How to dress in Egypt as a female tourist: safe outfits for Cairo, temples and cruises

If you are preparing your trip and you are wondering how to dress in Egypt being a woman, it is normal that you have two doubts at the same time: on the one hand, you want to go chest of drawers (because you won't be spared from the heat, the sun and the hikes), and on the other hand, you don't want to be noticed or feel out of place. The good news is that you don't need to “dress up” or go covered from top to bottom: with a couple of simple rules you'll be fine in practically the whole country.

In this guide I tell you what to wear to Egypt to move around Cairo at your leisure, visit temples and mosques, take a cruise on the Nile (or Lake Nasser) and, if you include it, end up in the Red Sea.

Our summary: discreet, fresh and practical

When we talk about clothing for Egypt the key is not so much what is “forbidden/allowed”, but choosing clothes that make you feel comfortable and respectful in a country where, outside of resorts, the usual dress code tends to be more conservative. In practice, what works best is:

• Covered shoulders (short sleeves are fine).
• Knees covered (long flowing pants, midi skirt or dress below the knee).
• Lightweight and loose-fitting fabrics such as cotton or linen, which are breathable and protect from the sun.

And the big travel trick? Always carry in your handbag or backpack a large handkerchief. It saves you for entering a mosque, for covering up if you feel like it in a very local market, for the air conditioning of the bus/cruise or even for dust on excursions.

What to bring to Egypt depending on the area: Cairo, Luxor/Aswan, cruise ship and Red Sea

How to dress in Cairo as a woman

Cairo is a huge city and, in tourist areas, you will see other women travelers with very different styles. However, on a day-to-day basis most local women dress more discreetly, and you'll find it more comfortable to move around the city if you opt for a more casual style casual and inconspicuous.

• Long pants (straight jeans, chino, linen, palazzo)
• T-shirt without neckline (short or 3/4 sleeve)
• Lightweight overshirt or kimono if you want to cover more without being too hot

This is not out of fear, but out of social comfort: you feel less observed, you integrate better and in less touristy markets or neighborhoods it is usually the most practical option.

What to wear in Luxor and Aswan (temples, heat and lots of walking)

In Luxor and Aswan it is usually hotter and the trip becomes very “outdoor”: temples, esplanades, stone, dust, early excursions... Here it is best to dress with the terrain in mind.

• If you are wearing loose, air circulates and you sweat less.
• If you carry light long sleeve (even if it is thin), you protect yourself from the sun and avoid the feeling of “burning skin”.
• If you carry comfortable closed shoes, you appreciate the sole on uneven floors and dust.

The most balanced is usually long linen/cotton pants + T-shirt or wide shirt with the sleeves rolled up + comfortable sneakers.

What to wear for a cruise on the Nile (and Lake Nasser)

On cruise ships there is a typical contrast: it is very hot outside and inside they have the air conditioning on full blast. Therefore, the best advice for dressing on the ship is to go by layers.

During the day, when you go out on tours or are on deck, the same as in temples will suit you well: light, loose-fitting, sun-protective clothing. For dinners or indoors, many women travelers will appreciate wearing a thin jacket, cardigan or light sweatshirt (even if it is summer).

Do you need “smart clothes”? It's not mandatory. You can wear a slightly more dressed up look if you feel like it for the evening, but the priority should be that you're comfortable and don't lack a layer when the air conditioning gets overzealous.

Egypt with Red Sea: what to bring if you go to Hurghada (or similar)

If your circuit ends with the Red Sea, think of two different scenarios:

1. Inside the hotel/resort: Here the atmosphere is more international and the bikini/swimsuit is normal at the pool and beach.
2. Outside the hotel or in non-beach common areas: it is better to cover the swimsuit with a shirt dress, kaftan or kimono. It is a practical matter: you are more comfortable, less exposed to the sun and it fits better with the environment.

Temples and mosques: what to wear to enter without problems

At archaeological temples don't usually have a strict “code” as such, but you'll enjoy it more if you're prepared for walking and for the sun. Covered shoulders and knees is usually a safe bet, and again the scarf is great for you.

At mosques it is advisable to be more prepared. It is usual to cover legs and arms, and in some cases you are asked to cover your hair (they may even provide you with something to cover your hair). To avoid depending on whether or not clothes are available, the easiest thing to do is to wear your scarf and a loose garment over it.

10 practical outfits for Egypt (that don't fail)

1. Palazzo pants + basic T-shirt + fine kimono (city and visits)
2. Midi shirt dress + comfortable sneaker (whole day without thinking)
3. Straight jeans + T-shirt + open overshirt (Total Cairo)
4. Midi skirt + T-shirt + handkerchief in handbag (temples and dinners)
5. Long flowing jumpsuit + thin jacket (cruise + interiors with A/C)
6. Linen pants + wide shirt with rolled up sleeves (dry heat)
7. Leggings only if combined with a long/oversize T-shirt (more discreet and comfortable)
8. Early bird look: T-shirt + light sweatshirt + scarf (depending on season)
9. Excursion in strong sunshine long pants + thin long sleeves (very protective)
10. Red Sea outside the hotel: light dress + kimono/scarf (quick change)

What to avoid wearing in Egypt

• Very thin straps and plunging necklines for street and markets (in resort it doesn't matter).
• Very short shorts in the city (best reserved for the hotel/beach).
• Synthetic fabrics: become sticky with heat.
• Very open sandals for temples if you are one of those who suffer with dust and stones.

Suitcase checklist: what to take to Egypt if you are a woman

• 2-3 light long pants (linen/cotton)
• 3-5 T-shirts (short or 3/4 sleeve, without plunging neckline)
• 1-2 large shirts or overshirts
• 1 midi/shirt dress
• 1 thin jacket or cardigan (essential for A/C)
• 1 large handkerchief
• Comfortable walking shoes + sandal (optional)
• Cap/visor, sunglasses and sunscreen

If you are cruising, add a small backpack or comfortable shoulder bag for hiking and a reusable bottle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to wear a scarf all the time?

No. But it is highly recommended carry one “just in case”: it is useful for mosques, to cover shoulders occasionally, for air conditioning and for the sun.

Can I wear dresses in Egypt?

Yes, and in fact they are very comfortable. Better if they are midi or long and not too tight.

Is it mandatory to cover the hair?

Not in the street. In some mosques you are expected to cover it, so the headscarf gives you peace of mind.

What if it is extremely hot?

Here, loose-fitting, light clothing wins: baggy pants + breathable T-shirt + thin, open shirt. With that you are fresh and protected.

To close: the best advice on how to dress in Egypt

If you keep one idea, let it be this one: choose clothes that protect you from the sun, allow you to move comfortably and allow you to adapt to your needs. to city, temples and ship with a simple scarf and a light cloak.

And if you also want to go with the peace of mind of having itinerary, transfers and guide already arranged, In an “all-inclusive” circuit, you forget about logistics and focus on enjoying (pyramids, temples and cruise without headaches).

If you want to read other articles ideal for your trip that complement How to dress in Egypt as a female tourist: safe outfits for Cairo, temples and cruises you can visit our posts about Egypt.