Egypt does not have a metro system that operates throughout the country. However, Cairo, the capital
city, does have a metro system known as the Cairo Metro. The Cairo Metro is the only metro system
currently operational in Egypt. It consists of three operational lines:
1.Line 1 (Red Line): This line runs from Helwan in the south to El Marg in the northeast, passing
through central Cairo.
2.Line 2 (Green Line): This line runs from Shubra El Kheima in the north to Al Mounib in the
southwest, intersecting with Line 1 at several points.
3.Line 3 (Yellow Line): This line is partially operational and is planned to extend further in the
future.
These lines cover significant parts of Cairo and provide a relatively efficient means of
transportation within the city.
If you are visiting Egypt and specifically Cairo, you can
access the Cairo Metro from various stations located throughout the city. Stations are well-marked,
and maps and signs are typically available in Arabic and English. It's a convenient way to travel
through the busy streets of Cairo, especially during peak traffic hours.
Yes, alcohol is legal in Egypt, but its consumption is subject to certain regulations and cultural
considerations:
1. Legal Purchase: Alcohol can be purchased from licensed liquor stores and some hotels that have
obtained a license to serve alcohol.
2. Legal Drinking Age: The legal drinking age in Egypt is 21 years old.
3. Public Consumption: It is generally not acceptable to consume alcohol openly in public places
outside of licensed venues. Public intoxication is also not tolerated.
4. Islamic Considerations: Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country, and while alcohol is legally
available, drinking alcohol in public places during Islamic holidays or in conservative areas should
be approached with sensitivity.
5.Hotels and Tourist Areas: Many hotels and tourist-oriented establishments serve alcohol to their
guests, but it's advisable to respect local customs and laws regarding alcohol consumption.
6.Local Customs: It's polite to consider local customs and sensitivities, especially in more
conservative areas outside of major tourist hubs.
In summary, while alcohol is legal and available in Egypt, it's important to drink responsibly and
be mindful of cultural norms and regulations.
Public displays of affection (PDA) in Egypt are generally frowned upon, especially outside of more
liberal and tourist-heavy areas. Egypt is a predominantly conservative society influenced by Islamic
values, and public displays of affection, such as kissing or hugging, between couples are considered
inappropriate in many contexts.
It's advisable for visitors to adhere to local customs and norms regarding PDA:
1. Modesty: Egyptians typically show affection discreetly in public, if at all.
2. Conservative Areas: In more conservative areas or neighborhoods, any form of public affection may
be met with disapproval.
3. Respect for Culture: As a visitor, respecting local customs and sensitivities is important to
avoid causing offense or discomfort.
4.Tourist Areas: In tourist areas like resorts or international hotels, there may be more tolerance
for PDA, but it's still recommended to be mindful of surroundings and cultural expectations.
In essence, while PDA is not explicitly illegal in Egypt, it's generally advised to keep public
displays of affection to a minimum out of respect for local customs and societal norms.
In Egypt, the climate varies depending on the region, but generally, the country experiences a desert
climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The cold season in Egypt is primarily during
the winter months, which are from December to February. During this period:
1. Temperature: In northern parts of Egypt, including Cairo and Alexandria, temperatures during
winter can range from around 10°C (50°F) at night to 20-25°C (68-77°F) during the day. In southern
Egypt, such as Luxor and Aswan, temperatures can be slightly warmer, ranging from about 12-15°C
(54-59°F) at night to 25-30°C (77-86°F) during the day.
2. Rainfall: Winter is also the rainy season in Egypt, although rain is generally minimal. The
northern coast and the Nile Delta region receive more rainfall compared to the southern regions of
Egypt.
3.Wind: During winter, particularly in northern Egypt, there can be occasional cold winds blowing
from the Mediterranean Sea, which can make the weather feel colder.
Overall, while Egypt is known for its hot and dry climate, the winter months of December to February
are considered the cold season, with temperatures cooling down compared to the scorching summer
months.
Yes, there are several activities and items that are prohibited or restricted in Egypt, reflecting
the country's legal framework, cultural norms, and religious values. Here are some key prohibitions
and restrictions:
1. Drugs: The possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs is strictly prohibited and can result
in severe penalties, including long prison sentences or the death penalty.
2. Public Displays of Affection: As mentioned earlier, public displays of affection, particularly
between unmarried couples, are frowned upon and can be considered offensive.
3. LGBTQ+ Rights: Homosexuality is not explicitly illegal, but LGBTQ+ individuals may face legal
challenges and societal discrimination. Public acts or expressions of homosexuality can lead to
prosecution under laws related to public morality and debauchery.
