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Is it safe to travel to Egypt right now? 2024 travel advice

This is the latest foreign office advice following iran’s military action against israel and the introduction of egypt’s buffer zone on the border with gaza.

G iven the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, travellers may be worried about whether it’s safe to visit other countries in the region — especially following reports of strikes by Israel on Iran. On April 19, Israel reportedly launched a retaliatory attack on Iran , in response to missile and drone attacks on Israel on April 13. The UK Foreign Office has not updated its advice, but rather cautions tourists that the situation is “changing fast” and to monitor its advice pages.

Iran’s military attack on Israel on April 13. In Egypt, the main tourist resorts — Cairo, Nile cruise stops including Luxor and Aswan, and the Red Sea resorts of Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh — are all still considered safe to travel to by the UK government. However, there are several regions along its borders where the Foreign Office currently advises against travelling to. This includes the border with Gaza at Rafah, where Egypt has built a buffer zone in anticipation of Israel’s ground offensive against Hamas in Rafah.

More generally, you should stay vigilant for things like petty crime, and avoid protests and demonstrations. The Foreign Office also states that it is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check that it provides sufficient cover before travelling. Here’s what you need to know.

What’s the latest government advice about travelling to Egypt?

There are no travel advisories in place for popular tourist spots in Egypt such as Cairo, cities along the Nile including Luxor and Aswan, and resorts by the Red Sea such as Sharm el-Sheikh and Hurghada.

However, the Foreign Office currently advises against all travel to the Governorate of North Sinai, which includes the crossing at Rafah, and within 20km of the Egyptian/Libyan border (excluding El Salloum, where it advises against all but essential travel).

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It also advises against all but essential travel to the following areas:

• The northern part of the Governorate of South Sinai beyond the St Catherine-Nuweiba road, except for the coastal areas along the west and east of the peninsula • The eastern part of Ismailiyah Governorate east of the Suez canal • The area west of the Nile Valley and Nile Delta regions, excluding Luxor, Qina, Aswan, Abu Simbel and the Valley of the Kings, the Governorate of Faiyum, the coastal areas between the Nile Delta and Marsa Matruh, the Marsa Matruh-Siwa Road, the oasis town of Siwa, the Giza Governorate north-east of the Bahariya Oasis, the road between Giza and Farafra (except the road between Bahariya and Siwa where all but essential travel applies), Bahariya Oasis, Farafra, and the White Desert and Black Desert • The Hala’ib Triangle and Bir Tawil Trapezoid

Following US and UK strikes on Houthi bases in Yemen in January and February 2024, the Foreign Office said: “Military activity is currently under way in response to attempts by Houthi militants to prevent movement of international shipping in the Red Sea. While the area of activity is limited to the Red Sea and Yemen, there is a possibility that travel advice for nearby countries could change at short notice. You should continue to monitor travel advice and follow any relevant instructions from local authorities.”

This advice is still current. In addition, terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Egypt, according to the Foreign Office, and targets could include destinations popular with tourists. Most attacks are in the North Sinai region, but they may take place in other parts of the country too.

The risk is heightened during public holidays and festivals, such as Christmas and Ramadan, and is particularly high around religious sites, large public gatherings and places frequented by foreigners. Stay vigilant and carry your photo ID with you at all times.

Has Egypt been affected by the Israel-Hamas conflict?

Broadly, the Foreign Office warns that the border between Israel and Egypt (Taba) could close at short notice. Visitors should check with local authorities before trying to cross. It also warns that since fighting broke out in southern Israel and Gaza, demonstrations (often at short notice) have taken place. Tourists should be vigilant and avoid large gatherings and protests.

On October 27, 2023, an official confirmed that a drone fell near a medical facility in the Red Sea resort of Taba, near the Israeli border, injuring six people. Authorities are investigating.

Separately, two Israeli tourists and their local guide died after a police officer opened fire on a group of Israeli tourists in Alexandria on October 8, 2023, according to reports by the Israeli foreign ministry. This has not been confirmed by Egyptian authorities.

• Is it safe to travel to Israel right now? • Is it safe to travel to Turkey right now? • Is it safe to travel to Dubai right now? • Is it safe to travel to Cyprus right now? • Is it safe to travel to Morocco right now?

Is Cairo safe?

Yes, Cairo is considered safe to visit by the Foreign Office and this advice has not changed since the US and UK joint strikes on Houthi bases in Yemen in January and February 2024. The same general travel advice that applies to other parts of the country also applies to Cairo.

However, it’s a big and busy city so it’s still worth staying vigilant for petty crime. Female travellers should also take care — as in other parts of the country, harassment and sexual assault can and do happen.

Is it safe to travel to Sharm el-Sheikh?

Sharm el-Sheikh reopened to British tourists in October 2019, four years after a bomb exploded on a Russian plane carrying 224 tourists and crew. Security measures were increased at the Red Sea resort: x-ray scanners in hotels; security walls; and high perimeter fences around the airport were installed.

The area of Sharm el-Sheikh is now deemed safe to travel to by the Foreign Office. This advice has not changed since the US and UK launched joint strikes on Houthi bases in Yemen at the beginning of 2024.

Is it safe to travel to Hurghada?

Hurghada, a popular Red Sea resort, is also deemed safe to travel to by the Foreign Office. Again, travel advice has not been amended for the resort following the strikes on the Houthi bases in Yemen.

• Best hotels in Hurghada • Best things to do in Hurghada

Can you drink alcohol in Egypt?

Egypt is an Islamic country. While attitudes are more relaxed in tourist resorts, customs can be very different elsewhere and more strict during Ramadan. Public drinking, for example, can lead to arrest — alcohol is only permitted in a licensed restaurant or bar.

Possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs can lead to long prison sentences or even the death penalty. Visitors should be aware that what is legal in the UK may not be legal in Egypt. In 2017, for example, a British woman was jailed for three years for taking painkillers into the country. Tramadol, an opioid painkiller, is a prescription drug in the UK but is illegal in Egypt.

What about taking photos in Egypt?

Be aware of what you’re photographing. Taking pictures of military installations (strictly prohibited), embassies, government buildings, churches and even infrastructure such as train stations can lead to arrest. If you want to photograph any Egyptian citizens, you must have written permission from them; photographing children is not permitted.

