Dress Codes for Women in Cairo and Other Local Customs

Local Customs in Cairo, Dress Codes for Women

Cairo is a modern city, however, it is also a conservative, mostly Muslim city and women are expected to dress appropriately. In some areas, you could receive unwanted attention or even be refused entry to a building, if you’re not dressed the right way.

Dress Similar to the Women in the Area

How you should dress, in general, depends on what part of the city you’re visiting. Look around at what the majority of the other women in the area are wearing and try to emulate them. In some parts of the city, you can wear pants and t-shirts, while in others, you may need to wear a dress or skirt. You’re not expected to cover your hair, though it may be helpful, especially if you’re a blonde. Foreign women frequently get a lot of unwanted attention from men, but the more similar you dress related to the local women, the less likely you are to stand out.

Know the Dress Code

If you’re planning on going somewhere special, find out how women are expected to dress in that establishment. Religious institutions, even if they’re regular tourist stops, expect women to dress in skirts and keep their arms and legs fully covered. If you don’t, then they may give you a cumbersome cloth or covering to wear during your visit, or refuse to admit you. It’s also best to be completely covered while visiting other attractions unless you are sure that wearing shorts or a tank top is allowed. Wearing tight pants may also be considered immodest even though your legs are completely covered.

Editor’s Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about dress codes for women in Cairo and other local customs.