4. Photography: Taking photographs of military or government buildings, bridges, or other
infrastructure is prohibited. It’s also advisable to ask for permission before photographing locals,
particularly in rural or conservative areas.
5. Drones: The use of drones is heavily regulated, and it is illegal to operate a drone without
special permission from the Egyptian authorities.
6. Antiquities: Exporting antiquities or any objects that might be considered of historical or
cultural significance is prohibited without proper authorization. Smuggling antiquities is a serious
offense.
7. Criticism of the Government and Religion: Criticizing the government, the president, or religious
figures and institutions can lead to legal repercussions, including imprisonment. Blasphemy laws are
in place to protect religious sentiments, particularly regarding Islam.
8. Dress Code: While there are no strict dress codes for tourists, dressing modestly is recommended,
especially when visiting religious sites or conservative areas. Women should cover their shoulders
and knees, and men should avoid wearing shorts in such places.
9. Alcohol: While alcohol is legal, drinking in public places outside of licensed venues is not
allowed. Public intoxication is also illegal.
10. Firearms and Weapons: The possession of firearms or other weapons without the proper licenses is
prohibited and can lead to severe penalties.
12.Import Restrictions: Certain items are restricted from being brought into Egypt, including some
medications, pornography, and certain religious texts that might be seen as proselytizing.
It’s important for visitors to familiarize themselves with local laws and customs to ensure a
respectful and trouble-free stay in Egypt.
The official language of Egypt is Arabic. Specifically, Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) is used in
official documents, government proceedings, and formal education. However, Egyptian Arabic, also
known as Masri, is the most widely spoken dialect and is used in everyday conversation, media, and
popular culture.
In addition to Arabic, other languages are spoken and understood to varying degrees in Egypt:
1.English: Widely taught and understood, especially in urban areas and among the educated
population. It is commonly used in business, tourism, and higher education.
2.French: Also taught in schools and understood to some extent, particularly among older generations
and in certain professional fields.
3.Other Languages: In tourist areas, you might also find people who speak languages such as German,
Italian, and Spanish due to the tourism industry.
Despite the presence of these languages, Arabic remains the dominant and official language in
Egypt.
Booking cabs in Egypt can be done through several methods, catering to different preferences and
needs. Here are the most common ways to book a cab in Egypt:
1. Ride-Hailing Apps:
Uber: Widely available in major cities like Cairo and Alexandria. You can
use the Uber app to book rides conveniently.
Careem: Another popular ride-hailing service in Egypt, offering various ride options and also
available in multiple cities.
InDriver: This app allows passengers to propose their fare and drivers to accept or negotiate,
providing a flexible pricing model.
2. Hailing on the Street: You can easily find taxis on the streets, especially in urban areas. Just
wave to hail one. However, it's advisable to agree on the fare before starting the journey as meters
are not always used.
3. Taxi Stands: Taxis can also be found at designated stands, especially at airports, major hotels,
and transportation hubs.
4. Restaurant Assistance: Some restaurants and cafes can also help you book a taxi if needed.
5.Phone Booking: Some local taxi companies offer phone booking services. You can call and arrange a
pick-up, though this might require some knowledge of Arabic or help from a local.
6.Hotel Concierge: Many hotels offer taxi booking services for their guests. This can be a
convenient and reliable option.
Using ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem is generally the most convenient and reliable method,
especially for non-Arabic speakers, due to the app interfaces being available in multiple languages
and the ability to track your ride.
Yes, while there is no strict dress code enforced by law in Egypt, cultural norms and societal
expectations influence how people dress, particularly when it comes to tourists. Here are some
guidelines for both men and women:
For Men:
1. Tops: T-shirts, short-sleeved shirts, and polo shirts are commonly worn. Sleeveless shirts (tank
tops) are generally discouraged in non-tourist areas.
2. Bottoms: Long pants or shorts that are at least knee-length are advisable, especially in urban
and rural areas.
3.Footwear: Sandals, sneakers, and closed-toe shoes are all acceptable. Flip-flops are more suited
for beaches or hotel areas.
4. Swimwear: Swim trunks are acceptable at pools and beaches, but more conservative swimwear may be
appreciated at public beaches.
For Women:
1. Modesty: It’s recommended that women dress modestly, particularly in rural or conservative areas.
This typically means covering shoulders, cleavage, and knees.
2. Tops: Short-sleeved shirts, blouses, or t-shirts are generally acceptable, but sleeveless tops
and those with plunging necklines should be avoided.
