Ibrahim Gardner
Egypt is a country with a rich history and culture, but it has also been the subject of safety concerns for international students and tourists alike. While some people have reported positive experiences, others have encountered issues such as aggressive vendors, scams, harassment of women, unsafe driving conditions, and even corruption within law enforcement. With a history of political instability, terrorist attacks, and child abduction cases, it is important for international students to be cautious and aware of potential risks when considering Egypt as a destination for their studies.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Crime | Mostly petty theft, with little violent crime. However, there are reports of aggressive vendors in shops, temples and archaeological sites. |
| Transport | Road travel is dangerous due to poor road conditions, high-speed driving and a lack of headlights. There is also a risk of piracy and armed robbery in the southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. |
| Corruption | There are reports of police corruption and extortion. |
| Safety | There is a high threat of terrorist attacks, including in places visited by foreign nationals. |
| Scams | Tourists should be aware of overcharging, internet romance and financial scams. |
| Harassment | Harassment of women, including foreigners, is a problem in Egypt and can include vulgar comments, gestures, indecent exposure and unwanted physical contact. |
| Animals | There are stray dogs everywhere. Shark attacks are rare but have occurred in the Red Sea region. |
| LGBTQ+ rights | Same-sex sexual acts are considered illegal. |
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Safety and security
Egypt has a reputation for being unsafe, with some travellers reporting negative experiences in the country. However, others have had positive experiences, and it is important to note that most visits are trouble-free. Here is some safety and security advice for international students considering a trip to Egypt:
Transport and Travel
Road travel in Egypt can be dangerous due to poor road conditions and erratic driving. There have been several train accidents in Egypt, including derailments and collisions, resulting in injuries and fatalities. If you plan to drive in Egypt, obtain an international driving permit and be extremely cautious on the roads. Avoid travelling by road at night, as vehicles often drive without headlights. Where possible, consider alternative means of transport to travelling by road, especially when visiting places like Luxor. Air travel in Egypt has improved, with the government inspecting and certifying airports as safe, but there can still be issues with crowds and unauthorised chauffeurs at Cairo International Airport.
Crime and Scams
Egypt is considered to be nearly crime-free, with most crime consisting of petty theft. However, tourists should be aware of overcharging and scams in tourist areas. Aggressive vendors may offer "free" gifts that lead to demands for money, and you may encounter demands for tips or bribes. Be vigilant in crowds and large gatherings, and avoid travelling alone at night. Keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.
Political and Social Issues
Egypt has a restrictive political environment, and foreign nationals involved in political activity or criticism of the government may be at risk of detention. Demonstrations and protests occur occasionally and can turn violent, so it is best to avoid them. The Egyptian authorities have responded forcefully to past protests and disturbances. There is also a risk of terrorism in Egypt, and terrorist attacks could target places visited by foreign nationals. The State Department has rated Egypt as a level-three country, recommending increased caution due to COVID-19 and terrorist threats. Exercise particular caution in the Sinai Peninsula, the Western Desert, and most border areas.
Other Considerations
Be aware of cultural differences and local laws when travelling to Egypt. Harassment of women, including foreigners, is a problem in Egypt, and women should take extra precautions when travelling alone. Shark attacks are rare but have occurred in the Red Sea region. If you plan to swim or dive, ensure you do so with reputable and licensed operators. Finally, make sure you have adequate travel insurance or coverage from your tour or dive company for any air or sea rescue operations, as these can be costly.
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Travel and transport
Egypt has a large tourism industry, and the country is generally considered safe for international students and other travellers. However, it is important to be aware of potential risks and take precautions to ensure your safety.
Air Travel
Egypt's airports have been certified as safe by the Egyptian government, which has encouraged airlines to resume regular service to the country. However, some sources note that air travel in Egypt can still be unpredictable, with unruly crowds outside terminals and issues with transportation from the airport. It is recommended to book a tour that includes transportation or have your hotel arrange airport transfers if possible.
Road Travel
Road travel in Egypt can be dangerous due to poor road conditions and reckless driving. Cars, buses, and trucks often drive at high speeds, and it is common for vehicles to drive without headlights at night. Road accidents are frequent, so it is advised to avoid travelling by road if possible. If you do need to travel by road, it is recommended to hire a trusted driver or use a ridesharing service like Uber.
Public Transportation
Public transportation options in Egypt include trains and taxis. However, there have been reports of safety concerns on trains, including incidents of theft and aggressive behaviour. Taxis are widely available in cities like Cairo and Alexandria, but issues with fare negotiation and a lack of seatbelts are common. It is recommended to use ridesharing services or book transportation through a reputable tour operator whenever possible.
Other Transportation
If you plan to drive in Egypt, you will need an international driving permit (IDP) and your home country's driving licence. Motorbike riders should be especially cautious due to the unpredictable road conditions and always wear a helmet. Shark attacks are rare, but there have been incidents in the Red Sea region, so stay vigilant if swimming or diving. Piracy and armed robbery are also risks in the southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, so exercise caution if travelling by boat in these areas.
