What to Wear in Egypt – Dress Code & Travel Outfit Tips
Planning a trip to Egypt and wondering what to wear? You’re not alone. The country’s mix of desert climate, cultural norms, and diverse destinations — from ancient temples to Red Sea resorts — can make packing a bit tricky. This guide will help you choose the perfect outfits for every situation: city sightseeing, Nile cruises, mosques, and beach resorts. You’ll learn what to pack for each season, what to avoid, and how to stay cool, comfortable, and respectful while exploring Egypt.
- Dress for heat and modesty: airy layers, loose trousers/skirts, breathable tops.
- Sun protection: wide-brim hat, UV sunglasses, light scarf.
- City wear (Cairo): smart-casual outfit.
- Resorts (Red Sea): swimwear is fine on hotel property; modest clothes off-resort.
- Mosques: cover from ankles to elbows; women bring a scarf for hair.
Key Takeaways – What to Wear in Egypt
- Egypt favors modest, breathable clothing — it’s practical and culturally respectful.
- Season matters: ultra-light for summer; layers for winter nights and desert breezes.
- Mosques: cover from ankles to elbows; women carry a scarf for hair.
- Cities vs. Resorts: smart-casual in Cairo; beachwear is fine on private resort areas.
- Footwear: supportive shoes or sandals for uneven paths at sites like the Pyramids.
Egypt Weather by Season (What to Wear)
Egypt’s weather varies more than many expect. From the intense heat of Upper Egypt to the mild Mediterranean breezes along the coast, packing the right clothes depends on when and where you’re traveling.
| Season | What to Wear in Egypt |
|---|---|
| Summer (May–Sept) | Ultra-light linen/cotton, loose pants/skirts, wide-brim hat, sunglasses, SPF. Avoid heavy/dark fabrics — especially in Luxor & Aswan. |
| Shoulder (Mar–Apr, Oct–Nov) | Airy layers by day; light jacket at night. Great for maxi dresses, chinos, and breathable long-sleeve shirts. |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Long sleeves, light sweater/fleece, scarf, closed shoes. Mild days; cooler evenings — more noticeable on the Nile River and in the desert. |
What to Wear in Egypt (Women)
You don’t need to dress exactly like locals, but modest, breathable clothing will help you blend in comfortably and respectfully. Most women travelers cover their shoulders and knees for comfort and cultural sensitivity. Loose, flowy silhouettes are more practical and appreciated than tight or revealing clothes.
- Maxi skirts/dresses, wide-leg pants, breathable blouses/tunics (linen/cotton).
- Light scarf or shawl for extra coverage or sun protection.
- For conservative settings, choose higher necklines and short to ¾ sleeves.
- Leggings under longer tops/dresses — especially in cooler months.
When sightseeing, practical comfort always wins. Save swimsuits and fitted outfits for resorts and private beaches.
What to Wear in Egypt (Men)
Lightweight, breathable clothing helps with the heat, while smart-casual outfits suit both sightseeing and dining in cities like Cairo or Luxor.
- Light cotton or linen shirts — short or long sleeves, depending on the season.
- Chinos, lightweight trousers, or linen pants — versatile for temples, cruises, and dinners.
- Shorts are fine at Red Sea resorts but less common in Cairo or major historical sites.
- Pack a light jacket or fleece for cool nights, especially on a Nile cruise or desert excursion.
Avoid sleeveless tanks in city centers or mosques — a neat, breathable outfit keeps you cool and respectful.
Dress Code for Mosques & Religious Sites
Cover from the ankles to the elbows, and avoid low necklines or tight/transparent fabrics. Women should bring a scarf to cover hair before entering. Shoes are removed in prayer halls — slip-on styles are convenient, and many visitors wear socks inside.
Some of the most famous mosques to visit in Cairo include the Mosque of Mohammad Ali in the Citadel, the historic Al-Azhar Mosque, the ancient Mosque of Amr Ibn Al-As, and the beautiful Sultan Hassan Mosque. These sites welcome visitors of all faiths, provided the dress code is observed.
Loose, light fabrics are still best even in hot weather.
