When traveling to Egypt, you must remember that you’re subject to the laws of this Arab Republic regardless of whether or not you’re a citizen. Breaking local law, even unintentionally, could lead to serious consequences, from fines to the possibility of imprisonment or deportation.

To ensure a trouble-free visit, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with some of the Egyptian laws relevant to you as a traveler. Read on to learn more.

Local Laws in Egypt Travelers Should Know

Egypt’s legal system is primarily a civil law system based upon the combination of Islamic (sharia) law and the Napoleonic Code, as a system of codified laws. Its court system is divided into three types of courts that handle civil and criminal cases.

As a traveler, you must familiarize yourself with certain aspects of Egypt law that can impact and affect you, including drinking laws, cultural norms, import restrictions, and where taking photos is strictly prohibited. Be aware that criticizing the Egyptian government might result in legal repercussions.

According to the US State Department, Egyptian police and security forces do not require probable cause in order to stop, question, and detain individuals.

Here are some local laws applicable to foreign travelers in Egypt, as well as what to do if you encounter the Egyptian authorities.

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Currency

Travelers entering Egypt generally are permitted to bring in up to US$10,000 or the equivalent in foreign currency without having to declare it to customs officials. You can also bring in up to $5,000 in Egyptian pounds (E£; EGP).

However, greater amounts must be declared upon arrival; failure in doing so could result in confiscation and potential legal repercussions.

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Passport and Visas

Foreign travelers are required to bring a valid passport and a valid visa to enter Egypt.

Citizens from some countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and most European Union countries, are eligible for a visa on arrival at major entry points, like Cairo International Airport. However, it’s recommended to obtain a visa prior to arrival to avoid possible delays or complications; this can be done by applying for an e-Visa, which covers tourist and business visas.

While going around Egypt, you should carry proper identification, such as a passport, with you. If asked for ID by the Egyptian authorities, failure to provide one may result in detention and questioning.

If you overstay your visa, you risk facing a severe penalty through heavy fines.

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Customs and Border Patrol

In addition to currency, there are certain regulations on what travelers can and can’t bring out of Egypt. Permitted items include personal items, like clothing, toiletries, and electronic devices. Non-permitted items include firearms, ammunition, and other weapons, along with politically sensitive or pornographic materials.

If you’re bringing prescription medicines, it’s a good idea to keep them in their original packaging with a copy of the prescription and a letter from your doctor. Some medications available over the counter in other countries may be considered controlled substances in Egypt. Check with your embassy on what drugs are permitted into the country.

Upon leaving Egypt, you cannot export antiques, artifacts, or other culturally significant items unless you have explicit permission from the Ministry of Antiquities. There are limitations and restrictions on exporting gold and jewelry, so check on current regulations.

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Photographs and Video Recordings

While photography in public places and on the streets of Egypt is now allowed, there are still places where it’s still illegal to photograph. These include military facilities or structures of strategic or military importance, such as the Aswan Dam.

Do not take pictures of the local police, government buildings, or military official installations. Most tourist locations and sites allow for picture taking, but some museums and religious and historical sites may not permit photography in certain areas.

You should also refrain from filming or photographing events such as anti-government protests, as this can put you in harm’s way with Egyptian police or military personnel.

If you want to take a photograph of someone, be respectful and ask first. Keep in mind that laws and customs can change, so it’s best to stay informed through reliable sources, such as your local embassy.

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Indigenous and Religious Sites

Many of Egypt’s historic and religious sites are protected under Egyptian law and international conventions whose rules must be abided by. Many sites, especially in tourist areas, will have marked areas that are off-limits to visitors. Never touch any hieroglyphs, monuments or artifacts.

These restrictions are in place to protect sites from damage. Crossing these boundaries is viewed as a serious offense and could result in penalties. Do not try to go off marked paths or climb on sites.

When taking pictures, make sure the flash is turned off. The use of drones or professional equipment may require a permit.

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Drinking

The legal drinking age in Egypt is 21. However, as Egypt is primarily an Islamic country, note that Muslims do not drink alcohol, and during Ramadan, the sale of alcohol generally is not permitted.

Some tourist hotels and restaurants may still serve it but only to foreigners. Drinking alcohol in the street or any place other than a restaurant or hotel is forbidden and can lead to arrest by Egyptian authorities. So can public drunkenness, which is completely unacceptable in Egyptian culture.

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Smoking and Tobacco

Smoking remains prevalent in Egypt with locals. Visitors can opt to partake in smoking traditional shisha (also known as hookah) in cafes.

Cigarette smoking is also still common, but shisha is seen as a cultural and social happening, and cafes may offer a selection of flavored tobaccos on their menus. The legal age to purchase tobacco products in Egypt is 18.

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Marijuana

Cannabis use and possession is illegal in Egypt. While it may be used privately, it’s best not to consume. If caught, penalties could involve a heavy fine and a prison sentence.

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Drugs

Egypt has a zero-tolerance policy toward drug-related offenses, including possession, use, trafficking, and cultivating illegal substances. Punishments for offenses relating to illegal drugs in Egypt are severe and can include lengthy prison sentences and heavy fines; in certain cases, the death penalty may be applied for drug trafficking.

Moreover, foreigners are not exempt from these laws and can face the same penalties as Egyptian citizens—and in fact, they may face additional complications, such as language barriers or difficulties in understanding the legal process.

