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Do you need a visa to go to Egypt?

Sep 3, 2023 • 4 min read

Most travelers need a visa to visit Egypt, but you'll soon get to see the Pyramids of Giza © SrdjanPav / Getty Images

Almost all travelers require a visa to enter Egypt, but fortunately, the process is pretty simple, and a little advance planning goes a long way.

This guide will walk you through the entry requirements for visiting the land of pyramids on a tourist visa.

Who needs a visa to visit Egypt?

Most nationalities need a visa to enter Egypt, but citizens of many countries can apply for an e-Visa in advance or obtain a visa on arrival at Egypt’s international airports. Both cost US$25.

Getting an e-Visa is generally a smoother process than getting a visa at the airport. Apply for a tourist visa online in advance on  the Egyptian Government's official e-Visa website . All you have to do is fill out the online application form and pay.

If you decide to get a visa at the airport when you land in Egypt, be prepared to wait in line – bring your own pen to fill out the paperwork in line or on the plane – and pay in cash (US dollars, euros or British pounds only, not Egyptian pounds).

Citizens of Bahrain, Hong Kong, Kuwait, Macau, Oman, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates can enter Egypt visa-free for up to 90 days. Citizens of Malaysia can enter for up to 14 days.

If you're not eligible to get a visa on arrival or an e-Visa, head to the Egyptian embassy or consulate in your home country and apply in person. The visa process can take several weeks.

How to get an e-Visa for Egypt

To save time, apply for an e-Visa before your trip to Egypt. Citizens of these countries are eligible for Egypt’s e-Visa and can apply on the Egyptian government's official website . Your passport must be valid for at least six months before the date you intend to arrive. 

The process is simple: sign up for an account, fill the form and pay the US$25 using a credit or debit card. You’ll receive email notifications as the application is processed.  

If you’re issued a visa, you’ll be emailed a link to your e-Visa to download and print the document. When you land in Egypt, present the e-Visa to the Egyptian border patrol with your passport. Have a copy of your accommodation details or tour booking in case you’re asked to show them at the airport.

Egypt’s e-Visa can be single or multiple entry. The single-entry visa allows visitors one entry into the country for stays of up to 30 days. The multiple-entry visa allows travelers to come into  Egypt an unlimited number of times over a period of 180 days and for up to 30 days at a time. Apply for a multi-entry visa at least seven days before your trip.

Visa on arrival in Egypt

If you don’t have time to apply for an e-Visa, you can still get a visa on arrival at the airport if you’re eligible. Visas are available for purchase (US$25) at a kiosk in the arrivals hall before the immigration counters. 

Have the correct amount in cash in a major foreign currency (US dollars, euros or British pounds) to avoid delays.

The visa comes in the form of a stamp that you’ll need to put into your passport to present at the immigration counters and passport control. 

If you opt for a visa on arrival, you’ll need a passport that’s valid for at least six months from your arrival date, a travel itinerary and documentation to show you've booked accommodations or tours.

Visa on arrival is available at all of Egypt’s international airports. The downsides are that you can be issued a single entry visa only, and the lines at the airport can be long.

You don't need a visa to stay in Sinai on short trips

If you are visiting the resort towns on the Gulf of Aqaba coast and won’t be going to mainland Egypt, you can stay in Sinai for 14 days without buying an Egyptian visa. The Sinai-only visa allows travellers to visit Sharm El Sheikh , Dahab , Nuweiba , Taba and St Catherine, but you cannot go to Ras Muhammad National Park.

The Sinai-only visa is available at the airport in Sharm El Sheikh and the Egypt–Israel border crossing at Taba. If you arrive at Taba and plan to visit mainland Egypt, you must purchase a visa online in advance or at an Egyptian embassy abroad.

This article was first published June 2022 and updated September 2023

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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 .

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Visa for Egypt: How to Get it and Entry Requirements

Egypt: the land of towering pyramids, pharaohs, and some of the oldest history on earth. Whether you’re visiting the Sahara Desert or the River Nile, Egypt certainly lives up to the hype. However, to experience everything this magical country has to offer, you’ll need to apply for an Egypt Visa. Here’s everything you need to know about the process, including different types of visas, applications, and Egypt entry requirements.

Which Egypt Visa is Right for You?

With a few exceptions (countries like UAE, Malaysia , and Hong Kong), nearly all countries will require a visa to enter Egypt . Depending on what you need there are two options available:

1. Single entry tourist visa

This visa permits you to enter Egypt once for a maximum of 30 days. The cost is $25 USD and it can be applied for online (E visa). Apply here .

2. Multiple entry tourist visa

This allows you to enter and leave Egypt as many times as you like within a 90 day period (as long as you only spend a total of 30 days traveling in Egypt). It costs $60 USD and you can apply online (E visa). Apply here .

Easily apply online for your visa here .

How to Apply for an Egypt Visa

There are three ways you can get your Egypt visa. However, your method depends on the trip you are going on and the Egypt entry requirements.

1. Visit the Egyptian embassy

Are you planning on staying longer than 30 days in Egypt? You need to make an appointment with your nearest Egyptian embassy for a physical visa to be attached to your passport. You will also need to visit the embassy if you’re going to Egypt on business. 

Additionally, certain countries need to go to the embassy to get an authorized visa—for example, Morocco , Nigeria, and the Philippines . Check the whole list here . 

You are required to provide:

• 2 passport photos (with your name written on the back)
• 2 copies of your passport photo page
• A completed application form (downloaded from your embassy website)
• The visa fee in cash

Note: Depending on where you are applying for your Egypt visa, it can take anywhere from 2-15 days for your visa to process. Contact your embassy to find out more information.

2. Apply for an Egypt Visa Online

The easiest and most convenient way for tourists to apply for an Egypt visa is online. ( Apply here ) This type of visa is called an ‘E Visa’ and it must be applied for at least 7 days before your departure. All you have to do is fill out the application form, providing your:

• Passport information (your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from arrival in Egypt)
• Date of arrival and departure 
• Contact information of your tour group or place of residence while in Egypt
• A photo or scan of your passport photo page

Don’t worry if you’re applying for your Evisa before you’ve booked your flight, as you can estimate your arrival date. However, Egypt entry requirements state that must know at least the first night’s accommodation.

Tip: Have you been to Egypt before? You need to mention this during your Egypt visa application and also provide the date.

Apply for your E Visa online

What happens after you apply?

Once you have applied, and paid the fee, your E Visa should be granted within the next few days. It will be sent to you via email with a downloadable link. Once it is granted, it is valid for 90 days, so you must enter and leave Egypt within this time. If you apply more than 90 days ahead of your trip, the system will automatically postpone your approval to a time that fits your travel schedule. 

These are the best travel insurances for your trip to Egypt.

3. Egypt Visa on Arrival

There is also the option to apply for your Egypt visa on arrival, which is an easy process. All you need to do is visit an official bank kiosk on arrival at the airport. Here, you pay for your Egypt visa on arrival (25 USD) in cash, but this fee can also be paid in British Pounds or Euros. Once you’ve paid, they will give you a stamp you need to put inside your passport. 

Please note: The Egypt visa on arrival only allows for single entry and there may be a waiting line at the kiosk. However, the good news is you don’t require any copies of your passport, so it’s a very simple process. For reliability and ease though, we’d recommend planning ahead and getting the Egypt visa online.

Once you have the Egypt visa on arrival, proceed to immigration and passport control and provide the arrival information listed below.

Discover all of our travel guides about Egypt

What Are the Egypt Entry Requirements?

Whatever visa you choose, you must satisfy certain Egypt entry requirements on your arrival at customs and immigration. Because of this, you will be asked to provide certain documents and information:

• Printout of E visa
• A complete travel itinerary (don’t worry if some of these details change)
• A supporting letter from your tour company or a formal invite (if you are visiting family or doing business)
• A list of hotels you are staying in
• The names of the places you are visiting as a tourist (you must have all of these on arrival)

How to Get a Visa Extension in Egypt 

Chances are you’ll fall in love with Egypt and want to explore for longer than your 30-day allowance. To do so, you’ll need to apply for a visa extension in Egypt. If you don’t, you could risk being fined. 

Sadly, you can’t apply for a renewal online; the only option is to go to the Egypt Passport and Immigration Administration in Cairo . It is open every day (except Friday. Saturdays are only for collection) from 8 AM – 2 PM.

