTRIES here )

• TWO copies of the letter from the company indicating the detailed purpose of the trip (Name of person, Company the person working for in the US, Company will be working for in Egypt, Conference/Seminar attending, Dates traveling to Egypt, How long will be staying in Egypt) and financial guarantee of the company
• TWO  copies of round-trip ticket or confirmed itinerary
• One Copy of the accommodation reservation in Egypt (Hotel reservation)
• Fees: $62 (Single Entry) or $87 (Multiple Entry/ applicant has to provide a ticket reflecting multiple entry into the country) (except for UK, Canada, Zimbabwe, and Nigerian passport holders, fees are on the link here: Click here for the visa fees ). An exact change is required.
• Original driver license and a copy (must be a resident within the states we serve  here )
• One  copy of the completed application form with a photo
• One  2″ x 2″, recent high-definition personal passport photo on a white background (the photo must be no more than 6 months old)
• Actual passport plus  Two  copies of the information page (that has the photo) (valid for at least 6 months on arrival) and has an empty Visa page
• Two copies of the letter from the company indicating the detailed purpose of the trip (Name of person, Company the person working for in the US, Company will be working for in Egypt, Conference/Seminar attending, Dates traveling to Egypt, How long will be staying in Egypt) and financial guarantee of the company
• Two  copies of round-trip ticket or confirmed itinerary
• Fees: $62 (Single Entry) or $87 (Multiple Entry/ applicant has to provide a ticket reflecting multiple entry into the country) (except for UK, Canada, Zimbabwe, and Nigerian passport holders, fees are on the link here: Click here for the visa fees ).  Cashier’s Check Only from a U.S. Bank  payable to the Consulate of Egypt  ( We DO NOT accept MONEY ORDER or PERSONAL CHECKS)

VISA REQUIREMENTS FOR SUDANESE PASSPORT HOLDERS

• Fully completed and signed visa application form with ONE photo stapled to the form   Download application form here
• ONE copy of the completed application form with a photo included 
• ONE  2″ x 2″, recent high-definition personal passport photo on a white background (the photo must be no more than 6 months old)
• Actual passport plus  TWO  copies of the information page (that has the photo or the bio page) and has an empty Visa page ( travel documents are not accepted currently )
• Passport must be valid for more than 6 months on arrival ( expired extended passport are not accepted currently )
• TWO  copies of valid green card (front and back) valid for more than 6 months; or work visa that is valid for more than 6 months with employment verification letter ; or a student visa that is valid for more than 6 months with school verification letter
• TWO copies of round-trip ticket or confirmed itinerary (taking in consideration the processing time and 30 days maximum duration of stay)
• One copy of the accommodation reservation ( Hotel reservation ) in Egypt. If the visa applicant will be residing with a family member, he/she has to state the following on the visa application (on the Details of Visit Section): Name of the family member/ relationship/ contact number/full address)
• Driver’s license and a copy; or a copy of your lease; or a copy of bill under the applicants name as a proof of residency ( Applications will not be accepted if you reside outside of the following states: Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, N. Carolina, S. Carolina, Virginia, Washington, D.C., West Virginia )
• Fees: $62 (Single Entry only ). Exact change is required.
• Visa duration of stay is 30 days or less and the visa itself is valid for 6 months from issue date
• Visa cannot be extended or renewed in Egypt
• Visa processing time is at least a minimum of 10 business days to 4 weeks

تقديم الطلب شخصيًا في القنصلية المصرية :

• نموذج طلب تأشيرة مكتمل بالكامل وموقع بشكل كامل مع صورة واحدة مثبتة على النموذج. يمكنك تحميل نموذج الطلب من هنا .
•   نسخة واحدة من النموذج المكتمل مع الصورة الشخصية .
•   صورة شخصية حديثة بحجم 2 × 2 بوصة بدقة عالية على خلفية بيضاء (يجب أن تكون الصورة لا تزيد عن 6 أشهر) .
•   جواز السفر الاصلى بالإضافة إلى نسختين من صفحة المعلومات (التي تحتوي على الصورة) ويجب أن يكون هناك صفحة فارغة للتأشيرة (لا يتم قبول وثائق السفر  حالياً ) .
• لابد ان يكون الجواز صالح لمدة لا تقل عن 6 أشهر عند الوصول ولا يمكن التقديم بجواز منتهى ممدد
•   الاصل ونسختين من بطاقة الإقامة الامريكية (للوجهين) و تكون صالحة لأكثر من 6 أشهر؛ أو تأشيرة عمل اميريكية صالحة لأكثر من 6 أشهر مع خطاب من جهة العمل؛ أو تأشيرة دراسة اميريكية صالحة لأكثر من 6 أشهر مع خطاب من جهة الجامعة.
• نسختان من تذكرة الذهاب والإياب (جدول الرحلة المؤكد) (مع مراعاة وقت معالجة التأشيرة ومدة الإقامة القصوى لمدة 30 يومًا)
•   نسخة واحدة من حجز الإقامة (حجز الفندق) في مصر وإذا كان مقدم الطلب سيقيم مع أحد أفراد العائلة، يجب عليه/عليها ذكر الآتي في طلب التأشيرة (في قسم تفاصيل الزيارة): اسم الفرد في العائلة / العلاقة / رقم الاتصال / العنوان  بالكامل .
• رخصة القيادة ونسخة منها؛ أو نسخة من عقد الإيجار الخاص بكك؛ او فاتورة بها العنوان والاسم لأثبات محل الاقامة ( لن يتم قبول طلب الفيزا إذا كان مقدم الطلب يقيم خارج الولايات المختصين بيها وهي كالاتى: Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, N. Carolina, S. Carolina, Virginia, Washington, D.C., West Virginia ).
•   الرسوم: 62 دولارًا (دخول واحد فقط) .
•   مدة الإقامة بالتأشيرة هي 30 يومًا أو أقل، وتظل التأشيرة صالحة لمدة 6 أشهر من تاريخ الإصدار
• لا يمكن تمديد أو تجديد التأشيرة في مصر .
•   وقت معالجة التأشيرة هو على الأقل 10 أيام عمل إلى 4 أسابيع كحد أدنى .
• Actual passport plus  TWO  copies of the information page (that has the photo) and has an empty Visa page (travel documents are not accepted currently)
• TWO  copies of round-trip ticket or confirmed itinerary (taking in consideration the processing time and 30 days maximum duration of stay )
• One copy of the accommodation reservation ( Hotel reservation ) in Egypt. If the visa applicant will be residing with a family member, he/she has to state the following on the visa application (on the Details of Visit Section): Name of the family member/ relationship/ contact number/ full address)
• Fees: $62 (Single Entry only) Cashier’s Check Only from a U.S. Bank payable to the Consulate or Embassy of Egypt that is recently issued  ( We DO NOT accept MONEY ORDER or PERSONAL CHECKS)
• Visa processing time is at least a minimum of 10 business days to 4 week once it is received (excluding mailing time)
• Please only provide paid return envelope from Post Office only to return of the passports/Documents back to applicant. We do not take responsibility for any loss that may occur in mailing
• Mailing Address: Consulate of the Arab Republic of Egypt (Visa Section) , 3521 International Court, NW, Washington, DC 20008

تقديم الطلب عن طريق البريد :

•   نسخة واحدة من النموذج المكتمل مع صورة .
•   نسختين من بطاقة الإقامة الامريكية (للوجهين) و تكون صالحة لأكثر من 6 أشهر؛ أو تأشيرة عمل اميريكية صالحة لأكثر من 6 أشهر مع خطاب من جهة العمل؛ أو تأشيرة دراسة اميريكية صالحة لأكثر من 6 أشهر مع خطاب من جهة الجامعة.
•   نسخة واحدة من حجز الإقامة (حجز الفندق) في مصر وإذا كان مقدم الطلب سيقيم مع أحد أفراد العائلة، يجب عليه/عليها ذكر الآتي في طلب التأشيرة (في قسم تفاصيل الزيارة): اسم الفرد في العائلة / العلاقة / رقم الاتصال / العنوان بالكامل.
•   الرسوم: 62 دولارًا (دخول واحد ه فقط ) .  كاشيرز شيك Cashier’s check  من البنك للقنصلية او السفاره المصرية تم اصداره حديثاً ولا يتم قبول اوامر الدفع او ال money orders
•   وقت معالجة التأشيرة هو على الأقل 10 أيام عمل إلى 4 أسابيع كحد أدنى عند استلام البريد (دون احتساب وقت البريد)
• الرجاء توفير ظرف مدفوع من البريد السريع أو البريد المعتمد من Post office (ظرف عليه  العنوان ورقم التتبع) لإرجاع جوازا السفر. يرجى الملاحظة ان نالقنصلية غير مسؤوله عن أي فقدان قد يحدث أثناء الإرسال .
• عنوان البريد:

Consulate of the Arab Republic of Egypt (Visa Section) , 3521 International Court, NW, Washington, DC 20008

Entry Visa (Valid for 5 years)

• Choose the purpose of travel (tourist or business for US and non-US passport holders) and provide listed documents above accordingly
• Fees: $702 cash or Cashier’s Check Only from a U.S. Bank  payable to the Consulate of Egypt  ( We DO NOT accept MONEY ORDER or PERSONAL CHECKS)
• Visa is multiple entry and valid for 5 years with a duration of stay of three months

Diplomatic Passport Holder

• Fully completed and signed visa application form with One photo stapled to the form Download application form here
• Two  copies of the completed application form with a  photo
• Two 2″ x 2″, recent high-definition personal passport photos on a white background ( thephoto must be no more than 6 months old)
• Actual Passport plus  three  copies of the information page (that has the photo) (still valid for at least 6 months) and has an empty Visa page
• Three  copies of a diplomatic note with a company letterhead (e.g. US State Department/ Army Office/ Navy Office.. etc.) addressed to the Egyptian Consulate in DC stating detailed purpose and dates of travel (must be addressed from inside the States)

Official Passport Holder

• Two  copies of the completed application form with a photo
• Three  2″ x 2″, recent high-definition personal passport photos on a white background (photo must be no more than 6 months old)
• Actual Passport plus  Three  copies of the information page (that has the photo) (still valid for at least 6 months) and has an empty Visa page
• Three  copies of an Official note with a company letterhead (e.g. US State Department/ Army Office/ Navy Office.. etc.) addressed to the Egyptian Consulate in DC stating detailed purpose and dates of travel (must be addressed from inside the States)

United Nations Laissez Passer Holder

• Two  copies of the completed application form with a photo
• TWO  2″ x 2″, recent high-definition personal passport photos on white background (photo must be no more than 6 months old)
• Actual Passport plus  Three  copies of the information page (that has the photo)(still valid for at least 6 months) and has an empty Visa page
• Three  copies of official notes stating detailed purpose and dates of travel

List of countries that require pre-approval or have a Travel Document

• Afghanistan
• Any Travel Document

Kindly note that processing for pre-approval visas occurs in two stages:

First stage: Applicant mail in (copies only) or present (Original and copies) for the listed requirements below for pre-approval. Processing time for that stage is a minimum of 6-8 weeks. All applicants are advised not to make any travel plans until contacted by the visa section.

Second Stage: If approved, applicants will be contacted to submit the required documents and fees. Processing time will be 10 business days once the documents are received.

Applying in person at the Egyptian Consulate for pre-approval visas:

• ONE  copy of the completed application form with photo photo
• Actual passport plus  TWO  copies of the information page (that has the photo) (still valid for at least 6 months) and has an empty Visa page
• Actual Green Card plus  TWO  copies of green card (front and back)
• Driver’s license and a copy (must be a resident within the countries we serve here)
• TWO  copies of the information page (that has the photo) (still valid for at least 6 months) and has an empty Visa page
• TWO  copies of green card (front and back)

Jurisdiction

Kindly note that the Consular Section in DC  only accepts  visa applications received by mail or in person from the states we serve  (Delaware – Florida – Georgia – Maryland – N. Carolina -S. Carolina- Virginia – Washington, D.C. – West Virginia) .

If you reside in another state that is not mentioned above, kindly contact the Egyptian consulate that has your jurisdiction from the link  here .

Walk-ins for the Egyptian consulate in DC

Walk-ins are accepted from Monday to Friday from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM except for national and federal holidays.

• Appointments are not required during business hours for visa services.
• Mailing Address : Consulate of the Arab Republic of Egypt, 3521 International Court, NW, Washington, DC 20008
• Telephone:  202-966-6342  (PLEASE NOTE: Phone lines operate from 9:30 am to 1:00 pm ONLY)
• Fax:  202-244-5131

Visa On Arrival

(Emergency Visas)

Visa applicants (except the listed nationalities  here ) are advised to get the visa in advance from the Egyptian consulate that serves their state of residency.

Applicants planning on getting emergency visa at the airport must do/have the following:

• Passport must be valid for more than 6 months at arrival
• US Green Card must be valid for more than 6 months
• Confirm with the airlines that a visa is not required to be boarded on the plane
• Canadian passport holders cannot acquire visa on arrival only through the Egyptian consulate that has their jurisdiction
• Passports holder’s who are on list of countries requiring pre-approval cannot acquire visa upon arrival

Kindly note that Egyptian customs have the right to deny entry at the airport if necessary.

Visas processing times

For more information on Tourism in Egypt, please visit the Official website “The Egyptian Tourism Authority” on the link below:  https://egypt.travel/

Egyptian Consulates in the United States:

Egyptian Consulate -Washington, D.C.  Website:  egyptembassy.net (Serving: Delaware – Florida – Georgia – Maryland – N. Carolina -S. Carolina- Virginia – Washington, D.C. – West Virginia) 3521 International Court, N.W. Washington, D. C. 20008 Tel # 1 (202) 966-6342Fax # 1(202) 244-5131 E-mail:  [email protected]

Egyptian Consulate – Chicago  Website:  www.egyptinchicago.org (Serving: Illinois- Indiana- Iowa- Kentucky- Michigan -Minnesota- Nebraska- N. Dakota-S. Dakota –Wisconsin) 180 N. Michigan Ave, Suite #1150 Chicago, IL 60601 Tel # 1(312) 332-7210 / 4/ 6 Fax# 1(312) 828-9167 E-mail: [email protected]

Egyptian Consulate- Houston  Website:  www.consulateofegypthouston.com/en/consular-services/ (Serving: Alabama – Arkansas – Colorado – Kansas – Louisiana -Mississippi – Missouri –New Mexico – Oklahoma –Tennessee – Texas) 5718 Westheimer St. Suite # 1350 Houston, TX 77057 Tel # 1 (713) 961-4915 or 1(713) 961-4916 Fax # 1(713) 977-0323

Egyptian Consulate – Los Angeles  Website:  www.egyconsulatela.com (Serving: Alaska – Arizona – California – Idaho – Hawaii – Montana – Nevada – Oregon – Washington – Wyoming – Utah) 6300 Wilshire Blvd. Suite 1890 Los Angeles, CA 90048 Tel # 1(323) 933-9700 or 1 (323) 933-9757 or 1 (323) 933-1401 Fax # 1(323) 933-9725 Email:  [email protected]

Egyptian Consulate – New York  Website:  www.egypt-nyc.com (Serving: Connecticut- Maine- Massachusetts – New Hampshire-New Jersey- Ohio- Pennsylvania- Puerto Rico – Rhode Island -Vermont- New York) 866 United Nations Plaza 5th Floor, Room 586 New York, NY. 10017 Tel # 1(212) 759-7120 Fax # 1(212) 308-7643 Email:  [email protected]

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What to Do If You Have Upcoming Travel to Egypt, Jordan, or Lebanon

By Jessica Puckett

This is a developing story and will be updated with more information.

In recent weeks, the war between Israel and Hamas has seeped further into surrounding areas of the Middle East. Violence has reached the southern stretch of the Red Sea, where Houthi rebels have attacked cargo ships off the coast of Yemen, and the US has responded with its own airstrikes. On Israel’s border , clashes between Israel and the Hezbollah militant group in Lebanon continue to intensify.

While it's a no-brainer to reconfigure plans located in the immediate conflict zone, many travelers with upcoming trips to the surrounding region are wondering what to do. Is it safe, or responsible, to embark on a Nile cruise in Egypt at the moment? Or to continue on with a visit to Petra, in Jordan? The questions have become only murkier as the conflict expands.

Following a regional security alert issued by the State Department in October that advises US citizens throughout the Middle East to “take caution,” some travelers have responded by canceling trips, while others have pressed on with plans under the guidance of travel providers.

One luxury tour group, Red Savannah says that all travel they have arranged for clients in Egypt and Jordan is continuing as normal. “While we are holding off selling Lebanon, we believe that Egypt and Jordan continue to be safe destinations to visit,” says George Morgan-Grenville, CEO of Red Savannah. “Feedback from clients who traveled over Christmas was incredibly positive.”

According to data from the travel booking company Hopper, Jordan is currently seeing increased demand from US travelers compared to January of last year. US travel demand to Lebanon has dropped relative to other countries in the region, while bookings for Egypt have remained flat, Hopper tells Condé Nast Traveler.

For many, there's an emotional calculation to make when planning travel to countries in close proximity to conflict zones. “Every person has their own unique risk threshold,” says Dave Dennis, executive director of Cornerstone Safety Group, a risk management organization that supports travel companies. “An acceptable risk for one person can be very different from another.”

