Egypt warmly welcomes visitors from around the world and strives to make entry easy. Currently, 78 nationalities qualify for a visa upon arrival or an electronic visa via the Egypt Visa portal. Additionally, over 180 nationalities can obtain a tourist visa upon arrival if they hold a valid and used visa for the US, UK, Schengen Area, Japan, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand.

For travelers headed directly to Sharm al-Sheikh, Nuweiba, and Taba for up to 15 days, a free entry permit stamp is provided upon arrival, allowing free movement across South Sinai, including Dahab. For stays longer than 15 days or travel beyond this area, a visa is required. Visas can also be obtained through Egyptian consulates worldwide or upon arrival for USD 25 at the airport’s passport control area.

Egypt has increasingly invested in public safety, strengthening security in tourist destinations to ensure that visitors feel safe while exploring the country.

The Ministry of Tourism is developing the Safe Tourism Program, a national initiative focusing on various actions to enhance tourist safety. This ensures that visitors can enjoy all the magnificent attractions Egypt has to offer with peace of mind.

In case of any incidents, there are police stations throughout Egypt. Most major cities have specialized tourist police stations to assist visitors. In areas without specialized stations, tourists can contact any regular police station to file an incident report. This commitment to safety and support ensures that tourists in Egypt receive the attention and protection they need.

You can call these toll-free numbers from any phone. Most of them are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

• 126: Tourist Military Police
• 123: Public Paramedics (SAMU)
• 180: Fire Department
• 122: Federal Police
• 19654: Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities

In Egypt, the standard power voltage is 220V with a frequency of 50Hz. Most hotels and accommodations provide outlets compatible with this voltage, but it’s always a good idea to check before using any electrical devices.

Power outlets in Egypt are typically of type C and F, featuring the standard 2-pin sockets. These types are common across Europe and Asia. For safety, it’s important to ensure that plugs are fully inserted into the outlets to avoid accidental contact with live parts.

Power outlet adapters and voltage converters can be easily found at electrical supply stores or airport convenience stores, ensuring that your devices can be used safely and efficiently during your stay in Egypt.

Egypt has a desert climate, with hot summers and mild winters. The average annual temperature varies significantly between regions. In Cairo and the northern coast, summer temperatures can reach up to 35°C (95°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 9°C (48°F). In the southern regions, such as Luxor and Aswan, summer temperatures can soar above 40°C (104°F), and winter temperatures can dip to around 8°C (46°F).

Summer in Egypt, from June to September, is the perfect time for beach activities, especially along the Red Sea coast, where you can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Winters, from December to February, are ideal for exploring Egypt's historical sites and cities, offering comfortable weather for sightseeing.

When packing for your trip, opt for light, breathable clothing to handle the heat. Essential items include hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the strong sun. For visits to desert areas or historical sites, comfortable walking shoes and loose-fitting, long-sleeved clothing are recommended to protect against the sun and dust.

Seasons in Egypt:

• Summer: June to September
• Fall: September to December
• Winter: December to February
• Spring: March to June

Check the Weather in Egypt

Enjoy your trip to Egypt, and remember to stay hydrated and take necessary precautions to make the most of your adventure!

The National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (NTRA) is the Egyptian authority responsible for overseeing phone operations in the country.

The country code for Egypt is +20.

Each Egyptian city has its own area code. Landlines have 7 or 8 digits, depending on the region. Cell phones typically have 10 digits, starting with a 01 prefix.

Dialing Instructions:

• For long-distance calls within Egypt: Dial 0 + area code + desired telephone number.
• For international calls from Egypt: Dial 00 + country code + area code + desired telephone number.
• For service lines (e.g., 0800 for toll-free numbers), the operator code is not necessary.

Using Foreign Cell Phones in Egypt:

The use of foreign cell phones in Egypt depends on the technology and compatibility with Egyptian operators. It is advisable to check with your provider regarding requirements and usage rates for using your cell phone in Egypt. Many visitors opt to purchase a local SIM card for convenience and cost savings.

Mobile Network Operators:

• Vodafone Egypt
• Orange Egypt
• WE (Telecom Egypt)

The official language in Egypt is Arabic, which has its own unique accent and idiomatic expressions. Many Egyptians speak English and French, especially in tourist areas, and you may also encounter people fluent in other languages, such as Italian, German, and various African dialects.

The list below comprises some basic words and local expressions which may help you to get by on your trips to Egypt:

• Hi = Salam Aliko
• Bye = Ma'a Salama
• Yes = Aywa
• Please = Min Fadlak
• Thank you = Shukran
• No = La'a
• I'm sorry = Ana asef
• You are welcome = Afwan

The currency in Egypt is the Egyptian Pound (EGP), often symbolized as £ or LE. It can be exchanged at banks, exchange bureaus, hotels, and authorized exchange counters. The official exchange rate is published daily on financial websites and in newspapers.

Both traveler’s checks and cash are easily exchanged at exchange counters. International credit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, shops, travel agencies, car rental companies, and other establishments that cater to tourists.

Egyptian banknotes and coins have distinctive features and security elements to facilitate identification. Banknotes are available in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 Egyptian pounds. Coins are minted in denominations of 25 piasters, 50 piasters, and 1 Egyptian pound.

For the most current exchange rates, it's best to check reliable financial news sources or dedicated currency exchange websites before making any transactions. Enjoy your stay and make the most of your time in Egypt!

• Ministry of Tourism and  Antiquities
• Minister of Foreign Affairs
• Airports in Egypt 
• Travel Safe