Anything that conforms to your body or shows off skin (or cleavage) isn't acceptable to wear in Egypt. When in doubt, go for something loose that covers your body. Although it isn't enforceable by law, wearing revealing clothing will probably get you a lot of stares and comments from locals.

This is an excellent and practical question, as dress codes in Egypt can be a source of confusion for visitors.

The short answer is: No, showing cleavage is not considered appropriate in Egypt, especially outside of major tourist resorts.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

General Rule for Women

Egypt is a predominantly Muslim, conservative country. Modesty in dress is highly valued for both cultural and religious reasons. For women, this generally means covering the shoulders, chest, midriff, and knees.

• Cleavage is considered immodest and can attract unwanted attention, stares, and comments. It can be seen as disrespectful to local norms.
• The goal is to avoid drawing attention to the body’s contours. Loose-fitting clothing is always a safer and more comfortable choice.

Context Matters: Where You Are Makes a Big Difference

1. Major Cities (Cairo, Alexandria) & Public Places:

   • Avoid cleavage completely. You should dress conservatively when visiting mosques, markets (souks), and public transportation.
   • In upscale restaurants, hotels, and nightclubs in wealthy neighborhoods like Zamalek or New Cairo, the dress code is more liberal for patrons, but it’s still wise to err on the side of modesty. A deep V-neck or visible cleavage will still stand out.

2. Tourist Sites (Pyramids, Luxor, Aswan):

   • Dress practically for the heat, but conservatively. A loose, breathable top that covers your chest and shoulders is ideal. Scarves are very useful for covering up when needed, especially before entering a mosque.

3. Red