Travel Advice for Women Visiting Egypt

Egypt is a popular holiday destination, which attracts millions of visitors from all over the world. When travelling as a woman - or if you're bringing a woman with you, perhaps a significant other or family member - it's important to pay attention to the cultural aspects of Egypt, particularly concerning women.

Like many Middle Eastern countries, Egypt has a very strong religious aspect, Muslim and Copt being the two major belief systems. Religion in Egypt is a large part of the daily life, as is family, and the way visiting women dress and act will - to some degree- be judged by these two factors.

In reality Egypt is very open to Westerners and very familiar with the customs and needs of people from other countries. It is a popular country to visit and its people are open and willing to recognise different belief systems and ways of life. Regardless of this, it's important to remember that you are a guest in someone else's country and in the same way as being a guest in someone else's house, should take note of the customs and beliefs of people and respect them.

Clothing

In 1922, Hoda Sharrawi, an Egyptian feminist removed her veil and since that happened, the veil has become less and less a part of daily life and dress. Despite this, women still dress modestly, and it is recommended that those visiting do as well. Not simply to respect the Egyptian culture, but also as it tends to discourage male advances.
Alcohol

Devout Muslims do not drink alcohol, although alcohol is drunk by some and objections are rarely made to it being consumed moderately. Public drunkenness could land you in a prison, so if you do plan to drink do so responsibly.

During Ramadan alcohol is completely banned and many hotels and bars which normally serve alcohol to Westerners will stop serving during this time. By Egyptian law, foreign passport holders are allowed to purchase alcohol during this time, but be aware that not everywhere will be serving.

Visiting Mosques

Muslim women are expected to pray at home and so do not frequently visit the mosque. Women are allowed to visit, although they do not pray in the same hall as men as there is their own separate area.
If you are planning on visiting a Mosque whilst in Egypt, it's important to remember the cultural aspects surrounding women and mosques. If in doubt, ask at the nearest tourist information or at your hotel or accommodation.

Beaches

Year round sunshine in places like Sharm El Sheikh mean that sun holidays to Egypt have become very popular. For women planning a holiday in Sharm El Sheikh, or any of Egypt's other beach resorts, the cultural restrictions regarding dress and alcohol are much more relaxed here.

Women should not expect any problems sunbathing and where private beaches are available (usually owned by the hotel) topless bathing is allowed, making Egypt an exception to most other Arabic countries.
There are also a number of women only beaches in Egypt, which are growing increasingly popular with Muslim women. No men are allowed and the women here can feel comfortable wearing a bikini safe from the eyes of prying men.

Jennifer is a part of the digital blogging team at digitalcrosstalk.com who work with brands like British Airways. For more information about me, or to keep up to date with the latest in travel news, check out my posts at digitalcrosstalk.com or visit my Twitter account, @dcrosstalk