Taking or sharing photographs that are perceived to be damaging to the country’s image is also forbidden. Similarly, making strongly negative comments about Egypt or its politics, including on social media, can lead to you being detained.

• Best all-inclusive hotels in Egypt

What are Egypt’s entry restrictions?

For entry into Egypt, you’ll need at least six months of validity on your passport. You’ll also need to apply for a tourist visa to visit most of the country. These can be obtained online before you travel or on arrival at dedicated desks inside the airport. This is valid for up to three months.

If you’re travelling to the resorts of Sharm el-Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba or Taba, you can get a free entry permission stamp upon arrival for stays of up to 15 days. You’ll have to get a visa if you want to stay longer or visit other places.

Do I need vaccines for Sharm el-Sheikh?

There are no essential vaccine requirements for visiting Egypt. However, the NHS suggests that it’s advisable to have polio and tetanus jabs. You may also want to consider hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies and typhoid.

General safety advice for travelling in Egypt

In terms of safety on the ground, it pays to be vigilant. Protests take place frequently and foreigners taking part in political activities in the country could be detained or subjected to other measures.

The Foreign Office says: “If you become aware of any nearby protests, marches or demonstrations, you should move away from the immediate area as the atmosphere could change quickly and without warning. Police have previously used water cannons, tear gas, birdshot and live ammunition for crowd control.”

At popular tourist spots, visitors can be harassed for money or to buy things. There’s also a risk of theft and mugging, even in taxis. Travelling as part of an escorted tour can help reduce the risks. If you are a victim of crime, you should contact the local tourist police who can help you make a report.

Public displays of affection can also be frowned upon.

Is Egypt safe for female travellers?

In general, yes, it is safe for female travellers. However, there have been reported incidents of sexual assault and harassment in the country, including some affecting minors. Most of the reported incidents have taken place in the Red Sea region and, according to the Foreign Office, are often committed by someone the victim had already met, including hotel workers and excursion staff.

The Foreign Office advises: “Female travellers should exercise caution when travelling alone, particularly at night, in buses, taxis and microbuses. If you are travelling on public transport including microbuses, avoid being the last passenger left on board.”

• What can women do to stay safe while abroad?

Is Egypt safe for LGBT travellers?

It can be problematic for LGBT travellers. While homosexuality is not technically illegal in Egypt, according to the Foreign Office, the charges of “debauchery” and “sexual deviance” have been used to prosecute LGBT people in the past. Sixty-six people were arrested in 2017 on debauchery charges after waving a rainbow flag at a concert in Cairo, for example. Again, attitudes are more relaxed in tourist areas but public displays of affection are likely to cause issues.

• Is it safe to go diving in the Red Sea? • Best hotels in Egypt

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Update April 12, 2024

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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

Assistance for u.s. citizens, search for travel advisories, external link.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Areas where FCDO advises against travel

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice. Consular support is also severely limited where FCDO advises against travel.

Egypt-Libya border

FCDO advises against all travel to within 20km of the Egypt-Libya border, except for the town of El Salloum (where we advise against all but essential travel).

North Sinai

FCDO advises against all travel to the Governorate of North Sinai.

Northern part of South Sinai

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the northern part of the Governorate of South Sinai, beyond the St Catherine-Nuweibaa road, except for the coastal areas along the west and east of the peninsula.

The eastern part of Ismailiyah Governorate

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the Ismailiyah Governorate east of the Suez Canal.

Western Desert

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the area west of the Nile Valley and Nile Delta regions, except for:

• Luxor, Qina, Aswan, Abu Simbel and the Valley of the Kings
• the Governorate of Faiyum
• the coastal areas between the Nile Delta and Marsa Matruh
• the Marsa Matruh-Siwa Road
• the oasis town of Siwa
• the Giza Governorate north-east of the Bahariya Oasis
• the road between Giza and Farafra (but we advise against all but essential travel on the road between Bahariya and Siwa)
• Bahariya Oasis, Farafra, the White Desert and Black Desert

Hala’ib Triangle and Bir Tawil Trapezoid

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the Hala’ib Triangle and the Bir Tawil Trapezoid.

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel .

Conflict in neighbouring Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs)

The Israeli government has declared a state of emergency across the whole country. International borders in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs) could close at short notice. As a result, the land border into Israel from Egypt at Taba could close with little notice. Check with local authorities and consult the travel advice for  Israel  and the  Occupied Palestinian Territories  before trying to cross the border.

In response to events in Israel and the OPTs, a number of demonstrations have taken place in Egypt and protests have been planned, including after Friday prayers. Demonstrations could take place at short notice, with a heavy security presence in place. You should avoid large gatherings, demonstrations and protests. See  Safety and security

Entering Egypt from Gaza

The Rafah border crossing partially opened on 1 November. This is primarily to facilitate the evacuation of seriously wounded Palestinians and some foreign nationals. We understand that the crossing will continue to be open for controlled and time-limited periods to allow specific groups of foreign nationals, including British nationals, to cross. It is for the Egyptian and Israeli authorities to determine who is permitted to cross, and when. The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs will contact Embassies to let them know when their foreign nationals can cross. Should we receive notification from the Israeli and Egyptian authorities that individuals are permitted to cross, we will notify those people individually.

Movement to the Rafah crossing and beyond is at your own risk. You should only travel if you judge it is safe to do so. Check the  Israel and The Occupied Palestinian Territories travel advice.

The Egyptian authorities have said all aid going into Gaza from Egypt must be channelled through the Egyptian Red Crescent:

• telephone: + 20 226 703 979, + 20 226 703 983
• fax: + 20 226 703 967

They are unlikely to consider requests for humanitarian access made in Egypt at short notice.

Concern for friends and family

If you are concerned about friends or family, or need consular assistance call:

• British Embassy Cairo on + 20 (0)2 2791 6000
• +44 1767 667 600  (UK number) if you experience technical difficulties with the above number

Incidents in South Sinai  

On 27 October, an Egyptian Armed Forces spokesperson confirmed that an unidentified drone fell near a medical facility in the Egyptian Red Sea resort town of Taba next to the Israeli border, injuring six people. An additional unidentified drone also struck outside the town of Nuweiba, though no casualties have been confirmed. The authorities are conducting ongoing investigations.

