Egypt Travel Tips - What to Wear
Egypt Travel Tips - What to Wear

Being an Islam dominated country; people are generally conservative with their appearance. Both male and female wear outfits that fall past their knees and elbows, whereas women often appear with head covering apparels. Since Egypt is a desert country and hot, people tend to have the Egyptian Wear with light, cotton clothing. Egyptian Holidays has been attracting the world with many popular holiday packages.

Tourism In Egypt has some of the most attractive Egyptian Sites and an interesting contemporary culture, the trove of antiquities is what attracts most visitors. So one needs to know the best Egyptian Wear before travelling to Egypt.

Egypt Traditional Costumes

Many Muslims tends to dress more strictly. And the farmers and villagers mostly wear gallibayas/ jellabiya. The upper classes adopted the Ottoman fashion from 1500s and later European fashion from 1798 whereas Nubians have their unique costume and across the desert the Bedouin also have a separate style of clothing.

Basic Traditional Male Costumes:

  • Gallibaya – An ankle length robe with wider cut and longer sleeves.
  • Tilke – A loose shirt with looser underarms.
  • Kamis – A long shirt with long sleeves.
  • Sserual – Loose fitting trousers often wore under kaftan.
  • Tarboosh/ Fez – A head dress for male
  • Skull caps/Turban – Head covering for male
  • Kaftan – A variation of robe or tunic

Basic Traditional Female Costumes:

  • Tob Sebleh – A female version of gallibaya.
  • Tshalvar or Shintijan – Turkish female trousers gathered around ankle.
  • Melaya Luf – A large black cotton wrap used as long skirts.
  • Burqa – Full body covering female outer garment.
  • Hijab – A female head covering.
  • Taqiya – Short rounded skullcap wore in prayers.
  • Mandil – Female apron style dress shirt

Egypt Tourist Dress Code

Egypt Dress Code for tourist can be conservative by western standards though basic desert gear and sun protection are recommended. Avoid tight- fitting clothes and PDA in public. Swim wear is only allowed in beach resorts.

What are allowed for a Female?

  • Basic clothes include loose linen/cotton trousers or a below knee skirt and sleeved blouse.
  • Always go for cotton blouses with sleeves down at least to your elbows.
  • Trousers are allowed but not fitting.
  • Skirts should be long i.e., at least to your ankles for mosques, mid-calf while shopping, above the knee in certain beach areas.
  • The hair if long should try and keep it tied back if wore scarf better for the culture and climate.
  • Comfortable and strong shoes i.e., sneakers/trainers/good leather shoes are a must.
  • For evenings, wear smart clothes and having a shawl to cover bare shoulders would be a good idea. Same goes for cruise boats. For nights, a casual jacket or shawl is smart since outdoors is cold.

What are not allowed for a Female?

  • A skirt is not a good idea if planning to a camel ride.
  • Tight clothes and low necks are to be avoided.
  • Also avoid transparent blouses or pants.
  • Sandals are not recommended since you will encounter dust, sand and mud puddles in Egypt roads and streets.

What are allowed for a Male?

  • Normal trousers and shirt/ T-shirt are fine, in cities.
  • Shorts are fine in the resorts of Sea Side areas.
  • It’s better to be more covered in local restaurant and markets.
  • Wearing shorts that fall below the knee is acceptable in most modern cities.

What are not allowed for a Male?

  • It would not be acceptable to wear short shorts or tank tops/sleeveless tops all around.
  • Shorts are not acceptable in mosques or religious sites.

What are allowed for a Children?

  • Many little girls wear long cotton skirts and shirts that cover their elbows.
  • Boys usually wear long, loose-fitting trousers and shirts much like adult men.
  • A child with blond hair may feel more comfortable covering his hair. Egyptians like to touch blond hair, and it’s considered acceptable to do so.

You can also try to blend in by wearing traditional attire. It is fun and refreshing to wear traditional Egyptians Costumes. If you enjoy belly dancing, Nile Holiday will love a traditional belly dancing outfit for you that will keep Egypt Tours and Egyptian Culture alive with you…

Related Travel Guide

Frequently Asked Questions.