We asked safety and industry experts to share advice for travelers considering trips to Lebanon, Jordan, Egypt, and the Red Sea in the near future. Here's what travelers should know—from what's happening on the ground, to government advisories, to which choices other travelers are making.

Jump ahead:

Should you travel to Jordan right now?

Should you travel to egypt right now, should you travel to lebanon right now.

• Should you take a Red Sea cruise right now?
• Additional tips

The US State Department has kept Jordan under a “Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution” travel alert that it first issued on July 13. The only regions that travelers are instructed to avoid are the country’s borders with Syria and Iraq, its refugee camps, and Zarqa, Rusayfah, and the Baqa’a neighborhood of Ayn Basha due to ongoing safety concerns, according to the department’s guidance.

“Jordan, being further from regional unrest, remains at a Level 2 advisory, which is a common category for many regions globally,” says Dennis. As such, most tours throughout Jordan continue to operate as scheduled, and visitors can visit highlights like the Dead Sea , the Wadi Rum desert, Petra, and the capital city of Amman.

The Jordanian Tourism Board told the Times of London in January that the country remains safe for international travel: “In light of the recent developments in Gaza, we want to emphasize that Jordan continues to be a safe and welcoming destination for tourists from around the world,” the agency said in the statement. “Our commitment to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all visitors remains unwavering and we want to reassure everyone that Jordan’s borders are open to tourists.”

Egypt's alert level from the State Department hasn’t changed since July 13, and remains at a “Level 3: Reconsider Travel.” Tourists should continue to avoid travel to the Sinai Peninsula, the land bordering Israel and Gaza and to the east of Cairo, as it is a “particularly dangerous area,” according to the department.

In a December 20 security reminder , the US Embassy in Cairo advised US travelers in Egypt to maintain situational awareness and personal security vigilance, exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests, and to keep a low profile.

Many group tours, like Red Savannah's, which visit sites like the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, the Valley of the Kings , and Karnak Temple in Luxor, are continuing as normal. But even as many trips forge ahead, some operators are seeing significant cancellations. One firm in Egypt, Amisol Travel, has seen just 40 to 50% of its typical bookings from February and September 2024, according to the New York Times .

Nile River cruises are also continuing to operate as planned. The only changes at this time are cancellations of post-cruise land packages through Israel—most lines have removed these add-on tours for the near future.

“We continue to closely monitor the situation in Israel and Gaza and have canceled a select number of Jerusalem extensions for our Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary,” says a January 11 statement on Viking’s website. “All of our departures in Egypt are operating as scheduled. Our top priority is the safety and wellbeing of our guests, crew and partners on the ground."

In recent months, AmaWaterways has been making similar cancellations ​​of extended land tours through Israel. “Guests with the post-cruise Israel package scheduled to depart on Secrets of Egypt & the Nile itinerary starting in Cairo up to and including June 21, 2024 will be refunded for the Israel land portion as well as the Cairo to Tel Aviv airfare,” the line said in an emailed statement. “There are no other changes to any other Egypt river cruise or associated land packages.”

Despite most Nile itineraries continuing as planned, lines are seeing an uptick in cancellations from passengers. "The impact has been pretty severe, quite honestly, for the first quarter of 2024," Pamela Hoffee, president of Avalon Waterways, told Travel Weekly in early December. "Close to half of our guests canceled for the first quarter of 2024. The rest of the year has not seen as much impact."

As of October 17, the US State Department has had a “Level 4: Do Not Travel” warning for Lebanon. The advisory was last updated on December 19 and recommends US citizens do not travel to the country “due to crime, terrorism, armed conflict, civil unrest, kidnapping, and Embassy Beirut’s limited capacity to provide support to US citizens."

Jessica Puckett

Sarah James

Harrison Pierce

The advisory "speaks to inherent dangers of the region and the lack of immediate emergency services if a traveler was in need of assistance from government agencies,” says Dennis.

Clashes between the Israeli military and the Hezbollah militants in Lebanon have continued at the countries’ borders for months. Now, it's appearing more likely that serious conflict could spread even farther into Lebanon. The head of Israel’s military, Chief of the General Staff Herzi Halevi, said on January 17 that the IDF is increasing readiness for “fighting in Lebanon,” CNN reported .

“The State Department recommends that US citizens in Lebanon leave now, while commercial flights remain available, due to the unpredictable security situation,” says a security alert from the US Embassy in Beirut issued on November 4. (At the time of publication, no new security alerts have been issued from the Embassy in Beirut since).

What's happening with cruises in the Red Sea?

Some cruise lines have begun canceling or changing itineraries that were set to transit through the Red Sea, due to the heightening conflicts there. According to Seatrade Cruise News , MSC has canceled three sailings that had stops through the Red Sea and Middle East: a March 30 voyage on MSC Virtuosa sailing from Dubai to Southampton, England; an April 3 sailing on MSC Splendida from Cape Town to Genoa, Italy; and an April 21 sailing on MSC Opera from Dubai to Genoa.

Silversea has also canceled an upcoming voyage aboard Silver Moon from Dubai to Mumbai that was slated to depart on January 26. “Affected guests and their travel agents have been informed of the reprotection options,” Silversea told Traveler in an emailed statement. “The voyage between Mumbai and Singapore, scheduled between Feb 11 and Feb 29, is currently scheduled to proceed as planned. Our global security team continues to closely monitor the situation in the region and will make any additional changes if required.”

Additional tips for considering travel to the region

1. consider postponing instead of canceling.

The standard guidance in the travel industry, even in harrowing situations, is that postponing a trip is usually a better option than canceling, if you can swing it. That way, local workers and/or travel businesses don't completely lose out on travelers' support, particularly at a time of need. “We highly recommend postponing, or rebooking to another region, over canceling all together,” says Matt Berna, president The Americas for Intrepid Travel. "More than ever the world needs intrepid travelers. We want travelers to do and see incredible things, and for those experiences to have positive social and economic impacts on the host communities they visit.”

One benefit for travelers post-pandemic is that the majority of operators now offer flexible changes and postponements. “Since COVID-19, we have seen a trend towards rebooking flexibility in the travel industry,” says Christina Tunnah, general manager Americas for travel insurance provider World Nomads. “Many US-based airlines retained the credit and rebooking policies from the peak of COVID-19. If you booked with a tour provider, contact customer service to understand what kind of policies may apply in this type of situation.”

Some tour companies allow cancellations within a certain window or will give a voucher toward a future trip if you’d like to postpone. “Should a client feel uncomfortable about traveling, we will always do our best to offer a postponement,” says Morgan-Greenville of Red Savannah.

Jerry Sorkin , a travel specialist with Iconic Journeys Worldwide , says his company gives customers the option to reschedule and apply 100% of their funds toward a future tour to the same destination, up until 30 days before their trip. (Travelers who want to cancel their trip within 30 days of their departure will have to rely on travel insurance for refunds.) “If they did not take out travel insurance, they did so at their own risk and signed a document when booking with us that they had declined to take out travel insurance,” Sorkin says. These types of cancellation policies are standard throughout the industry, which makes understanding travel insurance policies all the more important.

2. Purchase travel insurance

“We always recommend purchasing travel insurance as soon as you invest in your flights, accommodations, and other travel costs,” says Tunnah. “All policies are different, so be sure the policy you select offers the coverage you are most concerned with, such as trip cancellation or trip interruption. And always be sure to read your policy details.” For instance, trip cancellations due to war, invasion, or hostilities between nations are generally excluded from travel insurance policies, but some may offer coverage for terrorist incidents that occur in your departure or destination city, according to Tunnah. (World Nomads’ travel insurance policies for US residents offer trip cancellation coverage in the event a terrorist incident occurs within 30 days of the scheduled departure date, for instance.)

3. Reference international sources during research and consider traveling with a local tour operator

If you decide to go ahead with your trip, there are still precautions to take, too, and ways to be as informed as possible. “I always advocate for travelers to research the areas visited, purchase travel insurance, and talk to insurance providers about coverage and emergency support options should a need arise,” says Dennis, the risk management expert. “Some travel insurance policies won't cover regions listed as a Level 4 (Do Not Travel) government rating, so it's important to verify exemptions prior to travel." Dennis also suggests traveling with a reputable, locally experienced operator: "These organizations typically have deep connections with the communities they visit and are responsible for making itinerary adjustments based on local circumstances.”

In your research, try to include international media sources for the most holistic picture of what’s happening in the area. “It's important to seek out information from multiple sources to find a balanced understanding of regional safety and security,” Dennis says. “This may include reviewing US, UK, Canadian, and even Australian State Department travel warnings, local embassy updates, and if available, gaining access to information from professional security organizations. Each resource may have slight variations of information depending on the audience they serve, so it's important to gather as many perspectives as possible for a balanced approach.”

