Cairo Travel Advice
Cairo, the capital of Egypt, is relatively safe with relatively low crime levels. Yet, the threat of terror attacks is quite high in Cairo.
Attacks in Cairo are typically aimed at security forces and government facilities. Therefore, travelers are advised to remain vigilant and stay informed by monitoring local news before and during their visit. Maintaining awareness of surroundings and following official advice can help ensure safety.
Egypt's sprawling capital, Cairo is one of the largest and most vibrant cities in Africa and the Arab world. Situated along the banks of the Nile River, the city is a blend of ancient history and modern culture, serving as a major center for politics, economics, and tourism.
Cairo is often referred to as the "City of a Thousand Minarets" due to its numerous mosques and Islamic architecture. The city has been the capital of Egypt for over a thousand years and holds immense historical importance, particularly from the Islamic, Coptic, and Pharaonic periods. It is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Islamic Cairo, an area full of mosques, madrassas, and bazaars that date back to the 10th century.
A bustling metropolis, Cairo is a mix of contemporary districts, such as Zamalek and Maadi, that offer modern restaurants, cafés, and shops. These areas provide a contrast to the historic neighborhoods like Old Cairo and Khan El Khalili market, where visitors can experience traditional Egyptian life.
Cairo has a rich cultural life, with numerous theaters, music venues, and art galleries. The Cairo Opera House is a major cultural hub, while the city also hosts international festivals, including the Cairo International Film Festival. Cairo's art scene, with contemporary galleries and performances, continues to grow and influence the Arab world.
Visiting Cairo FAQsHire a bodyguard in Cairo
If you are interested in hiring a bodyguard for your travel to Cairo, please see our page for Bodyguard Services in Egypt.
Key Information for Egypt
Emergency Services
Police emergency: 122 or 02/303 4122.
Tourist Police: 126
Traffic Police: 128
Fire emergency: 180
Medical emergency: 123
Country Overview
Capital City: Cairo
Official State Language(s): Arabic (Egyptian Arabic)
Official State Religion(s): Islam (Sunni Islam)
State Currency: Egyptian Pound (EGP, E£)
Current Capital Time:
How safe is Cairo?
The current security status in Cairo remains cautious, with several advisories in place.
While Cairo itself benefits from heightened security measures, the overall situation in Egypt is affected by broader regional concerns, particularly regarding terrorism. Terrorist groups have targeted urban centers, including Cairo, in the past, although large-scale attacks in the capital have become less frequent in recent years.
Key security considerations include:
Terrorism Risk: Extremists continue to pose a threat, with potential targets including government buildings, security forces, and popular tourist locations. Despite improved security, attacks may occur with little or no warning.
Crowds and Protests: Demonstrations and protests can erupt quickly, and travelers are strongly advised to avoid large gatherings, as authorities may respond with force. Participating in protests or posting critical content about Egypt on social media can result in arrest.
Local Vigilance: Travelers should remain alert in public areas, particularly tourist hotspots, and follow the guidance of local authorities. It is recommended to monitor local news and official travel advisories for updates during your stay.
In summary, while Cairo remains accessible for tourism, it's important to exercise caution, avoid risky areas, and stay informed of any potential developments.
Travelers to Cairo should adhere to local laws and customs, as Egypt is a predominantly Islamic country with strict regulations on behavior, public displays of affection, and alcohol consumption. Public displays of affection, especially near religious sites, and sexual activity outside of marriage may lead to legal consequences. It’s important to remain respectful of cultural norms, particularly in more conservative areas. For more information on Islamic culture, please see: Guide to Islamic culture.
Visiting Cairo FAQsHealth Emergencies in Cairo
Major Hospitals and Clinics in Cairo
Cairo has numerous public and private hospitals, with private hospitals generally offering higher standards of care for expatriates and tourists. Some of the leading hospitals include:
Dar Al Fouad Hospital: Known for its advanced medical technologies and experienced staff. This private hospital is frequently used by foreigners due to its excellent reputation for providing high-quality care.
Cleopatra Hospital: Another private facility offering a wide range of medical services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized treatments. It's popular among tourists and expatriates.
As-Salam International Hospital: Offers comprehensive healthcare services, including an emergency department. Located near the Nile, it's well-regarded for its modern facilities.
