The Most Significant Risks of LGBTQ Travel in Egypt
Based on the legal and social climate, let’s break down the specific dangers you need to be hyper-aware of.
1. Police Entrapment (Digital and Physical)
This is the number one risk, especially for men. As detailed above, using dating apps is akin to walking into a trap. Do not use them. Police may also conduct “suspicious behavior” checks in certain areas, stopping individuals who don’t conform to traditional gender norms.
2. Phone and Device Searches
If stopped by police for any reason, they will almost certainly demand to search your phone. This is a crucial point for all LGBTQ travel in Egypt. Your phone can become the primary evidence against you. Intimate photos, revealing text messages, or even having a dating app installed can be used to build a “debauchery” case.
3. Harassment and Blackmail
The risk of harassment is high, particularly for transgender or gender-nonconforming individuals. This can range from verbal insults to physical threats. Additionally, be wary of overly friendly strangers who take a sudden interest in you. While most Egyptians are genuinely hospitable, some individuals may attempt to befriend you with the intent to later blackmail you by threatening to expose your sexuality.
4. Accommodation Discrimination
While major 5-star international hotel chains (Marriott, Hilton, Four Seasons) are generally professional and discreet, you should never be complacent. Smaller local hotels may outright refuse a room to two men or two women who have booked a single bed, or they may report you to the tourist police if they are suspicious.
The Ultimate Safety Manual for LGBTQ Travel in Egypt
If you have read all the above and are still determined to go, you must adopt a strict safety protocol. This is not optional.
Pre-Travel Digital Sanitization
Weeks before your trip, you must scrub your digital life.
Social Media: Make all your accounts private. Remove any photos, posts, or “likes” that reference your LGBTQ+ identity, relationships, or support for queer causes.
Your Phone: The phone you bring to Egypt should be a “sterile” device.
- Delete all dating apps.
- Delete any photos or videos of you or partners that could be deemed intimate or incriminating.
- Delete text message threads that discuss your sexuality or romantic life.
- Consider using a cheap, temporary phone for your trip and leaving your personal one at home.
Use a VPN: A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is essential for online privacy, but it will not protect you from police entrapment if you engage with an undercover officer on an app. Its primary use is to protect your data on public Wi-Fi.
The On-the-Ground Code of Conduct
Public Behavior is Everything:
- Zero Public Affection. This is the golden rule. No hand-holding, no hugging, no exceptions.
- Dress Conservatively. This applies to everyone. Men should wear trousers and shirts that cover the shoulders. Women should cover shoulders and knees. This is about blending in and showing cultural respect, which reduces unwanted attention.
- Be Mindful of Body Language. Avoid prolonged, intense eye contact or physical gestures that could be misinterpreted.
Navigating Social Questions:
- You will be asked personal questions, such as “Are you married?” This is common small talk. Have a simple, vague answer prepared. “Not yet,” or “No, I’m focused on my work/travels,” are good, neutral responses. If you are traveling with your partner, you are “friends” or “cousins.” You must maintain this story with absolute consistency.
Hotel and Accommodation Strategy
- Always Book Twin Beds. When booking a room with a same-sex partner, always select the twin bed option. This removes any immediate red flags at the check-in desk.
- Stick to Major International Chains. They have a corporate reputation to protect and are less likely to pry into the personal lives of their guests, as long as you are discreet.
Specific Advice for Transgender Travelers
LGBTQ travel in Egypt is exceptionally difficult for transgender individuals.
- Documents are Paramount: Your passport gender marker absolutely must align with your gender presentation. Any discrepancy will lead to intense scrutiny, questioning, and potential denial of entry or detention.
- Public Facilities: Be extremely cautious when using public restrooms. It’s best to use facilities in your international hotel or upscale restaurants.
- Medical Needs: Bring more than enough of any required medications, along with a doctor’s letter. Accessing specific hormone treatments will be impossible.