Tip: The extension process can take around 2 days (from first appointment to collection), so apply well in advance of your Egypt visa expiration.

What do you need to extend your Egypt visa?

• 2 copies of passport front page and visa page
• A passport photo
• 1670 EGP (approx 107 USD). This is paid in two installments: 1140 EGP on the first visit and 530 EGP on collection. However, you will need extra cash to pay for a passport photo if you don’t already have one.

During the first appointment (which takes roughly 2 hours), you’ll need to provide all the documents above and fill out a form. Two days after, you’ll be asked to come back and collect your visa. This new Egypt visa grants you an automatic 3-month extension, which is plenty of time to explore the beauty of Egypt!

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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."

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Hannah Towey

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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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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

Iranian military activity against Israel 

On 13 April 2024 Iran carried out military action against Israel.

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.

Read  FCDO  advice on how to deal with a crisis overseas.

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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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Egypt travel advice

Latest updates: Health – editorial update

Last updated: April 17, 2024 11:50 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, egypt - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Egypt due to the unpredictable security situation and the threat of terrorism.

Northern Sinai - Avoid all travel

This advisory excludes the Al Qantra Shark – Ras Sedr road between the border of the Governorate of South Sinai and Al-Ganayen, in Suez Governorate, on which you should exercise a high degree of caution.

The Western desert and Libyan border area - Avoid all travel

• within 50 kilometres of the border with Libya
• the Western Desert, west of the Giza-Luxor-Aswan-Abu Simbel road, including the oasis of Dakhla

This advisory excludes the following areas where you should exercise a high degree of caution:

• Marsa Matruh via the Marsa Matruh Road only
• The White and Black deserts via the Oasis Road only
• The oases of:
• Siwa via the Masra Matruh-Siwa Road only
• Bahariya, Farafra and Bawati via the Oasis and the Farafra-Dairut Roads only

Northern part of the Governorate of South Sinai - Avoid non-essential travel

This advisory excludes the following locations, where you should exercise a high degree of caution:

• the Dahab – Nuweiba – Taba road
• the towns of Nuweiba and Taba
• the Al Qantra Shark – Ras Sedr road up to the border with the Governorate of Suez
• cities between Ras Sedr and El Tor

Back to top

Security incidents in the South Sinai Governorate

Since October 27, 2023, projectiles and suspected drones have fallen at various locations along the Gulf of Aqaba coast in the South Sinai Governorate, including near Dahab, Nuweiba, and Taba. The incidents have caused injuries.

If you are in or near the affected areas:

• exercise caution
• follow the instructions of local authorities, including air-raid sirens and evacuation orders

If you encounter debris or fragments:

• don’t get close to or touch them
• move away from them immediately
• contact local authorities

Due to recent events in Israel, West Bank and the Gaza Strip, tensions could escalate with little notice and the security situation could deteriorate suddenly. Monitor developments, remain vigilant and follow the instructions of local authorities. We strongly recommend that Canadians register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service to receive the latest updates.

The security situation in Egypt is unpredictable and certain regions of the country (for instance, North Sinai, Western Desert, etc.) are particularly volatile and should be avoided. There is a significant risk of terrorist attacks throughout the country. Attacks can be indiscriminate and occur with no warning, including in Cairo. While attacks in the North Sinai are frequent and mainly target security forces, terrorists have also targeted popular tourist destinations, places of worship, and other places frequented by foreigners throughout Egypt.

Terrorists have targeted Coptic Christians and their places of worship, in both urban and isolated areas. Terrorists also attacked a mosque in the North Sinai on November 24, 2017, killing over 300 people. Avoid all religious institutions in Egypt.

There is a significant presence of armed security forces and police in most governorates throughout the country. Curfews may be imposed on very short notice.

On May 19, 2019 and December 28, 2018, attacks on buses carrying tourists took place near the pyramids of Giza. The explosions resulted in multiple casualties.

There is an increased risk of incidents and attacks on and around dates of national significance, including:

• January 25, the anniversary of the 2011 Egyptian revolution;
• The week of Orthodox Easter;
• June 30 to July 3, the anniversary of the removal of former president Mohamed Morsi in 2013;
• August 14, the anniversary of clearing protesters from Rabaa and al-Nahda squares in 2013; and
• Other religious observances and holidays.

Exercise increased caution during these periods.

Be particularly cautious in commercial establishments, government facilities, public areas, tourist sites, the vicinity of churches and mosques at the time of religious services and any other areas frequented by foreigners. Avoid police stations, security installations and government buildings, as well as all crowds and demonstrations.

Western Desert

Borders with Sudan and Libya are porous, and bandits and armed groups are active in these areas. Attacks on security checkpoints and forces are expected to continue. Egyptian military and security personnel are also engaged in security operations in the area. If you intend to travel to these areas, consider the risks to your personal safety and ensure you have made appropriate security arrangements. Travel to these areas requires a permit from the Travel Permits Department at the Egyptian Ministry of Interior Affairs.

To visit the isolated oasis town of Siwa, take the Marsa Matruh-Siwa road. Access to essential services such as medical care, ATMs, fuel and mobile phone coverage is limited on the Marsa Matruh-Siwa Road and in Siwa itself. There is only one gas station on the 300km road between Marsa Matruh and Siwa. The road is poorly lit, unpaved in some areas and has a number of significant potholes. Traffic accidents are common.

If you are travelling to Siwa:

• carefully plan all road travel in advance • fill up in Marsa Matruh and make sure to have enough fuel to reach your destination • be sure to have sufficient water and cash with you • travel during daylight hours only • consider renting a vehicle with four-wheel-drive • expect military checkpoints along the way • do not travel off-road outside of the Oasis

North Sinai Governorate

The security situation in North Sinai Governorate, particularly the areas bordering Israel and the Gaza Strip, is extremely unpredictable. Terrorist groups regularly carry out attacks against Egyptian security forces. A curfew is in effect from 5 p.m. to 7 a.m., due to ongoing Egyptian military operations against terrorist groups in the region. Road blockades by unsanctioned groups, kidnappings, robberies and carjackings by armed groups and terrorists occur.

South Sinai Governorate

While attacks are significantly less frequent than in North Sinai, terrorists have carried out attacks in South Sinai Governorate, targeting both security forces and tourists. Terrorist groups may expand targeted areas to include coastal resorts such as Sharm el-Sheikh. While enhanced security measures are in place to protect the tourism infrastructure in Sharm el-Sheikh, the area may be seen as a high-value target by terrorists.

Coastal resorts in Sinai, including Dahab, Nuweiba and Sharm el-Sheikh, have seen incidents of petty theft.

Tensions between security authorities and local Bedouin tribes may rise unexpectedly, affecting tourism.

There are several police checkpoints along the highways in South Sinai.

You need a permit from the Ministry of the Interior to travel in a 4x4 vehicle from mainland Egypt to South Sinai through the Suez crossing.

Local authorities may ask for identification and search your vehicle. 

When travelling in the area:

• always use main highways
• avoid uncontrolled and poorly maintained roads
• stop at designated checkpoints and comply with authorities’ requests
• be aware of your surroundings at all times
• follow the advice of local authorities

Red Sea resorts and Upper Egypt

Exercise a high degree of caution when travelling to Red Sea coastal resorts (such as Ain el-Sokhna, el-Gouna Bay, Hurghada, Marsa Alam, Safaga and Soma Bay) and to the Upper Egypt cities of Aswan and Luxor.  While the beach resort areas are generally considered safe, sporadic terrorist attacks have targeted foreign tourists in recent years. Pay particular attention to local conditions if you are visiting Upper Egypt and the historic sites of the Nile Valley. Sectarian, economic and family-related disputes have occurred and can quickly become violent. Travel in large groups and by organized transportation, and follow the advice of local authorities, hotels and tour guides if you are travelling to rural areas.

Demonstrations and Civil unrest

While the size and frequency of demonstrations has decreased significantly in recent years, they can still occur anywhere at any time without warning, but are most likely to occur on Fridays following noon prayers.

Be extremely vigilant. Avoid all demonstrations or large public gatherings. Keep well informed of developing situations by monitoring local news reports and follow the advice of local authorities. Women should take particular care, as there is a serious risk of sexual assault during demonstrations; once surrounded by a group, it can be difficult to escape.