Incident in Alexandria

On 8 October 2023, an Egyptian police officer is reported to have shot and killed two Israeli tourists and an Egyptian tour guide in Alexandria. A third tourist was injured. Remain vigilant and exercise caution at tourist and religious sites, as well as public gatherings. Find out more information on current risks on the  Safety and security .

Border crossings from Sudan

There are still people trying to cross the border into Egypt at Argeen and Qustul. Our ability to provide consular assistance is very limited.

If you are a British national and have crossed the border without valid documentation, contact the British Embassy in Cairo for consular assistance on + 20 (0)2 2791 6000.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• information for women, LGBT+ and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

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Egypt travel: Is it safe to visit and what are your rights if you have a trip booked?

Tourists with imminent trips booked to Egypt may be wondering whether it is safe to travel to the country’s popular cities and resorts amid ongoing conflict in neighbouring Israel and Gaza, as well as recent airstrikes from US and UK forces against Houthi rebels in Yemen.

Egypt has so far avoided being drawn into these conflicts, despite its proximity to the Red Sea and the Israeli airstrikes that hit the area near the border with Gaza in October.

Houthi rebels have been attacking Red Sea shipping since mid-November , with the UK and US launching retaliatory strikes in the last few days. On 14 January, David Cameron raised the prospect of further UK airstrikes in Yemen.

The main tourist areas in Egypt are still considered to be generally safe.. The country has kept its borders open, and airlines and holiday companies are continuing to operate in the country.

But what is the current situation, and what are your rights if you have an upcoming trip booked? Here are the key questions and answers.

What is happening in the Red Sea?

Houthi rebels – a Yemen-based group backed by Iran who have been fighting the government since 2014 – have been attacking Red Sea shipping with drones and missiles since 19 November, in what was originally claimed to be targeted action against Israeli interests in support of Palestine.

Once they began to attack ships indiscriminately, the US mobilised a naval coalition to protect shipping. According to the UK Ministry of Defence, 15 per cent of global seaborne trade passes through the Red Sea.

On 11 January, US and UK forces bombed several Houthi sites in Yemen, in the south of the Red Sea. On 15 January, tensions were raised further when Houthi rebels struck a US-owned ship in the Gulf of Aden.

How far is Israel from Egypt?

Though Israel directly borders Egypt, most of the country’s major cities and tourists sites are a substantial distance away, and so Egypt has avoided much of the Israel-Gaza conflict.

Sharm el Sheikh is the closest destination, though it is still over two-and-a-half hours’ drive away from the nearest border town and over five hours away by road from the area around the Gaza border. Cairo , Alexandria, Hurghada and Luxor are even further away.

Are flights to Egypt operating as normal?

Flights from the UK to Egypt are still operating as planned, though may be subject to delays from non-related events.

The usual flight path from the UK to Egypt goes down through Italy and across the Mediterranean, and does not enter Israeli airspace.

What if I have booked a package holiday to Egypt?

Package holidays are operating as usual. If you have an upcoming trip booked and want to postpone, get in touch with your tour operator or holiday provider; they may offer some flexibility. However, if not, there is currently no grounds for travellers to expect a refund if they cancel, nor to claim the money back through travel insurance, as the Foreign Office (FCDO) has not issued a blanket “avoid all non-essential travel” advisory for Egypt as it has done for Israel.

If FCDO advice changes to advising against all travel, you can cancel a package holiday without penalty for a full refund.

What is the Foreign Office travel advice for Egypt?

The most recent FCDO advice was published on 12 January. Regarding activity in the Red Sea, it said that “military activity is currently underway in response to attempts by Houthi militants to prevent movement of international shipping in the Red Sea.

“While the area of activity is limited to the Red Sea and Yemen, there is a possibility that Travel Advice for nearby countries could change at short notice. You should continue to monitor Travel Advice and follow any relevant instructions from local authorities.”

Regarding the conflict in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, the Foreign Office states: “The Israeli government has declared a state of emergency across the whole country. International borders in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs) could close at short notice. As a result, the land border into Israel from Egypt at Taba could close with little notice.

“The Rafah border crossing partially opened on 1 November. This is primarily to facilitate the evacuation of seriously wounded Palestinians and some foreign nationals. We understand that the crossing will continue to be open for controlled and time-limited periods to allow specific groups of foreign nationals, including British nationals, to cross.

“It is for the Egyptian and Israeli authorities to determine who is permitted to cross, and when. Movement to the Rafah crossing and beyond is at your own risk. You should only travel if you judge it is safe to do so.”

Anyone travelling to Egypt should carefully check the most up-to-date advice before travelling.

The FCDO does not warn against travel to any of the main tourist destinations in Egypt, including Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Alexandria and the two Red Sea resorts of Sharm el Sheikh and Hurghada.

The website references the recent attack in Alexandria, stating that “on 8 October 2023, an Egyptian police officer is reported to have shot and killed two Israeli tourists and an Egyptian tour guide in Alexandria. A third tourist was injured”.

It advises travellers to “remain vigilant at all times”.

The FCDO advises against all travel to destinations anywhere within 20km of the Egypt-Libya border (except for the town of El Salloum, where it advises against all but essential travel) and the Governorate of North Sinai.

It advises against all but essential travel to:

The northern part of the Governorate of South Sinai, beyond the St Catherine-Nuweibaa road, except for the coastal areas along the west and east of the peninsula

The Ismailiyah Governorate east of the Suez Canal

The Hala’ib Triangle and the Bir Tawil Trapezoid

The area west of the Nile Valley and Nile Delta regions, except for:

Luxor, Qina, Aswan, Abu Simbel and the Valley of the Kings

The Governorate of Faiyum

The coastal areas between the Nile Delta and Marsa Matruh

The Marsa Matruh-Siwa Road

The oasis town of Siwa

The Giza Governorate north-east of the Bahariya Oasis

The road between Giza and Farafra (but they advise against all but essential travel on the road between Bahariya and Siwa)

Bahariya Oasis, Farafra, the White Desert and Black Desert

It adds that “terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Egypt”, and there is a particular risk in North Sinai. It lists five recent attacks between 2022 and 2018 that have taken place in Cairo, the Minya province and near the Suez Canal.