Pharmacies
Cairo has numerous pharmacies, many of which are open 24/7. Pharmacists in Egypt are typically well-trained and can provide basic medical advice for minor ailments. Prescription medications can be easily accessed, but for more serious conditions, it's advisable to consult a doctor first.
Common Health Risks:
Food and Waterborne Illnesses: Contaminated food and water can lead to illnesses such as traveler’s diarrhea and hepatitis A. It is recommended to drink bottled water and avoid raw or undercooked foods.
Heat-Related Illnesses: Due to Egypt's hot climate, especially during the summer, travelers are at risk for heat exhaustion or heatstroke. Hydration and sun protection are essential.
Respiratory Issues: Air pollution in cities like Cairo can exacerbate respiratory conditions like asthma. Insect-Borne Diseases: Malaria is not common in Egypt, but mosquito-borne illnesses such as West Nile virus are potential risks.
Key Security Issues
Despite significant security improvements, Cairo remains vulnerable to the risk of terrorist attacks, which are typically carried out by extremist groups. These attacks primarily target government buildings, security forces, and popular tourist locations, aiming to undermine public confidence and disrupt normal life. Although Egypt has significantly increased security measures across the capital, these incidents can still occur without warning.
Key Targets:
Government and Security Institutions: Terrorists often aim at state symbols, such as police stations, military posts, and government buildings. These attacks are designed to destabilize public order and challenge the state’s authority. Egyptian security forces remain a frequent target due to their involvement in counterterrorism operations, particularly against Islamist militant groups in the Sinai Peninsula.
Tourist Locations: Cairo, being a cultural and historical hub, attracts millions of tourists each year, making popular tourist spots potential targets. Locations like the Egyptian Museum, Tahrir Square, and large hotels frequented by Western visitors have been under scrutiny. Attacks in these areas aim to damage Egypt's vital tourism industry, which is a key part of the economy.
Religious Sites: Extremist groups have targeted both Christian and Islamic religious sites. Churches and mosques, especially during religious festivals or services, have been attacked in the past, causing mass casualties. The attacks on places of worship aim to deepen sectarian tensions and create divisions within Egyptian society.
Transportation Hubs: Terrorists have also struck public transportation systems, including buses, metro stations, and even airports. These attacks, such as the bombing near Cairo's main railway station in 2019, aim to maximize casualties by targeting crowded areas during peak.
Methods and Timing:
Unpredictable Timing: Attacks can occur without warning, and are often carried out during national holidays, religious events, or times of political unrest to create maximum impact and fear.
Tactics: Common tactics include suicide bombings, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and shootings. Extremist groups may also attempt kidnappings or vehicle-borne attacks to create chaos and inflict as much damage as possible.
Increased Security Measures:
In response to these threats, Egyptian authorities have bolstered security in key areas, particularly around tourist attractions, government buildings, and transport hubs. Enhanced screening at airports, the presence of armed police at popular sites, and frequent roadblocks around sensitive locations are all part of the government’s efforts to deter potential attacks.
While Cairo remains generally safe for tourists, vigilance is crucial, particularly in crowded public areas.
Crime in Cairo
Cairo generally has lower rates of violent crime compared to other major cities globally, but incidents of petty crime, particularly targeting tourists, do occur. Here’s an overview of the crime situation in Cairo:
Petty Theft and Scams:
Pickpocketing and Bag Snatching: These are common, especially in busy areas frequented by tourists, such as markets, metro stations, and tourist attractions like the Pyramids of Giza, Tahrir Square, and Khan El Khalili Bazaar. Tourists should be cautious, especially in crowded areas, and avoid displaying valuables openly.
Taxi and Vendor Scams: Overcharging in taxis or by street vendors is another frequent complaint from tourists. Some taxi drivers may not use meters, so it’s essential to negotiate fares beforehand or use reliable ride-hailing services like Careem.
Tourist Area Scams: Visitors are sometimes approached by individuals offering services like guiding or taking them to shops where prices are inflated for tourists.
Sexual Harassment:
Harassment of Women: Female tourists, especially those traveling alone, may face unwelcome attention in the form of catcalls, inappropriate remarks, or even physical harassment. This issue has been acknowledged as a broader societal problem in Egypt, with harassment more likely in crowded or less-tourist-oriented areas.
Women are advised to dress conservatively and, where possible, travel with others.