Some of the most common questions asked by tourists.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it Safe to Visit Egypt?
It is straightforward, yes, as millions visit in relative safety each year. Egypt's crime rates are low (almost not exist). Security is good and there are Tourist Police, who are always nearby upon your request at all tourist sights.
Do I need a COVID-19 vaccine to join a trip in Egypt?

Egypt lifted all COVID-19-related entry restrictions for all travelers, whether Egyptians or foreigners. However the answer is yes because it protects you against any diseases that may come your way.

The COVID-19 map is updated regularly and due to the ever-changing nature of the regulations, we strongly advise that you check with your airline and if they endorse or recommend any provider before you travel.

https://www.iatatravelcentre.com/world.php

What are the formalities for entry to Egypt?

Obtaining required travel documents including visas is your sole responsibility. Entry visa requirements vary by country of residence and by nationality “passport you are holding”. Entry requirement are subject to change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information. Please contact your nearest Egyptian Embassy or Consulate for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your nationality.

We recommend you secure an e-Visa prior to travel as it will speed up the immigration process on your arrival. Online applications can be completed at: https://www.visa2egypt.gov.eg

When is the best season to go?

Spring (March–May) and autumn (Oct & Nov) are the best times to visit Egypt, when it’s hot but not debilitating so. In summer (June–Sept) the south and desert are ferociously hot and the pollution in Cairo is at its worst, with only the coast offering a respite from the heat. During this time, sightseeing is best limited to early morning or afternoon “Historical places are opening almost from 06:00 to 17:00”. In winter (Dec–Feb), most places are reasonably warm during the day, but chilly at night, while the desert can get very cold indeed. The Mediterranean Coast can be windy and wet in winter.

If weather is your primary concern, it is clear now that the best time to visit Egypt is during the northern hemisphere fall, winter or early spring (October to April), when temperatures are cooler but you are still guaranteed sun. To avoid the crowds at ancient sites like the Pyramids of Giza, Luxor, Aswan and Abu Simbel, try to avoid peak season (Christmas and New Year holidays). Tourism in Egypt is booming this time of the year so make sure you plan in advance.

What is the internet access like in Egypt?
Internet access is growing in Egypt, with internet cafes and Wi-Fi hotspots becoming increasingly common in large cities, though access may be limited in smaller town and remote areas and the speed will likely be slower than what you are used to back home. All four and five star hotels in Egypt must provide internet access. Often it will be free WiFi access in the hotel lobby, and free or chargeable WiFi, or dial-up access in your hotel room. So don't worry, you'll be able to post that perfect Instagram shot in front of the Pyramids with no trouble whatsoever! You can buy a local SIM card to use for your local communication and your family/friends can also reach you.
Can I use my mobile/cell phone while in Egypt?

To avoid roaming charges, it's probably best to buy a local SIM card in Egypt. Local SIM cards can be used on most unlocked phones from Europe, Asia and Australia and some unlocked phones from North America, but because Egypt's mobile phones run on a GSM network, a lot of cellphones from the US may not work. You'll still be able to access WI-FI when it's available, but a mobile plan may not be an appropriate way to get connected.

For most other travelers, picking up a local SIM is probably your least expensive course of action. Egypt has four main telecommunications providers – Orange, Vodafone, Etisalat and WE – and you can visit one of their kiosks or stores to get a SIM card. Here, they may ask for a passport and confirmation of address, then you will be able to get your mobile connected.

Can I use ATM in Egypt??
ATMs, once a rarity in Egypt, are now common in large cities and tourist destinations. Moreover, most tourist shops, restaurants, etc. accept Credit cards (Visa Card and MasterCard) as well as foreign currencies. In many places you will be charged a percentage of the sale (anywhere between 3% and 5%) to use them.
Do I need to change money before travel to Egypt?

The currency in Egypt is the Egyptian pound (EGP, E£ or LE). You don't have to change money before arriving in Egypt. Money exchange service is easily available through banks and the Money exchange bureau. You will get a better rate for your USD, Euro or Sterling pounds, etc. in Egypt.

How much cash should I bring to Egypt?