Safety Precautions
To ensure your safety while travelling in Egypt, it is important to stay aware of your surroundings and keep up to date with local media reports. Avoid large gatherings, demonstrations, and protests as they can turn violent. Be vigilant in crowds and tourist areas, as pickpocketing and scams are common. It is also advised to dress modestly and cover your head with a scarf if you want to blend in and avoid unwanted attention.
Overall, while Egypt may present some challenges in terms of travel and transportation, with proper planning and precautions, you can minimise potential risks and have a safe and enjoyable experience in the country.
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Political climate
Egypt has a history of political instability, with a revolution taking place in the not-too-distant past. While the country has improved in terms of safety since then, it is still not without its issues.
The political environment in Egypt is restrictive, with a significant security presence across the country. Foreign nationals involved in any political activity or criticism of the government may be at risk of detention. Demonstrations occur occasionally and are unpredictable, often turning violent. Visitors are advised to avoid large gatherings, demonstrations, and protests as the situation can change quickly and without warning. Security forces have been known to respond forcefully to protests and disturbances.
Terrorism is a concern in Egypt, with terrorist attacks targeting tourists in the past. The State Department has rated Egypt as a level-three country, advising increased caution due to terrorism and COVID-19 threats. There is a specific warning against travelling to the Sinai Peninsula (except for Sharm El-Sheikh), the Western Desert, and most border areas. Terrorist attacks could be indiscriminate and occur in places frequented by foreign nationals.
Egypt's aviation industry has been deemed compliant with international aviation safety standards, which has helped boost tourism. However, air travel can still be chaotic, with unruly crowds and unauthorized chauffeurs common at Cairo International Airport.
The country also faces issues with piracy and armed robbery in the southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, with all forms of shipping at risk. Shark attacks have also occurred in the Red Sea region, although they are rare.
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Crime
There have been reports of harassment of women, including foreigners, in Egypt. This can include vulgar comments, gestures, indecent exposure, and unwanted physical contact. Women travelling alone are advised not to walk around on their own and to cover their arms, legs, and heads.
There is also a risk of piracy and armed robbery in the southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. All forms of shipping are attractive targets for pirates, including commercial vessels, pleasure craft, and luxury cruise liners.
Egypt has also been cited for demonstrating a pattern of non-compliance with respect to international parental child abduction.
In terms of road travel, conditions are very poor, and drivers frequently drive at high speeds and without headlights at night. Road accidents are common, and it is recommended to avoid travelling by road if possible.
There is also a high threat of terrorist attacks in Egypt, with terrorists likely to target places visited by foreign nationals. The State Department has rated Egypt as a level-three country (exercise increased caution) due to terrorism and COVID-19 threats. There is a specific do-not-travel recommendation for the Sinai Peninsula (except for Sharm El-Sheikh), the Western Desert, and most border areas.
Overall, while Egypt may not be completely crime-free, tourists can still safely travel through the country by staying vigilant and taking necessary precautions.
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Scams and corruption
Egypt is a popular country in the Middle East famous for its rich culture, pyramids, and historical architecture. However, it is also known for its scams and corruption, which can be a scary experience for international students or tourists.
Scams and overcharging are common in Egypt, with 53% of respondents in a Visa survey reporting that they had been a victim of a scam at least once, compared to a global average of 52%. This rate is even higher among Egyptians, with 91% at risk of responding to scammers. The scams can range from aggressive touts and street vendors to taxi and accommodation scams. Tourists are often bombarded by camel or horse riders who insist they take rides, only to be misled and charged hefty fees for the return journey.
In markets and shops, tourists are often sold fake or overpriced items, and it is essential to bargain to avoid overpaying. It is also common for scammers to approach tourists outside transportation hubs, offering discounted city tours. It is advisable to avoid these offers and instead book through a hotel to ensure authenticity.
Taxi scams are prevalent, with drivers often overcharging or demanding excessive fares. Tourists are advised to use ride-hailing apps like Uber to avoid this. Additionally, be cautious of anyone offering unsolicited help, as they may expect a tip or payment.
To avoid accommodation scams, always check the authenticity of websites and reviews before booking. Keep your important documents and valuables safe, and be vigilant about your surroundings to prevent theft.
While Egypt has much to offer, being aware of these common scams and staying vigilant can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for international students and tourists alike.
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Frequently asked questions
Egypt has a high threat of terrorist attacks, and there is a do-not-travel recommendation for the Sinai Peninsula, the Western Desert, and most border areas. The crime rate is generally low, but there are reports of petty theft and harassment. The political environment is restrictive, and foreign nationals involved in any political activity or criticism of the government may be at risk of detention.
Stay aware of your surroundings at all times and keep up to date with local media reports. Avoid large gatherings, demonstrations, and protests as the situation can change quickly. If you need assistance from law enforcement, look for police officers with a tourism police badge.
Driving in Egypt can be dangerous due to poor road conditions, reckless driving, and limited traffic law enforcement. Accidents are common, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious offence. Air travel can also be chaotic, with unruly crowds and unauthorized chauffeurs.
Some travellers have reported feeling unsafe in Egypt due to harassment, corruption, and extortion. Others have mentioned aggressive police officers demanding bribes and feeling vulnerable in densely populated areas. However, others have felt safe, especially when travelling with Egyptian friends or family.