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Egyptology Is Having a Big Moment. But Will Tourists Come?

Tourism in Egypt has been buffeted by political instability and terrorism. But the pandemic has dealt the industry its biggest blow in years.

By Abdi Latif Dahir

CAIRO — On a cool morning last November, Egypt’s tourism and antiquities minister stood in a packed tent at the vast necropolis of Saqqara just outside Cairo to reveal the ancient site’s largest archaeological discovery of the year.

The giant trove included 100 wooden coffins — some containing mummies interred over 2,500 years ago — 40 statues, amulets, canopic jars and funerary masks. The minister, Khaled el-Enany, said the latest findings hinted at the great potential of the ancient site and showcased the dedication of the all-Egyptian team that unearthed the gilded artifacts.

But he also singled out another reason the archaeological discoveries were crucial: it was a boon for tourism, which had been decimated by the coronavirus pandemic.

“This unique site is still hiding a lot,” Mr. el-Enany said. “The more discoveries we make, the more interest there is in this site and in Egypt worldwide.”

Egyptology is having a big moment: Archaeologists announced this month that they had unearthed an ancient Pharaonic city near the southern city of Luxor that dated back more than 3,400 years.

The discovery came just days after 22 royal mummies were moved to a new museum in a lavish spectacle that was broadcast worldwide. In addition, the discovery of 59 beautifully preserved sarcophagi in Saqqara is now the subject of a recent Netflix documentary ; a bejeweled statue of the god Nefertum was found in Saqqara; the 4,700-year-old Djoser’s Step Pyramid was reopened last year after a 14-year, $6.6 million restoration; and progress is apace on the stunning Grand Egyptian Museum, scheduled to open sometime this year.

But the pandemic has dealt a severe blow to the industry, and what had been expected to be a bonanza season became a bleak winter.

Tourism is a crucial part of Egypt’s economy — international tourism revenues totaled $13 billion in 2019 — and the country has been eager to attract visitors back to its archaeological sites.

With travel restrictions, border closings and reduced capacity at hotels, international visitors to Egypt dropped by 69 percent in the first eight months of 2020 alone while revenues plunged by 67 percent in the same period, according to the World Tourism Organization, a United Nations agency.

Now more than ever, tourism in Egypt is facing “an unprecedented challenge,” Zurab Pololikashvili, the organization’s secretary general said in an email.

In recent years, Egypt’s tourism has been adversely affected by a string of misfortunes, starting with the political instability that followed the 2011 revolution and occasional bursts of terrorism, including attacks on tourists , bomb blasts that damaged prominent museums and a downed airliner that killed hundreds of Russian tourists in 2015.

But the sector was steadily recovering, with visitors attracted by both antiquities and the sun-and-sea offerings, growing to over 13 million in 2019 from 5.3 million in 2016. The coronavirus pandemic has reversed these gains, leaving hotels, resorts and cruises empty, popular sites without visitors and revenue, and thousands of tour guides and vendors with drastically reduced incomes or none at all.

“Tourism in Egypt just had one of its best years in 2019 and then came the pandemic which severely impacted it all,” Amr Karim, the general manager for Travco Travel, one of Egypt’s largest tour operators, said in a telephone interview. “Nobody knew what would happen, how we will handle it, how it will affect us. It’s strange.”

The pandemic, he said, disrupted how tour companies operated, how they priced their packages and how to work with hotels and abide by their new hygiene playbooks.

The pandemic also exposed the fragility of Egypt’s health care system , with doctors lamenting shortages in protective equipment and testing kits while patients died from lack of oxygen . With over 12,000 deaths, Egypt also recorded one of the highest fatality rates from the virus in the Arab world.

With a growing number of cases, health officials in Egypt have recently warned of a third wave of the virus. Authorities have also canceled large gatherings and festivals, and promised to fine those not complying with protective measures like mask-wearing, but many Egyptians do not abide by these rules.

Travelers are required to have a negative Covid-19 test taken 72 hours before arriving in Egypt, and hotels are mandated to operate at half capacity.

The crisis affected not just big companies like Travco but also smaller ones that had started betting big on the growing tourism industry.

Passainte Assem established Why Not Egypt , a boutique travel agency, in 2017 by interviewing prospective travelers and customizing itineraries for them. But after the pandemic began, most of her clients, who are from Australia, Canada and the United States, canceled their plans, she said, pushing her to suspend the business for now.

The experience left her feeling that “tourism is not stable at all,” she said. “It cannot be the only source of income. I have to have a side hustle.”

She now works as a manager of a company trying to revive and preserve traditional Egyptian handicrafts.

With shrinking bookings, the government has stepped in to cushion the blow to the tourism sector. Authorities introduced a raft of measures including allowing certain tourism-dependent businesses like hotels and resorts to delay the payment of utility bills, rescheduling debt repayments and providing financial aid to tourism workers.

The government has also sought to attract travelers by reducing the cost of tourist visas and entrance fees to archaeological sites, and has created programs aimed at increasing domestic tourism to make up for the lack of foreign tourists. A winter promotion, for instance, offered Egyptians discounts on domestic plane travel, hotels and museum admissions .

But Ahmed Samir, chief executive of the tour company Egypt Tours Portal , said the direct cash support for tourism workers was minimal. With reduced bookings, he was able to keep his employees in his marketing and social media departments on the payroll but at half salary.

“As a kind of sympathy to my employees, we tried to balance,” he said. But still, he added, “most of my friends’ companies closed completely.”

The slowdown in tourist arrivals has left areas usually swamped by tourists quiet.

At the Egyptian Museum in downtown Cairo, Mahrous Abu Seif, a tour guide, sat waiting for clients one morning. A few small tour groups, including from Russia and China, were going through metal detector scans to go into the museum. But he hoped that more clients would come.

“What can I tell you? We sit here and wait and wait,” he said, throwing his hands in the air and adjusting his sunglasses. “We don’t know what the future holds.”