4. Have an emergency plan

As a precaution, US tourists on international trips should always sign up for the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive important safety alerts from the US embassy in the country they are visiting. Enrolling is free, only takes a few minutes, and will help the embassy contact you in the event of an emergency.

It’s also a good idea to make sure loved ones at home have key information about your travels. “Personally speaking, when I travel internationally, I always leave a copy of my itinerary, passport, and travel insurance policy with my family,” Dennis says. “I also make a check-in plan, so they know when to expect a call, text, or email.”

More than anything, making these difficult travel decisions is about building up a sense of personal intuition for what feels safe and enjoyable.

This article has been updated since its original publish date.

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Travel Vaccines and Advice for Egypt

Egypt’s 3,000 year history is rich and complex, filled with more than just mummies and pyramids. This land has ties to people and places that existed millenniums ago.

There are many sights to see in Egypt. The pyramids of Giza, the oldest of the original seven wonders of the world, remain still largely intact. The life-giving Nile River. The legendary tomb of King Tut.

But, as many sights as there are in Egypt, recent conflict in and around the country has increased the risks of travel there.

Do I Need Vaccines for Egypt?

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Egypt. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Egypt: hepatitis A , hepatitis B , typhoid , yellow fever , rabies , meningitis , polio , measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) , Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) , chickenpox , shingles , pneumonia and influenza .

COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. Check with your local Passport Health clinic if immunization is offered in your area.

See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:

• COVID-19 – Airborne & Direct Contact – Recommended for all unvaccinated individuals who qualify for vaccination
• Hepatitis A – Food & Water – Recommended for most travelers
• Hepatitis B – Blood & Body Fluids – Accelerated schedule available
• Typhoid – Food & Water – Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator.
• Yellow Fever – Mosquito – Required if traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
• Rabies – Saliva of Infected Animals – High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals.
• Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) – Various Vectors – Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
• TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) – Wounds & Airborne – Only one adult booster of pertussis required.
• Chickenpox – Direct Contact & Airborne – Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox.
• Shingles – Direct Contact – Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles.
• Pneumonia – Airborne – Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both.
• Influenza – Airborne – Vaccine components change annually.
• Meningitis – Airborne & Direct Contact – Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students.
• Polio – Food & Water – Required if arriving from a country with polio transmission. Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended.

See the tables below for more information:

Polio vaccination is not recommended for Egypt. But, a single adult may recommended for some surrounding countries.

Decisions should be made based on travel plans and whether there is an increased personal risk for contracting certain diseases.

Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Egypt

US Citizens must have a visa to travel to Egypt as well as a valid passport.

Single and multiple entry visas are available that permit a stay in Egypt of up to 30 days.

If you attempt to leave Egypt after the end date noted on your visa, you will be fined. Should you find yourself in this situation, be sure to arrive at the airport well before your flight and with plenty of Egyptian currency.

Sources: Embassy of Egypt and U.S. State Department

What Is the Climate Like in Egypt?

Egypt only has two seasons – a hot summer and a moderate winter. In general, Egyptian days are warm or hot and nights are cool or even cold. While the majority of Egypt is desert, there are four unique physical regions with different climates.

The Nile Region

• Nile Delta – The ancient city Alexandria is located in the Nile Delta. This area was created by the world’s longest river and is the most expansive oasis in the world. The delta begins north of Cairo and extends farther north to the Mediterranean Sea. This region has a hot desert climate. But, the most northern part closest to the sea is the wettest region in the country. It has higher humidity and more moderate temperatures, reaching no higher than 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Nile Valley – This region includes the two major Egyptian cities Luxor and Aswan. The Nile Valley is hot and dry, with very little precipitation. The summer months get especially hot, with daytime temperatures reaching highs of up to 105 degrees Fahrenheit at the peak of the summer. Nighttime temperatures dip down to around 70 degrees Fahrenheit at the lowest points. The winter months are much more moderate with less fluctuation from night to day.

Western Desert

The Pyramids of Giza are located in the northeast corner of this region.

This region is one of the driest areas in the Sahara Desert. It spans from the Mediterranean Sea south to the Sudanese Border, and from the Libyan border east to the Nile River Valley. The area rarely sees any rain. Hot, dry sandstorms, called khamsins, are common in the spring months and can be dangerous.

Temperatures vary greatly. In summer months, temperatures can get up to 110 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 45 degrees Fahrenheit at night. In winter months, temperatures fluctuate less, but the desert can get to 65 degrees Celsius during the day and as low as 30 degrees Celsius at night.

Eastern Desert

The Eastern Desert is mountainous. The topography increases east of the Nile to become dry, rocky hills, the Red Sea Mountains, at elevations around 1,900 meters or higher. This is a dry, desolate area that is isolated from the rest of the country. There is not much in this part of the country because it is not suitable for agriculture or other sustained settlements.

Sinai Peninsula

This is a triangular peninsula that connects Asia with Africa. It is also known as the Sinai Desert because of its arid climate. The rest of Egypt is to the West, Israel and the Gaza Strip to the east. The Mediterranean Sea is to the north and the Red Sea is to the south.

The peninsula has two distinctly different climates. The northern part of the peninsula, closer to the Mediterranean, is dry and intensely hot during the summer and sees more rain during the winter. The southern part, closer to the Red Sea, is at higher elevation and is more prone to clouds, especially near the tops of the hills. The temperatures fluctuate a little more, getting cooler at night. Humidity is higher near the coasts on the peninsula.

Is It Safe to Travel to Egypt?

Avoid an embarrassing stop, over 70% of travelers will have diarrhea., get protected with passport health’s travelers’ diarrhea kit .

Non-essential travel to Egypt is not recommended. The U.S. Department of State has issued travel warnings to Egypt.

Travelers should avoid going to the Western Desert toward the Libyan border and the Sinai Peninsula due to an unpredictable security situation.

When traveling to coastal resorts, exercise a high degree of caution.

Travelers should use reputable Egyptian travel agencies if they still decide to make the trip. Those agencies are informed about the security issues and will know how to best advise.

Egyptian Rules, Customs and Laws

Public Behavior

• Intimate behavior and any sort of public displays of affection including cuddling, kissing and even hand-holding are seen as inappropriate.
• When visiting a home, it is customary to bring a small gift and remove shoes before entering.
• Egyptians have unique functions for the two hands. The left hand is to be used for “unclean” functions, like putting on shoes or wiping in the bathroom. It’s is seen as unhygienic to put food into the mouth or into a communal food bowl with that hand. The right hand should be used for greetings and eating.

Conversation

• Egyptians are passionate about certain subjects and conversations about those subjects, including Israel, Islam and Palestine, should be treated carefully. There is potential for serious offense if careful consideration is not taken, especially when expressing opinions about religion.
• Dress should be modest. Shorts are considered acceptable only near the coastal resorts, and shirts for both men and women should cover the shoulders. Immodest clothing encourages disapproval from the Egyptians as well as gropers.
• Be conscious of dress when visiting mosques or other sacred places. Travelers should be especially modest, with women covered from wrist to ankle and men covered from below the shoulder to below the knee. Travelers should also remove their shoes or wear overshoes.

Suggestions for Women Traveling in Egypt:

• Wear loose, opaque clothes that cover all immodest areas (chest, thighs, upper arms)
• When traveling alone on public transportation, sit with other women or, when offered, sit in carriages reserved for women
• When traveling with a man, wear a wedding ring. It is more respectable to appear to be married than “just friends”
• Appear confident and travel with purpose
• Avoid eye-contact with Egyptian men and appear standoffish rather than overly friendly
• When swimming in pools or open-air springs, wear a t-shirt and leggings
• If hassling or groping does occur, call out and make a scene

What Should I take to Egypt?

• Travel Documents – Make sure to have copies of all important travel documents, including your passport, visa, travel insurance, etc.
• Protection from the Sun – Be ready to prevent sunburns. Don’t forget sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher, a hat and sunglasses.
• Light, breathable cotton clothing – Bring clothing that is easy to wash. Whether in Egypt’s coastal regions or arid desert areas, light clothing will help with comfort in the heat, even in winter months.
• Jacket – This will help protect against potential summer windstorms and also provide backup for when indoors get chilly from heavy air conditioning.
• Comfortable shoes – Many of Egypt’s most exciting sites require at least some walking and sightseeing. In general, it is best to go with comfortable shoes.
• Health and Hygiene – Pack a basic medical kit filled with items that may not be readily available in parts of Egypt. Kits should include things like: bandages, antibacterial hand gel, pain relievers, anti-diarrhea drugs and re-hydration salts.
• Egyptian travel adapter – To charge your phone, you will need a travel adapter made for Egypt.

