General Photography Rules 📸
Personal photography for non-commercial use is allowed at most tourist sites. However, there are some important restrictions.
Karnak Temple
Photography is welcome at most Egyptian temples
Museums 🏛️
| Museum | Photos Allowed | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Egyptian Museum (Tahrir) | ✅ No flash | Some halls restricted |
| Grand Egyptian Museum | ✅ No flash | Special exhibits may vary |
| Luxor Museum | ✅ No flash | Mummy room restricted |
| Nubian Museum | ✅ No flash | All areas |
| Coptic Museum | ❌ | Photos prohibited |
Note: Rules can change - always check at the entrance. Some museums charge a photography fee (usually 50-100 LE).
Tombs & Temples ⚱️
Valley of the Kings
- 3 tombs included in basic ticket - no photos
- Photography ticket available for 300 LE (covers all tombs)
- King Tutankhamun's tomb - separate ticket, no photos
Other Sites
- Karnak Temple - ✅ Photos allowed
- Abu Simbel - ✅ Photos allowed
- Philae Temple - ✅ Photos allowed
- Most pyramids interior - ❌ No photos (but outside is fine!)
Prohibited Areas 🚫
Photography is strictly prohibited at:
- ❌ Military installations and personnel
- ❌ Government buildings
- ❌ Airports (security areas)
- ❌ Bridges (can be considered strategic)
- ❌ Some border areas
Warning: Guards may confiscate your camera or delete photos if you take pictures in prohibited areas.
Respectful Photography 🙏
People
- Always ask permission before photographing locals
- Be especially careful with children - always ask parents
- Some people may ask for a tip (baksheesh) - 5-10 LE is appropriate
Religious Sites
- Be respectful at mosques - ask before photographing worshippers
- Churches - usually OK but ask first
- Remove shoes and dress modestly
Professional Equipment 🎥
Commercial photography requires permits from:
Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities
- Tripods often need special permission
- Professional video cameras require permits
- Drone photography is heavily restricted
Quick Reference
| Can Photo ✅ | Cannot Photo ❌ |
|---|---|
| Pyramids exterior | Military |
| Temple exteriors | Airports |
| Street scenes | Bridges |
| Markets | Some tomb interiors |
| Most museums (no flash) | People without permission |