Is Hurghada Safe for Tourists in 2025–2026? A British Traveller’s Guide to Visiting Egypt’s Red Sea Jewel
Introduction
If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, coral reefs, and guaranteed sunshine, Hurghada might already be on your radar. But one question keeps popping up in forums, Facebook groups, and Google searches: “Is Hurghada safe for tourists in 2025–2026?”
As a British traveller, your top priorities are clear—safety, reliability, and value for money. With global concerns, shifting travel advisories, and viral misinformation, it’s more important than ever to base your decisions on current, verified, and practical insights.
In this complete guide, we break down everything you need to know—from real traveller experiences to government travel advice, crime rates, health precautions, and local hospitality. Whether you’re a solo traveller, a couple, or a family with kids, you’ll leave here with confidence.
Why Hurghada Remains a Top Travel Spot in 2025
Before diving into safety, let’s remind ourselves why Hurghada continues to attract millions of tourists:
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Year-round sunshine – over 300 sunny days a year
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Warm Red Sea beaches – crystal-clear water and soft sand
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Scuba diving & snorkelling – among the best in the world
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Budget-friendly luxury – all-inclusive resorts at a fraction of the price of Spain or Greece
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Direct flights from the UK – under 6 hours from London
Despite past concerns in parts of Egypt, Hurghada has remained stable, tourist-friendly, and well-guarded—especially compared to Cairo or northern Sinai.
So… Is Hurghada Safe for Tourists in 2025–2026?
The short answer? Yes—but with smart travel habits.
Now, let’s look at the full picture.
1. Official Travel Advice from the UK Government
As of 2025, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) continues to allow travel to Hurghada and the Red Sea resorts, without restrictions.
While parts of Egypt (like North Sinai) are marked “advise against all travel,” Hurghada, Sharm el Sheikh, and Marsa Alam remain open and popular for tourists.
No travel ban. No warnings specific to Hurghada.
✔️ Travel insurance is valid
✔️ Tour operators operate as normal
✔️ UK consular support is available nearby
2. Safety in the City: Crime & Scams in Hurghada
Unlike big cities like Cairo or Alexandria, Hurghada is a relatively quiet resort town that thrives on tourism. That means locals, businesses, and authorities are deeply invested in keeping things safe.
Here’s what you need to know:
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Violent crime is extremely rare.
Minor thefts or scams can occur—typically taxi overcharging or tipping confusion—but they’re not dangerous. -
Police presence is visible.
Tourist police and resort security are active and cooperative. -
Resorts have tight security protocols.
Entry checks, ID verification, and private security are standard in all major hotels.
✔️ Tip: Book excursions through your hotel or reputable agencies, not from street vendors.
3. Is Terrorism a Risk in Hurghada in 2025–2026?
It’s true—Egypt has faced terror-related incidents in the past. But the reality in 2025 is that Hurghada and the Red Sea Riviera have remained free from such incidents for years.
Why is Hurghada considered safer?
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It’s isolated from conflict zones, especially Sinai or border regions.
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Security checkpoints on the roads in and out of the city
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Undercover and visible security in tourist areas
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Tourists are not targeted—tourism is Egypt’s economic lifeblood
Still, like visiting any international destination, it’s good to:
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Stay updated with your travel alerts
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Avoid political protests or demonstrations
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Stick to tourist-approved routes
4. Health & Hygiene: Safe to Eat, Drink, and Swim?
As of 2025, Hurghada has improved massively in health and hygiene standards:
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Most hotels offer filtered water, but bottled water is recommended
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Avoid street food unless you’re with a guide or local recommendation
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Hospital care in Hurghada is decent for emergencies (private hospitals recommended)
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Bring travel insurance with medical cover
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Vaccines: Routine travel vaccines (Hep A, Typhoid) are advised, but no COVID-specific restrictions as of 2025
✔️ Sea swimming is very safe—warm water, no jellyfish, and lifeguards at main resort beaches.
5. What Other Travellers Are Saying in 2025
TripAdvisor, Reddit, and YouTube are filled with positive stories from recent UK travellers:
“Felt totally safe walking with my wife through the marina at night.”
– Simon R., Manchester, Feb 2025
“Hurghada is safer than some parts of London these days.”
– Beth C., Leeds, April 2025
“The hotel had airport-level security. Never once felt unsafe.”
– Dan G., Brighton, Jan 2025
Searches for “is Hurghada safe for tourists in 2025–2026” are trending, but most answers from real people are reassuring.
6. Travelling as a Woman or Solo Tourist
Hurghada is one of the safest cities in Egypt for solo and female travellers.
Cultural norms may be different, but they don’t compromise your safety. Just keep a few basic tips in mind:
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Dress modestly outside hotel zones
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Don’t walk alone late at night in unknown areas
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Use resort-recommended taxis or Uber/Careem
✔️ Many UK women report solo trips to Hurghada as “relaxing, welcoming, and no trouble at all.”
7. Tips to Maximise Safety & Enjoyment in Hurghada
️ Choose reputable hotels – Look for at least 4 stars, with verified reviews
Use Careem/Uber or hotel taxis
Get an Egyptian SIM card for emergencies
Avoid visiting during Ramadan (different pace of life, some services limited)
Avoid ATMs at night, and keep small notes handy for tipping
Know where the British Embassy is – In Cairo, but tourist assistance lines are available 24/7
8. Is Hurghada Safe for Families in 2025?
Absolutely. In fact, Hurghada is becoming a go-to destination for family holidays thanks to:
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All-inclusive family resorts
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Aqua parks, beaches, kids clubs
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Dolphin shows, submarine tours, and desert safaris
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UK-standard pools, lifeguards, kids menus
Parents report feeling safer than in some Mediterranean destinations.
9. Commercial Angle: Who Should Visit Hurghada in 2025–2026?
Ideal for:
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Budget-conscious Brits looking for sun
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Couples seeking romantic beach escapes
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Families needing all-inclusive comfort
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Divers and adventure lovers
With packages starting at £500 per person, Hurghada offers 5-star experiences at 3-star prices.
Conclusion: So, Is Hurghada Safe for Tourists in 2025–2026?
The verdict? Yes, Hurghada is safe, affordable, and welcoming to UK tourists in 2025–2026.
Security is strong. Resorts are well-managed. Crime is low. Locals are friendly. And the sun shines nearly every day.
You should always stay aware and smart—but that’s true whether you’re in Egypt, Spain, or central London.
So, if you’re still wondering “is Hurghada safe for tourists in 2025–2026?”, here’s your answer:
✅ Yes—it’s one of the safest, sunniest, and most budget-friendly spots for Brits right now.
FAQs
Is Hurghada safe for solo female travellers in 2025?
Yes, with basic precautions. Stay in tourist zones and dress modestly outside resorts.
Are there terrorist threats in Hurghada?
No current threats. Security is very tight and incidents are extremely rare.
Do I need any vaccines to visit Hurghada?
Basic travel vaccines (like Hep A) are recommended. No mandatory COVID rules in 2025.
Can I drink the water in Hurghada?
Stick to bottled water. It’s cheap and widely available.