3. Bottoms: Long skirts, dresses, or pants are preferred. In tourist areas, knee-length skirts and
shorts may be more acceptable.
4. Head Coverings: While not required, wearing a headscarf (hijab) can be respectful and helpful
when visiting religious sites such as mosques.
5. Swimwear: Bikinis and swimsuits are acceptable at hotel pools and private beaches but should be
more modest (one-piece swimsuits or tankinis) at public beaches or swimming pools.
General Tips for Both Genders:
1. Religious Sites: When visiting mosques or other religious sites, both men and women should dress
more conservatively. Women should cover their heads, arms, and legs, while men should avoid wearing
shorts.
2.Weather Considerations: Egypt’s climate can be quite hot, so lightweight, breathable fabrics are
recommended. Loose-fitting clothing is also more comfortable and respectful.
3.Cultural Sensitivity: Dressing modestly shows respect for local customs and can help avoid
unwanted attention. In tourist areas, there is more flexibility, but respecting cultural norms is
always appreciated.
By adhering to these guidelines, visitors can enjoy their stay in Egypt
while showing respect for the local culture and customs.
If you find yourself in trouble in Egypt, whether it's a medical emergency, legal issue, or any other
serious situation, here are the steps you should take:
1. Emergency Services:
Police: Dial 122 for police assistance.
Ambulance: Dial 123 for medical emergencies.
Fire Brigade: Dial 180 for fire emergencies.
Tourist Police: Dial 126 for assistance specifically for tourists.
2. Contact Your Embassy:
Your country's embassy can provide assistance in case of legal troubles, medical emergencies, or if
you lose your passport. They can offer advice, contact family or friends, and sometimes arrange for
legal representation.
Locate your embassy's contact information before you travel or as soon as you arrive in Egypt.
3. Medical Emergencies:
Hospitals and Clinics: Head to the nearest hospital or clinic if you need medical assistance.
Major cities like Cairo and Alexandria have well-equipped hospitals.
Insurance: If you have travel insurance, contact your insurance provider for assistance and
advice on which medical facilities to use.
4. Legal Troubles:
Local Authorities: If you’re involved in any legal issues, contacting the local authorities is
essential. The Tourist Police can be particularly helpful for foreigners.
Legal Representation: Consider hiring a local attorney. Your embassy can often provide a list
of recommended lawyers.
5. Personal Safety:
Stay Calm: Remain calm and try to communicate clearly. If you don’t speak Arabic, use simple
English or find someone who can translate.
Avoid Confrontations: Try to avoid escalating any situation. Show respect and be cooperative
with authorities.
6. Lost Passport or Theft:
Report to Police: Report any loss or theft of your passport to the local police immediately and
obtain a police report.
Contact Embassy: Go to your embassy or consulate to apply for an emergency travel document.
7. Travel Assistance:
Travel Agencies: If you booked through a travel agency, contact them for support. They can
provide local assistance and resources.
Hotel Staff: Hotel staff can often help with emergency contacts and advice on local services.
8. Communication:
Local Contacts: If you have local contacts or friends, inform them of your situation. They can
offer valuable support and guidance.
Keep Important Numbers Handy: Keep a list of emergency numbers, your embassy contact details,
and insurance information with you.
Useful Contacts:
Emergency Services: Police (122), Ambulance (123), Fire Brigade (180), Tourist Police (126).
Your Embassy: Contact details of your home country's embassy or consulate in Egypt.
By taking these steps, you can effectively handle emergencies and get the necessary
assistance in Egypt.
If you need immediate medical assistance in Egypt, follow these steps to ensure you receive prompt
and appropriate care:
1. Contact Emergency Services:
Dial 123: This is the emergency number for ambulances in Egypt. Provide clear information about
your
location and the nature of the medical emergency.
2. Go to the Nearest Hospital or Clinic:
Identify the Nearest Facility: If you are in a city, there are numerous hospitals and clinics
that
can provide emergency care. In Cairo, some well-known hospitals include:
Cairo University Hospitals (Kasr El-Aini)
Al Salam International Hospital
Dar Al Fouad Hospital
Cleopatra Hospital
Ask for Help: If you are unsure of where to go, ask hotel staff, local residents, or call your
travel insurance provider for recommendations.
3. Inform Your Travel Insurance Provider:
Contact Your Insurer: If you have travel insurance, contact your provider as soon as possible.
They
can guide you to the appropriate medical facility and assist with any necessary arrangements,
including payment guarantees.
