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ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
To visit Egypt for tourism or business, travellers are required to obtain a visa. Travellers can apply online for an eVisa, which is sent electronically, or obtain a visa on arrival, issued as a stamp in the passport at designated entry points.
VISA INFORMATION
WEATHER
Egypt boasts a hot desert climate, defined by abundant sunshine, minimal rainfall, and sharp temperature contrasts between day and night. Along the Nile River and in cities like Cairo, winters are pleasantly mild, while summers are intensely hot. The Mediterranean coast offers slightly cooler and more humid conditions, while the interior desert and southern regions like Luxor and Aswan can be scorching.
- Spring (March to May): Spring in Egypt is warm and pleasant, with temperatures gradually rising from around 20°C in March to the low 30s°C by May. The season is marked by blooming flowers and occasional Khamsin winds, which bring hot, dry air and sandstorms from the desert. It is a suitable time to visit, though travellers should be prepared for sudden windy days.
- Summer (June to August): Summers are extremely hot, especially in inland desert areas where temperatures can soar above 40°C. Along the Mediterranean coastline, it’s milder but still hot, with average highs around 30–35°C. Outdoor activities in midday are challenging due to the intense heat, making early mornings or evenings the best time for sightseeing.
- Autumn (September to November): Autumn brings more comfortable temperatures, ranging from 25°C to 35°C. September can still feel like summer, but by October and November, the weather becomes pleasant and less humid, perfect for exploring historical sites along the Nile Valley or relaxing on the Mediterranean coast.
- Winter (December to February): Winters in Egypt are mild, with daytime temperatures between 15°C and 25°C. Nights can get chilly, especially in the desert, but snow is extremely rare. Cairo and the Nile Delta are cooler, while the Red Sea resorts remain pleasantly warm. This is an excellent time for cultural and outdoor activities.
- Best Time to Travel: Late autumn (October to November) and winter (December to February) are ideal for sightseeing, offering mild weather and fewer crowds. Spring is also great, though travellers should be aware of the occasional Khamsin winds.
GENERAL INFORMATION
| Country: | Egypt |
| Capital City: | Cairo |
| International Airports: | Cairo International Airport (CAI) Hurghada International Airport (HRG) Luxor International Airport (LXR) Borg El Arab International Airport (HBE) Sharm El Sheikh International Airport (SSH) Marsa Alam International Airport (RMF) Aswan International Airport (ASW) El Alamein International Airport (DBB) |
| Area: | 386,662 square miles (1,001,449 square kilometres) Land: 995,450 sq. km Water: 6,000 sq. km |
| Population: | 106,647,000 (2024 est.) |
| Time Zone: | EET: Eastern European Time (UTC +2) Daylight Savings: UTC +3 |
| Religion: | 90% Sunni Muslim 10% Coptic Orthodox Christian |
| Language: | Arabic (fluent) English or French (common) |
| Currency: | Egyptian Pound (LE), divided into 100 Piasters (PT). |
| Exchange Rate: | Refer to banks or foreign exchange bureaus for current rates. International currencies can be exchanged for Egyptian Pounds at banks, forex bureaus, and some hotels. Rates don’t vary much at airport exchange outlets. |
| Credit Card Payment Availability: | Cash is advisable; credit card acceptance is not guaranteed. Visa & MasterCard accepted in hotels, major restaurants, and shops. |
| ATM Accessibility: | ATMs available 24/7 at banks and in most commercial areas. Spread throughout major cities; limited in between Cairo and Luxor or in oasis areas. |
| Dialling Code: | +20 |
TRAVEL TIPS
| Electricity: | Voltage: 220 volts Plug Type: Two-prong rounded Adapters: Power converter may be needed in addition to an adapter. |
| Water: | Safe but bottled water with an intact seal is recommended. Stay hydrated; carry a canteen or use a bag with water bottle holders. |
| Business Hours: | Embassies: Closed on Friday & Saturday or Saturday & Sunday. Shops: Typically, 9:00 – 21:00; some close on Sundays. |
| Banking Hours: | Open Sundays to Thursdays: 8:30 – 14:00 Closed on Fridays and Saturdays. |
| Photography Restrictions: | Ask permission before taking photos. No flash photography inside monuments; ASA 800 film recommended. Use wide-angle lenses for large monuments. Prohibited at military installations, public works, and government buildings. |
| Tipping: | 10-15% at cafes and restaurants. Generous tipping expected for various services and at tourist attractions. Loose change encouraged for street vendors and markets. |
| Vaccination Requirements: | Check current guidelines before travel. |
| Dress Code Restrictions: | Summer: Light cotton clothing. Winter: Woolens or an overcoat for evenings. Cultural Considerations: Avoid very brief clothing. Use sun protection. Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are essential. |
| Peculiar Customs to Observe: | Enter new places with the right leg first, following ancient traditions. Physical contact norms vary; follow local customs. |
FESTIVALS
- Coptic Orthodox Christmas
- Abu Simbel Sun Festival (February & October)
- Coptic Orthodox Easter
- Sham Ennessim
- Ramadan
- Sandbox Music Festival
- Eid al-Adha
- El Hijra (Islamic New Year)
- Coptic Orthodox New Year
- Mild un Nabi
MAP
“Egypt. There seems to be something mystical about that place.”
– Shamita Shetty