On the other side of town, at the historic El Fishawy coffee house, a few locals gurgled their water pipes and drank mint tea or Turkish coffee while melodious Quran recitation ascended from a nearby speaker. Located in the centuries-old Khan el Khalili market, the cafe, along with souvenir and jewelry shops, was hit badly by the pandemic.

“I used to bring people here and it would be packed, but look at it now,” Mohamed Said Rehan, a guide with a local company, said of the cafe. “The pandemic is a big problem.”

Mr. Rehan said that he knows many colleagues and friends who had to stay home for months without income or who left the industry altogether. But he still clings to a thread of hope that tourism will pick up soon.

And some tourists have indeed started coming back.

In February, Marcus Zimmermann, a 43-year-old architect from Germany, was visiting Egypt for the first time, stopping first in Cairo and planning trips to the southern city of Luxor, home to the iconic Valley of the Kings. Mr. Zimmermann had hoped to come to Egypt last year with his mother, who dreamed of being an archaeologist, for her 70th birthday. But they had to cancel their plans because of the pandemic.

This year, he decided to come alone but promised to “plan the trip again” with her once she’s vaccinated.

Even though it will be tough attaining the prepandemic figures quickly, people like Mr. Karim who work in the industry hope tourists will start coming back by year’s end.

With all the new discoveries, renovations and the planned opening of new sites and museums, tourists will gradually flock back to Egypt, he said.

“People will start to move. People will start to travel,” he said. “I am optimistic.”

Nada Rashwan and Asmaa Al Zohairy contributed reporting.

Abdi Latif Dahir is the East Africa correspondent. He joined The Times in 2019 after covering East Africa for Quartz for three years. He lives in Nairobi, Kenya. More about Abdi Latif Dahir

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Egypt lifts Covid-19 restrictions for all in-bound travellers

Daily infection rates have been steadily declining in the country since a peak in february.

Tourists enjoy a day by the beach in the Red Sea resort of Sharm El Sheikh. Reuters

The Egyptian government has announced it is lifting all Covid-19 restrictions for travellers into the country, whether citizens or visitors. The decision was announced on Thursday, after a meeting between Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly and the Egyptian Supreme Committee for the Management of the Epidemiology and Health Pandemic Crisis.

Officials have not, however, specified when the decision will come into effect.

Currently, all travellers arriving in Egypt, including citizens, need to present a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival. Fully vaccinated travellers who have had the second dose of an approved vaccine 14 days prior to travel are exempt from taking a PCR test.

Daily Covid-19 cases and deaths have been declining in Egypt after reaching a record high of 2,300 daily cases and a fifth wave peak of 60 deaths in early February, according to the country's health ministry.

In May, Egypt recorded one of the lowest rates of average daily Covid-19 cases and deaths since the pandemic began. Mosques and shrines were also allowed to operate normally across the country.

During Ramadan in April and May, the country ended its two-year suspension on the traditional Ramadan charity banquets for the needy on the streets and allowed Taraweeh night prayers.

Residents of Ezbet Hamada gather to end their fast at sunset in Mataria, Cairo, Egypt. All photos: Reuters

Last week, officials announced the country will host a travel trade show to boost post-Covid-19 recovery and promote itself as a tourist destination.

The Gate Travel Expo , taking place from September 6 to 9 in Cairo , is expected to attract more than 10,000 visitors and 200 companies from at least 56 countries, organisers said.

“Egypt deserves to be on the world tourism map in a much bigger way,” said Amr El Kady, chief executive of the government's Egyptian Tourism Promotion Board.

The country will also be hosting the UN Cop27 climate change conference in Sharm El Sheikh in November.

Tourism directly and indirectly accounted for as much as 15 per cent of the country’s gross domestic product before the pandemic, according to official tourism statistics.

In 2020 Egyptian tourism officials said tourist numbers dropped to 3 million, a stark contrast from the 13 million visitors the previous year.

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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."

Steph Koyfman

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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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Egypt Tourism Was Having a Record Year, but Cancellations Are Rising

Dawit Habtemariam , Skift

November 6th, 2023 at 1:45 PM EST

If the conflict ends or remains contained, American travel to Egypt could recover faster than expected.

Dawit Habtemariam

Egypt tourism is facing cancellations from many American tourists due to the Israel-Hamas war.

Great Wonders of Egypt , a Cairo-based destination management company that specializes in cultural tourism and adventure tourism, said over half of its American travelers have canceled their trips for November and December.

Intrepid Travel, which serves a large number of American tourists, has seen an increase in cancellation requests for tours in Egypt through 2023 — with the vast majority opting to book trips elsewhere, said a spokesperson.

“We think the season’s really going to be lost for most operators who handle the U.S. market through the Christmas period,” said Kelly Torrens, vice president of product for Kensington Tours.

Egypt Tourism Impacted Over Fear of War Spreading

When the Israel-Hamas war started on October 7, American cancellation requests came for the two immediate weeks but none came for November and December, said Basem Salah, co-founder and director of operations for Great Wonders of Egypt. Yet as the war escalated, cancellations for subsequent months mounted.

Cruise operators Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean recently told investors that there has been a slowdown in bookings and a rise in cancellations for the Middle East region. Both companies removed Israel from their itineraries. 

Egypt tourism can be affected even though the conflict hasn’t spread there. “They just feel unsafe to be in the region, and this is happening because, to them, they don’t know what’s happening tomorrow for us,” said Salah.

2024 Could Be Better for Egypt

This year has so far been a strong one for Egypt tourism, with a record 10 million tourists in the first eight months. 

“It was going very well. It was busy everywhere. It had been a wonderful season,” said Salah.

Tour operators are hopeful for 2024, and they can look to past history for some positive patterns.

In the aftermath of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, tour operators reported a spike in cancellations in April and May for Ukraine’s neighboring countries. As time passed and fears of the conflict spreading ceased, bookings recovered through the summer. A similar scenario could play out for Egypt.

Yet weak bookings for spring trips in Egypt point toward pessimism.

