Is It Safe? A Solo Female Traveler’s Honest Guide to Diving in Hurghada
“Is Egypt safe for a woman traveling alone?”
If you type this into Google, you will get a million conflicting answers. Some say it’s paradise; others tell horror stories of harassment. For a female diver dreaming of the Red Sea, this uncertainty can be the barrier that stops her from booking the trip of a lifetime.
At Scubadore Hurghada, we believe in radical honesty. We host solo female divers every single week. We know the reality on the ground, on the boat, and in the city.
The short answer is: Yes, it is safe. But like any destination in the world, it requires common sense and knowing what to expect. Here is our honest, practical guide for the solo female diver.
The “Hassle” Factor (It’s Annoying, Not Dangerous)
The most common complaint from women in Hurghada isn’t danger; it’s annoyance.
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The Reality: If you walk down Sheraton Road (the main tourist street), shopkeepers will call out to you. “Hello beautiful,” “Where you from?”, “Come look in my shop.”
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Is it Threatening? Generally, no. It is aggressive salesmanship culture. They want your money, not you.
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The Fix: Wear sunglasses (avoids eye contact), walk with purpose, and learn the magic word: “La, shukran” (No, thank you). Say it firmly, don’t stop walking, and they will move on to the next person.
Dress Code: Respect the Culture
Hurghada is a tourist town, but Egypt is a conservative country.
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On the Boat: Bikinis are 100% fine. The boat is a bubble of international dive culture.
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In the Resort: Shorts and tank tops are normal.
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In the City: If you go into downtown Hurghada or the markets, covering your shoulders and knees (a t-shirt and loose trousers or a maxi skirt) will significantly reduce the stares and comments you get. It’s about blending in to tune out the noise.
The Scubadore “Safe Zone”
We know that for a solo traveler, the dive center is your safe haven.
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Pickup & Drop-off: We provide private or trusted transfers from your hotel to the marina. You don’t need to haggle with taxis or worry about getting lost.
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The Boat Environment: We have a zero-tolerance policy for harassment. Our crew and guides are professionals. The vibe on a Scubadore boat is family-friendly, respectful, and focused on diving. You will likely make friends instantly with other divers.
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Small Groups: You are never “alone” underwater. You will be buddied up with a guide or another solo diver, ensuring you always have a safety partner.
Tips for Solo Dining & Nightlife
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Hurghada Marina: This is the most modern, upscale area. It has security gates, nice restaurants, and a very relaxed, European vibe. It is perfectly safe for a woman to have dinner and a drink alone here at night.
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Uber is Your Friend: Don’t flag down random taxis on the street. Use Uber or Careem. The prices are fixed, the drivers are tracked, and you don’t have to negotiate cash.
The Verdict
Don’t let fear keep you from the Thistlegorm. Thousands of women dive Egypt solo every year and have the time of their lives.
Come with confidence. Use the “La, shukran.” Dress modestly in town. And let Scubadore handle the logistics so you can focus on what you came for: the best diving in the world.
