£1 EGP 70.53
Today
8:12 pm
+2h from you
Travel warning
Avoid travelling to border regions, parts of Sinai, and desert areas, as there's a heightened risk of violence and attacks; international borders can also close suddenly.
Weather & climate
Weather in Egypt
Egypt
37°
Overcast
Thu
16°
37°
Fri
22°
31°
Sat
18°
28°
Sun
17°
27°
Mon
16°
27°
Tue
14°
27°
Wed
13°
28°
SPF level in Egypt
Recommended: SPF 50+
Spring
SPF 50
Summer
SPF 50+
Autumn
SPF 50
Winter
SPF 30
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Before you go
Entry requirements for Egypt
What British travellers need to know
Your passport must have an expiry date at least 6 months after you arrive and at least one blank page.
British passport holders normally need a visa for Egypt.
If arriving by air to Sharm El-Sheikh and staying less than 15 days at specified resorts, you do not need a visa and will get a free entry permission stamp.
You can apply for a visa online for up to 3 months, or get a visa on arrival at approved airports for 30 US dollars cash, valid for up to 30 days.
If staying in Egypt beyond your visa validity, you can apply for an extension at the Passport and Immigration Offices to avoid fines.
Good to know:
If crossing from Israel at Taba, bring at least 170 US dollars cash per person, as border charges can increase and ATMs there are unreliable.
You must declare foreign currency worth more than 10,000 US dollars on arrival, but there is no limit on the amount you can bring.
Safety in Egypt
Tips when travelling
Egypt is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Always carry your passport or a copy with you, as police may ask for ID and could detain you without it.
Drinking alcohol is only legal in licensed restaurants, bars, private homes, or certain tourist resorts.
Dress modestly in public, especially when visiting rural areas, markets, or religious sites.
Avoid showing physical affection in public as it is frowned upon, though holding hands is generally acceptable.
Be cautious at tourist sites where scammers and touts sometimes target foreign nationals.
Bonus tips:
Use reputable providers for excursions and services, and research them beforehand.
During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours out of respect.
More information
Driving in Egypt
A UK driving license is usually sufficient for a short visit. An International Driving Permit is recommended.
Side of road
right
Motorway speed limit
120 km/h
Urban speed limit
50 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.0%
Remember: Egypt drives on the right. Take extra care at junctions if you normally drive on the left.
Health in Egypt
Make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including emergency evacuation. A Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) is not a substitute for travel insurance in Egypt, as it is unlikely to be accepted. Ensure your policy covers all activities you plan to participate in.
Consult your doctor or a travel clinic well in advance of your trip to discuss necessary vaccinations and health precautions. Drink bottled water and avoid ice in drinks. Be cautious about food hygiene, especially from street vendors. Mosquitoes can be present, so use insect repellent and consider wearing long sleeves and trousers in the evenings.
Cards & payments
Card payments are accepted in larger establishments, hotels, restaurants, and shops in tourist areas. However, smaller shops, local markets, and taxis often only accept cash. It is advisable to carry sufficient cash, especially when venturing outside major cities.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +1 303 967 1094
Tipping in Egypt
Tipping is customary in Egypt for various services. While not mandatory, it is greatly appreciated and expected, especially in the tourism industry. Small change is often given for minor services. Consider tipping in Egyptian Pounds (EGP) for convenience.
Restaurant
10-15% of the bill. Check if a service charge is already included.
Bar/Café
10-15% of the bill.
Taxi
Round up the fare or add 10%.
Hotel Porter
5-10 EGP per bag.
Hotel Housekeeper
20-50 EGP per day, left in the room.
Tour Guide
50-100 EGP per person per day, depending on the length and quality of the tour.
Mobile & roaming
Since Brexit, EU roaming agreements no longer apply to UK mobile customers. Check with your mobile provider for roaming charges in Egypt. Roaming charges can be high, so consider purchasing a local SIM card for more affordable data and calls.
Local SIM
10 GB for 300 EGP (~£8)
Network coverage
4G, 3G, 2G
Electrical in Egypt
Voltage
220V / 50Hz
Plug types
Type C, Type F
WiFi & internet
Wi-Fi is available in many hotels, cafes, and restaurants, particularly in tourist areas. However, the quality and speed can vary. Mobile data is generally a faster option if you have a local SIM card.
Average speed
25 Mbps
Internet access is generally available in tourist areas, but can be less reliable in rural regions. Consider purchasing a local SIM card with a data package for reliable internet access on the go.
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
122
Ambulance
123
Fire
180
Save 122 in your phone before travelling.
Calling Egypt
Country code
+20
To call the British Embassy in Cairo from the UK, you would dial 00 20 2 2791 6000.
The country code for Egypt is 20. When calling Egypt from abroad, you need to dial the exit code of your country (00 in the UK), followed by the Egyptian country code (20), and then the phone number.
Language in Egypt
UK Embassy
British Embassy Cairo
7 Ahmed Ragheb Street Garden City, Cairo
Phone
Website
Frequently asked questions
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.