What to wear at mosques, churches and temples
Simple, respectful and comfortable: a packing list that works everywhere from Saqqara to Sultan Hassan.
K
Karim Mansour
3 min read
Egypt is relaxed about what visitors wear at the ancient sites, and more conservative in religious places and in the countryside. Pack light, breathable clothes that cover the shoulders and knees, and you will be comfortable everywhere.
Mosques
- Shoulders and knees covered for everyone.
- Women cover their hair — bring a light scarf.
- Shoes come off at the entrance; socks are a good idea on hot marble.
- Some mosques lend robes at the door.
Churches and the synagogue
Modest dress, shoulders covered. Quiet voices, especially during services.
Temples and tombs
Comfortable closed shoes (there is sand and uneven stone), a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. Bring a layer in winter: tombs can be cool, and desert mornings are cold.
The rule of thumb: dress for respect in the cities and for the sun at the sites.
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