Egypt

Good to know

• Photos, politics and drones — It is strictly forbidden to photograph the military, police and security installations (even with a phone): you risk arrest. Refrain from any political activity or discussion and do not approach demonstrations: the law is very harsh and provides for pre-trial detention of up to two years; if detained, police may check your phone and social media. Drones are banned without authorisation from the Ministry of Defence (seizure and arrest). If detained, immediately ask to contact your embassy.
• Areas to avoid — The classic circuit (Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Nile cruise, Red Sea) is touristically safe and guarded. However, trips to the Sinai are not advised (except the Sharm el-Sheikh resorts and the excursion to St Catherine's Monastery), the border areas with Libya, Sudan and Gaza, and desert excursions off the tourist routes (also due to the risk of WWII landmines between Alexandria and Marsa Matruh). Always rely on serious, authorised tour operators.
• Roads and transport — Traffic is chaotic and accidents, including fatal ones, are frequent: poor road surfaces, little signage and the habit of driving with headlights off. ABSOLUTELY AVOID travelling by car or coach at night. For getting around, rely on serious drivers and organised tours; avoid unlicensed taxis (use apps like Uber in Cairo, always agree the price). If you rent a car, you need an International Driving Permit and adequate insurance.
• Tips, dress and customs — Egypt is a Muslim country: dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered outside resorts, a headscarf for women in mosques) and during Ramadan avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public during daylight. Haggling in the bazaar is expected and part of the game. Alcohol is found in hotels and tourist restaurants but not everywhere. Homosexuality is not formally a crime but there have been detentions and expulsions for 'immoral behaviour': utmost discretion.
• Drugs: zero tolerance — Drug law is extremely harsh: for possession or dealing, even of soft drugs in small amounts, long prison sentences and, in the most serious cases, the death penalty apply, with no reductions or pardons. Never carry substances, not even on behalf of others.