Drug laws in Egypt also extend to the use of prescription medication. Some prescription drugs, especially those that may be abused, are tightly regulated. Visitors must have a valid prescription and may be asked to declare the medication upon arrival.

Check with your Egyptian embassy or consulate if you have any doubts or questions regarding laws on illegal drugs.

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Driving

If you plan to drive while in Egypt, you must obtain an International Driving Permit alongside your original driver’s license and have appropriate automobile insurance. When driving, Egypt follows right-hand traffic rules, which means you drive on the right side of the road.

Wearing seat belts is a must. Traffic might feel intense in cities like Cairo and Alexandria as the roads are shared with other vehicles and pedestrians. Many drivers tend not to adhere strictly to traffic rules, and conditions can be chaotic, with frequent honking and continuous stops.

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LGBTQ+ Travelers

For LGBTQ+ travelers, Egypt poses certain matters of concern. Homosexuality is not illegal in Egypt, but it’s very stigmatized in terms of the country’s morality laws and conservative cultural attitudes. Same-sex sexual activity is prohibited; same sex marriages aren’t recognized.

Human-rights advocates have documented cases in which local authorities arrest and/or prosecute LGBTQ+ people on the charge of “debauchery.” Legally, Egypt does not recognize gender changes, so transgender travelers to the country should exercise increased caution.

In general, do not openly engage in public displays of affection, as this can bring more negative attention and may even put you at risk of harassment or legal repercussions.

It’s also advised to stay off the dating or meetup apps while in Egypt. Watch what you post on social media as well. Refer to international LGBTQ+ organizations, such as International LGBTQ+ Travel Association, for travel support and resources. The US State Department also has information for LGBTQ+ travelers.

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Wildlife and Animals

As a visitor, it’s important to show respect for wildlife and natural habitats in Egypt. Stray dogs and cats are common, but some may carry diseases, so do not try to feed or pet them.

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Campfires

If you plan to camp in Egypt and potentially light a fire, check area regulations. Egypt has several protected areas and national parks, and these often have specific rules and regulations that visitors must follow.

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Public Displays of Affection

With Egypt being largely a Muslim country, public displays of affection between non–family members, such as those of the opposite sex, are often frowned upon. This is also important to those belonging to the LGBTQ+ community.

It strictly advised not to show any affectionate touching in public. Engaging in what might be seen by locals as “scandalous” or “indecent” behavior could potentially lead to arrest or fines, particularly if the behavior is reported by a citizen who finds it offensive.

International hotels generally permit guests to check into a room if they are an unmarried couple; read up on reviews and policies to confirm. Some alternative rentals, such as Airbnbs, might be the same way.

Unmarried Egyptian couples will find the opposite, as sharing a room together can be seen as culturally inappropriate. Some properties may require them to present a marriage certificate.

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Dress Code

Conservative dress is still valued and expected in Egypt, so wear modest clothing especially at religious sites and rural areas.

Women should cover their shoulders and knees, put on loose-fitting attire and pack a long scarf to wear over their heads or shoulders, if needed. Within resort areas or private pools, Western-style swimwear is acceptable.

Men should wear long pants and short-sleeve shirts. Sandals are acceptable for the most part, but closed-toe shoes are best for overall sightseeing.

What Happens If I Break the Law While Visiting Egypt?

Depending on the offense, breaking the law in Egypt could result in fines, imprisonment, deportation, or being blacklisted from ever returning to the country. Minor offenses, like littering or traffic violations, usually only result in a fine. But bigger offenses, such as indecency, could lead to being arrested and imprisoned.

If you’re arrested in Egypt, you should get in touch with your country’s embassy or consulate as soon as you can. They can provide a list of local attorneys, assist with language barriers, and offer basic advice on navigating the legal system. However, their ability to intervene in legal matters may be limited.

Egypt Extraterritorial Jurisdiction

In most cases, Egyptian law is territorial, meaning it applies within the geographical boundaries of Egypt and to activities that occur there.

However, there are some specific circumstances where Egyptian law might have extraterritorial reach, often related to issues of national security, terrorism, or involvement in activities against the Egyptian government. These are generally exceptional cases and not the norm for typical legal matters, like civil issues, property disputes, or common criminal activities.

Also, dual nationals (those holding Egyptian citizenship along with citizenship of another country) may face special legal circumstances. Egypt may not recognize the alternate citizenship, leading to complications if the individual is involved in legal matters or dispute.

The exercise of extraterritorial jurisdiction over foreigners is less common but not impossible, particularly in cases related to national security or terrorism that have a significant impact on Egypt or its citizens. However, practical enforcement would often require extradition, which is typically governed by treaties and the laws of the country where the person is located.

While the US embassy can offer some support—such as a list of local attorneys and help with contacting family—the embassy cannot provide legal advice, pay legal fees or fines, or interfere in the Egyptian judicial process.

If you’re a US citizen involved in legal issues that fall under both US and Egyptian law, or that may involve actions occurring outside of Egypt, it would be wise to consult with legal experts knowledgeable in international law and the specific laws of both countries.

Egypt: Know Before You Go

Obtaining the proper visa is an essential part of planning your trip; mistakes can cost you time, energy and money. At Entriva, we can easily and efficiently help you with every aspect of getting an Egypt visa. Start your visa application process.

Doing your research before traveling helps you avoid any issues and feel prepared for what to do in social situations and in case of an emergency. For more information on other aspects of travel to Egypt, including travel requirements and restrictions, banking and money, and the visa types available, visit our Egypt content hub.