Is Egypt Safe To Visit: Latest Information To Know

As many travellers, you might search for the safety status of the country you want to visit. And, “Is Egypt safe to visit?” can be your initial question if you are a fan of pharaohs and the Great Pyramids of Giza. 

While Egypt's ranking as the 38th most dangerous country in the world may catch your attention, don’t let such data deter you from discovering this destination.

Egypt has faced security challenges in the past, particularly in certain regions. Still, it’s also a country with a thriving tourism industry and a government that takes the safety of tourists seriously. Keep reading for more!

1. Is Egypt Safe To Visit Right Now?

Egypt is a great country with various unique attractions. Credit: ed hardy

Although nearly 1.4 billion tourists are travelling here in April 2023, you should reconsider visiting the country. 

When you look at advisories from governments like the UK, they provide "foreign travel advice" for Egypt, including warnings related to the Israel and Palestine conflict. Similarly, the US government's travel advisory suggests that travellers should "Reconsider Travel" due to concerns about terrorism.

CabinZero’s tip: Visit statista.com or world-report/2023 if you need more detailed information about the country to make a decision. 

Some spots to avoid include the Sinai Peninsula, known for its poradic terrorist incidents. If you go there, consider flying to Sharm El-Sheikh and stay alert.

Ismailiyah, especially in the eastern area, is also not recommended as there are military operations targeting terrorists and criminals.

The Western Desert, being remote, can also pose security challenges, so it's better to skip it. However, some exceptions, like Abu Simbel, Aswan, Luxor, and Qina, are safe and offer great attractions. Consider joining guided tours in these areas.

Lastly, steer clear of border regions with Sudan and Lybia, North Sinai, Israel, which are often military zones targeting criminal activities. Travellers should avoid these regions by at least 50 kilometres to prevent unintentional violations.

2. Where Can I Go In Egypt?

Understanding where to explore and where to exercise caution is pivotal in addressing the fundamental question, "Is Egypt safe to visit?" It is the cornerstone for you to have a secure travel experience.

There are still many wonderful attractions for tourists. Photo by Peggy Anke on Unsplash

Hurghada & Sharm El-Sheikh

The two safest places in Egypt, with a safety index of 74.41 and 69.16, respectively. These Red Sea resort areas are popular for diving as well as lots of tourist police around. 

Luxor

Known as the "world's greatest open-air museum," Luxor has incredible historical sites, such as the Valley of the Kings.

Aswan

Aswan is a serene setting along the Nile River, with a peaceful atmosphere and opportunities to explore Nubian culture and heritage. From here, you can visit the High Dam, Philae Temple and take a felucca boat ride. 

Cairo

The capital is home to attractions like the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the Egyptian Museum. More than 14 million tourists come to visit these cool places every year.

What To Do In Case Of Emergencies

First, please dialling emergency services as follows: 

• 122 for the Egyptian police
• 126 for the Egyptian Tourist Police
• 123 for the Egyptian Ambulance Service
• 180 for fire

In case of emergency events involving US citizens, such as arrests, hospitalisations, welfare and whereabouts requests, deaths, child custody cases, repatriations, and lost/stolen passports, you can contact the American Citizen Services (ACS) unit via the main US Embassy Cairo switchboard by dialling (20-2) 2797-3300.

If you are a US citizen, enrolling on the Smart Traveller Enrollment  Program (STEP)