U.S. Embassy in Egypt

All Americans visiting Egypt should register online with the US State Department before departure. This will inform the office of your travel plans within the country and will allow them to reach out in the case of an emergency or evacuation.

If you plan to purchase a local SIM card you can also enter your phone number to receive SMS updates from the office.

U.S. Embassy Cairo 5 Tawfik Diab Street Garden City, Cairo Egypt Telephone: (20-2) 2797 3300 Fax: (20-2) 2797 3200

Visit the Embassy of the United States to Egypt website prior to your departure to confirm correct contact details for the office.

If you have any questions about traveling to Egypt or are wondering what shots you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment by calling or book online now!

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How to Travel to Egypt from USA?

When planning a trip to Egypt from the USA, you should try and book your flight tickets as far in advance as possible to avoid inflated prices, and you should consider booking an Egypt package tour .

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Explore Egypt your way by selecting only the attractions you want to visit

U.S. citizens account for a huge number of Egypt’s tourists. The number of U.S. citizens visiting Egypt plummeted as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic and the subsequent Covid-19 travel restrictions that came into effect, but the number of U.S. citizens visiting Egypt has picked up drastically since Egypt and most other countries reopened their borders to international travel.

If your current travel plans include a trip to Egypt , and if you are looking for information on how to travel to Egypt from USA, then this post is definitely for you.

Let’s start with the basics…

Entry Visas and Passport

Everyone who wants to visit Egypt must obtain a valid entry visa. As of the time of wring, the visa fee for a standard 30-day tourist visa was US$25.U.S. citizens can apply for a visa before traveling to Egypt, either at an Egyptian Embassy or online via the official Egypt e-Visa portal .

Those traveling on an American passport can also get a visa on arrival (VOA) at any international port of entry in Egypt, including Cairo International Airport and Sharm El Sheikh Airport. At Egypt Tours Plus, our number one recommendation would be an online Egypt-e-Visa. Whether you get your visa at an embassy, on arrival in the country, or online, the visa fee for a 30-day tourist visa is US$25.

Besides your visa, you also need a valid passport. As is the case in many countries, a passport that is valid for at least six months is required for entry into Egypt.

As of the time of writing, citizens from foreign countries were no longer required to show proof of Covid-19 vaccination or proof of a negative Covid-19 test. However, we strongly recommend visiting your local Egyptian embassy website before you travel in order to see if the Egyptian government has posted any recent Covid-19 travel notices.

Immunization

Egypt has no rules or laws pertaining to mandatory vaccination requirements. However, we strongly recommend getting in touch with your local travel health professional to discuss vaccinations prior to visiting Egypt. At the very least, visitors should consider getting immunized against Hepatitis A.

Egypt Tours with International Flights

9-Day Egypt Travel Package from USA

9-Day Trip to Egypt from USA

Traveling to egypt from usa.

Egypt, with its countless breathtaking archaeological sites, is a truly amazing tourist destination. While nothing is stopping you from exploring the country independently, you will have a far more rewarding experience if you explore the country’s ancient archaeological sites with a professional tour guide by your side.

It is worth noting that very few Egyptians can speak English, which is another reason why you should consider hiring a guide, or consider booking an Egypt package tour that includes your own English-speaking private guides, drivers and transport.

If you are wondering how to travel to Egypt from USA with the least amount of hassle or stress, the answer is: book a professionally designed package tour through a reputable Egypt tour operator , and one that actually has offices in Egypt.

Last but not least, if you are going to be traveling all the way from the USA to Egypt, you should also consider visiting one of Egypt’s neighbors, such as Jordan, for example.

How to Travel to Egypt from USA on a Budget

If you are wondering how to travel to Egypt from USA on a budget, then you should begin with the timing of your vacation. Egypt’s winter months are the most expensive time of the year to visit, while the summer months are the cheapest time to visit. More precisely, if you are going to be traveling on a tight budget, the entire low season from May to September is a good time to visit.

Everything costs less during the low season, including hotel accommodation, package tours, and even Nile River cruises . You can also save even more if you join a group tour rather than booking a private tour. With that having been said, our top recommendation would be private guided Egypt tours . Private tours allow you to spend as much time as want exploring any or all of the sites listed in your chosen package tour itinerary.

Recommended: Egypt Tours Packages from USA

Egypt Safety Concerns

If you book a professionally designed package tour booked through reputable and well-established Egyptian travel agencies, you won’t need to be concerned about your personal safety because responsible tour operators will never take their clients any “high-risk areas” such as Egypt’s North Sinai region where attacks on security forces do occur.

The travel advisory issued by the U.S. embassy also advises against all travel in North Sinai. You also won’t be taken to places near the Libyan border and Sudanese Egyptian border areas. The only exception being, the rock-hewn temples at Abu Simbel. This area is considered to be safe for tourists, but you can still expect to see a heavy security presence, just as you will at many other major tourist attractions throughout Egypt.

Despite the fact that some governments have issued travel warnings, citing an unpredictable security situation, the fact remains that Egypt is by and large a very safe destination for travelers.

Learn More: Is Egypt Safe to Visit for American Tourists? 

Egypt Travel Packages

At Egypt Tours Plus, we offer a huge range of Egypt tour packages, along with many Nile cruise packages, all of which have stood the test of time. And, after having sold roughly half a million tours to date, you can book your dream vacation in Egypt with absolute confidence.

If you are still wondering how to travel to Egypt from USA, here is one of the tours listed on our site which has proven to be hugely popular, so you may want to check it out: 12-Day Cairo, Nile Cruise and Red Sea Stay

This is one of our top 6 most popular Egypt travel itineraries . If you are going to be traveling all the way to Egypt from the United States, then 12 days in Egypt is ideal. With this particular tour, you enjoy two days of private guided tours in Cairo , before boarding an overnight sleeper train to Aswan where you spend one night in a hotel, with the option of visiting the breathtaking Abu Simbel Temples.

After your night in the hotel, you then board a 5-Star Nile River cruise from Aswan to Luxor , with daily Egyptologist-guided excursions to several of Egypt’s most treasured archaeological sites.

Following your cruise, we then transfer you to Hurghada on Egypt’s Red Sea coast for two full days for leisure and fun, before returning to Cairo in time for your flight back home. If this sounds like the sort of holiday you are looking for, you can see the actual travel itinerary here .

Recommended: Nile Cruise Holiday Packages

Multi-Destination Egypt Tours

The average flight time for direct flights from USA to Egypt is just under 14 hours. Cheap flights that include one or two stops can take up to 16 hours or more. For this reason, many people believe that it just makes sense to visit more than just Egypt alone, with Jordan being a hugely popular second destination for travelers.

Our own Egypt and Jordan tours are also our most popular and most frequently booked Egypt multi-destination tours. Visiting one of Egypt’s neighboring countries is definitely something to think about if your travel plans include a visit to the Land of the Pharaohs.

Recommended: Egypt and Jordan Tours

Book or Start Planning your Dream Trip Today

If you want to find more information on how to travel to Egypt from USA, or if you are ready to start planning your once in a lifetime trip to Egypt , our team of travel specialists is standing by waiting to turn your dream holiday into a reality.

Explore Egypt and the Middle East your way by selecting only the attractions you want to visit

12-Day Cairo, Nile Cruise And Red Sea Stay

10-Day Luxury Nile Cruise and Cairo Tours

10-Day Egypt and Jordan Luxury Tours

8-Day Cairo to Abu Simbel Tour w/ Nile Cruise

8-Day Egypt Holiday Tour – Cairo and Nile Cruise [By Train]

8-Day Best of Egypt Tour – Cairo and Nile Cruise [By Air]

Egypt travel information.

Full Safety Guide: Is It Safe to Travel to Egypt?

What are the Must Visit Places in Egypt?

Egypt Travel Tips: This You Need to Know

How to Plan a Trip to Egypt – Start Here!

Best Time to Visit Egypt and When to Book!

What to Pack for Egypt (Simple Packing List)

Last Updated on March 26, 2024

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• International

March 21, 2024 Israel-Hamas war

By Kathleen Magramo , Antoinette Radford, Adrienne Vogt , Maureen Chowdhury , Elise Hammond , Tori B. Powell and Aditi Sangal , CNN

Egypt's president and top US diplomat discuss ways to secure "immediate ceasefire" in Gaza

From CNN's Ibrahim Dahman

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi "discussed negotiations to secure an immediate ceasefire for at least six weeks and the release of all hostages," according to a readout of their Thursday Cairo meeting.

El-Sisi stressed “the necessity of an immediate ceasefire” in Gaza during his talks with Blinken, a statement from the Egyptian Presidency said.

According to the statement, Sisi told the US delegation that the Gaza Strip and its people “are being exposed to a humanitarian catastrophe and famine that threaten the lives of innocent civilians."