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Rates of violent and petty crime have historically been low in Egypt, although there are reports that such crime has been on the rise given the economic downturn since 2011. Crimes such as pickpocketing, bag and purse snatching and home invasion, while rare, have become more common. Purse snatching and pickpocketing occur most often in tourist locations and on the metro. Be aware of your surroundings and vigilant for thieves using different strategies to distract and rob you.

Reports of carjackings are extremely rare, however they do occur. They generally target sports utility or other high-value vehicles. Although isolated areas and night driving present the greatest threat, there have been reported incidents in daylight hours and in busy areas of Cairo. Assailants are usually armed, and a variety of tactics may be used to get vehicles to stop, including throwing objects at the windshield, feigning a traffic accident or minor collision with the target vehicle, or “sandwiching” the target vehicle to force it off the road. If you find yourself in such a situation, do not resist as carjackers are typically after the vehicle and, if the carjacking is successful, will leave the driver unharmed.

If you are a victim of crime, report it to the Tourist Police or at a nearby police station as soon as possible. Request a copy of the police report at the time the report is made. Failure to report the crime while in Egypt makes it much more difficult to seek prosecution.

Women’s safety

Women, particularly foreigners, are frequently subject to unpleasant male attention, sexual harassment and verbal abuse. This often takes the form of staring, inappropriate remarks, catcalls and touching. The risks increase around public holidays, when more men are in the streets.

Advice for women travellers

Unexploded landmines remain a risk in some desert and coastal areas, notably the Mediterranean shore, the Western Desert, the Sinai Peninsula and the western shore of the Gulf of Suez. Known minefields are not marked by signs, but may be enclosed by barbed wire. Seek local advice, especially if travelling off-road.

Road safety

Road conditions are often poor and the rate of vehicular accidents is one of the highest in the world. Drivers generally have little regard for traffic regulations and do not follow safe driving practices. Be cautious when crossing streets as drivers do not give pedestrians the right of way.

In the event of an accident, do not move the vehicle until the police arrive, unless you are in immediate danger, such as from a crowd and need to move to safety. Exercise caution when using taxis and the metro. There have been robberies and accidents involving both. Many taxis do not have working metres, and back seats are rarely equipped with seat belts. Women should not sit in the front seat, as this could be misinterpreted by the driver. The metro can be overcrowded and is not climate controlled but does have cars for women only on most lines.

Use vehicles and hire drivers from reputable travel agencies.

Public transportation

Safety standards for rail travel vary throughout Egypt. There have been major accidents in recent years, attributed to aging infrastructure, poor maintenance and human error. Exercise a high degree of caution.

Avoid microbuses because of hazardous driving habits.

Overcrowding and poor safety standards on ferries have caused accidents. Use reputable ferry operators.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Scuba diving / aquatic activities

Sharks and other potentially dangerous aquatic animals are present in the waters off Egypt. Certain beaches and dive areas may be subject to temporary closures. Exercise caution and seek advice from local authorities, and ensure to dive with reputable and licensed operators.

Water safety abroad

Israeli Border

Due to recent events in Israel, West Bank and the Gaza Strip, the land borders could close with little notice.

Crossing at the Taba land border between Egypt and Israel is possible at this time. Cross-border movement regulations and restrictions are subject to change at any time and are the prerogative of the responsible authorities.

The Rafah border crossing point to the Gaza Strip, which is controlled by border authorities in both Egypt and Gaza, opens and closes intermittently due to the ongoing armed conflict in Israel. Global Affairs Canada continues to advise against all travel in this area due to ongoing military operations against terrorists. Consult local authorities and refer to the  travel advice for Israel, the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip  for further information.

Beyond the provision of a travel document (the passport), the Canadian government does not facilitate the crossing of borders by private citizens. It is the citizen’s responsibility to meet the entry requirements of the country where they wish to travel, in most cases either through application for a visa or simply by going to a point of entry. Authorities at the Rafah border crossing from Egypt to Gaza have sometimes requested a letter or witnessed declaration from the Embassy of Canada to Egypt as a requirement to cross the border. The Canadian embassy is unable to provide such a letter or declaration. You should avoid all travel to Gaza. Furthermore, the Canadian government has very limited ability to provide consular services to Canadians in the Gaza Strip and once there, it may be difficult to leave.

General safety information

Although most tourist sites are open, the situation across Egypt remains unpredictable and less consistently safe than it was before January 2011. There is a potential for rapid escalation into violence where large groups of people are assembled

Egypt has a special police force to assist tourists. Officers wearing a distinctive arm band saying “Tourism Police,” can be found in hotels and at tourist sites.

Carry identification at all times. Photocopy your passport and other identification in case of loss or seizure.

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Egyptian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Egypt.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Diplomatic and Special passport holders are required to have visas before arrival in Egypt.

Travelers attempting to enter Egypt with diplomatic or official passports who do not have visas will be required to remain, at their own expense, in the airport transit area until their immediate departure from Egypt can be arranged. The Embassy of Canada in Egypt cannot intervene in such matters.

Tourist visa: required Business visa: required Student visa: required

You must obtain a visa from an Egyptian embassy or consulate near you before your departure.  Electronic visas issued  before October 1, 2023, remain valid until their expiry date.

If you wish to extend your stay in Egypt, contact the Immigration Authority of Egypt. You may be fined upon departure if you overstay your 30-day visa period without proper authorization.

Foreign Representatives in Canada

Entry and exit stamps

You must show proof of an entry stamp in your passport when you leave Egypt. If you cannot provide proof of entry, you cannot obtain an exit stamp and will be denied exit.

If you have entered the country with a Canadian passport and have obtained a new one while in Egypt, you must have the entry stamp transferred to the new passport by the Egyptian Immigration Authority.This requirement also applies to newborns and dual citizens.

If a child is born in Egypt to a Canadian parent, a data stamp proving that the child was born in Egypt must be added to the child’s Canadian passport before the child can exit the country. Since there will be no entry stamp in the child’s passport, you must submit both the child’s birth certificate and Canadian passport to the Egyptian Immigration Authority to obtain what Egyptian authorities term the “data stamp.” Parents are advised to contact the Embassy of Canada as soon as possible to apply for citizenship and a passport for their child, so as not to further delay what can be a lengthy process.

Regional travel

If you are contemplating onward travel to other Arab countries, bear in mind that Canadians have been denied entry because their passports bore an Israeli visa, an Israeli border stamp or an Egyptian or Jordanian border stamp issued by an office bordering Israel, which would indicate they entered from Israel.

Medication and cosmetics

Egyptian authorities consider some prescription and over-the-counter medicines medications controlled substances. They will seize all narcotic and psychotropic medications, even if you have the original prescription. For all other prescription and over-the-counter medications:

• Carry the original prescription
• Ensure the medication is in its original packaging
• Don’t attempt to enter with more than 3 months’ supply.

Authorities also regulate the import of cosmetics and veterinary products.

Health entry requirements

All foreigners planning to study, work or train in Egypt for longer than one month may be required to undergo testing for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Egyptian immigration authorities in Cairo’s Mogamma building provide information on this procedure upon application.

When entering from another country you may be required to provide proof of immunizations. Please verify with the Egyptian Embassy nearest to you before travelling.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• Polio: Advice for travellers - 17 April, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country   where yellow fever occurs.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Contact a designated  Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre  well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified this country as no longer poliovirus-infected but at high risk of an outbreak . Polio can be prevented by vaccination.

Recommendations:

• Be sure that your polio vaccinations are up to date before travelling. Polio is part of the routine vaccine schedule for children in Canada.
• One booster dose of the polio vaccine is recommended as an adult .

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

There is a risk of schistosomiasis in this destination. Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by tiny worms (blood flukes) which can be found in freshwater (lakes, rivers, ponds, and wetlands). The worms can break the skin, and their eggs can cause stomach pain, diarrhea, flu-like symptoms, or urinary problems. Schistosomiasis mostly affects underdeveloped and r ural communities, particularly agricultural and fishing communities.

Most travellers are at low risk. Travellers should avoid contact with untreated freshwater such as lakes, rivers, and ponds (e.g., swimming, bathing, wading, ingesting). There is no vaccine or medication available to prevent infection.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

• In this country, risk of  dengue  is sporadic. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue fever.