4. Prepare for the Visit:
Carry Identification and Insurance Details: Bring your passport, travel insurance card, and any
relevant medical records if available.
Bring Essentials: Take any medications you are currently using and a list of any known
allergies.
5. At the Medical Facility:
Communicate Clearly: Explain your symptoms clearly. If you don’t speak Arabic, request an
English-speaking doctor or ask for a translator.
Payment: Be prepared to pay for services. Most private hospitals require payment upfront, even
if
you have insurance. Keep all receipts for insurance claims.
6. Follow-Up Care:
Prescriptions and Treatment Plans: Follow the treatment plan given by the medical
professionals,
including taking prescribed medications.
Keep in Touch with Your Embassy: In severe cases, inform your embassy for additional support
and
assistance.
Additional Tips:
Local Contacts: If you have local contacts or friends, inform them of your situation for
additional
support and guidance.
Stay Calm: Remaining calm will help you communicate more effectively and handle the situation
better.
By taking these steps, you can ensure you receive the necessary medical assistance
promptly while in
Egypt.
If you get cheated or robbed in Egypt, it's important to take immediate and appropriate steps to
address the situation and ensure your safety. Here’s what you should do:
1. Ensure Your Safety:
Move to a safe location where you are not in immediate danger.
Stay calm and composed to think clearly about your next steps.
2. Report the Incident to the Police:
Contact the Tourist Police: Dial 126 for the Tourist Police, who are specially trained to
assist
foreigners.
Local Police: Dial 122 for general police assistance. Go to the nearest police station to file
a
report if needed.
Provide Details: Give a detailed account of the incident, including descriptions of the
perpetrators, time, and place.
3. Contact Your Embassy:
Inform Your Embassy: Your embassy can provide assistance, such as helping you with lost travel
documents, contacting family or friends, and providing guidance on legal matters.
Emergency Contact Information: Have your embassy’s contact details handy. Most embassies have
emergency lines for their citizens.
4. Cancel Stolen Credit Cards and Notify Banks:
Contact Your Bank: Immediately notify your bank to cancel any stolen credit or debit cards and
to
prevent unauthorized transactions.
Emergency Assistance: Many banks offer emergency assistance for travelers, including issuing
replacement cards and providing emergency funds.
5. Report Lost Travel Documents:
Passport: If your passport is stolen, report it to the local police and obtain a police report.
Then
contact your embassy to apply for an emergency travel document or a replacement passport.
Other Documents: Report any other stolen documents (such as driver’s license or ID cards) to
the
appropriate authorities.
6. Seek Help from Locals or Hotel Staff:
Hotel Assistance: Hotel staff can assist you with contacting the police, embassy, or arranging
transportation. They may also have security footage if the incident occurred nearby.
Local Contacts: If you have local friends or contacts, inform them for additional support and
advice.
7. Keep Copies of Reports and Documents:
Police Report: Keep a copy of the police report for insurance claims and to provide to your
embassy.
Receipts and Correspondence: Maintain records of all communications and receipts related to the
incident.
8. Stay Vigilant:
Avoid Unsafe Areas: Be cautious and avoid areas known for high crime rates, especially at
night.
Stay Aware: Keep an eye on your belongings and be wary of your surroundings to prevent further
incidents.
9. Preventative Measures:
Use Hotel Safes: Store valuables, passports, and extra cash in the hotel safe.
Minimal Carry: Carry only essential items when going out and use a money belt or hidden pouch
for
important documents and cash.
Avoid Flashing Valuables: Keep cameras, jewelry, and other valuables discreetly concealed to
avoid
attracting attention.
By following these steps, you can effectively handle the situation and
mitigate the impact of being cheated or robbed while in Egypt.
If you need to connect with the Indian Embassy or Consulate in Egypt, you can reach out to them using
the following contact details and methods:
1. Indian Embassy in Cairo:
The embassy may have a dedicated emergency contact number for urgent situations involving Indian nationals. Check the embassy’s website or contact them to get this number. By using these methods, you can effectively connect with the Indian Embassy in Cairo for any assistance you may need while in Egypt.
An "Egypt Pass" typically refers to a type of tourist or travel pass that allows visitors to access
multiple attractions, museums, or transportation services within Egypt at a discounted price or with
added benefits. These passes are designed to make travel more convenient and cost-effective for
tourists exploring various destinations in Egypt. Here are some common types of Egypt passes:
1.Museum Passes: These passes provide access to multiple museums and historical sites across Egypt,
often for a set duration.
