Guide On Traveling: Is It Safe To Travel To Egypt In 2025?
Following the latest conflicts in Israel and Gaza, the rising tensions between Iran and Israel, and the activities of Houthi rebels in the southern parts of the Red Sea, travelers might be questioning the current security situation for trips to Egypt or other locations in North Africa and the Middle East.
Here is an essential guide on traveling to Egypt in 2025, assessing its safety, and understanding your rights if you choose to cancel your travel plans.
What does the FCDO say about travel to Egypt?
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) continues to advise against travel to several regions within Egypt, particularly in light of ongoing security concerns in the Middle East. The border areas adjacent to Israel and Gaza, located in the eastern Sinai Peninsula, remain under strict travel advisories, which were in place before the events of October 7, 2023, and have been reinforced due to escalating tensions in 2024 and early 2025.
Current FCDO Travel Warnings for Egypt (2025 Update)
The latest FCDO guidance states:
South Sinai
The FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the northern sector of the South Sinai Governorate, beyond the St Catherine-Nuweiba roadway, except for the western and eastern coastal zones.
Western Desert & Border Areas
Travel remains strongly discouraged in:
- Ismailiyah Governorate (east of the Suez Canal)
- Large sections of the Western Desert
- The Hala’ib Triangle and Bir Tawil areas
- Any areas within 20 km of the Libyan border
Increased Security Risks in 2025
The FCDO's latest statement warns:
“Following the increased volatility in the Middle East, particularly after Iran’s April 2024 military strikes on Israel and the subsequent retaliatory actions, the situation remains unpredictable. Reports of continued drone and missile activity in parts of Syria, Iraq, and Iran further heighten regional risks. Travelers should monitor developments closely via official sources and international media.”
New in 2025:
📌 There have been recent security operations targeting suspected militant groups in North Sinai, increasing the risk of crossfire or terrorist activity.
📌 Egyptian authorities have heightened security measures in major cities and tourist hotspots, including Cairo, Luxor, and Sharm El-Sheikh, in response to concerns over regional instability.
Rafah Border Crossing – Access Remains Extremely Limited
Regarding the Rafah border crossing with Gaza, the FCDO advises:
“Traveling to and beyond Rafah remains extremely high-risk. Border access is unpredictable and subject to sudden closures. Only those with official authorization and a pressing need should attempt to cross.”
Safe Zones for British Travelers in Egypt
Despite the advisories, key tourist destinations remain safe:
📌 Sharm El-Sheikh, Cairo, Hurghada, and Luxor are classified as "green zones", meaning no specific travel restrictions apply.
📌 Travel insurance remains valid for visits to these locations.
Stay Updated
Travelers should continue monitoring official updates via:
📌 FCDO Travel Alerts (via Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram)
📌 Email notifications for urgent travel advisories
Given the fluid security situation in the region, British nationals planning trips to Egypt should remain vigilant, flexible, and well-informed.
Have Egypt’s resorts been affected by the conflicts with Houthi rebels?
Egypt’s popular Red Sea resorts, including Sharm El-Sheikh, Hurghada, and Marsa Alam, remain largely unaffected by the ongoing tensions with Houthi rebels in the Red Sea. These resorts are positioned over 1,000 miles from Houthi-controlled airfields in Yemen—comparable to the distance between London and Moscow—and continue to operate normally.
However, maritime security concerns persist in the region. Since late 2024 and early 2025, Houthi rebels have intensified their attacks on commercial shipping routes in the southern Red Sea, leading to:
📌 Increased naval patrols by international forces, including the UK, US, and EU-led Operation Aspides to safeguard vessels.
📌 Occasional disruptions to maritime trade, though no direct impact has been reported on Egypt’s coastal tourism.
📌 A heightened security presence at key ports, including Suez and Ain Sokhna, to prevent spillover risks.
Is terrorism a risk in Egypt?
The FCDO continues to warn of a high probability of terrorist activity in Egypt, particularly in regions like North Sinai and certain remote areas of the Western Desert. However, major cities and tourist destinations remain heavily secured.
According to the FCDO:
“Terrorist groups continue to pose a threat in Egypt, particularly in the North Sinai region. While major attacks have decreased compared to previous years, sporadic incidents have been reported near security checkpoints and in less populated areas.”
Key Security Developments (2024–2025):
- Egyptian authorities have intensified counterterrorism efforts, resulting in multiple operations targeting militant cells.
- While no major attacks have been reported in popular tourist areas, travelers are advised to remain vigilant.
- Political demonstrations have become more frequent, particularly following regional conflicts involving Israel, Gaza, and Iran.
Protests & Public Gatherings
The FCDO notes:
“Following increased tensions in the Middle East, demonstrations have become more common in Egypt, often occurring after Friday prayers. Security forces frequently deploy at key locations, and large gatherings may disrupt movement. Travelers are advised to avoid protests and monitor local updates.”
For real-time travel updates, follow the FCDO on social media or sign up for email alerts.
FAQ
1. Are flights still operating?
Flight operations to and from Egypt continue, with routes typically avoiding the Middle East by crossing Italy and the Mediterranean Sea.
2. What if I want to cancel my holiday?
Should you decide to cancel a package holiday to Egypt, it’s recommended to contact your tour operator who may provide flexibility through alternative travel dates. However, as the Foreign Office has not formally advised against travel to major Egyptian resorts, there is no assurance of receiving a refund or making successful claims with your travel insurance.