“We’re hopeful that the winter and the spring will be good, but we just don’t know at this point, and new bookings are still trickling in, but they’re very light compared to what they would typically be for sure,” said Torrens. “We think a lot of [travelers] would rather just make other plans and think about Egypt for 2025, so we don’t think that it’s very short-term,” said Torrens. 

Earlier this month, credit agency Fitch downgraded Egypt’s credit rating . “In Fitch’s view, the Israel-Hamas war poses significant downside risks to tourism,” the agency said .

The Egyptian government responded by saying the concerns were overstated.

Some cruise operators are optimistic about Egypt in 2024.

“We are more bullish about the ability to return to places like Egypt and other places in the Middle East,” said Norwegian Cruise Line CEO Harry Sommer in a third-quarter earnings call.

Correction: This story has been updated to correct the month of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. It was February 2022.

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Photo credit: Americans are nervous about traveling to Egypt as the Isarel-Hamas war rages on. Spencer Davis / Unsplash

Middle East: Is it safe to travel to holiday destinations as tension escalates?

Are you going to Turkey, Egypt or Israel on holiday? The Foreign Office has warned travellers to several countries to monitor advice after an Iranian attack on Israel pushed tension in the Middle East up another notch.

Thursday 18 April 2024 08:13, UK

Tension in the Middle East has ratcheted up again after Iran's attack on Israel, as the world waits to see how Benjamin Netanyahu's government will respond. 

With the threat of widening conflict, people due to travel through or over the Middle East may be asking if their plans may be impacted.

On Saturday, flight data showed dozens of journeys that would have travelled over the Middle East turned back after Iran fired more than 300 drones and missiles into Israel .

Here is what airlines are saying and the latest safety advice to travellers.

EasyJet scraps Tel Aviv flights

EasyJet has suspended all flights to Tel Aviv over safety concerns.

The budget airline told Sky News it has grounded its flights until 27 October at the earliest "as a result of the continued evolving situation" in the region.

Wizz Air customers could see schedule changes

Wizz Air cancelled flights to Tel Aviv on Sunday 14 and Monday 15 April before resuming its schedule.

But it said customers could experience schedule changes as it closely monitors the situation.

British Airways operating as normal

British Airways - which operates four daily return flights per week between Heathrow and Tel Aviv - said its flights were continuing to operate as planned, but it too was monitoring the situation.

Is it safe to travel to Turkey?

Turkey is a popular holiday destination for people from the UK with the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism saying that last year 3.16 million Britons made the journey there, according to Travel Weekly.

Yet, it borders a number of countries that the Foreign Office advises against travel to.

The vast majority of the country is considered generally safe for tourists, with some exceptions.

The Foreign Office advises against all travel within 10km of the border with Syria , and all but essential travel to the Sirnak and Hakkari provinces.

Is it safe to travel to Israel?

Some parts of Israel are considered "red zones" by the Foreign Office, with the government advising against all travel there.

For the rest of the country - including East Jerusalem and Tel Aviv - the advice is to travel only if it is essential.

Tourist Israel says around 220,000 Britons usually go to the country every year and the Foreign Office is advising against travel close to the border with Gaza, within 5km of the border with Lebanon and within 500m of the border with Syria.

You can see the full updated list of "red zones" on the Foreign Office advice pages.

Occupied Palestinian territories

The Foreign Office advises against all travel to Gaza and the West Bank.

Don't travel to Iran, Iraq, Yemen, Lebanon or Syria - Foreign Office

The Foreign Office advises against all travel to Iran, Syria, Lebanon and Yemen.

It advises against all travel to Iraq except to the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI), where it advises against all but "essential travel".

Can I safely go on holiday in Egypt?

The main tourist areas in Egypt are generally considered safe, including the capital Cairo, cities along the Nile and Red Sea resorts.

Over 1.5 million British Nationals visit Egypt every year, according to analysts Gitnux, and the areas the Foreign Office warns not to travel to include the Governorate of North Sinai, where the Rafah crossing to Gaza is located, and within 20km of the border with Libya.

Read more: Are we heading for World War Three? Experts give their verdicts What are Iran's military capabilities - and where could it strike?

Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News

Check advice on other Middle East states before you travel

Following Iran's attack on Israel, the Foreign Office issued a warning relating to several countries in the surrounding area, telling travellers to check for the latest information.

Included in this are popular destinations like Dubai (visited by more than a million Britons last year according to Travel Weekly) and Marrakech.

"On 13 April 2024 Iran carried out military action against Israel. Monitor this travel advice and other media as the situation is changing fast," the FCDO said in a statement.

The countries covered by the warning include Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Morocco, Tunisia, Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Bahrain, Kuwait, Libya, Jordan and Oman.

Anywhere else of concern?

Cyprus is near the region and has a large UK airbase but, as yet, there is no change in travel advice to the popular country.

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• Israel-Hamas war
• Middle East

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Moving to Egypt Transformed My Travel Wardrobe — Here Are 13 Comfy Essentials I Now Swear by, From $26

From white linen pants to breezy maxi dresses, these are the versatile clothes I wear on repeat in Cairo.

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Travel + Leisure / Daisy Rodriguez

I recently moved to Cairo, Egypt’s capital and a desert city that experiences a range of temperatures in a single day. I learned quickly that I’d need looks that would keep me cool in the sun yet warm on chilly nights and be modest enough to fit right in. So I added a few key items to my travel wardrobe, from white linen pants to apparel with built-in UPF sun protection to a light denim jacket I can layer on top at night.   

If you’re packing for your own Egypt trip, maybe you can benefit from a few key things I’ve learned along the way. First, classic, elegant silhouettes on the more modest side go far; generally speaking, covering from your shoulders to your knees is acceptable here. You don’t want to attract unwanted attention when you’re sightseeing. And second, whether you’re headed to the pyramids, climbing Mount Sinai, or taking the metro to avoid Cairo traffic, comfortable, close-toed shoes are also essential.

Since it’s the desert, sand and dust are all around, but you shouldn’t let this stop you from wearing white. Just keep a reliable stain remover in your suitcase. Depending on your style, you can stick to bold prints or minimalist neutrals that hide anything that gets on your outfit. All in all, you can’t go wrong with stylish and functional staples, so scroll on for my ultimate guide to what to wear to Egypt .

