Legal status in Egypt

Per-substance legal status for Egypt, from sourced statutes where available. Legal information, not legal advice — drug laws change; confirm with the destination’s embassy or drug authority before you travel.

Last updated: 2026-07-14

1P-LSD

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

2-FDCK

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

25I-NBOMe

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

2C-B

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

2C-E

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

2C-I

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

2C-T-7

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

3-MMC

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

4-AcO-DMT

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

4-HO-MET

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

5-MeO-DMT (Bufo / Toad)

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

6-APB

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

7-Hydroxymitragynine (7-OH)

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

Adderall

Legal status: Adderall (mixed amphetamine salts) has no separate legal identity — it is regulated AS amphetamine: schedule 1 (prohibited-tier) substance under the Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182 of 1960 (amended by Law 122/1989).
Consequences if caught: Simple possession/use is a felony (imprisonment + heavy fines). Import/export/manufacture-with-intent of a Schedule-1 substance is DEATH-PENALTY or life eligible (Arts. 33/34). Amphetamine carries capital exposure at the trafficking tier; even prescription import is unlawful (Schedule 1).
If prescribed / medical: Prescription stimulant via strictly controlled medical channels; carrying it without a local permit/prescription risks arrest.
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

Alcohol

Legal status: Legal / licensed — alcohol (ethanol) is a licensed, age-regulated beverage (minimum age 21), not a controlled drug; domestically produced and sold in licensed outlets and tourist venues.
Consequences if caught: No penalty for licensed adult consumption; public intoxication is an offence, and sale is curtailed during Ramadan and for locals in some areas.
If prescribed / medical: n/a — a beverage, not a medicine.
Documentation: Bought at licensed liquor shops, hotels and bars on proof of age; duty-free purchase on arrival is common. No permit required for tourists.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Amanita muscaria

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Amphetamine

Legal status: Schedule 1 (prohibited-tier) substance under the Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182 of 1960 (amended by Law 122/1989).
Consequences if caught: Simple possession/use is a felony (imprisonment + heavy fines). Import/export/manufacture-with-intent of a Schedule-1 substance is DEATH-PENALTY or life eligible (Arts. 33/34). Amphetamine carries capital exposure at the trafficking tier; even prescription import is unlawful (Schedule 1).
If prescribed / medical: Prescription stimulant via strictly controlled medical channels; carrying it without a local permit/prescription risks arrest.
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

Amyl Nitrite

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Ayahuasca

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Barbiturates

Legal status: Barbiturates are Schedule IV prescription-only psychotropics (MoH Decree 301/1976 under Law 182/1960) — a less-harmful psychotropic tier transposing the 1971 Convention, distinct from the narcotic tables.
Consequences if caught: Unauthorised possession is prosecuted (imprisonment plus fine); undocumented traveller imports have led to detention. Egypt's death penalty (Law 182/1960, arts. 33–34) attaches to narcotic-table substances — Schedule IV barbiturates sit outside the death-eligible tables.
If prescribed / medical: Phenobarbital is dispensed as a Schedule IV antiepileptic (a WHO Essential Medicine) on a controlled register; the sedative-hypnotic barbiturates are tightly controlled.
Documentation: Carry a prescription and keep medicines in original packaging; declare controlled medicines — undocumented psychotropics have led to arrests.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Benzodiazepines

Legal status: Controlled medicine under Pharmacy Law 127/1955 / Anti-Narcotics Law — diazepam may be carried WITH documentation
Consequences if caught: Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution. Diazepam (a benzodiazepine) is a controlled medicine: it may be carried for legitimate medical use with a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply and a customs declaration — but undocumented or excess quantities risk prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

Buprenorphine

Legal status: Buprenorphine is a controlled narcotic under Egypt's Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182 of 1960 — a lighter tier than methadone; capital exposure attaches to trafficking of narcotic-table substances, not to prescribed or personal medical use.
Consequences if caught: Law 182/1960 (as amended by Law 122/1989) imposes death plus a heavy fine for producing/importing/trafficking narcotics with intent — prescribed/personal buprenorphine is non-capital, but undocumented traveller imports have led to detention.
If prescribed / medical: Dispensed as a controlled prescription medicine on a controlled register with prior MoH approval.
Documentation: Prior MoH approval is needed to import controlled narcotics; carry a prescription and keep medicines in original packaging — undocumented opioids have led to arrests.