Rift Valley fever is a viral disease that can cause severe flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can be fatal. It is spread to humans through contact with infected animal blood or tissues, from the bite of an infected mosquito, or eating or drinking unpasteurized dairy. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from insect bites and avoid animals, particularly livestock, and unpasteurized dairy. There is no vaccine available for Rift Valley fever.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Human cases of avian influenza have been reported in this destination. Avian influenza   is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds and in rare cases it can infect mammals, including people. The risk is low for most travellers.

Avoid contact with birds, including wild, farm, and backyard birds (alive or dead) and surfaces that may have bird droppings on them. Ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs and wild game, are properly cooked.

Travellers with a higher risk of exposure include those: 

• visiting live bird/animal markets or poultry farms
• working with poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, domestic ducks)
• hunting, de-feathering, field dressing and butchering wild birds and wild mammals
• working with wild birds for activities such as research, conservation, or rehabilitation
• working with wild mammals, especially those that eat wild birds (e.g., foxes)

All eligible people are encouraged to get the seasonal influenza shot, which will protect them against human influenza viruses. While the seasonal influenza shot does not prevent infection with avian influenza, it can reduce the chance of getting sick with human and avian influenza viruses at the same time.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Medical facilities are below Canadian standards.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

You should carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

The use of drugs and open consumption of alcohol (other than in licensed facilities such as hotels and restaurants) are prohibited. Transgressions could be punished by detention or other penalties.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are strict. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines. Capital punishment is a sentencing option for certain drug-related crimes.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Demonstrations

Local law prohibits protests without a permit.

Being near anti-government protests may subject you to scrutiny from Egyptian police and security forces.

Drones are strictly prohibited in Egypt; anyone convicted of unauthorized import or use of drone technology could be subject to lengthy jail terms and deportation. Unauthorized possession and usage of drones in Egypt may carry similar charges to espionage.

Electronic devices

Egyptian officials will likely confiscate electronic devices upon entry if you did not obtain prior approval to import them. This includes:

• large video cameras
• filming equipment
• satellite phones
• certain equipment like binoculars

You may face interrogation on the intended use of your devices due to their potential use for military and surveillance purposes.

Contact the nearest Embassy of the Arab Republic of Egypt for further information on regulations and requirements on electronic devices.

Photography

Photography of bridges, canals (including the Suez Canal), government, police and embassy buildings and vehicles, as well as military personnel and establishments is prohibited.

Social media

Publishing or posting social media or other content that could be perceived as critical of Egyptian society, government, security forces or the President may be considered illegal under Egyptian law. Convictions can carry heavy fines and lengthy prison sentences. There is a high risk of arrest in connection to social media posts considered critical of Egypt.

Due to the current security context and political sensitivities, be conscious of your behaviour and how it may be interpreted by Egyptian authorities. Visitors including researchers, journalists, activists and development workers could encounter problems with authorities, if their activities are perceived as suspicious. Meeting with members of or expressing support for organizations banned in Egypt could be perceived as criminal behaviour.

Suspects may be detained without charges or access to immediate legal counsel during investigative stages of a criminal case.

Strict duties apply on the importation of expensive electronics, including video and photographic equipment, laptops, and computer software and hardware. Such equipment should be for personal use and you should list it (model and serial number) and check it upon arrival and departure, in which case no duty will be collected. Appropriate permits and authorizations are required for the commercial importation of any type of electronics.

It is prohibited to export any antiquity or any item older than 100 years without a licence. Contact the Embassy of the Arab Republic of Egypt in Ottawa for further information regarding customs requirements.

The currency is the Egyptian pound (EGP, E£).

A maximum of E£5,000 can be brought into or taken out of Egypt. You must declare any amount of currency equivalent to US$10,000 or more.

Traveller’s cheques and foreign currency are easily exchanged in hotels and banks. U.S. dollars are preferred, particularly at tourist sites. Some travel agents and tour operators request payment in U.S. cash only.

Major credit cards are accepted in larger stores and for larger purchases, but many merchants will only accept cash or may charge a fee for payment by credit card.

Forced marriages

There are reports of Canadian citizens being forced into marriage without their prior knowledge or consent.

Marriage Overseas

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Egypt.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Egypt, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

The Egyptian government considers Canadians who also hold Egyptian citizenship to be Egyptian while in Egypt, therefore our ability to offer consular services may be limited. You may be considered an Egyptian citizen if you were born to an Egyptian father, regardless of birth place.

Egyptian-Canadian men may be subject to military service when in Egypt. In order to be exempted, dual citizens are required to present many documents before leaving Egypt, including a document of discharge due to dual citizenship. This document does not necessarily provide an exemption, and obtaining it may be a lengthy process that could affect your departure date. The Government of Canada has no jurisdiction in the process, as the decision on military service rests solely with the Egyptian government. You should contact the Egyptian embassy or consulate in Canada before travelling.

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Egypt.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Egypt by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Egypt to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

The work week is Sunday through Thursday. Egypt’s customs, laws and regulations adhere closely to Islamic practices and beliefs. Exercise common sense and discretion in dress and behaviour.

Dress conservatively: for women, knee-length or longer dresses and long sleeves are preferable, and men should not wear shorts outside tourist areas. Respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities. Overt public displays of intimate affection are frowned upon in Egyptian culture.

In 2025, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around February 28.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, be discreet when:

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Egyptian laws doesn’t criminalize sexual acts or relationships between persons of the same sex.

However, 2SLGBTQI+ travellers could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or sex characteristics.

You could be arrested for indecent exposure, public nuisance or scandalous acts.

The Egyptian police target apps and websites popular within the 2SLGBTQI+ community. They have used fake and legitimate accounts from community members who had their phones confiscated. Assaults and arrests by the police have occurred as a result of encounters set up through dating apps.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Egypt.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Egypt, particularly Cairo and Eastern Sinai, is located in an active seismic zone. The country is also subject to sand and dust storms.

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 112
• medical assistance: 113
• firefighters: 110
• COVID-19 inquiries: 105

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the embassy of Canada in Cairo and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Travel Facts

Us state dept travel advisory.

The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens 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.  https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html

Passport/Visa Requirements

For the latest passport and visa requirements for this country, please consult the U.S. State Department’s “Learn About Your Destination” search tool, available through the link below. https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages.html

US Embassy/Consulate

[20-2] 2797-3300; US Embassy in Cairo, 5 Tawfik Diab Street, Garden City, Cairo, Egypt; https://eg.usembassy.gov/; [email protected]

LGBTQIA+ Travelers

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) travelers can face unique challenges when traveling abroad. Laws and attitudes in some countries may affect safety and ease of travel. Legal protections vary from country to country. Many countries do not legally recognize same-sex marriage . Approximately seventy countries consider consensual same-sex sexual relations a crime , sometimes carrying severe punishment. https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/travelers-with-special-considerations/lgbtqi.html

Telephone Code

Local emergency phone.

Ambulance: 123; Fire: 180; Police: 122

Vaccinations

The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Egypt: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, yellow fever, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, influenza, COVID-19. http://www.who.int/

Desert; hot, dry summers with moderate winters

Currency (Code)

Egyptian pounds (EGP)

Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)

Major Languages

Arabic, English, and French widely understood by educated classes

Major Religions

Muslim (predominantly Sunni), Christian

Time Difference

UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)

Potable Water

Opt for bottled water

International Driving Permit

Road driving side, tourist destinations.

Memphis and its Necropolis - the pyramid fields from Giza to Dashur; Luxor's Karnak Temple and Valley of the Kings; Islamic Cairo; Aswan; Deir el-Bahari; Feluccas on the Nile; Abu Simbel; Egyptian Museum; Edfu; Medinet Habu; White Desert; Siwa Oasis

Major Sports

Soccer, tennis, squash, basketball, handball

Cultural Practices

Try to avoid using your left hand to eat or greet people. Hail taxis with your hand extended rather than your thumb up.

Tipping Guidelines

It is customary to tip restaurant staff 10-15% of the bill. Tip taxi drivers around 10% of the total fare and housekeeping staff at hotels around $2 (USD) per day. Tip bellhops loose change for carrying your luggage.

