What to Wear in Egypt: Packing Tips for Every Situation
Not sure what to wear in Egypt? It is a question a lot of people ask before their trip, especially if it is their first time visiting a Muslim country.
Egypt does not have a strict dress code, but it is a conservative country and dressing respectfully does make a difference.
It helps you avoid unwanted attention and means you can explore more comfortably, whether you are at the beach, visiting temples, or wandering through a market.
I have been to Egypt several times, both for beach holidays and for sightseeing. Here is what I have learned about what to wear and what to leave at home.
Short on time? Here are my top picks for hotels and tours in Egypt:
➡️Steigenberger Hotel El Tahrir Cairo – A great choice if you are staying in Cairo, perfectly located in the city centre close to everything.
➡️JAZ Elite Asteria, Hurghada – A fantastic all-inclusive beach resort with a private beach, ideal for a relaxing holiday on the Red Sea.
➡️Cairo: Pyramids & Great Sphinx Private Tour – A private guided tour of the Pyramids and the Great Sphinx, with a camel ride included.
➡️Hurghada: Desert Safari – A fun desert adventure with quad biking, a camel ride, and an optional BBQ dinner under the stars.
What to Wear at a Beach Resort
If you are staying at a hotel resort in Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh, or similar beach destinations, you do not need to worry too much. Resorts are very open to tourists, and the dress code is relaxed.
On the beach, you can wear a bikini or swimwear as normal. When you move inside to your room or the restaurant for lunch, put something on top, a dress, shorts, and a T-shirt are fine.
For dinner, dress a little smarter. This depends on the hotel. At a 5-star hotel, they may expect smart clothing. For women, a dress, skirt, or smart trousers with a blouse works well.
For men, long trousers, a shirt or polo shirt, and closed shoes. At 5-star hotels, shorts, flip-flops, and beachwear are not appropriate for dinner.
If you are leaving the resort, for example to buy souvenirs, walk around town, or go on a desert safari, dress more modestly.
Nothing above the knee, no tank tops unless you have a scarf or light top to cover your shoulders, and no low-cut or see-through tops. Men can wear long trousers or shorts and a T-shirt without any issues.
For a desert safari, wear comfortable clothes. Trousers and a T-shirt are ideal. Trainers or comfortable closed shoes are recommended. If you wear shorts, make sure they are close to the knee rather than very short.
Whatever you pack, go for cotton or linen and loose-fitting clothes. Egypt is very hot, and you will feel it, so breathable fabrics make a real difference. A scarf is very useful to have with you at all times.
What to Wear in Cairo and Other Cities
When you visit Cairo or other cities for sightseeing or shopping, dress more conservatively than you would at a resort.
This does not mean you need to wear an abaya or a hijab. Many local Egyptian women dress in modern, stylish clothes. What they do is avoid showing skin.
For women, long trousers, a long skirt, or a dress with a T-shirt or shirt is ideal. Short or long sleeves are both fine. If you wear a tank top, always have a scarf or a light top with you to cover your shoulders when needed.
For men, long trousers and a T-shirt are perfectly fine. Shorts are also acceptable for tourists, so it is not a big deal.
For shoes, comfort is the most important thing for both men and women. Whether you prefer trainers or sandals, you will be walking a lot, so make sure your feet are happy. Again, cotton and linen in loose fits will keep you much cooler than tight or synthetic clothing.
What to Wear When Visiting a Mosque
If you are planning to visit a mosque, the rules are stricter. Both men and women need to have their legs and shoulders covered. No shorts and no sleeveless tops for anyone.
For women, you also need to cover your head when entering. I recommend bringing your own scarf rather than relying on the mosque to lend you one. It is easier and more comfortable.
One more thing to remember: you will need to remove your shoes before entering. If you do not want to walk barefoot, bring socks with you.
What to pack for Egypt
Here is a practical packing list based on my own trips:
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Lip balm
- Hat
- Scarf (essential for mosques, markets, and desert trips)
- Long trousers, skirts, and dresses
- Short-sleeved and long-sleeved tops
- Bikini or swimwear if staying at a beach resort
- A warmer jumper or jacket for winter evenings
- Comfortable closed shoes and sandals or flip-flops
- Secure purse or money belt
- Basic medication (for digestion issues, sickness, and painkillers)
- Travel insurance – do not leave home without it
- Leave expensive jewellery and watches at home
- Passport, credit/debit card, and cash
- Phone charger and plug adaptor (Egypt uses Type F, two round pins)
- Camera or phone for photos
- eSIM – Stay connected in Egypt without needing a local SIM card.
Dress Code In Egypt: FAQs
Is it ok to wear shorts in Egypt?
For men, yes, shorts are fine except when visiting a mosque. For women, shorts are best kept for the beach and beach resorts. If you want to wear shorts outside the resort, keep them close to the knee rather than very short.
Is there a strict dress code in Egypt?
No, there is no strict dress code. But Egypt is a Muslim country, so dressing modestly is a sign of respect, especially in cities and villages.
Avoid showing too much skin and keep shoulders and knees covered when you are outside a resort. At beach resorts, you can wear almost anything.
Do female tourists have to cover up in Egypt?
No. Female tourists do not need to cover up in general. The exception is when visiting a mosque, where you will need to cover your head and shoulders.
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