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

Caffeine

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Cannabis / THC

Legal status: Schedule 1/Schedule 5 plant under Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960 — prohibited; DEATH PENALTY for cultivating/trading; personal use min 1 year + fine
Consequences if caught: Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution. Cannabis (including hashish and bango/bhango, the local herbal cannabis) is a Schedule 1 / Schedule 5 plant; cultivating or trading it falls under the Art 33 death-penalty band, and even personal use carries a minimum of 1 year plus a fine from 1,000 LE.
If prescribed / medical: Not a prescribed traveller medicine; cannabis is a prohibited Schedule 1 substance and cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription.
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

Cathinone

Legal status: Illegal — cathinone (khat's natural principal alkaloid) is a 1971 Convention SCHEDULE I psychotropic and is on Egypt's narcotics/psychotropics tables under Law 182/1960 as amended. Mechanism: 1971 Sch-I transposition, named. As the parent compound it is DISTINCT from the khat PLANT (Catha edulis, treated as a prohibited narcotic import) and from the synthetic cathinones (mephedrone and actively-scheduled NPS) that derive from it; cathinone is the named Sch-I alkaloid, cathine the milder metabolite (1971 Schedule III). Capital is reachable on a class basis — Law 182/1960 permits death for trafficking/manufacture of controlled narcotics/psychotropics.
Consequences if caught: Controlled substance: trafficking/manufacture of the alkaloid can be capital (class-based). Extreme risk.
If prescribed / medical: 1971 Schedule I substance with no accepted medical use and no lawful prescription route for the isolated alkaloid.
Documentation: No personal-carry or import route; trafficking of the alkaloid carries death exposure.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

CBD

Legal status: CBD (cannabidiol) is controlled as cannabis under Anti-Narcotics Decree-Law No. 182 of 1960 (amended by Law No. 122 of 1989), which bans cannabis in all forms and expressly lists cannabis extracts and hashish — no CBD carve-out or THC threshold.
Consequences if caught: Arrest, prosecution, imprisonment and heavy fines apply for any amount; Article 33 mandates death for producing/extracting narcotics or possessing the plant with intent to traffic, so a personal CBD item is charged as possession and CBD-specific capital exposure is left to confirmation.
If prescribed / medical: There is no medical-CBD route for the public.
Documentation: No documentation legalises CBD — controlled as cannabis; travellers have been arrested despite holding a prescription.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Clonazepam

Legal status: Clonazepam is a Schedule IV prescription-only medicine (MoH Decree 301/1976 under Law 182/1960) — a less-harmful psychotropic tier, distinct from the narcotic tables.
Consequences if caught: Unauthorised possession is prosecuted (imprisonment plus fine); undocumented traveller imports have led to detention. Egypt's death penalty (Law 182/1960, arts. 33–34) attaches to narcotic-table substances — Schedule IV benzodiazepines sit outside the death-eligible tables.
If prescribed / medical: Dispensed as a Schedule IV prescription medicine on a controlled register.
Documentation: Carry a prescription and keep medicines in original packaging; declare controlled medicines — undocumented benzodiazepines have led to arrests.

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

Cocaine

Legal status: Schedule 1 narcotic under Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960 — prohibited; DEATH PENALTY or life hard labour for trafficking
Consequences if caught: Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution. Cocaine is listed in Schedule 1.
If prescribed / medical: Not a prescribed traveller medicine; a prohibited Schedule 1 narcotic.
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

Codeine

Legal status: Codeine is a narcotic-table substance under Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182 of 1960 (with Law 122/1989); low-dose codeine is dispensed medically. Egypt has executed for drug trafficking, and the death penalty attaches to producing/importing/trafficking narcotic-table substances with trafficking intent - capital exposure attaches only at aggravated trafficking, not to therapeutic codeine.
Consequences if caught: Aggravated narcotic trafficking is death-eligible; unauthorised possession of codeine draws imprisonment plus fines, and undocumented traveller imports have led to detention.
If prescribed / medical: Dispensed as a controlled narcotic-table prescription medicine on a controlled register.
Documentation: Prior Ministry of Health approval is required to import controlled narcotics - carry a prescription and original packaging; the 1960 law applies equally to foreigners.