2.Transportation Passes: Some passes offer discounts or unlimited travel on public transportation
systems, such as metro passes in Cairo or Luxor Pass for local transportation in Luxor.
3.Tourist City Cards: In certain cities like Cairo, there may be city cards that offer discounts on
attractions, restaurants, and transportation.
4.Nile River Cruises: Passes or packages that include guided tours or access to Nile River cruises,
a popular tourist activity in Egypt.
5.Archaeological Site Passes: These passes may include entry to multiple archaeological sites such
as the Giza Pyramids, Luxor Temple, and Karnak Temple.
These passes can vary widely in terms of availability, cost, and benefits. It's recommended to
check with local tourism offices, travel agencies, or official tourism websites for the most current
information on Egypt passes and how to obtain them.
Staying safe on the roads in Egypt requires understanding the driving rules and being aware of the
local driving conditions, which can be quite different from what you may be used to. Here are some
tips to help you stay safe while driving in Egypt:
1. Driving License: You must have a valid international driving permit (IDP) along with your
original driver's license from your home country to legally drive in Egypt.
2. Traffic Flow: Traffic in Egypt drives on the right-hand side of the road.
3. Speed Limits: Speed limits are generally posted and should be adhered to. Speed limits in urban
areas are typically lower than on highways.
4. Seat Belts: Seat belts are mandatory for drivers and all passengers in the vehicle.
5. Mobile Phones: It is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving unless you have a hands-free
device.
6.Drinking and Driving: The legal blood alcohol limit in Egypt is very low, so it is safest to avoid
alcohol entirely if you plan to drive.
7. Roundabouts: Approach roundabouts cautiously and yield to traffic already in the circle. Traffic
inside the roundabout has the right of way.
8. Overtaking: Exercise caution when overtaking, as it is common for drivers to pass on both sides.
9. Traffic Signals and Signs: Obey traffic signals and signs, although local drivers may not always
do so.
10. Defensive Driving: Be vigilant and anticipate erratic behavior from other drivers, pedestrians,
and animals on the road.
11. Avoid Night Driving: Road conditions may be more hazardous at night due to poor lighting and
wandering animals.
12.Stay Informed: Before your trip, familiarize yourself with local driving laws and conditions.
13.Emergency Numbers: Keep emergency numbers handy, including police (122) and ambulance (123).
By following these guidelines and exercising caution, you can enhance your safety while driving in
Egypt and enjoy your travels more comfortably.
To stay safe while enjoying the sea in Egypt, whether you're swimming, snorkeling, diving, or
participating in water sports, it's important to follow these safety tips:
1. Know Your Limits: Only swim or engage in water activities if you are a confident swimmer and know
your limitations. Avoid going too far from shore if you're not a strong swimmer.
2. Swim in Designated Areas: Use beaches and swimming areas that are designated for swimming and
supervised by lifeguards. These areas typically have safety measures in place and are regularly
monitored.
3. Obey Warning Signs: Pay attention to warning signs, flags, and announcements indicating water
conditions, currents, and any hazards. Follow lifeguard instructions and warnings to ensure your
safety.
4. Buddy System: Whenever possible, swim or participate in water activities with a buddy. Having
someone with you can provide assistance in case of an emergency.
5. Wear Life Jackets: If you're participating in water sports such as jet skiing, kayaking, or
paddleboarding, wear a properly fitted life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD) at all times,
especially if you're not a strong swimmer.
6. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially when spending time in the sun
and engaging in physical activities in the water.
7. Protect Yourself from the Sun: Apply sunscreen with a high SPF rating and reapply it regularly,
especially if you're spending extended periods in the water. Wear a hat, sunglasses, and protective
clothing to shield yourself from the sun's harmful rays.
8. Stay Informed: Be aware of weather conditions and forecasts before heading out to the sea. Avoid
going into the water during inclement weather, rough seas, or high winds.
9. Boating Safety: If you're boating, ensure that the vessel is equipped with necessary safety
equipment such as life jackets, a first aid kit, navigation lights, and a radio or communication
device. Follow boating regulations and guidelines, and designate a responsible person to operate the
boat.
10. Learn Basic Water Safety Skills: Familiarize yourself with basic water safety skills such as
treading water, floating, and performing simple rescues. Knowing these skills can be invaluable in
an emergency situation.
11. Emergency Preparedness: In case of an emergency, know how to call for help and be prepared to
provide your location and details of the situation to emergency responders.
By following these safety tips and being aware of your surroundings, you can have a safe and
enjoyable experience in the sea while visiting Egypt.