Both Egypt and the US agreed on the need to ensure humanitarian access is provided into Gaza, and the "rejection of the displacement of Palestinians outside their lands in any way or form," the statement said.

Blinken arrived in Egypt Thursday from Saudi Arabia on his latest visit to the region. He is slated to meet with the Egyptian foreign minister as well as the nation's intel chief, who has been involved in hostage negotiations.

He will also sit down with representatives from Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar, as well as the Palestinian Authority, while in Cairo Thursday. He then travels to Israel on Friday. 

CNN's Jennifer Hansler contributed to this report.

Video emerges from inside Al-Shifa hospital of warnings to civilians to stay in the hospital or "be shot"

From CNN's Ibrahim Dahman, Lauren Izso and Tim Lister

As Israel's operation at Al-Shifa hospital continues into its fourth day, video has emerged from the complex showing women hiding in stairwells as loudspeakers warn them that if they leave, they will be shot.

The video, filmed through a hole in an exterior wall, shows at least twenty women and children on a staircase. In it, a voice on a loudspeaker can be heard telling people:

“Stay in the hospital, anyone leaves will be shot. We care for you, do not worry.” It is unclear when the video was filmed.

A woman then says over the video: “We are in Al-Shifa Medical Complex. They took our men and went away. Now, the women are left behind and we don’t know to where you want to take us.”

In the video, a man adds: “At this moment plumes of smoke are bellowing from inside the complex.”

The loudspeaker is heard a second time: “Don’t worry and don’t fear us. We have come here in order to get the Israeli hostages, then we will let you go. We evacuated all the hospitals, one by one without any injuries. Let’s do it once more. Please be aware, do not leave the hospital premises until further instructions from the IDF.”

CNN is reaching out to the IDF for comment on messages being broadcast into Al-Shifa.

The spokesperson for Gaza Civil Defense, Mahmoud Basal, said that on Wednesday, a fire had broken out in a building close to the hospital. He described the area as “a battlefield. There are burning and bombing of houses,” with dead and wounded on the roads.

Civil Defense workers were still unable to reach the hospital area because of the danger. 

Israeli military says more than 140 militants killed as Al-Shifa operation enters fourth day

The Israeli military says its operation in the vicinity of Al-Shifa hospital in northern Gaza is continuing into a fourth day.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said that along with the Israeli Security Agency (ISA) troops, it is "continuing to conduct precise operational activity in the Shifa hospital."

The IDF claimed to have "eliminated" more than 50 people it described as "terrorists" in the past day, and more than 140 since the operation began on Monday, it also claimed to have found weapons storage facilities at the hospital.

CNN asked the IDF for details about the people it said it killed or detained during its operation at Al-Shifa on Wednesday, and has not yet received a reply.

Little information is emerging from the hospital complex, where hundreds of people are still thought to be trapped. Many others have fled the immediate area.

Eyewitnesses from the hospital have told CNN that Israeli forces detained Palestinian journalists and health workers, blindfolded them and stripped them down to their underwear in the complex.

Palestinian reporters and hospital staff described scenes of humiliating interrogations where colleagues had been undressed and left outside in the cold, after the IDF  laid siege  to the largest hospital in the enclave in the early hours of Monday. One man who was detained told CNN that Israeli forces released him without his ID or mobile phone.

Elsewhere, the IDF says its operations are continuing in central Gaza and northern Khan Younis.

Blinken meets Egyptian president in Cairo ahead of Israel trip to discuss ceasefire and hostage deal

From CNN staff

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is in Egypt to meet with government leaders.

After landing in the capital Cairo, he met with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi.

Blinken's visit comes ahead of a planned trip to Israel on Friday , where he will discuss ongoing negotiations to secure the release of all hostages, the Israeli military's planned Rafah offensive, and the need to "dramatically increase and sustain the delivery of humanitarian aid" into Gaza, according to the State Department.

His trip comes at a critical time: US and Israeli officials are expected next week to discuss alternatives to a ground offensive in  Gaza's southern city of Rafah .

It's morning in Gaza. Here's what you need to know

Negotiations to secure a ceasefire tied to the release of hostages held by Hamas are " getting closer " to a deal, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Wednesday.

“We worked very hard with Qatar, with Egypt, and with Israel to put a strong proposal on the table. We did that; Hamas wouldn’t accept it. They came back with other requests, other demands. The negotiators are working on that right now,” Blinken said. 

Israel's response to Hamas' latest counterproposal " was negative in general " and did not meet the demands of Hamas, according to Hamas spokesperson Osama Hamdan.

The counterproposal delivered last week included the release of Israeli hostages for 700 to 1,000 Palestinian prisoners. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has  called the Hamas proposal  “unrealistic.”

Blinken, who is on a trip in the  Middle East , will travel to Egypt to meet with Arab leaders today and  head to Israel  on Friday.

Here are some other key developments:

• Hospital raid: Israel's raid on Gaza City's Al-Shifa Hospital  has lasted three days. Civilians in the hospital are running out of basic necessities, a Gaza Civil Defense spokesperson said. The Israeli military said it had killed 90 "terrorists" and detained a senior Hamas operative allegedly involved in the murder of three boys in 2014. According to eyewitness accounts, Israeli forces shot at people in the hospital , and detained Palestinian  journalists  and health workers, whom they blindfolded and stripped down to their underwear.
• Israeli court halts government plan: Israel's Supreme Court temporarily  halted a government plan  to send a group of Palestinian hospital patients and babies back to Gaza following  a CNN report . The decision follows a petition by an Israeli non-profit , which decided to take action following the CNN report.
• Rafah evacuation plan: Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his government will soon approve a plan  for the evacuation of civilians from Gaza's southern city of Rafah, where about 1.5 million people are sheltering. But he suggested the planned military offensive into the city was not imminent.
• Canada suspends arms exports to Israel: Canada has “ not approved new arms export permits to Israel ” since January 8, "and this will continue until we can ensure full compliance with our export regime.” CNN  previously reported  that Canada had paused exports of non-lethal military goods and technology to Israel in January given the risk that goods could be used in connection with human rights violations. 
• Netanyahu addresses Senate Republicans: The Israeli prime minister addressed  the Senate Republican policy lunch  on Wednesday for 15 minutes via video, and then took about 45 minutes of questions, according to Sen. John Kennedy. Netanyahu was sharply critical of Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer's comments  calling for elections  to form a new government in Israel, Kennedy said.

US and coalition forces destroy drone and unmanned surface vessel launched by Houthis

From CNN's Mary Kay Mallonee

US and coalition forces destroyed one drone and one unmanned surface vessel launched by the Houthis in Yemen on Wednesday, according to US Central Command.

A coalition aircraft destroyed the drone and US forces destroyed the unmanned surface vessel, CENTCOM said in a statement.

"It was determined these weapons presented an imminent threat to merchant vessels and U.S. Navy ships in the region. These actions are taken to protect freedom of navigation and make international waters safer and more secure for US Navy and merchant vessels," CENTCOM said.

There were no injuries or damage to US or coalition ships, CENTCOM said.

The Houthis have been targeting ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden since shortly after Israel's war with Hamas began, with the group trying  to pressure Israel and its allies  to stop its offensive in Gaza.

Blinken says gaps are narrowing in negotiations on Gaza ceasefire and hostage release

From CNN's Jennifer Hansler

Negotiations to secure a ceasefire tied to the release of hostages held by Hamas are “ getting closer ” to a deal, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Wednesday.

“I think the gaps are narrowing, and I think an agreement is very much possible,” Blinken said in an interview with Al Hadath in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, according to a transcript released by the State Department. “We worked very hard with Qatar, with Egypt, and with Israel to put a strong proposal on the table. We did that; Hamas wouldn’t accept it. They came back with other requests, other demands. The negotiators are working on that right now,” Blinken said. 

Blinken reiterated that the onus is on Hamas to accept the proposal.

“We have to see if Hamas can say yes to the proposal. If it does — if it does — that’s the most immediate way to alleviate the misery of people in Gaza, which is very much what we want,” he said.

Blinken, who will travel to Egypt to meet with Arab leaders today, said that it is important to be ready “for what happens with the governance of Gaza” after the war ends.

MBS meeting: Blinken met with Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) in Jeddah on Wednesday and discussed the urgent need for a cessation of hostilities in Gaza.

According to Saudi state-run SPA news, MBS and Blinken discussed "developments in the Gaza Strip and its surroundings in addition to efforts to stop military operations." 

Blinken will head to Israel  on Friday.

Israeli court halts plan to return Palestinian hospital patients to Gaza after doctors appeal

From CNN’s Jeremy Diamond, Kareem Khadder, Mick Krever, and Abeer Salman in Jerusalem

Israel’s Supreme Court has temporarily halted a government plan to send a group of Palestinian patients being treated in East Jerusalem and Tel Aviv hospitals back to Gaza.

