Driving Tips in Cairo, Egypt

Car Hire Depot information in Cairo

DriveAway Holidays offer unbeatable rates with our reputable suppliers in Cairo. These suppliers are all located at Cairo Airport terminal building and downtown depots located in the city. Cairo International Airport is located 20 kilometres from the city, approximately 25 minutes drive.

Car Hire Driving Distances in Cairo

• Luxor – 630 kms (8 hrs)
• Aswan – 810kms (10 hrs)

Driving Licence

A full valid driver’s license is required for a minimum of 2 years. An International licence is required for Australian drivers licence holders.

Age Restrictions

Generally the minimum age is 23 years, but can vary between the car rental company and location. Maximum age limits apply in some locations, a young/senior driver surcharge may apply. Please check Terms and Conditions when making an enquiry or booking.

Rules and Regulations

General driving rules and regulations in Egypt;

• Vehicles drive on the right hand side of the road.
• Pass cars on the left hand side of the road.
• Mobile phones are prohibited while driving, with the exception of a hands free unit.
• Seat belts are mandatory and must be worn by all passengers and driver.
• Drivers are to carry at all times while driving, a valid drivers licence, registration documents and insurance documents.

Speed Limits

Take utmost car while driving in Egypt as traffic rules are regularly ignored by impatient drivers. Below are the speed limits in Egypt for use as a guide only, unless signed otherwise;

• Urban Areas (built up areas): 50km/h
• Rural Roads (outside towns): 100km/h
• Motorways: 100km/h

Drink Driving

Full awareness is vital while driving in Egypt, where traffic rules are commonly ignored it is highly recommended to have a 0% alcohol content while driving. The legal blood alcohol content (BAC) in Egypt is 0.00mg/100ml. Alcohol can have a serious affect on your judgement and your ability to drive.

Tolls

Tolls are payable on some roads in Egypt.

Road Signs

Road signs in Egypt are very similar to those used throughout Europe but some can be found with unique differences in colour, shapes, typeface or arrows. Most signs will commonly be shown in the countries local language, however English is also used on most major road signs. It is essential while travelling outside major cities to carry a compass and a map as road conditions decline and road signs become virtually non-existent. Warning Signs are mainly triangular in shape with a red border, white background and a black symbol/text in the middle. Prohibitory Signs are signs which motorists must follow. These signs are usually a circular shape however other shapes such as a octagon and a square are used. You'll find these signs in either blue with a white symbol in the middle and white with a red border. Information Signs provide motorists with information which are found in either a blue or green background with white text.

Parking

On-street parking in Egypt is not recommended, although its free, it is highly advisable to try and use secure park lots, if available.

Visa Information

Visa, passport and entry requirements for Australian's visiting Egypt;

• Australian passport holders require a visa whether for tourism or business. Contact the Embassy or Consulate of the Arab Republic of Egypt in your local state for additional visa information and applications.
• A valid passport is required with a minimum of 6 months validity.

*Please note distances and time should only be used as a guide, and may vary according to the route taken.

Last Updated 8 June 2010