Violent Crime:
Violent Crime: Although relatively rare, violent crime does exist in Cairo. Assaults and robberies can occur, but tourists are generally not the primary targets. Most violent incidents tend to happen in poorer areas away from the main tourist zones.
Kidnapping: The risk of kidnapping is low in Cairo, but there are higher risks in rural areas or conflict zones like the Sinai Peninsula.
Home and Vehicle Break-ins:
There has been a slight increase in home and vehicle break-ins since Egypt's economic challenges began in 2011. However, these incidents typically affect locals rather than tourists.
Cultural Sensitivity and Legal Issues:
Legal Trouble: Foreigners can be at risk of legal issues if they unknowingly violate local customs or laws, such as criticizing the government or being involved in protests. It is important to be aware of local laws and respect cultural norms.
Police Presence:
Cairo has a strong police presence, especially in tourist-heavy areas. The city has a dedicated Tourism Police force to assist foreign visitors and respond to crimes that may affect tourists. Their presence helps mitigate crime in many parts of the city.
While Cairo is relatively safe for tourists, especially in well-frequented areas, being cautious and following local advice will further reduce risks during your visit.
Global Travel AdvisoriesFAQs for visiting Egypt
You can find the following embassies in Egypt for the US and UK:
U.S. Embassy Cairo
5 Tawfik Diab Street,
Garden City,
Cairo,
Egypt
Telephone: +20 (2) 2797 3300
Emergency telephone: +20 (2) 2797 3300
Email: [email protected]
7 Ahmed Ragheb,
Qasr Ad Dobarah,
Qasr an Nile,
Cairo Governorate 11451,
Egypt
Telephone: +20 (2) 2791 6000
Email: [email protected]
3 Pharaana Street,
Alexandria
Telephone: +20 (2) 3486 1009
To visit Egypt, the type of visa you require depends on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Here are the most common options:
Visa-Free Entry: Citizens of certain countries, including UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait, do not need a visa for short stays (usually up to 90 days).
E-Visa:
Many nationalities, including those from the United States, Canada, Australia, and most EU countries, can apply for an e-Visa online. It is available for both single-entry and multiple-entry stays of up to 30 days. The application process is done through Egypt's official e-Visa portal, which generally processes applications within a few days.
Visa on Arrival:
Travelers from certain countries, such as the United States, Canada, and Australia, can obtain a visa on arrival at Egyptian airports. This visa is valid for 30 days and typically costs $25 USD for a single-entry visa. It’s advisable to carry the exact amount in cash (USD).
Embassy Visa:
Some travelers who are not eligible for an e-Visa or visa on arrival will need to apply for a visa through their local Egyptian consulate or embassy. The process typically involves providing documents such as a completed visa application, passport photos, and proof of travel arrangements.
Additional Requirements:
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
Travelers are sometimes required to provide proof of onward or return travel, as well as sufficient funds for their stay.
Long-Term and Special Visas:
If you plan to stay in Egypt for longer than 30 days, or for reasons like work, study, or research, you’ll need to apply for a long-term visa or permit through the Egyptian embassy before your trip.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it's always best to consult the official Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or visit the nearest Egyptian consulate.
In recent years, terrorist incidents in Cairo have been less frequent, thanks to heightened security measures.
However, attacks do still occur, especially in other parts of Egypt, including religious and tourist sites.
A notable recent attack took place in April 2024 in the Minya Governorate, where Christian villages were targeted in sectarian violence, highlighting ongoing tensions between different religious communities. Although this event occurred outside Cairo, it underscores the broader security risks in Egypt, particularly regarding religious extremism.
Additionally, there have been concerns about potential threats to tourist areas and transportation hubs in Cairo, which have been targeted in the past by terrorist groups. While large-scale attacks in the capital have been rare in recent years, Egyptian security forces remain on high alert, especially around government buildings, religious sites, and areas frequented by foreign visitors.
Overall, while Cairo is relatively safe for travelers, the risk of terrorism remains present, and it is advisable to stay vigilant, avoid large gatherings, and monitor local news and security updates during your visit.
Before visiting Egypt, it's essential to ensure you're up to date on several vaccinations and immunizations to protect against potential health risks. Here are the recommended vaccines:
Routine Vaccinations: Make sure you're up to date on standard vaccines, including:
- Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)
- Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTP)
- Polio
- Influenza
Hepatitis A: This is recommended for all travelers, as you can contract Hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Egypt.