What to Wear in Cairo, Luxor & Aswan, and the Red Sea
Each region has its own climate and rhythm. Adapt your wardrobe slightly for Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and the Red Sea resorts.
| Destination | Best Outfits | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cairo | Smart-casual layers, breathable shirts, chinos/long skirts, closed shoes or supportive sandals. | Urban and busy; neat modest style works best for markets and museums (e.g., Khan El Khalili). |
| Luxor & Aswan | Ultra-breathable linen/cotton, wide-brim hat, sunglasses, light colors. | Hotter overall — start early for temples like Luxor Temple & Abu Simbel. |
| Red Sea Resorts | Resort wear at hotels/private beaches; cover-ups for lobby/dining; casual, modest clothes in town. | Beachwear is fine on property in Hurghada & Sharm El Sheikh; dress modestly off-resort. |
Swimwear & Resort Wear
Most hotels and Red Sea resorts allow standard swimwear within pools and private beaches. Once you leave resort grounds, modest clothing is expected — especially in local markets or public beaches.
Bring a cover-up or kaftan for pool-to-lobby transitions. Slides or light sandals are fine around resort areas.
What to Wear at the Pyramids
When visiting the Pyramids of Giza, comfort is key — choose airy, breathable clothing and sturdy footwear for walking around the vast site. Loose dresses or pants with light tops work perfectly. The area is exposed to strong sun and occasional wind, and the paths can be uneven — supportive sneakers or trekking sandals are far better than thin fashion shoes.
Footwear & Accessories
- Comfortable walking shoes or supportive sandals for uneven terrain.
- Wide-brim hat & UV sunglasses for desert and city travel.
- Light scarf/shawl for sun, modesty, or breezy evenings.
- Light daypack & refillable water bottle for daily tours.
For photography, a compact camera or phone strap helps in crowded places like Khan El Khalili or the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir.
Clothes to Avoid in Egypt
- All-white outfits in desert areas (dust stains quickly).
- Very tight or very short items in cities/religious areas.
- Heavy/dark fabrics in peak summer (retain heat).
- Thin fashion flip-flops or high heels for sightseeing.
Dressing modestly doesn’t mean dull — think light colors, natural fabrics, and comfortable styles that move with you.
Packing Checklist: What to Pack for Egypt Tours
Packing for Egypt is all about balance — staying cool, looking smart, and respecting local traditions.
The essentials for what to pack for Egypt tours include:
- Loose pants/skirts, maxi dress, breathable tops (linen/cotton).
- Light jacket or fleece (Nile cruise/desert nights).
- Swimsuit and cover-up (resorts/hotel pools).
- Hat, sunglasses, light scarf/shawl.
- Comfortable walking shoes/sandals.
- Refillable water bottle and small day bag.
Final Thoughts – Dress Smart, Travel Freely
Dressing well in Egypt isn’t just about style — it’s about blending comfort, culture, and confidence. When you dress respectfully and practically, you’ll move freely through ancient temples, bustling bazaars, and serene Nile views without worry or discomfort. From Cairo’s golden sunsets to the Red Sea’s turquoise shores, the right outfit lets you enjoy every moment to the fullest.
Whether you’re visiting Egypt at Christmas to enjoy magical New Year tours, during spring to experience our colorful Easter holidays, or at any other time of the year, every season has its own unique charm. From exploring the Pyramids of Giza or the Grand Egyptian Museum, to sailing on a Nile Cruise or relaxing in Hurghada, your journey deserves to be comfortable, stylish, and truly unforgettable.
✨ Ready to plan your Egypt adventure?
Book your journey with Egypt Tours Group and let our travel experts handle the details — from guided tours and private transfers to curated itineraries that match your style.
Tourists should dress modestly and comfortably — light cotton or linen clothes that cover shoulders and knees work best. Choose breathable fabrics and avoid tight or revealing outfits, especially in cities and religious sites.
Shorts are fine in Red Sea resorts like Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh, but in cities such as Cairo or Luxor it’s better to wear longer, loose skirts or trousers to respect local culture.
Both men and women should cover from ankles to elbows. Women must cover their hair with a scarf. Avoid sleeveless tops, shorts, or tight clothing inside mosques and religious sites.
Supportive walking shoes or sandals are best for exploring temples, pyramids, and markets. Avoid thin flip-flops or high heels — many sites have sandy or uneven paths.
Sleeveless tops are acceptable at tourist sites and resorts, but it’s polite to cover shoulders when entering conservative neighborhoods, mosques, or government buildings.
Light, breathable clothes and sturdy footwear are essential. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen — the area is sunny and open with uneven terrain.