Papyrus scrolls and art, camel- and pyramid-themed items, copper and brassware, ankh jewelry, shisha pipes, pottery, handmade leather goods, silk, spices

Traditional Cuisine

Ful medames — a stew of cooked fava beans served with olive oil, cumin, and optionally with chopped parsley, garlic, onion, lemon juice, chili pepper, and other vegetable, herb, and spice ingredients; traditionally made in and served from a large metal jug

Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination. World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination. US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens. To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs: American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) How to get help in an emergency?  Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers: from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444 Page last updated: Tuesday, April 02, 2024

Love Exploring

Mysterious treasures unearthed from Egypt's tombs and pyramids

Posted: February 26, 2024 | Last updated: February 26, 2024

Life and death in ancient Egypt

We all know what Egypt’s pyramids look like on the outside, but what do they look like on the inside? Narrow passageways, spacious chambers and steep galleries make up the bulk of the interior layouts. Relics from the pyramids are on display in museums around the world – and in Giza's Grand Egyptian Museum, opening late-spring 2024 – while the surrounding tombs contained untold wonders too.

Click through this gallery to discover the stories behind Egypt's greatest funerary monuments, and learn about the mysterious treasures recovered from its ancient royal tombs...

Khufu Pyramid, Giza

The Great Pyramids of Giza complex consists of three pyramids, each named after the king they contained: Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure. The Khufu Pyramid is the largest of the three, standing at a height of 482 feet (147m). It was constructed between 2550 and 2490 BC, using a whopping 2.3 million stone blocks. Khufu ruled between 2589 and 2566 BC and was the second pharaoh of the 4th dynasty. 

In 1954, a dismantled wooden ship was discovered buried next to the pyramid – a common inclusion as ancient Egyptians believed these vessels would transport their kings to the afterlife. As the pharaoh was believed to be the earthly representation of Ra, the sun god, they were called solar boats. Until 2021, Khufu's ship was housed in its very own Solar Boat Museum, not far from where it was first discovered, but it has now been moved to the new Grand Egyptian Museum, set to open to the public in late-spring 2024.

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Another aspect of the Khufu Pyramid overlooked during early explorations was a network of subterranean passages, commonly referred to as 'the pit'. In the 18th century, the rubble blocking the descending passageway was cleared away, and a Greek or Roman character was subsequently discovered on one of the tunnel ceilings. It might not look like the most striking discovery, but it seemingly confirmed the Greek historian Herodotus’s accounts that the pyramid's interior was accessible during the ancient Roman period.

For such a grand pyramid very few artefacts were discovered; just three items, in fact. Commonly referred to as 'the Dixon Relics', named after Waynman Dixon who found them in 1872, the items consist of a granite sphere, a forked copper instrument and a wooden slat. The forked instrument may once have included a bone or wooden handle and was likely used to manipulate rope, while the granite sphere worked as a pounder.

The wooden slat, meanwhile, went missing for more than a century, and was only rediscovered in 2020 when a curatorial assistant at the University of Aberdeen stumbled across the item hidden in a cigar tin. Interestingly, the slat was carbon dated to 500 years before the supposed construction of the pyramid, posing new questions about when it was actually built. 

In March 2023, a 4,500-year-old chamber was discovered in the Khufu Pyramid. Located using high-tech equipment, the corridor – which measures 30 feet (9m) long and over six feet (1.8m) wide – is found close to the northern side of the ancient pyramid’s main entrance. The room cannot be accessed from outside – this photo was taken by feeding a tiny camera through cracks in the masonry – and archaeologists are still trying to figure out its purpose.

Meidum Pyramid, Meidum

Located roughly 62 miles (99km) from Cairo, the Meidum Pyramid was built during the reign of King Sneferu, the first pharaoh of the 4th dynasty (2613 to 2589 BC). The Meidum Pyramid was Egypt’s first straight-sided pyramid – affectionately said by some to resemble a sandcastle – and it's often described as a ‘false pyramid’. Numerous construction issues meant it was never completed, so its appearance is noticeably different to other Egyptian pyramids. 

Learn more about the Bent Pyramid and other Ancient Egyptian mysteries

Entering the Meidum Pyramid takes visitors along a steep passageway, 56 feet (17m) in length, leading down to what would’ve been the burial chamber. Here, the sarcophagus (a large stone-built coffin usually displayed on ground level) would have held the mummified pharaoh. Except there’s nothing there. The burial chamber was never completed, there are no human remains and there’s no valley temple (a place where the royal mummy was received), which was a standard inclusion in royal ancient Egyptian burials. 

The Meidum Geese painting was discovered in a tomb beside the Meidum Pyramid, and is now on display at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. The wall painting features six geese: two pairs facing away from each other at the centre, and one goose at each end picking at the grass. Natural pigments included white from limestone, red from hematite and green from malachite, and would have been mixed with egg white emulsifier.

Although a faster paint-and-plaster approach was applied in this part of the painting, you can still admire the exceptional level of detail. It was discovered on the north wall in the tomb chapel of Itet, daughter-in-law of King Sneferu and wife to his son, Nefermaat. It would have been part of a larger scene in the tomb. While the original wall painting is on display at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, there’s also a replica on display at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.

Bent Pyramid, Dahshur

Dahshur is an ancient plateau located some 20 miles (32km) south of Cairo. Here you’ll find the Bent Pyramid, the second pyramid built by King Sneferu, who added to his straight-sided pyramid at Meidum with another unusual edifice. A number of construction issues gave the pyramid its odd shape, with the lower half rising at an angle of 54 degrees to 154 feet (47m), before suddenly switching to a 43 degree angle. Following a lengthy closure for structural works, the Bent Pyramid's interior finally reopened to the public in 2019.

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One of the more recent discoveries at the Bent Pyramid was made in 2021 by Anyextee, an author and tour leader. He revealed in a YouTube video  that there was some graffiti dating to the pyramid’s rediscovery by the western entrance. It was left by Egyptologist John Shae Perring, who started his exploration of the pyramid in September 1839. Anyextee also managed to document a "real-life Indiana Jones trap": a stone gate that would have been lowered across the passageway to block the entrance. 

In 2019, a number of mummies were located in and around the Bent Pyramid. Most of the mummies were in excellent condition, having been preserved inside stone, clay and wooden sarcophagi. The finds also included a number of funerary masks, all of which dated to the Late Period (664-332 BC) – much later than Sneferu’s 25th century BC reign. The Late Period is widely considered one of the last eras of true Egyptian rule before the Persians invaded around 525 BC.

Alongside the 2019 reopening, visitors can also now visit a smaller, adjoining pyramid. It’s believed that this is where Queen Hetepheres I – the wife of Sneferu, mother of Khufu – was buried. It’s the first time this pyramid has been open to the public since it was first excavated in 1956. Excavations at the site are still ongoing, but a visit to the Bent Pyramid is a great way to get a behind-the-scenes look at how the pyramids were laid out, and how they differed from one another.

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Khafre Pyramid, Giza

Khafre Pyramid is the second largest pyramid in the Pyramids of Giza complex. King Khafre (2558-2532 BC) built this pyramid next to his father Khufu's, and it's situated 33 feet (10m) higher on the plateau than the Khufu Pyramid, making it look deceptively larger than its taller neighbour. Built roughly between 2520 and 2494 BC, the top of the pyramid maintains its outer casing of limestone while the rest has worn away, leaving it looking a little like a snow-capped mountain. It’s widely believed that the Great Sphinx in front of the pyramid was built for Khafre too.

A number of life-sized and bigger-than-life-sized statues discovered at Khafre Pyramid are now on display at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. One of the most well-known is the Khafre Enthroned. This funerary statue was discovered beneath the floor of the valley temple, and was supposed to provide a place of rest for Khafre’s ka (soul). Carved out of a single block of stone, the throne on which Khafre is seated features lion paws, hieroglyphics, a royal cobra and the Egyptian god Horus. The pharaoh is also wearing a lined headdress – all these motifs symbolise his mighty power.

Unfortunately the Khafre Pyramid was robbed repeatedly by tomb raiders over the years, dating back to Pharaoh Ramesses II himself, who is said to have lifted sections of the pyramid's limestone casing for his own temple. In the absence of artefacts (although a few were recovered), historians have analysed the different materials used for the pyramid. Granite cladding was used in the upper descending passageway and there are gabled limestone beams supporting the burial chamber. 

