In Cairo, modesty is key when choosing what to wear, particularly in public spaces, due to cultural norms. Lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton are advisable to deal with the hot climate, especially during summer. Loose-fitting clothing that covers your shoulders and knees is recommended, especially for women, out of respect for local customs.
For men, wearing shorts is generally not common, so light trousers or long pants are more appropriate. Sunglasses, hats, and comfortable walking shoes are essential to protect against the strong sun. In religious sites like mosques, women may need to cover their heads, so bringing a scarf is helpful.
What To Wear in Cairo as a Woman?
Dressing appropriately as a woman in Cairo involves balancing comfort, modesty, and respect for the local culture. Here are some specific clothing recommendations:
1. Clothing
- Loose-fitting Clothing: Opt for loose, breathable fabrics to stay comfortable in the heat. Long skirts, maxi dresses, and wide-leg trousers are great choices.
- Tops: Choose tops that cover the shoulders and upper arms. T-shirts, tunics, and blouses are suitable, but they should not be low-cut or overly tight.
- Layers: A lightweight cardigan or shawl is handy for covering up when needed, especially in more conservative areas or when entering religious sites.
2. Headwear
- Scarf: While it’s not mandatory for non-Muslim women to cover their heads, carrying a scarf is useful for visiting religious sites like mosques, or simply as protection from the sun.
3. Footwear
- Comfortable Shoes: Given the uneven and often dusty streets, closed-toe, comfortable walking shoes are advisable. Sandals with a back strap are also a good option but avoid high heels.
4. Accessories
- Sunglasses and Hat: Protect yourself from the sun with sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat.
- Sunscreen: Always wear sunscreen to protect your skin from the intense sun.
5. Special Considerations
- When visiting religious sites: Be extra mindful to dress conservatively. This includes wearing a scarf to cover your hair, and ensuring your arms and legs are fully covered.
- Cultural Sensitivity: While Cairo is a major metropolitan city, it’s still important to respect the local customs and dress codes, especially in non-touristic areas.
What To Wear in Cairo Egypt: A Month-Wise Guide from January To December
Here’s a comprehensive month-wise guide to help you decide what to wear in Cairo, Egypt, throughout the year, ensuring you stay comfortable and stylish no matter when you visit:
What To Wear in Cairo in January?
January in Cairo is mild and cool, with temperatures ranging from 9°C to 18°C (48°F to 64°F). Nights can be chilly.
- Light to medium-weight jackets or coats
- Long-sleeve tops and sweaters
- Jeans or trousers
- Comfortable closed-toe shoes
- Scarves and hats for cooler evenings
What To Wear in Cairo in February?
February remains mild, with temperatures from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). Expect sunny days and cool nights.
- Light to medium-weight jackets or coats
- Long-sleeve tops and cardigans
- Jeans or trousers
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Light scarves for added warmth
What To Wear in Cairo in March?
March sees warming temperatures, ranging from 12°C to 23°C (54°F to 73°F). Expect pleasant, sunny days.
- Light jackets or cardigans
- Long-sleeve and short-sleeve tops
- Jeans, trousers, or skirts
- Comfortable shoes or sandals
- Sunglasses and a light scarf
What To Wear in Cairo in April?
April offers warm and pleasant weather, with temperatures between 15°C to 27°C (59°F to 81°F).
- Light jackets or sweaters for evenings
- Short-sleeve tops and blouses
- Jeans, trousers, skirts, or dresses
- Comfortable sandals or flats
- Sunglasses and a hat
What To Wear in Cairo in May?
May is warmer, with temperatures from 18°C to 31°C (64°F to 88°F). Expect hot, sunny days.
- Light, breathable fabrics (cotton, linen)
- Short-sleeve tops and blouses
- Dresses, skirts, and shorts
- Comfortable sandals or sneakers
- Sunglasses, sunhat, and sunscreen
What To Wear in Cairo in June?
June marks the beginning of summer, with hot temperatures ranging from 21°C to 34°C (70°F to 93°F).
- Light, breathable fabrics
- Short-sleeve tops and tank tops
- Shorts, skirts, and light dresses
- Comfortable sandals or breathable sneakers
- Sunglasses, sunhat, and sunscreen
What To Wear in Cairo in July?
July is the peak of summer, with very hot temperatures from 23°C to 36°C (73°F to 97°F).
- Breezy dresses and skirts
- Tank tops and T-shirts
- Shorts and lightweight trousers
- Sandals and breathable sneakers
- Sunglasses, sunhat, and sunscreen
What To Wear in Cairo in August?
August continues with very hot, sunny days, similar to July. Temperatures often range from 23°C to 35°C (73°F to 95°F).
- Light, breathable fabrics
- Dresses, shorts, and skirts
- Comfortable sandals or sneakers
- Sun protection like sunglasses and hats
What To Wear in Cairo in September?
September sees slightly cooler temperatures, ranging from 21°C to 33°C (70°F to 91°F). Expect warm, sunny days.
- Light jackets or cardigans for cooler evenings
- Short-sleeve tops and blouses
- Shorts, skirts, and light trousers
- Comfortable shoes or sandals
- Sunglasses and a light scarf
What To Wear in Cairo in October?
October brings cooler, more comfortable temperatures from 18°C to 30°C (64°F to 86°F).
- Light jackets or blazers
- Long-sleeve tops and lightweight sweaters
- Jeans, trousers, skirts, or dresses
- Comfortable walking shoes or flats
- Sunglasses and an umbrella
What To Wear in Cairo in November?
November is mild, with temperatures between 14°C to 25°C (57°F to 77°F). Expect warm days and cooler evenings.
- Light to medium-weight jackets or sweaters
- Long-sleeve tops and blouses
- Jeans or trousers
- Comfortable closed-toe shoes
- Light scarves for added warmth
What To Wear in Cairo in December?
December is cool, with temperatures ranging from 11°C to 20°C (52°F to 68°F). Nights can be chilly.
- Medium-weight jackets or coats
- Long-sleeve tops and sweaters
- Jeans or trousers
- Comfortable closed-toe shoes
- Scarves and hats for cooler evenings
FAQs On What To Wear In Cairo
Light, breathable clothing is suitable for Cairo. Opt for fabrics like cotton and linen to stay cool. Modest attire is recommended, especially for women, to respect local customs.
Yes, it is advisable to dress modestly in Cairo. Women should wear clothing that covers their shoulders, chest, and knees. Men should avoid wearing shorts in public places.
Men can wear shorts in tourist areas, but it is generally more respectful to wear long pants. Women should avoid wearing shorts and opt for skirts or pants that cover the knees.
Bringing a scarf is a good idea. Women may need to cover their heads when visiting mosques. A scarf can also provide protection from the sun.
