Flying from Singapore to Egypt? Before you step onto your flight and dream of walking around the Pyramids of Giza or sailing down the Nile, you must familiarize yourself with a few local travel rules that can make or break your holiday.
Even though Egypt gets millions of visitors every year, it remains a conservative, culturally diverse, and locally aware country. In order to have a respectful and hassle-free experience, here are seven travel tips that every Singaporean traveler should learn before visiting Egypt.
1. Dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious and historical places
Egypt is a conservative Muslim nation with a robust sense of values. Dressing modestly—particularly for women—is a primary means of expressing respect.
- Cover shoulders and knees in mosques or countryside.
- Bring a light scarf to cover religious places
- Swimwear is reserved for beach resorts (not cities or temples)
2. Tipping is usually expected Practically Everywhere
Locally known as “baksheesh,” tipping is the custom.
- Tip hotel receptionists, drivers, and even toilet attendants
- Carry some Egyptian small bills (1, 5, 10 EGP notes)
- In restaurants, 10–15% is standard even where a service charge has been added
3. Public Displays of Affection Are Not Common
Hand-holding is usually accepted in tourist areas, but hugging or kissing in public might be disapproved or attract attention.
- Avoid PDA, especially in religious or local markets.
- Watch out for the local conventions to prevent embarrassment
4. Avoid Drinking Tap Water
Egyptian tap water is not for drinking by tourists.
- Drink only bottled water (everywhere)
- Avoid ice cubes unless you’re in a high-end restaurant
- Use bottled water even to brush teeth
5. Always Carry Your Passport or a Copy
Security checks are prevalent in Egypt, particularly in tourist areas.
- Maintain a digital and hard copy of your passport
- Take your real passport on day excursions from large cities
6. Fridays Are Different
Egypt’s worship day is Friday, just like Singapore’s is Sunday.
- Government offices and most of the local shops may be closed
- Mosque pilgrimages reach peak—expect more individuals near religious zones
- Plan other days for outings like shopping and museum visits
7. Photography Has Rules
Photography is allowed in the majority of places but not everywhere.
- Few ancient monuments charge for the use of a camera
- Always ask permission before photographing natives
- Do not photograph military checkpoints or government buildings
Travel Smarter With Tailwinds Travels
Booking your Egyptian tour with Tailwinds Travels includes:
- Tailor-made itineraries
- Local guides to assist in navigating culture and customs
- Visa and document assistance
- 24/7 Singapore-based customer service and Egypt-based ground handling
Visit our complete list of carefully curated Egypt tour packages here:
👉 https://tailwindstravels.co/packages/egypt-tour-packages/
Last Word
Knowing these travel mores allows you to fit in, be proper, and have a safer, more pleasant experience in Egypt. When you travel with Tailwinds Travels, you’ll see the land of the Pharaohs — you’ll experience it.
FAQ's
Got questions about tipping, dress codes, or safety in Egypt? Our FAQ covers what Singaporean travelers need to know before takeoff.
Yes, particularly in tourist cities such as Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan. Always travel with a responsible guide and avoid political demonstrations.
In resort districts, yes. In urban settings and cultural sites, long shorts or skirts and shoulder covering are recommended.
Yes. Tipping is expected and appreciated. Small denominations are required.
It’s safe everywhere except in the majority of places, and visitors are recommended to use hotel-organized transport or private tours for comfort and safety.
Yes. You can purchase an e Visa online or from the Egyptian embassy. Tailwinds Travels can help with the application.