Djoser Pyramid, Saqqara

Possibly Egypt’s strangest-looking pyramid, the Djoser Pyramid is located in Saqqara in the ancient capital of Memphis. Djoser (2650-2575 BC) was the first pharaoh to use stone in a pyramid’s construction – before this, royal tombs were simple rectangular monuments made from clay bricks called mastabas. The bizarre, tiered structure is the work of the architect Imhotep, who ‘stacked’ the mastabas to create this step pyramid – 204 feet (62m) high and the first of its kind.

Djoser’s sarcophagus was laid deep inside the burial chamber, along with 40,000 stone vessels, bowls and urns of various sizes. They were all inscribed with the names of pharaohs from the 1st and 2nd dynasties, which is curious because Djoser was one of the first kings of the 3rd dynasty. While it’s still not completely understood why they were found here, some believe that the earlier pharaohs' own tombs were robbed, and in order to protect their souls Djoser collected their urns and sealed them inside his own tomb.

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A series of beautiful blue and green tiles were uncovered in the pyramid's galleries and burial chamber. These once lined the walls to imitate the decorative sheets of reeds that would originally have hung in the king’s royal palace, while the blue and green colours symbolised rebirth. The ceramic tiles were created in the faience glazing style, and restored sections are on display at the Imhotep Museum in Saqqara and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.

Prior to much-needed restoration work in 2006, the Djoser Pyramid was on the verge of collapse. The work included reassembling and restoring the granite sarcophagus, adding paved floors to the cemetery, installing a lighting system and adding a ladder to access the cemetery and well. The walls and ceilings were also strengthened, and more faience tiles were installed. The Djoser Pyramid finally reopened to the public in 2020, allowing visitors to again experience one of Egypt's most important UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Red Pyramid, Dahshur

Like the Bent Pyramid, the Red Pyramid is located on the ancient plateau of Dahshur, roughly 25 miles (40km) south of Cairo. Although the pyramid was once covered with white limestone the casing was later removed, exposing the rust-coloured stone beneath and giving it the nickname we use today. Built for the pharaoh Sneferu, exactly how long it took to build is still disputed, but construction is likely to have taken place between 2575 and 2551 BC.

Sometimes known as the North Pyramid due to its position half a mile north of the Bent Pyramid, the Red Pyramid is the third largest in Egypt after the pyramids of Khufu and Khafre in Giza. It’s still celebrated as the first ‘true’ pyramid, due to its sloping sides and lack of steps. Visitors today can explore its fascinating 4,000-year history by stepping inside and viewing the magnificent burial chamber.

The Red Pyramid's passageways and chambers are unique among Egyptian pyramids. All three of the main chambers feature corbelled (bracketed) ceilings, supporting the roughly two million tonnes of stone above. Unlike other pyramids that have collapsed or needed restoration work, such as the Bent and Djoser pyramids, to this day the Red Pyramid hasn’t suffered any structural issues – not even a crack.

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Even more unusual is the location of the second chamber, which is found directly beneath the apex (or centre point) of the pyramid. No other pyramid uses this design. While the final chamber has been made accessible to modern visitors through the addition of a staircase, excavations haven’t located any further passageways inside the pyramid.

Menkaure Pyramid, Giza

The Menkaure Pyramid is the last and smallest of the three Great Pyramids of Giza, standing at just 213 feet (65m) tall. Completed in the 26th century BC, it was built for King Menkaure, and sits on the same plateau as the pyramids of his father (Khafre) and grandfather (Khufu).

Many statues from inside the tomb depict Menkaure accompanied by gods and other figures. One greywacke stone statue recovered from the pyramid depicts Menkaure and his wife standing side by side. It's a classic example of Old Kingdom royal tomb sculpture, with both the king's arms down by his sides and with one leg stepped forward.

Userkaf Pyramid, Saqqara

The Userkaf Pyramid doesn't quite have the same wow factor as some of its fellows on this list, but it does have an interesting history. King Userkaf (2494-2487 BC) was the first pharaoh of the 5th dynasty, and chose to build his pyramid at Saqqara, where the local limestone is much thinner than it is at other tomb locations like Giza. This, along with weak structuring, later led the pyramid to collapse, earning itself the unfortunate moniker ‘Heap of Stone’. Visitors today can see that it more resembles a conical hill than an impressive royal pyramid.

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While much of the Userkaf Pyramid remains unexcavated, a number of funerary stone reliefs were recovered from the king’s funerary temple. These would have been placed along the courtyard walls, and included hunting, fishing and nature scenes which were common depictions in 5th dynasty royal temples. One limestone relief depicts birds in a papyrus thicket, two intricately carved birds in a marsh along the Nile and the names of Upper and Lower Egyptian estates connected to the cult of Userkaf. The reliefs would have been colourfully painted.

In 2018, archaeologists discovered a number of tombs on the edge of the Userkaf Pyramid complex containing not only sarcophagi but also mummified cats. Animals were mummified as religious offerings, and the ancient Egyptians believed cats held special positions in the afterlife. In total three tombs contained mummified cats, with one featuring a large bronze statue of a cat dedicated to a goddess. They also found mummified scarab beetles – highly unusual for such tombs – which were believed to symbolise the sun god, Ra.

Unas Pyramid, Saqqara

King Unas (2465-2325 BC) ruled during the 5th dynasty, and his pyramid at Saqqara was once 141 feet (43m) tall, but it fell into decay after his death and later Egyptian kings removed and reused most of the stones. The pyramid has long been in a sorry state, but you can still see an inscription left by Prince Khaemwaset, the son of Ramesses II and High Priest of Ptah in Memphis, who restored the monument in the 13th century BC.

Funerary masks (or death masks) were placed over the faces of mummies. They resembled the deceased, so they could help the soul (ka) find its body in the afterlife. Pictured here is an artefact thought to be Prince Khaemwaset's funerary mask, which was found in the Serapeum of Saqqara, a burial place near Memphis. 

The Unas Pyramid was the first of its kind to feature 'pyramid texts', a modern-day name given to spells (or 'utterances') which adorned tomb walls and helped the spirit navigate its journey to the underworld. These were instructional texts and no two were the same, although one seemingly essential spell that was frequently included discussed the sun god Ra.

These incredible archaeological hoaxes fooled the world

Inside King Unas's burial chamber was the sarcophagus. The chamber's ceiling was beautifully patterned with gold stars against a night-blue sky. While the contents were robbed long before excavations could begin, the mummified remains of a left arm, hand and skull were found amongst the debris. Could these belong to the former pharaoh? 

Also found at the Saqqara site was this thin gold band measuring 90cm, placed among the mummy bandages of Prince Ptah-Shepses. Dating back to 2323-2150 BC, red carnelian (gemstone) and volcanic glass beads form angular, geometric patterns, while hieroglyphics are inscribed on the buckle.

Teti Pyramid, Saqqara

The Teti Pyramid was once 172 feet (52.5m) tall and housed the deceased King Teti, the first pharaoh of the 6th dynasty (roughly 2345-2323 BC, although sources vary). Located in Saqqara, the pyramid was constructed with a core of stone blocks encased in limestone. Inside were typical painted reliefs depicting offerings to the gods, plus star-patterned ceilings and three niches which may have held statues of the king. Today the site looks more like a lopsided mound, but it hasn't completely collapsed and you can still take a tour inside.

While many of the pyramid's external blocks have been looted over the years, interesting artefacts have been recovered, and a large cemetery was found in front of the pyramid housing the remains of Teti's officials. Pictured here is a comb believed to be from the tomb of Teti himself. The intricate item is made of wood and is only 11cm long. It's on display at New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Teti's burial chamber was located beneath the pyramid, along with his well-preserved basalt sarcophagus. Like the Unas Pyramid, the Teti Pyramid's walls were also adorned with pyramid texts. These funerary texts first appeared in the 5th dynasty of the Old Kingdom (2465-2323 BC), and were succeeded by so-called 'coffin texts' during the Middle Kingdom (inscriptions found inside sarcophagi that tended to focus on the underworld). Both went on to influence the New Kingdom's Book of the Dead.

