Guide to Visit Egypt During Ramadan 2026

When I landed in Cairo in early March 2025, the air felt different. Not just from the desert breeze, but from Ramadan. For those who might not be familiar, Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. It's a special time when Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, focusing on prayer, self-reflection, and getting together with their family and friends.

In this guide, I will share exactly what to expect if you are planning a trip to Egypt during Ramadan, along with my own experiences and tips I learned.

When is Ramadan in Egypt?

I have mentioned above that Ramadan falls in the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, and its start and end are determined by the sighting of the crescent moon. Traditionally, an imam will gaze at the night sky from the minaret of a mosque, and if a slender crescent moon is seen, Ramadan begins. Because moon sightings can vary, the exact timing of Ramadan may differ slightly from country to country.

Since the Islamic calendar is lunar, with 355 days in a year, Ramadan shifts about 10-11 days earlier each year. As in 2025, Ramadan in Egypt began on the evening of March 22 and ended on the evening of April 20. If you want to experience it in 2026, plan your trip between February 17 and March 19. In 2027, Ramadan is expected to fall between February 7 and March 9.

Crescent Moon in Ramadan

Can I Visit Egypt During Ramadan?

Sure! Traveling to Egypt during Ramadan can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Yes, your trip will feel different compared to other times of the year, but in a good way (except for the difficulty of finding food during the daytime).

I found the energy in every city at night to be almost electric: lanterns lit up the alleys, families sat together over steaming plates of koshari, and music spilled from coffeehouses. Lively, cozy...just soooo impressive.

Will Ramadan Affect My Egypt Tour?

To be honest, yes, a little. Most of your tour will still run as planned, but there are a few differences to keep in mind.

Most major tourist sites, like the Pyramids of Giza, the Egyptian Museum, and the temples in Luxor, remain open, but they may close 1-2 hours earlier than usual. I saw visitors being turned away at around 4:00 p.m. at several sites.

Some night performances might also start later than normal. I was supposed to watch the Al Tannoura Egyptian Heritage Dance Show, but it was postponed from its usual 7:30 p.m. start to 9:00 p.m

It is a good idea to carry some snacks in your bag and find a discreet spot to eat if you get hungry. Travelers aren't required to fast, but imagine the feeling of being hungry and watching someone eat in front of you - not pleasant. So, to show your respect for those fasting, remember to avoid public eating, drinking, or smoking during daylight hours. Some restaurants won't serve alcohol during Ramadan, and certain cafés or eateries might stay closed until sunset.

That said, evenings are different. I joined locals for iftar more than once, and it was unforgettable: tables piled high with dates, grilled meats, soups, and sweets. The only catch? Expect long queues. If you have your heart set on a particular restaurant, arrive early.

If you're staying at an all-inclusive Nile cruise or Red Sea resort, Ramadan likely won't affect your experience at all.

What to Expect During Ramadan in Egypt?

Ramadan in Egypt is more than just a change in meal times; it completely transforms the atmosphere of the country. Here are what stood out to me most:

Street Iftars

One of my favorite Ramadan moments was stumbling upon long rows of tables stretching down the street, piled high with food and drinks. These "street iftars" are open to everyone - locals, travelers, and even a stranger passing by.

I was invited to sit with a family I had never met before, their smiles as warm as the dishes they served. A little boy sitting next to me patiently showed me how to eat the traditional dishes the way his family does, and at that moment, I felt less like a visitor and more like a welcomed guest.

Fanoos Ramadan

You can't walk far without spotting a fanoos - the colorful lanterns that symbolize joy during Ramadan. They hang from balconies, shop fronts, and café doors, glowing beautifully after sunset.

I couldn't resist buying one before finishing my Egypt tour. Not just as a beautiful souvenir, but as a piece of the Ramadan memory to carry home with me.

Colorful Egyptian Fanoos

Mesharati

One early morning in Luxor, I was stirred from sleep by the steady, rhythmic beat of a drum echoing through the quiet streets. It was the Mesharati, the traditional drummer who walks the neighborhood before dawn to wake people for their pre-fast meal during Ramadan. I saw that many children ran after him, repeating age-old praising phrases and laughing as they followed.

Festive Food & Drink

Every evening during Ramadan in Egypt felt like a true culinary adventure.

I have got a dessert stomach, so I quickly became obsessed with qatayef, soft stuffed pancakes filled with nuts or cream, and kunafa, a golden shredded pastry soaked in syrup and layered with cheese or custard. There's a Ramadan-only drink called qamar al-din, a thick, sweet apricot nectar. For me, it was a wonderful recharge after a full-day exploration.

And it's not just about desserts. Tables overflow with hearty dishes like molokhia (a rich green soup), mahshi (vegetable and grape-leaf rolls stuffed with seasoned rice), and fatta (layers of rice, bread, and garlicky yogurt sauce topped with meat). The list goes on and on. If you are visiting Egypt during Ramadan, just taste as many dishes as you can

Night Markets

After iftar, it is market time. You will find vendors selling everything from clothes and toys to sweets and late-night snacks. And in nearly every alleyway, someone is singing, drumming, or even dancing. I wandered through Cairo's Khan el-Khalili bazaar late at night and was surrounded by the energy and chaos.

Just a heads-up: if you are not a fan of big, bustling crowds, you may prefer to retreat to your hotel because the streets get packed.

Laocal People Playing Music and Singing

Useful Tips for Visiting Egypt During Ramadan

Adjust Your Schedule

Start your sightseeing early in the morning, as many attractions close 1-2 hours earlier than usual during Ramadan. Afternoons are better for relaxing or simply soaking up the atmosphere.

Use Private Transfers

Public transport and taxis can become scarce, especially just before sunset, as everyone rushes home to break their fast. Traffic after 3:00 p.m. can start to get heavy. Booking a private transfer will make getting around much smoother and less stressful.

Pack Warm Clothes

Even though the days can be warm, nights during Ramadan tend to be cool and windy, especially along the Nile or in the desert. Pack a light jacket, scarf, or sweater so you can stay comfortable during evening markets and outdoor iftars.

Start Planning Your Ramadan Trip to Egypt

Traveling to Egypt during Ramadan isn't just another trip. It is a chance to witness the country's heart and soul. If you are looking forward to exploring Egypt in a more meaningful, personal way, Odynovo would love to make it happen. Our team has been crafting private, tailor-made Egypt tours for over 20 years. It will be a trip fit for your pace and interests, without hassle. Click here or send an email to [email protected] to get in touch with us.