The decision follows a petition by the Israeli non-profit organization Physicians for Human Rights Israel, which decided to take action following  a CNN report  on the Palestinian hospital patients.

“Returning residents to Gaza during a military conflict and a humanitarian crisis is against international law and poses a deliberate risk to innocent lives,” the organization’s spokesperson Ran Yaron said Wednesday. “All the more so when it concerns patients who may face a death sentence due to insanitary conditions and  hunger , along with the unlikely availability of medical care.”

Following the group’s appeal, the court issued a temporary injunction to prevent the Israeli government from sending around two dozen Palestinian patients and their companions back to Gaza.

 The Palestinians were set to be bussed to Gaza early Thursday morning.   However, after the temporary court injunction, the Israeli government delayed that until at least Monday, hospital officials told CNN.

Regional relationships are needed for sustained peace in Gaza, US and Saudi officials say

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud emphasized the importance of continuing regional partnerships in getting humanitarian aid to Gaza and eventually resolving the conflict.

The two “discussed the urgent need to protect all civilians in Gaza" and immediately increase the flow of aid, according to a readout from their Jeddah meeting by State Department spokesperson Matt Miller.

“The Secretary emphasized the United States’ commitment to achieving sustained peace through the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with security guarantees for Israel,” the readout said.

US officials have been working to lay the groundwork for such a “sustained peace” for months, with the idea that this facilitates a Saudi-Israel normalization agreement. 

On his recent trips to the region, Blinken has stressed that the Israeli government must make “difficult” decisions and move toward a two-state solution if it wants to achieve that normalization with Saudi Arabia and if it wants the support of its Arab neighbors for security and reconstruction in Gaza. 

The top US diplomat will meet Saudi Crown Prince Mohamed bin Salman on Wednesday. 

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I.M.F. Agrees to Much Larger Rescue Package for Egypt

The International Monetary Fund will provide $8 billion to Egypt, which is going through its worst economic crisis in decades.

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By Nada Rashwan

Reporting from Cairo

• March 6, 2024

The International Monetary Fund has agreed to more than double a bailout package for Egypt, which is going through its worst economic crisis in decades, exacerbated by war in the neighboring Gaza Strip and in Ukraine.

The fund now plans to provide Egypt $8 billion, up from an initial $3 billion announced in October 2022.

The I.M.F.’s mission chief to Egypt, Ivanna Vladkova Hollar, noted at a news conference that the already-struggling Egyptian economy had been further hurt by the conflict between Israel and Hamas, which has cut into the country’s vital tourism trade.

At the same time, revenue from the Suez Canal dropped by half after Houthi militants, who say they are acting in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza, began attacking cargo ships using Red Sea shipping routes .

Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly of Egypt said that the deal would enable the government to secure an additional $1.2 billion, above the $8 billion, from the I.M.F.’s environmental suitability fund and would encourage development partners like the World Bank and the European Union to also give Egypt more loans to help it reach financial stability.

Last week, Egypt secured a deal worth $35 billion with the United Arab Emirates to develop parts of its Mediterranean coast. Egyptian officials celebrated it as the largest foreign direct investment in Egypt’s history.

Hours before the I.M.F. deal was announced, in an attempt to rein in soaring inflation, Egypt’s Central Bank devalued the currency by more than 35 percent — it was the fourth devaluation in two years — and raised interest rates by 600 basis points.

Mr. Madbouly said his government and the I.M.F. had reached consensus on the targets of Egypt’s structural reform plan.

“The aim is to raise foreign currency reserves, lower the debt burden, guarantee the flow of foreign direct investments and work towards high growth rates for the Egyptian economy,” he said.

The government and the monetary fund are committed to social protection measures for vulnerable people who will be affected by the reform plans, Mr. Madbouly said.

Over the past 18 months, a severe foreign currency shortage in Egypt, which overwhelmingly relies on imports, has sent prices — and anxiety about the future — off the charts. The cost of some basic food items quadrupled, debt burden reached an all-time high, and the currency lost a huge portion of its value, decimating the purchasing power of people’s incomes and the value of their life savings.

The Central Bank Governor, Hassan Abdalla, said the government’s medium-term plan aimed to bring down inflation, which hit a record-high of nearly 40 percent last summer, to a single digit.

Before the I.M.F. deal, growing economic pressure had forced the government to shift tactics, including freezing some costly megaprojects ordered up by President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, including a lavish new capital in the desert.

Additional pressure came from the I.M.F., which refused to hand over much of the initial loan until Egypt made good on some economic policy conditions. Among them was encouraging private-sector growth by eliminating the competitive advantages enjoyed by Egypt’s military-owned businesses.

Over the past decade, Egypt’s economy has been struggling for stability. Many observers say mismanagement, including overspending on megaprojects and the longstanding overreliance on imports, left Egypt vulnerable to successive external shocks. Apart from the war in Gaza, there was the coronavirus pandemic and the war in Ukraine, which affected both tourism and essential wheat imports.

Mr. el-Sisi has repeatedly defended his government’s policies, saying that the 2011 uprising that toppled President Hosni Mubarak set off lasting economic precarity.

In daily interactions on the streets of Cairo, however, and on social media, many blame the president, whom they accuse of spending on vanity projects and weakening the economy to the point of undermining Egypt’s influence in the region.

Some experts say the I.M.F., which has lent Egypt billions of dollars since 2016, is part of the problem.

“They don’t go deep enough into what’s happening in the machine,” said Mohamed Fouad, a financial consultant and former Egyptian lawmaker.

Mr. Fouad expects that the international lender will now be making more calculated decisions.

“Their biggest mistake,” he said, “came between 2016 and 2020, when everyone was cheering along, only focusing on the macroeconomic aspect. But the foundation was shaky.”

Vivian Yee contributed reporting.

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Blinken adds Israel stop to latest Mideast tour as tensions rise over Gaza war

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said during a visit to the Philippines that it’s urgent to make humanitarian assistance in Gaza a priority. According to the U.N., 100% of the population in Gaza is at severe levels of acute food insecurity and desperately in need of humanitarian assistance.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken meets Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al-Saud in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Wednesday, March 20, 2024. (Evelyn Hockstein/Pool Photo via AP)

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U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken walks as he arrives in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Wednesday, March 20, 2024. (Evelyn Hockstein, Pool Photo via AP)

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken walks arrives in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Wednesday, March 20, 2024. (Evelyn Hockstein, Pool Photo via AP)

FILE - Secretary of State Antony Blinken speaks during a news conference at the State Department, March 13, 2024, in Washington. Blinken will travel to Israel this week as part of his sixth urgent mission to the Middle East since Israel’s war with Hamas began in October. The previously unannounced stop comes as relations between the two countries have soured dramatically in recent weeks. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta, File)

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken waves while disembarking from an aircraft as he arrives in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Wednesday, March 20, 2024. (Evelyn Hockstein, Pool Photo via AP)

JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia (AP) — U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken will travel to Israel this week as part of his sixth urgent mission to the Middle East since the Israelis’ war with Hamas began in October, as relations between the two countries have soured dramatically in recent weeks.

The visit comes amid a flurry of calls, planned trips by U.S. and Israeli officials and public airings of severe disagreements over the state of the conflict — notably Israeli plans to mount a major military operation in the southern Gaza city of Rafah and what will happen to Gaza after the war ends.

The State Department said the Israel stop would cap Blinken’s latest Mideast tour that started in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday and will continue in Egypt on Thursday. The top U.S. diplomat will be in Tel Aviv on Friday after talks with Arab leaders and foreign ministers in Jeddah and Cairo focused on the war in Gaza.

“In Israel, Secretary Blinken will discuss with the leadership of the government of Israel the ongoing negotiations to secure the release of all hostages,” State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said. “He will discuss the need to ensure the defeat of Hamas, including in Rafah, in a way that protects the civilian population, does not hinder the delivery of humanitarian assistance, and advances Israel’s overall security.”

Tensions between the U.S. and Israel over the prosecution of the Gaza war have been mounting for months over rising civilian casualties. And they have intensified as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly said he will ignore President Joe Biden’s warnings not to start a large-scale ground operation in Rafah without credible plans to protect innocent Palestinians who have sought refuge there.

Biden, facing a tough re-election campaign ahead of November’s presidential election, is under growing domestic pressure to rein in Israel’s military response to the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks in Israel. Opposition to the war in the United States, Arab nations and much of the rest of the world has shaped the evolution of Blinken’s frequent trips to the region since October.

