Society & Religion

About 90% of Egyptians are Sunni Muslims, and Islam shapes daily life in a way that may be unfamiliar to European visitors: The call to prayer (Adhan) resounds five times a day from thousands of mosques (in Cairo literally simultaneously — a soundscape that can be overwhelming). Many shops close for Friday prayers. Alcohol is not forbidden but is not widely available (only in hotels, licensed restaurants, and duty-free shops).

The Ramadan (the fasting month, during which nothing is eaten, drunk, or smoked from sunrise to sunset) radically changes the country: The pace is slowed during the day, many restaurants are closed. But after sunset, life explodes — the Iftar meals are festive, the streets lively until late at night, Ramadan lanterns (Fanous) adorn the cities. Those traveling during Ramadan should refrain from eating or drinking in public out of respect.

The Copts (about 10% of the population, 10–12 million) are the largest Christian minority in the Middle East and trace their church back to the Evangelist Mark (1st century AD). The Coptic Orthodox Church has its own traditions: its own Pope (Tawadros II, based in Cairo), its own calendar, unique church music, and elaborate fasting periods (over 200 fasting days a year).

Copts and Muslims largely live peacefully together in Egypt — but there are tensions, especially in Upper Egypt. Attacks on churches (tragically in the years 2016–2017) have deeply affected the community. As a tourist, you will not notice this conflict — but understanding the religious diversity enriches the journey.

Egypt is a conservative, patriarchal country — this should be stated honestly. Women traveling alone will receive more attention than men traveling alone: staring, comments, occasional flirting. This is annoying and uncomfortable, but generally not dangerous.

Tips for Women

• Clothing: Cover shoulders and knees (outside beach resorts). Avoid tight-fitting clothing. A scarf is versatile (sun protection, mosquito protection, headscarf for mosques).
• Metro: In Cairo, there are women's compartments (front carriages) — use them, especially during rush hour.
• Taxis/Uber: Uber is safer than street taxis — the driver is identifiable through the app.
• Evenings: It is safe in tourist areas and upscale districts (Zamalek, El Gouna). Avoid lonely alleys in Cairo or Luxor at night.
• Wearing a wedding ring: A wedding ring (even a fake one) and mentioning a husband (“My husband is waiting at the hotel") can stop persistent advances.

Despite these restrictions: Many women traveling alone have had wonderful experiences in Egypt. Most Egyptians are respectful and helpful — the negative experiences come from a small minority.