Do you have to cover your shoulders in Egypt?

As a rule of thumb, especially for women, chest, shoulders, and knees should be covered at all times when not at beach resorts. You can still stay relatively cool by taking a tip from the ancient Egyptians and wearing light, breathable fabrics like linen.



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“General Rule of Thumb” Tips for What to Wear in Egypt as a Woman: Tops: Avoid tops that show cleavage or your stomach. Sorry, no crop tops! When wearing a tank top, bring a thin chambray shirt, linen shirt or long scarf with you in case you need to cover up to feel comfortable or get out of the sun.

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Don't show the soles of your feet You'll notice that Egyptians often remove their shoes, not only when visiting the mosque, but also when entering a private house or Bedouin tent. However, when sitting barefoot, tuck your feet under or beside you. It's considered rude to point any part of your feet at someone.

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Men. Pants, t-shirts, and long-sleeve shirts are acceptable as clothes to wear in Egypt. Avoid wearing shorts or sleeveless shirts to fit in with local customs.

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Egyptian men do not often wear shorts, but they are perfectly fine for a male tourist to wear. Aside from beachside resort cities, it is not recommended for female tourists to ever wear shorts in Egypt. Before traveling to Egypt for the first time, many travelers ask us what clothes to bring.

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While it's a must in some countries, this restriction does not apply to Egypt. No, you don't have to cover your ankles, or yourself from head to toe.

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Appropriate tops to wear in Egypt Given how conservative Egypt is, you'll want to opt for modest tops that fully cover your shoulders and show no cleavage, per Mara House Luxor. Covering your midriff is also essential and while your arms can be exposed, A Dangerous Business notes that covering your elbows is preferred.

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If you decide to travel to Egypt: Stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners. Avoid demonstrations and crowds. Obtain comprehensive medical insurance that includes medical evacuation.

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A few people have also asked if sandals are okay or if you must cover your feet. The good news is that any comfortable shoe will work! I brought a mix of sandals and tennis shoes and ended up only wearing the sandals because I was walking in a sandy climate and was hot.

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If you would like to cover your head with a scarf, and some women do, that's fine. However, you will not be judged or looked down upon for leaving your head uncovered during your Egypt tours. Usually, the tourists who choose to cover their hair are the ones with very light, blonde hair.

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Intimate behaviour in public (kissing and cuddling) is a no-no, and even holding hands is disapproved of.

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There are lots of stones, rocks and other objects which you can accidently kick when you visit the pyramids in Egypt. Sandals also don't offer any support for your feet or ankles. A good pair of leather walking shoes or a pair of good quality breathable trainers are far more suitable for visiting the pyramids.

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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.

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In the resorts like Sharm El Sheik, Hurghada, Sinai, etc. -- shorts are fine and it is very open and flexible. This also applies to ladies for the beach areas, but going into the market area in Hurghada, for example you may be more comfortable in trousers.

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You'll be doing a lot of walking so you want to make sure you're comfortable! Otherwise, my go to travel shoe is usually a pair of birkenstocks! They are comfortable, durable and can be dressed up or down. They pair well with everything from locally bought outfits to denim shorts to sun dresses.

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But, as Egypt is an Islamic country it is to be expected. Remember, everyone is in the same boat. Wearing shorts, strappy tops, mini skirts, clothing that reveals too much flesh is a big NO. It will draw a lot of attention and, most importantly, it's seen as disrespectful to locals.

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Go with a flowing maxi dress to stay cool during daytime events. Knee-length or longer dresses are fine to wear during the day. The flowy material of a maxi dress can help keep you cool in the desert heat, too. You could also try a midi dress or skirt.

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The best clothing to wear for visiting the pyramids in Egypt would be airy clothes like loose dresses or pants, a loose fitting shirt or blouse with long sleeves and comfortable shoes.

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