Religious Limits in Egypt

It is important that travelers are aware of the religious culture of the Egyptians. This Egypt travel information explains the religious limits in place while visiting Egypt.

The Importance of Religion in Egypt

Being a Middle Eastern country, Egypt naturally has Middle Eastern customs. Egyptians are deeply religious, be they Copt or Muslim, and they govern their lives based on religious principles. Combined with this is their concern with and committment to their extended families. All family members are equally responsible for the reputation and integrity of the family, as well as for the behavior of other members. This establishes a wholesome environment that would be the envy of many westerners.

This helps explain why Cairo is probably the safest western metropolis.

Nonetheless, many westerners visiting Egypt are still somewhat apprehensive. They don't know that their views of Arabs and Egyptians are based on unkind and untrue stories in the media, and more often than not have no relation to reality. That's why they need another source, for instance a good Egypt Travel Advisory such as this one.

Since most Egyptians have been raised in a social environment steeped in Islam, their thought processes and decisions can sometimes confound westerners. Yet it is precisely this Islamic upbringing that makes Egyptians the most charming and helpful of hosts. Open your mind and accept the generosity of your hosts; your visit to Egypt will be most agreeable, you'll see.

Religious Limits

Despite the prohibition against alcoholic beverages common to devout Muslims, you will find that the vast majority have no problem with your imbibing. Just don't over do it. If in doubt, ask.

In addition to their rejection of alcohol, the faithful do not eat pork (considered unclean) or use drugs. They are also inflexible when it comes to pornography - explicit sexual materials such as magazines, photos, tapes, or records, are totally illegal and likely to be confiscated.

And you won't want to be caught trying to "enlighten" native Egyptians to your ways. Proselytizing is illegal in Egypt. If you work actively to convert the locals, you can expect to be asked to leave the country. Remember, almost all Egyptians are devout and conservative Muslims or Coptics.

Moral Codes

When it comes to women, Egypt is one of the more progressive Middle-Eastern countries, with very few restrictions, but there are a few.

For example, ticket queues might be segregated; women should line up with the other women (their lines are usually shorter anyway). If you take a bus, the driver may ask you to sit in the front with the other women. In fact, on the city bus lines, the first car is generally reserved just for women.

And for you men, another important Egypt Travel Advisory is to leave your flirting at home. It is considered a serious breach of etiquette for a man to speak with Egyptian women he does not know. A further word of warning - be careful in any liaisons you form, because some Egyptian families still follow ancient traditions. 'Nuff said.

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