Quince White Linen Pants

It’s no secret that linen is the way to go in any warm weather climate, but sometimes the fabric can get quite expensive. I’ve turned to Quince’s deals and sales for my linen sets complete with pants, a matching tank , and a short or long-sleeve shirt . I recommend buying all the various lengths because I tend to switch between the three of them throughout the day. 

Plus, a coordinated look is an excellent hack to looking put together in a flash. Given the packed itinerary you’ll likely have in Egypt, nothing beats a quick and simple ensemble. Quince has linen in all kinds of colors and pinstripe, too, so do yourself a favor and stock up.

Rothy’s The Casual Clog

Rothy's

Clogs are my go-to in Cairo as the open back keeps my feet cool while a closed toe keeps them from getting dusty. And these Rothy’s in particular are a winning travel shoe because you never have to worry about getting them dirty — they’re machine washable . Any time I get a stain on them, I simply pop the shoes into the washing machine. 

It’s a low-maintenance setup, and the plush footbed with arch support makes them a joy to walk around in. The only thing to remember is that Rothy’s can’t take excessive heat from a dryer, so you always have to let them air dry. Looking for this style for less? This similar Amazon pair is only $39 (though not as conveniently machine washable).

Nordstrom Long Sleeve Shirt Dress

Similar to my linen sets, I have a rack of maxi shirt dresses ready to go for any occasion. They’re stylish yet conservative enough, appropriate for being out about about, and will keep you cool. 

As someone who’s petite, I opt for vertical stripes to flatter and elongate my figure, and I find the pattern a fun way to show off my style personality. Did I mention this style has pockets? I may not put valuables in them to deter pickpockets, but it’s great for having items like lip gloss with SPF handy. 

Khaki Baseball Cap

Even with slightly cooler temperatures during the earlier months of the year, the sun is still strong in the desert. In addition to a pair of sunglasses , I rock a baseball cap anywhere I go. 

It’s a practical accessory that will protect you from the sun, and it makes a subtle style statement. I keep it right by the door, so I can finish any outfit with it on my way out, especially when I want to cover up a bad hair day. Again, to match the desert, I have a khaki color that pairs well with anything. 

Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag

A small, on-the-go bag that can fit your hotel key, credit cards, cash, and phone is a must-have. Lululemon’s belt bag is an affordable solution that has gotten me through many days and nights out in Cairo along with other trips beyond the city. 

I prefer to clip it over my chest for a more fashion-forward style and the bonus of easier access to my essentials. And unlike most fanny packs, there’s a separate interior pocket that will help keep all your stuff organized. 

Madewell The Jean Jacket

Like New York, Cairo is another city that never sleeps, so you’ll need some form of outerwear for the colder nights in the desert. You’ll find the streets filled with people at all hours of the night. 

Whether I’m going to a late dinner or a nightcap at a coffee shop, my denim jacket always comes with me. Not only does it keep me cozy, but I can also wear it with everything from a dressier slip dress to denim jeans or long skirts in similar washes. 

Hill House Home The Ellie Nap Dress

Hill House Home

If you ask me, Hill House’s popular Nap Dress isn’t for snoozing. In fact, it’s what I like to wear on activity, photo-filled days. Similar to my cropped pants, it looks good on anyone and the site offers a range of colors, prints, and sizes. 

It’s casual enough that it works for a laid-back lunch or food tour. Then again, I’ve thrown it on with heels before for a fancy night out. I can’t stress enough how crucial it is to have versatile pieces when traveling, and this one fits the bill as it covers the knees and shoulders. 

Everlane The Day Mary Jane

I’m a fan of athleisure, but I don’t like my closet to be lined with sneakers or uncomfortable sandals. I chose these durable Mary Janes from Everlane made out of soft leather in the Blush Tan because they fit perfectly and match the sand on the roads so I don’t have to worry about cleaning them. 

What makes them even better for travel? The shoes can be effortlessly dressed up or down. I’ve worn them to an elegant Iftar meal at the historic Qubba Palace or on a stroll in Old Cairo’s pottery village where I buy affordable handmade goods and take classes. 

Lululemon Softstreme High-Rise Midi Skirt

An underrated, modest article of clothing is a midi skirt. Lululemon has a quality, super soft option that’s attainable quiet luxury at its finest. I like to pair it with a relaxed tee to balance out the skirt’s structure. Recently, I dressed up a midi with a tank and a blazer (so that it wasn’t too revealing) for a Suhoor — the second pre-fasting meal during Ramadan — at the Abdeen Palace. 

Akk Memory Foam Lightweight Tennis Shoes

Comfy, tan sneakers were a priority on my Egypt packing list. I got a couple of inexpensive pairs at Amazon because I wanted to be able to get rid of them if they got too worn down. I’ve been here since February and my initial pair is still going strong. 

Of course, beige was the clear color of choice and I often wear them with matching socks to combat the dusty terrain. I also love that they’re lightweight and a breeze to walk in.  

Viodia Women's UPF 50+ Golf Shirt

There’s so much to do in Cairo, and I’ve been picking up tons of new hobbies, including golf. This is because many of the luxury hotels and resorts have golf courses . 

I have a drawer full of polo shirts with both long and short sleeves that I wear with longer-length matching golf skorts . To mix things up, I also have a few golf dresses . (At the courses and resorts, in general, I’ve found that it’s more acceptable to wear shorter bottoms.) This shirt is great whether on the course or not as it has UPF 50+ sun protection built in, a necessity in these parts.

Banana Republic Ultra High-Rise Wide-Leg Crop Jean

Banana Republic

Wide-legged crops or culottes are my preferred pants. They’re flattering, breathable, and add shape to any look. If you’re coming to the desert, I say leave your skinnies at home. 

I take things to another level with ultra-high rises. This silhouette, courtesy of Banana Republic, has a relaxed fit that complements any figure. Thankfully, the brand has a petite section , so I didn’t have to worry about hemming or getting the jeans tailored. 

Blundstone High-Top Boots

Even though this is the desert, there are hiking trails in Cairo, and since the paths are filled with sand, you should wear high-top boots. I’ve been all about my pair of sturdy, shock-absorbing Blundstone boots.

