What to wear in Egypt

Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country, and modest dress is generally expected—especially for women. While there’s no formal dress code enforced by law, dressing modestly shows cultural respect and helps avoid unwanted attention. This doesn’t mean you need to cover head-to-toe, but covering your shoulders, chest, and knees is a good rule of thumb in public places.

That said, these expectations are more relaxed in tourist-heavy areas like Giza, resort towns, or major hotels, where you’ll often see visitors wearing shorts, tank tops, or tighter clothing. While locals are generally understanding that tourists may dress differently, it’s still a good idea to opt for more respectful attire when outside these zones, especially when visiting religious or rural areas.

Interestingly, Egypt—especially Cairo—is also quite cosmopolitan, and you’ll notice a wide variety of dress styles among Egyptian women themselves. In fact, many younger women wear jeans, leggings, and trendy fashion pieces, reflecting a more modern or even rebellious take on tradition. Still, as a visitor, striking a balance between respecting the culture and expressing your own style is the best approach.

Egypt can get hot—like, seriously hot. But don’t be tempted to reach for tank tops and short shorts. Instead, opt for lightweight, breathable, loose-fitting clothes that cover your skin and keep you cool. Trust us, linen and cotton will be your best friends.

Seasonal Tips:

• Summer (June–August): Light, breathable layers; avoid dark colors that absorb heat.
• Winter (Dec–Feb): Pack a jacket or warm layer for the evenings, especially in desert regions.
• Shoulder seasons (Spring & Fall): The most comfortable times to travel weather-wise.

Tops

• Loose-fitting blouses with sleeves (short or long).
• Button-down shirts or linen tunics.
• Avoid low-cut tops and spaghetti straps unless layered with a scarf or jacket.

Bottoms

• Maxi skirts, flowy culottes, or wide-leg trousers.
• Jeans are fine for cooler days, but they can get hot—opt for lighter materials when possible.
• Avoid short skirts or tight leggings worn as pants.

Dresses

• Midi or maxi dresses are perfect, especially in breezy fabrics.
• Look for cap sleeves or long sleeves and avoid low necklines.
• A-line or wrap dresses work well for comfort and coverage.

A scarf is your ultimate travel hack in Egypt. Here’s why:

• Use it to cover your hair when entering mosques or conservative areas.
• Drape it over shoulders or chest for added modesty.
• It can double as a sun shield, head wrap, or even a makeshift beach towel.
• Lightweight cotton or chiffon scarves are ideal.

Expect a lot of walking—think uneven streets, sandy ruins, and long museum visits.

Bring:

• Comfortable walking sandals (with arch support).
• Closed-toe shoes or breathable sneakers for more rugged days.
• Flip-flops or slides for your hotel or beach days.

When visiting mosques or sacred sites:

• Cover your arms, legs, and chest.
• Wear a headscarf or hiyab (it’s usually expected in mosques).
• Stick to looser clothing that doesn’t cling to the body.

Remember that many sacred sites require you to take off your shoes, so choose shoes that are easy to put on and take off.

Pro Tip: Keep a scarf and lightweight cardigan in your bag at all times.

In resort areas, the dress code is more relaxed, and swimwear is totally acceptable—but only on the beach or at the pool. Don’t walk around in a bikini once you leave the water.

Bring:

• Swimsuits or bikinis for the beach.
• Cover-ups, sarongs, or light maxi dresses for walking to and from your room.
• Flip-flops and sunglasses for easy beach days.

Whether you’re visiting the White Desert, riding a camel near the pyramids, or hiking Mount Sinai, pack for sun, sand, and wind.

Recommended:

• Long-sleeve loose tops to protect your skin.
• Breathable hiking pants or leggings under a tunic.
• Scarf or bandana to shield your face from dust.
• Hat and sunglasses—a must!

First, avoid clothing that shows too much skin, such as plunging necklines, sleeveless tops, shorts, and mini skirts, especially when in the areas the locals go to. They can be seen as disrespectful and attract unwanted glances. Instead, opt for clothing that adequately covers your body. I wore a long sleeve shirt for some temples and touristic sites, as they don’t care much here and it was very hot, but I always brought a long sleeve shirt and a scarf to put on top when I left.

Also, avoid clothing with messages or images that could be offensive or misinterpreted. It is better to opt for simple clothing without provocative prints. For some places, I decided to use a scarf to help cover myself, but in places like the pyramids, where I had to walk for hours under the sun, I opted for a long dress, as all the tourist were in similar outfits if not more revealing. When in doubt, just carry something you can wear on top.