Egypt - heightened security measures around tourist sites

Posted: 30/06/2015

Over 900,000 British nationals visit Egypt every year. Most visits are trouble-free. However in the light of recent terrorist events in Tunisia, it is wise to know what is going on where you are going on holiday or on business.

Terrorism in Egypt

There is considered to be a heightened threat of terrorist attacks globally against UK interests and British nationals from groups or individuals motivated by the conflict in Iraq and Syria. 

Terrorists continue to plan attacks in Egypt. Attacks could be indiscriminate and occur without prior warning. Foreigners could be targeted in tourist resorts or other locations frequented by foreigners. Previous attacks in Egypt have almost exclusively targeted the security forces, their facilities and other government buildings. RPS advises you to take great care near these places.

Since February 2015, a number of Egyptian and international business premises in Cairo and Alexandria have been attacked with explosive devices.

There is a threat of kidnapping, particularly in remote desert areas.

Ansar Bait-al-Maqdis (ABM) are the most active terrorist group in Egypt. In November 2014 ABM announced they had pledged allegiance to ISIL.

Most ABM attacks have targeted government and security forces. ABM’s main area of operations is northern Sinai, but they have claimed responsibility for attacks in other areas including Cairo, the western desert and Nile delta cities. In February 2014, ABM killed 3 South Korean tourists and their driver in an attack on a bus in Taba (Sinai). ABM has claimed responsibility for the death in August 2014 of a US oil worker in the western desert.

There have also been a large number of low-level and largely unclaimed attacks in Cairo and elsewhere. 

There have been threats to western nationals, institutions, and businesses posted on websites and social media. The FCO is constantly reviewing the threat to British nationals from international terrorism and will reflect any credible threats in this travel advice.

Sharm el Sheikh and Hurghada

Enhanced security measures are in place to protect the Sharm el Sheikh and Hurghada resort areas. Security forces are situated at the international airports, at check points around the perimeter of the towns and throughout the Governorates.

Routine security checks are being performed on entry into the airport and the police are carrying out vehicle checks in the towns.

Protests and demonstrations

There is an increased risk of demonstrations across Egypt on and around 3 July and 14 August. These dates mark the second anniversary of significant events in 2013.

Protests, marches and demonstrations are common across Egypt. Demonstrations often happen on Fridays, but can occur at any time and with little prior notice.

The atmosphere at demonstrations can change quickly and without warning. Police may use water cannon, tear gas, birdshot or live ammunition for crowd control.

There have been several violent clashes since July 2013 resulting in a large number of deaths. Most of the clashes have taken place in Cairo and Alexandria.

If you become aware of any nearby protests, leave the area immediately. Don’t attempt to cross road blocks erected by the security forces or protesters. Make sure you keep valid photographic identification with you at all times. Take particular care in areas with a history of regular protests. Westerners, including British Nationals, have been killed, raped and sexually assaulted at demonstrations.

There is a serious risk of violence and sexual assault at demonstrations. NGOs reported more than 100 rapes and sexual assaults against women in demonstrations in June and July 2013. Foreign and Egyptian women have been attacked.

Contact [email protected] for any travel concerns or advice

Thanks to the FCO for this advice and photo

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