Tourist spot faces ‘heightened terror threat’ as Britons issued travel update on safety and more
When visiting another country, it’s important to respect its culture and customs.
In light of Ramadan, which is currently being observed by Muslims in Egypt, Britons have been issued fresh guidance.
This comes as Britons travelling to Turkey, Egypt and the UAE were given new guidelines so they don’t cause “offence”.
In the most recent travel advisory for Egypt, holidaymakers were encouraged to moderate their behaviour and be aware of heightened security risks.
There are specific behaviours Britons should avoid during Ramadan in Egypt
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The Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) emphasised that Egypt is “predominantly an Islamic country” and Britons should “always respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions”.
During Ramadan, which began on Friday, February 28 and ends on Sunday, March 30, Muslims observe a strict fast from dawn until sunset.
At this time – and generally when visiting religious areas – tourists should be mindful of their behaviour.
Guidance for Britons in Egypt during Ramadan
The FCDO’s advisory outlined specific behaviours to avoid during Ramadan.
Visitors were told: “During this time, do not eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in public in the daytime, including in your car.”
Britons were also warned against playing loud music, dancing or swearing in public during the holy month.
The FCDO recommended seeking additional advice from tour guides, hotel staff or business contacts upon arrival in Egypt.
Britons were also told to adapt their behaviour to show respect for those observing the fast.
Tourists were advised to check the opening hours of shops and restaurants, which may change during Ramadan.
The FCDO noted that “if hotels and restaurants are providing food or drink in fasting hours, they may separate you from Islamic guests, for example, with screens”.
Being considerate when selecting outfits is also essential for British travellers during Ramadan, as “clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time”.
Britons should also be aware that “driving may be erratic, particularly when people are trying to get home at dusk”.
The guidance emphasised the need for “patience and tolerance” throughout the holy month.
Terrorism during holiday periods
The FCDO also highlighted security concerns during religious periods in Egypt.
“There is a heightened threat of terrorism in and around religious sites and during religious festivals, such as the month of Ramadan and the Christmas period,” the guidance warned.
The latest advisory noted that “terrorists have attacked over local holiday weekends”.
For a list of public holidays, Britons can visit the Egyptian Presidency website.
Visitors were urged to “follow the advice of Egyptian authorities and be vigilant in crowds and large gatherings”.
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Holidaymakers should practice ‘patience and tolerance’
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Egypt is a popular tourist destination in the Middle East, with holidaymakers flocking to Cairo, its capital city, Aswan, Luxor, and coastal resorts by the Red Sea, such as Sharm el-Sheikh and Hurghada.
However, there are several destinations the FCDO “advises against travel” to. If you’re visiting Egypt, ensure you read the latest guidance on regional risks.
So Britons can enjoy a well-informed trip to Egypt, the FCDO also provides essential information on warnings and insurance, entry requirements, safety and security, health and getting help.
Before going abroad, holidaymakers should always check the latest travel advice for their chosen destination.
In a recent travel warning from the FCDO, holidaymakers heading to Turkey were alerted as the country experienced “violent” protests.
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