Country Code for Egypt: +20 

Official Travel advice: 

Egypt Travel Advice & Safety | Smartraveller (Australia) 

Egypt | SafeTravel NZ (New Zealand) 

Ambulance: 123 Fire: 180 or 123 Police: 122 or 123 

Australian Embassy, Cairo 

11th floor, World Trade Centre, 1191 Corniche el Nil, Boulac, Cairo, Egypt 

Phone: +20 2 2770 6600 Website: egypt.embassy.gov.au  

New Zealand Embassy Egypt 

8th floor, North Tower, Nile City Towers, Corniche El Nil, Ramlet Beaulac 

Telephone: +202 2461 9186 

Email: enquiries@nzembassy.org.eg  

Egypt is an Arabic country and has Arabic customs. The Egyptians are deeply religious, and religious principles govern their daily lives. You should always dress modestly in Egypt but especially when visiting mosques or rural areas. Men and women should wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that covers shoulders and knees.  

When greeting locals, a warm smile and a simple “Salam Alaikum” (peace be upon you) is a great start. Handshakes are common between men, but between men and women, it’s best to wait and see if the woman extends her hand first. In homes and some religious sites, it’s important to remove your shoes before entering. Always follow the host’s lead or check with your guide. 

If travelling during Ramadan, be mindful that many Egyptians fast from dawn to sunset, so eating or drinking in public during daylight hours should be done discreetly. Year-round, Friday is the Islamic holy day, like Sunday in Christian cultures. Many businesses close or have reduced hours, and the Friday noon prayer is significant. 

Electrical Socket type: Type C and Type F

Voltage: 220-240 volts  

The following information is intended as a guide only and in no way should it be used as a substitute for professional medical advice relative to a traveller's individual needs and vaccination history. No guarantee is made as to its accuracy or thoroughness. For further information, please contact The Travel Doctor. 

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common. To protect yourself from illness, drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids, don't swim in freshwater and avoid contact with dogs and cats. 

Insect-borne diseases: There have been limited dengue and malaria outbreaks in recent years. To protect yourself from insect-borne disease, make sure your accommodation is insect-proof, use insect repellent and wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing. 

Air pollution: Cairo regularly experiences extremely high levels of air pollution and dust. If you suffer from breathing difficulties or a lung condition, discuss this with your doctor prior to travel. 

Official Travel advice: 

Egypt Travel Advice & Safety | Smartraveller (Australia) 

Egypt | SafeTravel NZ (New Zealand) 

Most travellers arrive in Egypt via Cairo International Airport, the country’s main hub. There are also international airports in Luxor, Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh serving regional and resort destinations.  

Once in Egypt, getting around is quite easy thanks to a variety of transport options. Domestic flights are the quickest way to cover long distances, especially between Cairo and southern cities like Luxor or Aswan.  

Within cities, taxis are common but be sure to agree on a fare in advance or use apps like Uber and Careem.

• February-March: Ramadan A sacred month of fasting, prayer and reflection observed by Muslims from dawn to sunset. 
• March-April: Eid al-Fitr: A joyful festival marking the end of Ramadan, celebrated with feasts, prayers and giving to charity. 
• 21 April: Sham El Nessim: An ancient spring festival celebrated by all Egyptians with picnics, salted fish and outdoor gatherings. 
• June-July Islamic New Year (Hijri New Year): Marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar, observed with quiet reflection and prayer. 
• 5 September: Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (Moulid El-Nabi):
  A religious celebration with processions, sweets, and storytelling about the Prophet’s life.

Arabic

The preferred currency in Egypt is the Egyptian Pound (EGP), and it’s best to carry cash for everyday purchases, especially in markets, small shops, and rural areas. Major hotels, upscale restaurants, and some tourist shops will accept credit cards. ATMs are widely available in cities.  

When it comes to tipping, or “baksheesh,” it’s a deeply ingrained part of Egyptian culture. Small tips are expected for services such as hotel porters, drivers, guides, and even restroom attendants, typically ranging from EGP 5 to 20 depending on the service. In restaurants, a 10–15% tip is customary if service isn’t already included in the bill. For private or small group tours, tip around EGP 100–200 per person per day (approximately US$3–6). 

Egypt offers a vibrant mix of traditional markets (souks) and modern malls. Bargaining is common in bazaars like Khan el-Khalili in Cairo, where you can shop for spices, perfumes, jewellery, hand-blown glass and textiles. Popular souvenirs include papyrus art, alabaster figurines, cartouche jewellery and handmade carpets. Always compare prices and don’t hesitate to bargain as it’s expected. 

The Travel Corporation has partnered with the company Sherpa to provide travellers with the latest government and health restrictions. Simply enter the country you want to travel to for information on safety regulations, border closures, quarantine requirements, your travel visa and more using the Sherpa travel tool: Visa Advice 

You need a visa for Egypt if you have an Australian  or New Zealand passport: Egypt Electronic Visa Portal or you can obtain a visa on arrival. You must have a non-Egyptian credit card or US Dollars in cash to get a visa on arrival - ensure you have the required amount as ATMs may not disperse USD or other foreign currency. 

Official Travel advice: 

Egypt Travel Advice & Safety | Smartraveller (Australia) 

Egypt | SafeTravel NZ (New Zealand)