Women in Egypt & as Travelers

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.