These are where your favourite stars are laid to rest

In 2022, archaeologists digging at the Saqqara site discovered hundreds of coffins and well-preserved mummies dating to the New Kingdom (approximately 1550-1070 BC) in a series of interconnected tunnels at the Teti Pyramid. Some of the artefacts may even belong to Tutankhamun's closest generals and advisors. Statues of the god Ptah-Sokar, shabtis, a metal axe and pieces of an ancient Egyptian game were also found, with a selection due to go on display at the Grand Egyptian Museum when it opens in late-spring 2024.

Pyramid of Neith, Saqqara

At the same excavations, archaeologists also uncovered the pyramid of a previously unknown Egyptian queen named Neith. Pictured here is the excavated site, with the Teti and Djoser pyramids visible in the background. Neith was likely named after the Egyptian goddess of creation, wisdom, weaving and war, as well as being worshipped as a funerary goddess.

The Book of the Dead

The Book of the Dead is an umbrella term for a series of ancient Egyptian texts. Specific chants (or 'utterances') were typically copied onto papyrus scrolls and placed in tombs, like the fragment from the tomb of Theban scribe Ani in Luxor pictured here, which dates back to 1250 BC and is on display at the British Museum. This scene depicts the Hall of Judgement, with Ani muttering Spell 30B as his heart is weighed on the scales of justice, determining whether he'd make it to paradise or not. Spells from the Book of the Dead also adorned mummy bandages and even Tutankhamun's golden death mask.

In early 2023, archaeologists at Saqqara made a remarkable discovery: a 52-foot (16m) papyrus scroll containing spells from the Book of the Dead. It was the first complete papyrus discovery in a full century, and will undoubtedly enhance modern understandings of ancient Egyptian belief in magic. Currently, the lengthy papyrus is being restored at the Egyptian Museum Laboratory in Cairo, and it's hoped the epic document will eventually go on display at the all-new Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza.

Valley of the Queens, Luxor

This colourful painting of Queen Nefertari was found in her tomb in the Valley of the Queens in Luxor (ancient Thebes). The royal lady was buried in a small rock-cut temple and is depicted here playing a popular ancient Egyptian game called 'senet'. The game had symbolic meaning; senet meant 'passing', and it was seen as a parallel for the journey into the afterlife.

Valley of the Kings, Luxor

Tutankhamun's tomb is one of the most famous in the Valley of the Kings, even though it wasn't discovered until 1922. His legendary funerary mask was made from 22lbs (10kg) of solid gold, as well as lapis lazuli, quartz, glass and obsidian. His body was wrapped in resin-soaked bandages and was accompanied by items that would help him into the afterlife. Some have speculated that the tomb he was found in seems second-hand – could it have been intended for his stepmother, Queen Nefertiti?

Ornate jewellery was commonly stored inside Egyptian pyramids, either as divine offerings or to accompany the deceased into the afterlife. This spectacular scarab bracelet is just one of the items found inside Tutankhamun's tomb. Formed from gold and lapis lazuli, the intricate trinket is a gorgeous example of ancient craftsmanship. Regardless of gender or status, the Egyptians loved jewellery, and over the centuries endless precious charms and ornaments have been discovered.

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Sandals and toe stalls (golden toe coverings) were discovered on many Egyptian mummies, including Tutankhamun. Pictured here is a replica of a pair recovered from King Tut's tomb, where some 80 pairs were found in total. These funerary items served symbolic purposes; on each sole are figures and arches representing Egypt’s nine traditional enemies, which the pharaoh symbolically trod on.

Royal necropolis of Tanis, Nile Delta

In 1939, French Egyptologist Pierre Montet discovered the royal necropolis of Tanis. The underground site was almost completely untouched, which was hugely significant as not a single fully intact royal tomb had been found in Egypt until Montet's find. Kings and princes from the 21st and 22nd dynasties were buried in the necropolis complete with stone sarcophagi, silver coffins and copious amounts of gold and silver. Dubbed the Tanis Treasures, Montet's discovery was just as remarkable as Howard Carter's Tutankhamun find.

This striking silver coffin is arguably the most famous of the Tanis Treasures. The priceless coffin contained the mummy of Shoshenq II, a 22nd-dynasty pharaoh unknown until Montet's discovery. Unusually, the coffin uses a falcon instead of the king's head, and the miniatures surrounding his coffin contained his organs – a stark contrast to the canopic jars more commonly used.

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Also found inside Shoshenq II's tomb was this breastplate-like collar. While the colours have faded slightly, you can still get a sense of just how opulent it must have been. The jewellery piece is shaped like a falcon and depicts the goddess Nekhbet, who often appeared in vulture form and hovered above kings holding the shen (circle, or sun disc) to represent eternity.

This beaded necklace was found in king Psusennes I's tomb. The two rows of beads are made from lapis lazuli with two golden beads in the middle, and date back to roughly 1069-945 BC. Unusually, there's an Assyrian inscription on one of the beads, and historians are still unsure as to why this foreign item was found in an Egyptian king's tomb.

Wendjebauendjed was an army general, high dignitary and high priest during King Psusennes I's reign (circa 1044-994 BC). While Wendjebauendjed wasn't of royal descent, his tomb was uncovered inside the royal necropolis, suggesting that he was a figure of great importance. His funerary mask is detailed with a slight smile and the inlaid eyes are made of glass, but you'll spot that the ears aren't symmetrical – the left protrudes further than the right.

Discovered inside the tomb of king Amenemope (a 21st-dynasty pharaoh) was this detailed pectoral brooch. At the centre is a lapis lazuli scarab touching the golden sun disc, representing rebirth. The scarab is flanked by the goddesses Isis and Nephthys, who protected the wearer, while along the bottom runs a cartouche, an inscription of the king's name. 

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Tomb of Meru, Luxor

In February 2023, Egypt opened one of its most ancient monuments to the public for the first time. The 4,000-year-old Tomb of Meru, situated on the Nile's western bank in Luxor, was built for a high-ranking official in the court of King Mentuhotep II (who died in 2004 BC). The tomb, located on the North Asasif necropolis, is close to the mortuary temple of Mentuhotep II. Inside the rock-hewn tomb is a collection of elaborate murals and a stone sarcophagus, which Egyptology enthusiasts are now able to enjoy.

Meru's Tomb was recently restored by a joint team of archaeologists from the Egyptian Ministry of Antiquities and the University of Warsaw, Poland. It's not the first time the tomb has been touched: in 1996, some of the wall paintings were restored by an Italian team. The wall paintings are especially significant, because the technique of painting directly onto lime plaster is unusual.

As you might imagine, Luxor is filled with other ancient Egyptian treasures and tombs. Like the Tomb of Meru, the Madinet Habu necropolis (pictured) dates to the 11th dynasty. In later generations, it became a fortified town, religious shrine and even an administrative centre for a nearby women's village. Other sights worth seeing near Luxor include the Mortuary Temple of female pharaoh Hatshepsut, the temple at Karnak and the Valley of the Kings.

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Middle East latest: US blocks UN from recognising a Palestinian state after membership vote veto

The US has vetoed a motion that would see Palestine join the United Nations as a full member. The move essentially denies Palestine's recognition as a state in the eyes of the UN.

Thursday 18 April 2024 23:40, UK

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• US vetoes Palestine's UN membership request
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• Analysis: Biden picking his fights as US set to veto Palestine's UN membership
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As we've been reporting this evening, the UN Security Council has not passed a resolution recommending Palestinian membership, after the US vetoed the motion.

These images show members discussing and voting on the motion, with Robert Wood, United States' ambassador to the UN, the only person to lift their hand when members were asked if they opposed the resolution. 

Some reaction from Palestine now.

The Palestinian presidency has condemned the US veto of a Security Council draft resolution that recommended a full United Nations membership of a Palestinian state. 

The presidency said in a statement the veto was "unfair, unethical and unjustified." 

The deputy permanent observer of the state of Palestine to the UN said praised the 12 members who did vote for the motion: "Thank you to all those who rise to the historical moment."

"We are not deterred in our pursuit for Palestinian freedom and independence," Majed Bamya said. 

The Israeli foreign minister has praised the US for exercising its right to veto a motion that would have seen Palestine become a member of the international organisation. 

"I commend the United States for vetoing this shameful proposal, which was rejected today at the UN Security Council," Israel Katz said in the aftermath of the vote. 

"It is outrageous that even half a year after the 7 October massacre, the UN Security Council failed to condemn Hamas horrific crimes," he added. 

