Loading ...Know Before You Go: Egypt's Legal Landscape for Travelers in 2025
Egypt’s ancient wonders have beckoned travellers for centuries. The towering pyramids, enigmatic Sphinx, and treasure-filled tombs continue to capture our imagination. But between the bucket-list sightseeing and Nile cruises, visitors need to navigate some tricky legal terrain. Below we take a look at some of the things to keep in mind when travelling to Egypt.
Staying Safe
Despite what you might hear from concerned relatives, Egypt remains mostly safe for tourists in 2025. The government heavily protects visitor hotspots like Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan. You will notice plenty of security personnel around major attractions – they are there to help, not intimidate.
Women traveling alone should take some extra precautions. Dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees works fine), stay aware of your surroundings, and use trusted transportation. Honestly, these are good practices anywhere, but particularly important here.
Cultural Rules
Egypt runs on Islamic principles, which shape both laws and daily life. During Ramadan, eating or drinking in public during daylight hours is considered pretty rude. Even if you are parched from the desert heat, duck inside somewhere private to hydrate.
Dress codes relax somewhat in beach resorts like Hurghada, but pack modest clothes for everywhere else, especially mosques and markets. That couple making out in public might be tolerated at resort pools but try that in downtown Cairo and you will get uncomfortable stares at minimum. Of course, there are plenty of fun cultural activities that you can take part in, such as Egyptian belly dance classes, so things are not as strict as they may seem.
One absolute no-go: political talk. Just do not. Not with your guide, not with shopkeepers, not on your Instagram posts. What might seem like casual political commentary at home can land you in serious trouble here. The government takes criticism badly, even from tourists.
Casinos and Gambling
The gambling situation perfectly illustrates Egypt’s two-tier legal system. While Egyptian Muslims cannot legally gamble due to religious prohibitions, tourists can play the tables and slots at certain high-end hotels. These casinos operate under tourism ministry licenses and check passports to ensure only foreigners enter.
The online gambling world exists in a gray area. While online casinos are not explicitly regulated, authorities have blocked many gambling websites. Using VPNs for accessing these sites falls into legally dubious territory.
The Photography Minefield
That perfect Instagram shot might not be worth the trouble if you are pointing your camera at the wrong things. Military buildings, police stations, bridges, and border zones are all off-limits. When in doubt, ask permission before shooting.
Drone enthusiasts face particularly tough restrictions. Without nearly impossible-to-get permits, flying one could mean a seven-year prison sentence. Not exactly the Egyptian “accommodation” you had in mind.
Booze and Other Substances
You can drink alcohol in Egypt, but only in the right places – mostly hotels, restaurants, and bars with proper licenses. Wandering the streets with a beer is asking for trouble, while the sale of alcohol is prohibited on the prophet Mohammed’s birthday.
As for drugs, the consequences are brutal – potentially life imprisonment or even death penalties for narcotics. Every year, a few tourists learn this lesson the hard way when what would be a minor offense back home becomes a nightmare situation in Egypt.
Getting Around
Egyptian roads can be chaotic, with traffic rules treated more like suggestions. Night driving outside cities adds extra hazards like unlit vehicles and roaming animals. When possible, stick with reputable drivers or tour companies.
Apps like Uber and Careem work well in bigger cities and eliminate pricing arguments. If you do take regular taxis, agree on the fare before getting in, or insist they use the meter.
LGBTQ+ Realities
Egypt does not officially criminalize same-sex relationships, but authorities routinely use morality laws to arrest LGBTQ+ individuals. Dating apps widely used elsewhere have been used in sting operations here. Public affection between same-sex couples can trigger harsh legal consequences.
Preserving Ancient Treasures
Those “don’t touch” signs at archaeological sites are not mere suggestions. Years of tourists running hands over hieroglyphics have caused irreversible damage. Flash photography in tombs can fade ancient paintings that survived 3,000 years until your camera ruined them. Follow the rules – they exist for good reason.
Bottom Line
Egypt’s allure has not dimmed after thousands of years for good reason. With reasonable precautions and respect for local customs, your journey through this remarkable country should be memorable for all the right reasons. The mysteries of the pharaohs await – just make sure your understanding of modern Egyptian law is considerably less mysterious.
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