What to wear in Egypt

During sunny hours, it is important to choose light and loose-fitting clothes. Temperatures can be high during the day, especially in the summer, and the sun can be intense, so choose breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen and clothes that can protect you against the sun.

For men, short or long sleeve shirts and lightweight trousers are best. Women can choose long skirts, loose trousers or dresses that cover the knees. Long sleeves are recommended for both. Remember that out of respect for the local culture, it is important to cover your shoulders and knees (for women), even if the weather is hot. Hats and sunglasses are also a important.

Modesty is one of the main characteristics of muslin clothes for women. Although Egyptian society has changed a little and not everyone follows these rules, showing respect for their culture will take you a long way. It is not necessary to cover everything from head to toe, but try to avoid shorts and cleavage.

As for footwear, it’s best to opt for comfortable shoes, as the country presents many opportunities for exploring and walking. Another good option is sandals, especially in summer and for short walks or the beach. Take in consideration both freshness and comfort.

Egypt is not just desert, it also offers beautiful beaches, so if you are planning to go to the coast, don’t forget your swimsuit. Normal swimsuits are allowed in tourist areas.

Although the days are hot in Egypt, the nights can be very cold, especially in the desert, so it is recommended to pack a light jacket or sweater. A shawl or a large scarf can be very useful not only against the cold, but also to cover up in religious places or to protect from the sun during the day.

Respect is important when deciding what to wear, especially when visiting a mosque or church. As I mentioned in the previous section, men and women need to cover their shoulders and knees. In mosques, women are also required to wear a hiyab.
Another way is to wear a long dress on top of your normal clothes. Remember that many sacred sites require you to take off your shoes, so choose shoes that are easy to put on and take off.
.

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 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.