Moreover, the boots look even better if they’re down making them ideal for walking around or strolling from one pyramid to another. It’s clear that when it comes to footwear, the less hassle, the better. They come in black and several shades of brown giving you plenty of options, too. 

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GBN EXCLUSIVE

Bbc staff spreading far-left conspiracy theories around 'fascist' rishi sunak, holidaymakers given new warning for egypt, morocco and tunisia - 'do not travel' to some parts of the countries.

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Published: 22/04/2024

A fresh warning has been shared for Britons considering travel to Egypt, Morocco and Tunisia

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Egypt, Morocco and Tunisia are popular holiday destinations but Britons have been warned if they are planning to visit and there have been warned to avoid some areas altogether.

Holidaymakers were given advice following an attack on Israel earlier this month and the travel guidance has now been updated.

Guidance has been shared about the military action and holidaymakers are urged to be careful if visiting nearby countries.

The FCDO advised: "On 13 April 2024 Iran carried out military action against Israel. On 19 April, there have been reports of explosions in Iran, and unconfirmed reports of explosions in Syria and Iraq.

Advice has been shared for Morocco, Egypt and Tunisia

"Monitor this travel advice and other media as the situation is changing fast. Follow and contact FCDO Travel on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. You can also get email notifications when this travel advice is updated."

It shared areas in Egypt and Tunisia where Britons were urged not to visit.

"The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advises against all travel to:

• the Chaambi Mountains National Park and the designated military operations zones of Mount Salloum, Mount Sammamma and Mount Mghila
• the militarised zone south of the towns of El Borma and Dhehiba
• within 20km of the rest of the Libya border area north of Dhehibathe town of Ben Guerdane and immediate surrounding area

"In addition and for security reasons, the FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:

• within 75km of the Libyan border, including Remada, El Borma and the town of Zarzis
• the governorate of Kasserine, including the town of Sbeitla
• within 10km of the border with Algeria south of Kasserine governorate
• within 30km of the border in El Kef and Jendouba governorates south of the town of Jendouba, including the archaeological site of Chemtou
• areas north and west of the town of Ghardimaou in Jendouba governorate, including El Feidja National Park
• within 10km of Mount Mghila
• Mount Orbata"

"Egypt-Libya border

FCDO advises against all travel to within 20km of the Egypt-Libya border, except for the town of El Salloum (where we advise against all but essential travel).

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Britons are warned if travelling to Egypt

North Sinai

"FCDO advises against all travel to the Governorate of North Sinai.

Northern part of South Sinai

"FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the northern part of the Governorate of South Sinai, beyond the St Catherine-Nuweibaa road, except for the coastal areas along the west and east of the peninsula.

The eastern part of Ismailiyah Governorate

"FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the Ismailiyah Governorate east of the Suez Canal.

Western Desert

"FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the area west of the Nile Valley and Nile Delta regions, except for:

• Luxor, Qina, Aswan, Abu Simbel and the Valley of the Kings
• the Governorate of Faiyum
• the coastal areas between the Nile Delta and Marsa Matruhthe Marsa Matruh-Siwa Road
• the oasis town of Siwa
• the Giza Governorate north-east of the Bahariya Oasisthe road between Giza and Farafra (but we advise against all but essential travel on the road between Bahariya and Siwa)
• Bahariya Oasis, Farafra, the White Desert and Black DesertHala’ib Triangle and Bir Tawil Trapezoid

"FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the Hala’ib Triangle and the Bir Tawil Trapezoid."

It added travel insurance could be invalidated for those who travel against FCDO advice.

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Inside billionaire Ankur Jain, Erika Hammond’s wild Egypt wedding: Private jets, pyramids and celebs

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Billionaire Ankur Jain and former WWE wrestler Erika Hammond tied the knot Friday in an over-the-top ceremony that took place in front of the Great Pyramids in Egypt.

“We’re New Yorkers and there’s something so special about being in a completely different world environment,” Jain, the founder and CEO of the cashback tech company Bilt Rewards, told People following their nuptials.

“So we decided, our wedding is about having a moment together to celebrate the new beginning, having a really special party with our friends somewhere where you’re in a different world.” (Jain had originally suggested getting married in space, but Hammond was not keen on the idea.)

While the location of their wedding was unique, it wasn’t the only unorthodox detail about their celebrations: The couple had no bridal party, no wedding cake — although they did serve a birthday cake from Milk Bar — and seemingly left most of the planning process up to their coordinators.

“I had no idea what the napkins looked like or what the table setting looked like,” Hammond, 32, told People.

Jain, 34, added, “We’re not traditional wedding people. Why do you have to spend $20,000 on flowers? It doesn’t make sense.”

The one detail they were certainly involved in was the transportation of their wedding guests from the safari they brought them on in Africa back to Cairo for their ceremony.

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Ahead of their welcome party, their private Egypt Air flight was halted by the South African government, leaving them in a huge bind. After the bride and groom stayed up hours trying to get their guests to Egypt, they eventually pulled it off — but it made their welcome event kick off three hours late.

“We partied until 5 a.m. having just the best opening night,” Jain recalled to People April 25. The event, which was held at the Muhammed Ali Palace, had a “Modern Cairo” theme and featured belly and fire dancers.

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Jain and Hammond’s 130-person guest list was impressive as well. Some of the biggest celebrities celebrated their love, including Lance Bass and his husband, Michael Turchin, Robin Thicke and his wife, April Love Geary, “Shark Tank” investor Kevin O’Leary and his wife, Linda, influencer Serena Kerrigan, several politicians and prominent businesspeople.

Thicke, 47, surprised guests with a performance, while Bass, 44, gave an impromptu show of “Bye, Bye, Bye” near the end of the night after a stunning fireworks show over the pyramids.

“We had the best time. It was so special,” Jain gushed to the outlet. “When the fireworks went off, it was one of the most spectacular moments. I was so emotional, I couldn’t even put it into words.”

The newlyweds met at Rumble Boxing, where Hammond is a founding member. She was also an instructor there when they first interacted.

A few years later, they hit it off and got engaged in November 2022.

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