City in South Sinai, Egypt
Is Sharm El Sheikh LGBTQ+ friendly?
Is Sharm El Sheikh LGBTQ+ friendly?
Resort staff are used to tourists, but Egyptian law is hostile and apps are used for entrapment. Stay discreet and avoid public affection.
LGBTQ+ laws in Egypt
Police use dating apps to entrap gay men; waving a rainbow flag has led to arrests. Entry can be refused over gender expression.
| Status | |
|---|---|
| Same-sex relationships legal | No |
| Same-sex marriage | No |
| Civil unions or partnerships | No |
| Legal gender change | No |
| Anti-discrimination law | No |
| Legal penalty | No explicit law, but 'debauchery' charges bring prison and deportation |
LGBTQ+ friendliness across Egypt
| Place | Rating |
|---|---|
| Hurghada | 2/5 · Hostile |
| Sharm El Sheikh | 2/5 · Hostile |
| Dahab | 2/5 · Hostile |
| Marsa Alam | 2/5 · Hostile |
| El Gouna | 2/5 · Hostile |
| Cairo | 1/5 · Dangerous |
| Luxor | 1/5 · Dangerous |
| Aswan | 1/5 · Dangerous |
| Alexandria | 1/5 · Dangerous |
| Giza | 1/5 · Dangerous |
| Siwa Oasis | 1/5 · Dangerous |
Quick answers
Is Sharm El Sheikh safe for LGBTQ+ travelers?
Resort staff are used to tourists, but Egyptian law is hostile and apps are used for entrapment. Stay discreet and avoid public affection.
Is same-sex marriage legal in Egypt?
No.
More about Sharm El Sheikh
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Sources
- ILGA World: legal frameworks
- UK FCDO travel advice: Egypt
- Egypt e-Visa portal (Ministry of Interior)
- Egypt Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities
- Go Bus
Ratings combine national law with local attitudes and the scene. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.