Hepatitis B: If you plan to have close contact with local residents or engage in activities that may expose you to bodily fluids, such as healthcare work, this vaccine is recommended.
Typhoid: Particularly advised if you're traveling to rural areas or eating outside of major tourist hubs where food hygiene may be less regulated.
Rabies: While not common in urban centers, rabies vaccination is recommended if you plan to engage in outdoor activities, such as hiking or camping, or if you expect to be in close contact with animals.
It's always advisable to consult with a healthcare provider or travel clinic at least 4–6 weeks before your trip to Egypt, to ensure you're fully protected based on your specific health history and travel itinerary.
Public Transportation in Cairo:
Public transportation in Cairo is diverse but can be challenging to navigate due to the city's size, traffic congestion, and occasional safety concerns. Here’s an overview of the main options:
Cairo Metro:
Overview: Cairo's metro system is the most efficient and cost-effective mode of transportation, especially for avoiding surface traffic. It's the first metro system in Africa, consisting of three lines that serve key areas of the city.
Cost: Fares are affordable, ranging between 5 and 10 Egyptian pounds depending on the distance traveled.
Safety: While generally safe, the metro can become very crowded, particularly during peak hours. It also has women-only carriages available on each train to provide a safer environment for female passengers.
Coverage: The metro connects many important areas, including downtown Cairo, Giza (near the Pyramids), and more suburban areas, though it doesn’t cover the entire city.
Public Buses: Cairo has an extensive public bus network, but buses can be slow due to traffic, and service standards vary. Buses are inexpensive but often overcrowded and not particularly comfortable.
Microbuses: These are small minivans that operate on fixed routes. They are a faster, more affordable option than public buses, but they are less regulated, and the driving can be reckless. Travelers unfamiliar with the city may find microbuses confusing as routes are not clearly marked.
White Taxis: These are metered taxis and generally more reliable than older black-and-white taxis. Always ensure the meter is running or agree on a fare beforehand.
Ride-hailing Apps: Services like Careem and Uber are widely used in Cairo and are a safer and more convenient option for tourists, offering transparent pricing and GPS tracking.
Challenges: Traffic can make taxi journeys slow, and some drivers may attempt to overcharge tourists if not using a meter.
Ride-hailing and Private Car Services:
Uber and Careem: These are the most popular ride-hailing services in Cairo, offering affordable and convenient options to avoid the hassles of negotiating fares with local taxis. These apps also allow for cash or card payment.
Private Cars: Some companies offer private car services for tourists, which can be arranged through hotels or tour operators. This option provides more comfort and safety but is more expensive than local taxis.
Trams and Ferries:
Trams: Cairo once had a tram system, but it is largely defunct and operational only in limited areas like Heliopolis.
Nile Ferries:
Boats and ferries operate on the Nile, providing scenic transportation options. These are more of a leisure activity for tourists than a practical mode of transportation for commuting.
Safety and Convenience:
Public transportation in Cairo is generally safe but can be crowded and confusing for first-time visitors. For more comfort and ease of navigation, using the metro or ride-hailing apps is recommended. Women should consider using the women-only sections on the metro or be cautious when using other public transport options.
In summary, Cairo offers a range of public transportation options, but the metro and ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem are the most reliable for tourists. Always remain cautious, particularly in crowded areas, and be mindful of safety, especially for solo female travelers.
Driving in Egypt:
To drive in Egypt, tourists can use an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with their national driving license for up to six months. After that, you may need to apply for an Egyptian driving license. Road conditions in major cities are generally fair but can be challenging due to congested traffic, aggressive driving habits, and the frequent disregard for traffic laws. Pedestrian crossings are rarely respected, and vehicles often change lanes unpredictably. Road signs and traffic signals are present in urban areas, but drivers may not always follow them.
Our closest office
For any enquiries about our security services in Egypt, please contact our London office and our team will assist you.
Intelligent Protection International
330 High Holborn
WC1V 7QT
London
United Kingdom
Telephone: +44 207 4566740
Email: [email protected]
Disclaimer
You are responsible for your own safety abroad and for making the decision to travel. The information contained in this Travel Advice for Egypt is provided for information only.
Whilst care is taken to ensure that this country brief is as up-to-date and accurate as possible, it is provided on an “as is” basis without any representation or endorsement made and without warranty of any kind, express or implied. Intelligent Protection International Limited does not assume responsibility and shall not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.