Many travelers like to arrive with some local money to pay for initial expenses. Booking at Nile Holiday programs will include the prices of accommodation, transportation and some meals depends on your requested tour package. However, don’t plan on exchanging all the cash you’ll need for your trip to Egypt before you arrival. You can bring up to 10,000 USD or the equivalent in foreign currency and then swap it for Egyptian pounds at a currency exchange. Currency exchanges are found in all airports and many big hotels. Banks will also exchange foreign notes. Tour operators and hotels actually prefer to be paid in dollars, Euros so consider keeping some notes aside. Of course, exchange rates are subject to constant change. For the most up-to-date rates use an online currency converter like XE com

What to wear in Egypt?

Egypt is a desert country that means the climate will be hot, sunny and dry.


Summer temperatures in southern cities like Luxor and Aswan can reach heights of 50°C (122°F) and don’t always drop at night. So, Light fabrics like linen, cotton and athletic gear made to take the heat are best. Just remember to cover up from your shoulders to below the knee.


Women are expected to dress more conservatively than men, for visits to mosques, female travelers should wear clothing that covers from ankle to elbow as well as decolletage and hair. Aside from mosque visits, you don’t have to cover your head. But being culturally sensitive by covering up is expected and respectful. The people of Egypt are well aware that not all people travelling are Muslim. If you want to swim, you can pack your regular swimsuit. All hotels with pools that cater to foreigners do not have dress codes.


Winters are generally mild, although temperatures can fall below 10°C (50°F) at night. If you’re travelling in winter, don’t underestimate the cool change that can come in the evenings, especially if you’re spending the night in the desert or on a Nile cruise. A light fleece or jacket should be sufficient to keep you warm on Egypt’s chillier nights specially at the end of December and January.  

Must-pack items for Egypt Trip?

  • Long, baggy skirts and/or pants

  • Long-sleeved t-shirts

  • Wide-brimmed hat

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Power adapter

  • Spare batteries/charger

  • Sunglasses

  • Bathing suit

  • Flip-flops

  • A scarf or shawl for women to cover their hair when visiting mosques

  • A light fleece or jacket if travelling outside of summer

  • All Travel documents

  • The below packing list should be used as a guide only and is not intended to be a complete packing list to suit every one.

  • If you have any questions about what to pack, please get in touch with us.

Is tipping customary in Egypt?

Tipping is customary for pretty much all services in Egypt. If you’re happy with the service provided by waiters, drivers and other workers, leaving a small tip is a good way to show your appreciation. For smaller purchases, rounding up the bill or not asking for any change is an appropriate way of leaving a tip. The amount you tip in Egypt will depend on where you are and what type of services you’re buying. As a general rule, expect to tip around 5-10% of your bill. Tipping encourages excellent service in the future and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry. Carrying small notes in the local currency will make tipping easier in Egypt. Of course, you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length of your trip. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service

What is shopping like in Egypt?

Shopping in Egypt is one of the most important experiences where all the beautiful natural and man-made artifacts which include jewellery, leatherwork, cotton textiles, glassware, brass and copperware are in your reach at very affordable prices. The Shisha, the traditional Egyptian waterpipe, a large collection of backgammon boards, decorative boxes, and many other handicrafts made by local artisans are spread all over the touristic markets in Egypt. Some of the fantastic local markets that you can explore on your trip to Egypt are the Khan El Khalili Bazaars in Cairo, the tourists market in Luxor, Aswan, Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh.


Cairo’s bazaars offer an infinite choice of jewellery, cotton textiles, leatherwork, glassware, brass and copperware, plus the world’s best selection of bellydancing costumes. The most popular souvenirs are Egyptian Papyrus Paper, the gold or silver cartouches with names in hieroglyphics. Alabaster figurines and vases are cheaper in the alabaster factories on Luxor’s west bank. While Aswan’s market is the best for spices, incense, basketwork, perfumes and natural essences and the elegant handmade perfume bottles are another popular souvenir.


Cotton textiles, the worldwide famous Egyptian cotton made products would be a good choice to buy in Egypt. Many shops, found in touristic and local markets and in large shopping malls sell pure cotton made shirts, trousers, and the famous traditional Galabeya, the Egyptian loose all in one robe. There are also some nice scarves, bed sheets, and bed covers sold almost everywhere in Egypt.

What if I have a problem?

Complaints should be made to the Tourist Police. For assistance, contact your agent, guide or hotel reception.

What if I have other questions?

Please email: [email protected], call or WhatsApp us at +201000027316 or contact your preferred Travel Professional.

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Egypt Tips For Wearing

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