Easter in Egypt: What You Need to Know About Visa Increases, Power Cuts, and Early Closures

Wednesday, March 25, 2026

As Easter 2026 approaches, Egypt, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and historical wonders, is facing an energy crisis that is significantly impacting its tourism sector. With the ongoing challenges of rising global fuel prices and limited gas imports, several measures have been implemented that directly affect tourists visiting Egypt during this busy holiday season.

From higher visa fees to power cuts and shorter business hours, travelers planning to visit Egypt over the Easter holidays must prepare for a different experience than usual. Despite the country’s strong reliance on tourism, the government is focusing on minimizing disruptions while navigating the ongoing energy crisis.

Visa Costs Rise: A New Burden for Tourists

As part of efforts to address the growing energy challenges, Egypt has raised its visa-on-arrival fee for international tourists. Starting March 2026, the visa cost will increase from $25 to $30. This change, which will impact travelers arriving for Easter, could be seen as a financial burden for some, though there is an alternative.

For those looking to save a few dollars, Egypt’s e-visa system remains at the original cost of $25. This option, available online before departure, not only offers a lower price but also provides a smoother entry process with no long waits at airports. As visa costs rise, travelers can take advantage of the e-visa for both convenience and cost-effectiveness.

Shortened Operating Hours: A New Schedule for Tourists

Tourists accustomed to Egypt’s vibrant nightlife and late-night shopping sprees will need to adjust to new operating hours. To conserve energy, the Egyptian government has imposed early closure times on restaurants, cafes, and shops across the country, effective from late March 2026. Businesses will close at 9 p.m. daily, with extended hours until 10 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays.

This change will be particularly noticeable in tourist hubs such as Hurghada, Sharm el-Sheikh, and Cairo. Hotels are exempt from these restrictions, meaning guests can still enjoy their accommodations’ full range of services. However, for those visiting local markets or planning to dine out, it’s important to plan meals and shopping trips earlier in the day to avoid missing out.

Energy Shortages: Rolling Blackouts Expected

Alongside the adjusted business hours, Egypt is preparing for rolling blackouts as part of its broader effort to conserve energy. These power cuts are expected to occur in the evenings, especially in urban centers and tourist areas. While this will undoubtedly impact the atmosphere around Egypt’s key attractions, hotels will maintain operations through emergency power generators.

However, tourists should anticipate reduced lighting in public spaces, on streets, and at tourist sites. Egypt’s famous illuminated landmarks, such as the Pyramids of Giza and Luxor’s Valley of the Kings, may not be as brightly lit as usual, providing a quieter, less vibrant environment after dark. The reduced lighting, while necessary for energy conservation, could affect some evening activities and the general ambiance in major tourist areas.

Tourist Sites and Cultural Attractions: Adjusted Hours

In addition to power cuts and shortened business hours, Egypt’s major cultural and tourist attractions will also face adjustments. Many museums and government-run tourist sites will reduce their hours of operation, which means that visitors may have less time to explore Egypt’s historic landmarks.

Notably, sites like the Pyramids of Giza and Luxor’s ancient temples and tombs may have their visit durations shortened. Tourists will need to plan their sightseeing accordingly, as these reductions may impact the amount of time available to explore these iconic landmarks. However, the government is taking steps to ensure these changes don’t negatively affect the tourism experience too much.

How Long Will the Restrictions Last?

With no immediate end in sight for Egypt’s energy crisis, it’s uncertain how long the restrictions will remain in place. While the government has stressed its commitment to minimizing the impact on tourism, travelers should be prepared for continued energy-saving measures for the foreseeable future. The tourism sector is critical to Egypt’s economy, and officials are balancing the need for energy conservation with the desire to keep the country’s tourism sector thriving.

For now, it’s wise for travelers to adjust their schedules to accommodate the earlier closure times and potential disruptions. Planning ahead and booking activities early in the day will ensure that tourists don’t miss out on Egypt’s must-see attractions. Additionally, tourists can benefit from applying for the e-visa before arrival to bypass the increased visa fees and enjoy a smoother entry process.

Travel Warnings and Security Concerns

While Egypt’s energy challenges continue to affect tourism, the country remains generally safe for travelers. However, some regions, such as the Sinai Peninsula and areas along Egypt’s borders, have seen occasional security concerns. The Federal Foreign Office in Germany has issued partial travel warnings for these areas, though most major tourist centers, including Cairo, Luxor, and Sharm el-Sheikh, remain open and welcoming.

Travelers are advised to stay cautious and follow government advice regarding travel to these regions. The usual warm Egyptian hospitality and world-class experiences continue to attract international tourists, despite the energy shortages and geopolitical concerns in certain parts of the country.

Adapting to the New Egypt

Egypt’s ongoing energy crisis has led to significant changes in the tourist experience, particularly for those visiting during the busy Easter season in 2026. With higher visa costs, early business closures, power outages, and limited sightseeing hours, visitors will need to adapt to the new realities of traveling in Egypt.

Despite these challenges, the country’s timeless attractions—ranging from the Pyramids of Giza to the vibrant atmosphere of Sharm el-Sheikh—continue to make Egypt a popular destination. By adjusting their schedules, planning ahead, and staying informed, tourists can still enjoy a memorable and rewarding experience in Egypt, even amidst the energy crisis.

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