The US has vetoed a motion that would see Palestine join the United Nations as a full member. 

While this shouldn't come as any great surprise, the motion has now been formally vetoed by a permanent member- meaning it cannot pass. 

The move essentially denies Palestine's recognition as a state in the eyes of the UN. 

Twelve countries voted in favour of granting full membership to Palestine, two abstained and the US voted against the motion. 

The Palestinian Authority, based in the West Bank, is currently a non-member observer state at the UN - a position granted by the 193-member General Assembly in 2012.

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Abstentions

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Votes against

Why did the US veto? 

We received an explanation from a state department spokesman earlier today. 

"Premature actions in New York (site of the UN headquarters), even with the best intentions, will not achieve statehood for the Palestinian people," Vedant Patel told reporters.

"Specifically, there are unresolved questions as to whether the applicant (Palestine) can meet criteria to be considered as a state," he added. 

He pointed to Hamas's continued grip on power in the enclave as one of the principal reasons for Washington's refusal to back the motion. 

"We've long called on the Palestinian Authority to undertake the necessary reforms to establish the attributes of readiness for statehood and note that Hamas, which is as you all know, a terrorist organisation is currently exerting power and influence in Gaza, which would be an integral part of the envisioned state in this resolution. 

"And for that reason, the United States is voting 'no' on this proposed Security Council resolution."

A former Israeli prime minister believes that Iran has formally declared war on Israel, after a massive drone and missile attack at the weekend. 

Ehud Olmert told Sky's  lead world news presenter  Yalda Hakim  he thought that "strangely or fortunately enough, the event on Saturday night turned out to be a total failure for Iran and a great success for Israel and allies".

Watch part of his interview here...

Protests in Tel Aviv calling for the immediate release of the remaining hostages held by Hamas in Gaza are continuing.

Pressure has been mounting on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu internally to secure the release of around 130 people still being held captive by the group. 

But ceasefire talks have largely stalled after Hamas's repeated refusal to agree to fresh Israeli terms. 

Building on our 5.34pm post, we've now received a readout of the US-Israeli meeting on a potential Rafah offensive. 

"The two sides agreed on the shared objective to see Hamas defeated in Rafah," a White House statement said. 

"US participants expressed concerns with various courses of action in Rafah, and Israeli participants agreed to take these concerns into account and to have further follow up discussions between experts, overseen by the SCG (strategic consultative group)," it added. 

"Participants will meet again soon," it concluded. 

Rafah is the only major city in Gaza yet to be the subject of a ground assault by Israeli troops, but hundreds of thousands of displaced civilians crammed into the city have still been subjected to airstrikes over the past few months. 

Mr Biden has consistently urged Israel not to conduct a large-scale offensive in Rafah to avoid more Palestinian civilian casualties in Gaza, where Hamas-led health authorities say nearly 34,000 people have been killed since October last year. 

Recent Israeli actions to allow more aid to get into Gaza are not enough and more needs to be done, the US state department has said. 

Deputy spokesperson for the department, Vedant Patel, said the situation in Gaza was "dire" despite some progress being made.

"There has been some measurable progress that we've seen when it comes to humanitarian aid getting into Gaza," Mr Patel told a media briefing. 

"But the circumstances within Gaza continue to be dire and more absolutely needs to be done."

By James Matthews , US correspondent 

The Palestinian Authority first sought full membership at the United Nations in 2011. 

If there hasn't been a right time for accession since then, that time certainly isn't now.

Such is the decisive view of the United States - decisive, because the US veto at the UN Security Council means it won't happen.

Membership would, effectively, recognise a Palestinian state.

As the arguments were laid out at the UN in New York, the American rationale was laid out in a state department briefing in Washington.

It was always complicated  -  now throw in the timing and circumstances. 

Spokesperson Vedant Patel said: "Note that Hamas… a terrorist organisation, is currently exerting power and influence in Gaza which will be an integral part of the individual state in this resolution and, for that reason, the United States is voting 'no'."

US opposition had been well-trailed in the run-up to the chamber vote.

Its long-held position is that the UN isn't the place for such a move - that, while it supports a two-state solution in the Middle east, Palestinian statehood should be anchored in a deal negotiated with Israel.

They are words easily written, harder to realise.  

The prospect of dialogue, let alone a deal, between Israel and the Palestinians is currently non-existent.

Israel's view is predominant in Joe Biden's thinking on matters Palestinian, and this is no different.

Israel's UN ambassador Gilad Erdan said: "If the Security Council recommends full membership for the Palestinian Authority that incites and funds terror with no control over its territory, it deserves to be called the UN's 'Terror Council' not 'Security Council."

It isn't a view you’d hear from Biden, publicly at least, but the US President doesn't need reminding of well-catalogued weakness of a Palestinian Authority seen as corrupt, unpopular and unable to wield the influence that Western diplomats wish it could.

The Palestinian view was put to the Security Council by envoy Dr Ziad Abu Amr.  

He told members: "Admitting the state of Palestine to the UN would lift a portion of the historical injustice that successive generations of the Palestinian people have suffered and continue to suffer."

The view resonates with the bulk of his audience.

Not for the first time, the United States finds itself out of step with majority world opinion inside the UN Security Council chamber.

It almost certainly won't be the last. 

In the shadow of growing conflict, a US president with enough on his plate is picking his fights carefully.  

As we reported a short time ago, the US will veto a motion that promised to see Palestine join the United Nations as a full member (see 6.17pm post). 

We've now received a confirmation from Washington and an explanation as to why from a state department spokesman. 

"And for that reason, the United States is voting no on this proposed Security Council resolution."

The move, which has been widely expected from the Israeli ally, will effectively block the world body from recognising the Palestinian state.

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Middle East crisis: Several airlines suspend services, avoid Iranian airspace

New Delhi: With the Middle East tensions flaring up, Air India has temporarily suspended its Tel Aviv flights and other national and internationa carriers have charted alternative flight paths to avoid the Iranian airspace. Longer flight paths will result in increased operational costs for the airlines, and the situation could also push airfares higher.

Apart from Air India, Vistara and IndiGo from India have opted for alternative paths for their flights to the West. An official in the know said that IndiGo, which operates flights to Istanbul with aircraft leased from Turkish Airlines, is avoiding the Iranian airspace.

Airlines of the Middle East and Europe Major Middle East airlines, including Emirates Airlines, Qatar Airways and Etihad Airways, said on Sunday they would resume operation in the region after cancelling or rerouting some flights. It was not yet clear if the latest unrest would impact passenger demand, which has remained robust despite ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, said Brendan Sobie, an independent aviation analyst. "If the political situation and the conflicts continue to escalate then at some point people will be concerned about travelling, but so far that hasn't happened," Sobie said.

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Saudia, the flag carrier of Saudi Arabia has suspended all its services to the airports in the northern region of the country until further notice. The airline had earlier recalled a flight to Al Qurayyat back to Riyadh. Meanwhile, Jordan has closed its air space indefinitely to all incoming, departing and transit aircraft. This led Kuwait Airways to cancel its flights to Al Qurayyat in Jordan (Al Qurayyat is there both in Saudi Arabia and Jordan). The airline company has temporarily suspended its services to Iraq, Iran, Jordan and Lebanon. Meanwhile, the European aviation agency also urged caution in Israeli and Iranian airspaces though it said no civil overflights had been placed at risk. Dutch airline KLM has cancelled all flights to and from Tel Aviv until Tuesday.

Biggest disruption since 9/11 This was the biggest single disruption to air travel since the attack on the World Trade Centre on September 11, 2001, according to Mark Zee, founder of OPSGROUP, which monitors airspace and airports. "Not since then have we had a situation with that many different air spaces closed down in that quick succession, and that creates chaos," Zee told Reuters, adding that disruptions were likely to last a couple more days.

The latest routing problems are a blow to an industry already facing a host of restrictions due to conflicts between Israel and Hamas, and Russia and Ukraine. Iran's airspace is used by airlines travelling between Europe and Asia and those carriers will be restricted to two viable alternative routes, either through Turkey or via Egypt and Saudi Arabia, Zee said. Israel closed its airspace on Saturday, before reopening them on Sunday morning. Jordan, Iraq and Lebanon also resumed flights over their territories. (Inputs from PTI and Reuters)

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