EGYPT - Heightened security in Sharm el Sheikh and Hurghada

Security has been heightened in Sharm el Sheikh, located in Egypt's eastern South Sinai governorate and Hurghada, located in the Red Sea governorate amid an escalation in terrorism across the country on 3 July.

The UK's Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) issued an updated travel advisory warning noting that enhanced security measures were implemented in the two resort towns, including checkpoints, vehicle searches and random identification checks.

Egypt, particularly the North Sinai governorate, has experienced elevated levels of conflict and terrorism in recent weeks. Most notably, on 1 July, suspected Islamic State (IS) militants launched numerous attacks at military checkpoints and a police station in Sheikh Zuwayid and Rafah, on the border with Israel and Gaza.

In addition, there is an increased risk of acts of terrorism taking place during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan (18 June to 17 July), coinciding with the one-year anniversary of the declaration of the caliphate by the IS on 29 June in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), including Egypt.

The threat of terrorism in Egypt, including in Hurghada and Sharm el Sheikh, remains high. The possibility of attacks in the future cannot be discounted; however, all travellers should note that increased security measures in popular resort towns decrease the risk of successful infiltration and attack.

The heightened security measures are likely to remain in place in the near-term. Localised travel disruptions resulting from additional checkpoints and security patrols within the above-mentioned areas should be anticipated. Anyone operating or travelling in Egypt in the near-term is advised to monitor local security and political developments closely. A heightened security awareness is advised in tourist areas, ports of entry and near security force personnel and facilities, so may well affect your travel.

For any travel concerns or advice and support for travel to Egypt please contact [email protected]

Travel update; with thanks to Red24

Photo: with thanks to www.bedawi.com