His first two visits were largely focused on re-affirming U.S. support for Israel in the immediate aftermath of the Hamas attacks, but as civilian Palestinian casualties began to multiply and humanitarian conditions in Gaza deteriorated, his emphasis shifted to boosting humanitarian assistance and protecting innocents.

Since late last year, Blinken has also used his visits to stress the importance of Arab support for “day after” plans for Gaza and trying to coax Israeli leaders into accepting a status for the Palestinians that could help ensure Israel’s long-term security.

As that shift has taken place, though, the situation in Gaza has gotten worse and relations between the U.S. and Israel have nosedived. Public disagreements between Biden and Netanyahu have become more frequent and more intense.

In a phone call with Biden on Monday, their first in more than a month, Netanyahu agreed to send a high-level delegation to Washington to discuss plans for the proposed Rafah operation, and the Pentagon said Tuesday that Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant would visit the U.S. capital next week.

In his talks in Jeddah, Cairo and Tel Aviv, Blinken is expected to focus on attempts to negotiate a cease-fire and hostage release deal, increase humanitarian aid deliveries to Gaza by land, air and sea and plan for the territory’s post-conflict future.

In the Red Sea city of Jeddah, Blinken met with Saudi Arabia’s de facto leader, Crown Prince Mohamed bin Salman and Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan. The prospect of normalization of relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel is seen as a potential point of leverage in pushing the Israelis on easing civilian suffering in Gaza.

Blinken and Prince Faisal “discussed the urgent need to protect all civilians in Gaza and immediately increase humanitarian assistance to those in need,” the State Department said, adding that “resolving the conflict” and “preparing for the post-conflict phase” remain a top priority.

Blinken also “emphasized the United States’ commitment to achieving sustained peace through the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with security guarantees for Israel,” the department said in a statement.

But the Saudis have made clear that normalization won’t happen unless it is accompanied by a clear commitment from Israel to accept an independent Palestinian state by a date certain. Netanyahu and many members of his far-right government are opposed to a Palestinian state.

In Cairo on Thursday, Blinken will see Egyptian officials as well as meet with a six-member Arab committee that includes foreign ministers of Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Jordan, Morocco and the Palestinian Authority, according to an Egyptian diplomat.

This group has been charged with exploring ways to revamp, reform and revitalize the Palestinian Authority for a possible governance role in Gaza once the war is over. The West Bank-based Palestinian Authority has committed to reforms and replaced some of its top leadership.

Blinken’s discussions are also expected to touch on the cease-fire negotiations that have taken on new urgency as the humanitarian situation in Gaza has become increasingly dire.

Qatari officials, whose country is the main interlocutor with Hamas, said this week they were “cautiously optimistic” after talks with Israel’s intelligence chief in Doha. But, Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majed al-Ansari said Tuesday that an Israeli ground operation in Rafah would set back any talks.

At least 31,819 Palestinians have been killed, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, which doesn’t differentiate between civilians and combatants in its count but says women and children make up two-thirds of the dead. A United Nations food agency warned that “famine is imminent” in northern Gaza .

Palestinian militants killed some 1,200 people in the surprise Oct. 7 attack out of Gaza that triggered the war, and and abducted another 250 people. Hamas is still believed to be holding some 100 people hostage, as well as the remains of 30 others.

EU announces $8bn package for Egypt as part of deal to check migration

The agreement, which lifts the EU’s relationship with Egypt to a ‘strategic partnership’, has drawn criticism from rights groups.

The European Union has announced a 7.4 billion-euro ($8.06bn) aid package and an upgraded relationship with Egypt, part of a new deal to stem migration flows to Europe that has been criticised by rights groups.

The deal is scheduled to be signed during a visit on Sunday by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and leaders of Belgium, Italy, Austria, Cyprus and Greece, according to officials.

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Egypt strikes expanded $8bn deal with the imf, uae in talks to develop $22bn beach land in egypt, how israel’s war on gaza is bleeding egypt’s economy, four egyptian officials back on trial in italy over death of giulio regeni.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi met separately with von der Leyen and other European leaders before the signing ceremony.

The aid package includes both grants and loans over the next three years, with the EU saying it is upgrading its relationship with the Arab world’s most populous country to a “strategic partnership”.

The proposed funding includes 5 billion euros ($5.45bn) in concessional loans and 1.8 billion euros ($1.96bn) of investments, according to a summary of the plan published by the EU. An additional 600 million euros ($654m) would be provided in grants, including 200 million euros ($218m) for managing migration issues.

El-Sisi’s office said in a statement that the deal with the EU aims to achieve “a significant leap in cooperation and coordination between the two sides and to achieve common interests”.

Egypt’s economic uncertainty has pushed many to migrate from the Arab nation, with Europe interested in curbing migration from Egypt and elsewhere in North Africa.

But European governments are worried about the fallout from growing instability in Egypt, which has been struggling to raise foreign currency and has inflation running close to record highs.

Earlier this month, however, the country struck a record deal for Emirati investment, expanded its loan programme with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and sharply devalued its currency.

‘Flawed blueprint’

The deal comes amid growing concerns that Israel’s looming ground offensive on Gaza’s southernmost town of Rafah could force hundreds of thousands of Palestinians to break into Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula. The Israeli war on Gaza, now in its sixth month, has pushed more than a million people to Rafah.

Egypt says it is hosting nine million refugees and migrants, including about 480,000 registered refugees and asylum seekers with the United Nations’ refugee agency. Many of those migrants have established their own businesses, while others work in the huge informal economy as street vendors and house cleaners.

But Egyptian officials say Cairo deserves recognition for largely shutting off irregular migration from its north coast since 2016 although there has been a surge in Egyptians trying to cross to Europe via Libya, and the EU is already providing support aimed at reducing those flows.

In recent months, the Greek islands of Crete and Gavdos have seen a steep rise in migrant arrivals – mostly from Egypt, Bangladesh and Pakistan – raising concerns about a new Mediterranean smuggling route.

Activists have criticised Western backing for el-Sisi, who came to power a decade ago after leading the overthrow of Egypt’s first democratically elected leader.

A crackdown has swept up dissidents from across the political spectrum, while the state and the army have extended their grip on the economy, which businessmen and analysts say has impeded structural reforms demanded by the IMF.

El-Sisi’s backers say security measures were needed to stabilise Egypt and pave the way for providing social rights such as housing and jobs.

The EU says its expanded partnership with Egypt is meant to promote democracy and freedoms, but its moves to offer financing in return for migration curbs have run up against obstacles and criticism.

“The blueprint is the same as the flawed EU deals with Tunisia and Mauritania: stop migrants, ignore abuses,” Human Rights Watch said of the plan to enhance ties with Egypt and provide new financing.

Amnesty International also urged the European leaders not to be complicit with rights violations taking place in Egypt.

“EU leaders must ensure that the Egyptian authorities adopt clear benchmarks for human rights,” said Eve Geddie, the head of Amnesty International’s European institutions office.

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EU pledges billions of euros for Egypt as it seeks to curb migration

• Deal follows injection of funds from UAE, IMF
• EU concerned by migration flows via Libya
• Agreement ignores abuses, says Human Rights Watch

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Egypt: US Should Make Clear to Israel Consequences of Rafah Operation

Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry speaks to the media, amid the conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, in Cairo, Egypt, March 18, 2024. REUTERS/Mohamed Abd El Ghany/File Photo

CAIRO (Reuters) - Egypt's foreign minister said on Monday the U.S. should make clear to Israel what the consequences of a military push into the south Gaza city of Rafah on the border with Egypt would be, after Washington voiced opposition to such a move.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed to a cabinet meeting on Sunday that Israeli forces would thrust into Rafah, the last relatively safe place in the tiny, crowded Gaza enclave after more than five months of war, despite international pressure for Israel to avoid civilian casualties.

Israel's allies have heaped pressure on Netanyahu not to attack Rafah, where more than a million displaced people from other parts of the devastated enclave have sought shelter, without a plan to protect civilians.

"It is not enough for rhetoric, it is not enough to state opposition, it is also important to indicate what if that position is circumvented, what if that position is not respected," Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry said at a news briefing with United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) chief Philippe Lazzarini in Cairo.

War in Israel and Gaza

"It is also up to the international community and the United States, who have indicated their refusal to such an eventuality, to make clear what are the consequences if their appeals are not heeded," Shoukry added in English-language remarks.

He also warned that the humanitarian consequences and the loss of lives that would result from an Israeli ground assault on Rafah would be "catastrophic".

Egypt has warned before of the "dire consequences" of a potential Israeli military push near its border, where it controls the Rafah crossing - the focal point of efforts to deliver humanitarian aid into Gaza and allow out injured people and foreign passport holders.

(Reporting by Sarah El Safty and Nayera Abdallah; writing by Clauda Tanios; editing by Bernadette Baum and Mark Heinrich)

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

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