Egypt, with its rich history, stunning monuments, and vibrant culture, has long been a dream destination for travelers worldwide. For UAE citizens, visiting the Land of the Pharaohs is easier than ever, thanks to the convenient Egypt eVisa system. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the Egypt eVisa, including how to apply, travel tips, and essential details about what to expect while exploring this incredible country.
Do You Need an Egypt eVisa?
If you’re a UAE citizen planning to visit Egypt for tourism, business, or transit purposes, you’re likely going to need an eVisa. Fortunately, applying for an Egyptian eVisa is straightforward and eliminates the need for a visit to the Egyptian embassy. While Egypt does allow visa-on-arrival for certain nationalities, UAE citizens are encouraged to apply for the eVisa in advance for convenience, speed, and ease of entry into the country.
An Egypt eVisa allows you to stay for up to 30 days, and it’s available for single-entry or multiple-entry trips. So, whether you’re exploring Cairo’s iconic pyramids or venturing to the Red Sea resorts in Sharm El-Sheikh, having your visa sorted ahead of time makes your travel experience smoother.
Types of Tourist eVisas for Egypt
When applying for an Egypt eVisa, it’s important to choose the correct type based on your travel needs. Here are the main types of tourist eVisas available for UAE citizens:
Single-Entry eVisa
The most common type of Egyptian eVisa is the single-entry version. With this visa, you can enter Egypt only once, and the maximum stay allowed is up to 30 days. If you plan to visit Egypt just once during your trip, this visa is the right option for you.
Multiple-Entry eVisa
If you’re planning to visit Egypt multiple times during a trip (for example, flying in and out of Cairo while also visiting Red Sea resorts), the multiple-entry eVisa is the best choice. This type of visa allows for unlimited entries within 90 days, making it ideal for travelers with flexible or complex travel plans.
Both types of tourist eVisas allow you to stay for a maximum of 30 days on each visit, but the multiple-entry visa ensures you won’t need to reapply each time you re-enter the country.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for the Egypt eVisa
Applying for an Egypt eVisa is a quick and simple process that you can complete online. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Visit the online portal
Start by visiting the Online Egypt eVisa Portal. Make sure you’re on the official portal to avoid third-party service fees.
Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form
You’ll need to provide basic personal details such as:
- Full name
- Nationality
- Passport number
- Date of birth
- Contact information
- Travel dates
It’s essential to ensure that all your details match the information on your passport exactly. Double-check your details before submitting.
Step 3: Upload Required Documents
Travelers must meet all Egypt eVisa requirements for Easy online approval.Next, you’ll be asked to upload scanned copies of:
- A valid passport (with 6 months of validity from your arrival date in Egypt)
- A passport-sized photo
- Any other supporting documents, if necessary (such as flight tickets or hotel bookings).
Step 4: Make Payment
After filling out the form and uploading your documents, the next step is to make a payment. The cost of the eVisa depends on the type of visa you’re applying for (single or multiple-entry). You can make payments using a credit or debit card.
Step 5: Wait for Approval
Once you’ve submitted your application and payment, the processing time typically takes 3 to 7 business days. You’ll receive an email notification once your eVisa is approved. Be sure to print a copy of your eVisa approval to present upon arrival in Egypt.
Step 6: Enter Egypt
Once you arrive in Egypt, present your printed eVisa along with your passport at immigration. You’ll be granted entry for your stay, whether you’re there for tourism, business, or transit purposes.
Travel Tips for Egypt
Traveling to Egypt is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but to make your trip even more enjoyable, here are a few travel tips and things to keep in mind:
1. Famous Places to Visit
- The Pyramids of Giza: The iconic pyramids and the Sphinx are a must-see when visiting Egypt.
- Luxor: Known as the world’s greatest open-air museum, Luxor is home to the Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple.
- The Red Sea: If you love water sports, head to the resorts of Sharm El-Sheikh or Hurghada for world-class diving and snorkeling.
- Cairo: Don’t miss the Egyptian Museum, where you can see Tutankhamun’s famous golden mask and other incredible ancient artifacts.
2. Food and Drinks
Egyptian cuisine is a delight for food lovers. Be sure to try:
- Koshari: A popular comfort food made with rice, lentils, pasta, and tomato sauce.
- Foul Medames: A traditional Egyptian breakfast made from mashed fava beans.
- Baklava: A sweet pastry made with honey, nuts, and filo dough, perfect for dessert.
- Mint Tea: Egypt’s beloved drink, refreshing and served all over the country.
3. Culture and Etiquette
- Dress Modestly: Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country, so it’s important to dress conservatively, especially in religious sites.
- Tipping: Tipping is customary in Egypt, and small gratuities for service workers (e.g., taxi drivers, hotel staff) are appreciated.
FAQs About Egypt eVisa
1. How long does the Egyptian eVisa take to process?
Processing typically takes 5 to 7 working days. It’s best to apply at least a week before your planned travel date to ensure there are no delays.
2. Can I extend my Egypt eVisa?
No, you cannot extend your eVisa once you’re in Egypt. If you want to stay longer, you would need to leave and re-enter with a new visa.
3. Is the eVisa valid for entry at all Egyptian airports?
Yes, the Egypt eVisa is valid for entry at major international airports in Egypt, including Cairo, Alexandria, and Sharm El-Sheikh.
4. Can I use the eVisa for business purposes?
Yes, the Egyptian eVisa is available for both tourism and business purposes. However, if you are traveling for work-related reasons, make sure you check the specific documentation requirements for business visas.