Beaches in Egypt: Dresscode for Foreigners

Planning a beach getaway to Egypt? Discover how to enjoy the sun and sand while respecting local customs. While bikinis are welcome at hotel resorts and beaches, modest attire is key elsewhere. Learn what to wear on and off the beach, from comfortable footwear to respectful clothing choices, ensuring a smooth and culturally sensitive trip. Dive into our guide for a worry-free Egyptian beach vacation.

Important information

• Bikinis and swim shorts are acceptable at hotel pools and private beaches.
• Covering knees and shoulders is expected when outside of tourist areas. Modest dress shows respect for local customs.
• Loose, lightweight clothing is recommended for comfort in the heat.
• A sarong or cover-up is useful when leaving the beach or pool.
• Appropriate footwear includes flip-flops for the beach and sturdy shoes for exploring other areas.

Understanding Dress Code for Beaches in Egypt

When visiting Egypt, it’s important to dress respectfully, given the country’s predominantly Muslim culture. While bikinis are perfectly fine on hotel beaches and resorts, modest attire is expected elsewhere. When exploring beyond your hotel, cover your knees and shoulders to respect local customs. Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, such as pants and a t-shirt, combined with a light scarf, is ideal. This allows you to explore comfortably while adhering to cultural norms.

The Importance of Modesty in a Conservative Muslim-majority Country

Dressing modestly is a sign of respect in Egypt’s largely Muslim culture. This simple gesture can significantly enhance your interactions with locals. For instance, covering your shoulders and knees, especially outside tourist hubs, aligns with local customs and fosters cultural understanding. It’s a respectful way to experience the country.

Respecting Local Customs and Cultural Norms

When you’re not at the beach, it’s a sign of respect to dress modestly in Egypt. This means covering your shoulders and knees, in line with local customs. It’s also advisable to avoid clothing with political slogans.

What to Wear on Egyptian Beaches

Pack flip-flops, sandals, or water shoes for comfortable footwear on sandy shores and in warm weather.

Beachwear Guidelines for Women

Beachwear like bikinis is generally acceptable at beaches and hotel pools, especially in tourist areas. However, more conservative attire is recommended in other public spaces. Consider using a cover-up when leaving the beach or pool area.

Beachwear Guidelines for Men

While swim trunks and board shorts are acceptable beachwear at Egyptian resorts, it’s advisable to dress more modestly elsewhere. A simple t-shirt or cover-up is sufficient away from the pool or beach. When visiting towns or villages, longer shorts are recommended, offering both respect for local customs and increased protection from the sun.

Footwear Recommendations for Beach Visits

When visiting Egypt, pack both flip-flops or sandals for the beach and sturdy shoes for exploring cities and ancient sites. City streets and historical locations often have uneven surfaces, so comfortable, breathable, and supportive footwear is essential for safe and enjoyable exploration. This will allow you to navigate the varied terrain with confidence.

Swimwear Etiquette at Hotel Pools and Beaches

When enjoying the hotel pools and beaches, swimwear such as bikinis and swim trunks are perfectly acceptable. However, when venturing beyond these areas, please dress respectfully. For example, gentlemen should opt for t-shirts and shorts instead of speedos and tank tops. This demonstrates cultural sensitivity and aligns with local customs.