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

Crack Cocaine

Legal status: Crack is the freebase (base) form of cocaine and has no separate legal identity in Egypt: it is controlled AS cocaine, a Schedule 1 narcotic under Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182 of 1960 (as amended), whose schedule covers cocaine, its salts and preparations and thus reaches the base/freebase form. The death/life trafficking regime carries over to crack whether powder or base.
Consequences if caught: Trafficking crack (as cocaine) carries the death penalty or life hard labour (Arts 33-38); possession and use draw imprisonment and fines.
If prescribed / medical: Cocaine has no recognised therapeutic use in Egypt; the crack/freebase base has no medicinal preparation and cannot be prescribed.
Documentation: No prescription documentation exists for crack/freebase cocaine.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Delta-8-THC

Legal status: Controlled — delta-8-THC (Δ8-THC) is caught as a tetrahydrocannabinol under Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, whose schedules cover cannabis and THC and whose synthetic-substance amendments reach novel cannabinoids; delta-8 is controlled as an isomer of THC. Distinct from cannabis, a prohibited plant (death for cultivating/trading). The capital reach of a pure delta-8 isomer is left to confirmation.
Consequences if caught: Zero tolerance; trafficking (Art. 33) is capital-eligible and Egypt uses the death penalty in drug cases; personal use carries imprisonment plus fine.
If prescribed / medical: No recognised medical use; delta-8-THC is not a prescribable medicine.
Documentation: No lawful personal import of a controlled tetrahydrocannabinol.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Diazepam

Legal status: Diazepam is a Schedule IV prescription-only medicine (MoH Decree 301/1976 under Law 182/1960) — a less-harmful psychotropic tier, distinct from the narcotic tables.
Consequences if caught: Unauthorised possession is prosecuted (imprisonment plus fine); undocumented traveller imports have led to detention. Egypt's death penalty (Law 182/1960, arts. 33–34) attaches to narcotic-table substances — Schedule IV benzodiazepines sit outside the death-eligible tables.
If prescribed / medical: Dispensed as a Schedule IV prescription medicine on a controlled register.
Documentation: Carry a prescription and keep medicines in original packaging; declare controlled medicines — undocumented benzodiazepines have led to arrests.

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

DMT

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

DOM

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

DXM

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Ephedrine

Legal status: Regulated as a chemical PRECURSOR (1988 UN Convention Table I — a methamphetamine precursor), NOT as a scheduled narcotic; a controlled precursor / pharmacy medicine under the Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960 (amended 122/1989); not a Schedule-1 narcotic.
Consequences if caught: No confirmed capital exposure — the capital trafficking penalty is for scheduled/synthetic finished drugs; ephedrine is a Table I precursor/medicine. Breaches: licensing offences, fines, imprisonment.
If prescribed / medical: Also a pharmacy/prescription decongestant-bronchodilator medicine subject to sales limits; carry documentation for a personal supply.
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

Etizolam

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

Fentanyl

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

Gabapentin

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

GBL

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

GHB

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

Heroin

Legal status: Schedule 1 narcotic under Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960 — prohibited; DEATH PENALTY or life hard labour for trafficking
Consequences if caught: Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution. Heroin is listed in Schedule 1.
If prescribed / medical: Not a prescribed traveller medicine; a prohibited Schedule 1 narcotic.
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

HHC

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Hydrocodone

Legal status: Hydrocodone is a controlled narcotic under Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182 of 1960 (with Law 122/1989); it is not marketed in Egypt. The law imposes death plus a heavy fine for producing, importing or trafficking narcotic-table substances with trafficking intent, so aggravated hydrocodone trafficking is death-eligible.
Consequences if caught: Trafficking-intent handling of narcotic-table opioids is death-eligible; prescribed personal use is not capital, but undocumented import has led to detention.
If prescribed / medical: Dispensed only as a controlled narcotic under prescription; there is no ordinary retail supply.
Documentation: Prior Ministry of Health approval is required to import controlled narcotics; carry a prescription and keep medicines in original packaging — undocumented opioids have led to arrests.

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

Ketamine

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

Khat

Legal status: Illegal — controlled; cathinone/cathine are scheduled and khat is treated as a prohibited narcotic import (plant likely named). Mechanism: class (alkaloid). Egypt retains the death penalty for drug trafficking (Law 182/1960), but khat sits below the realistic capital tier — no realistic capital exposure.
Consequences if caught: Illegal; not a traditional Egyptian commodity, treated as a smuggled narcotic drawing imprisonment, not execution, for the leaf.
If prescribed / medical: Khat is traditional plant material with no recognised medical use and no lawful prescription route.
Documentation: No lawful personal-import route; leaf caught via its scheduled cathinone content and seized at the border.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Kratom

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

Lorazepam

Legal status: Lorazepam is a Schedule IV prescription-only medicine (MoH Decree 301/1976 under Law 182/1960) — a less-harmful psychotropic tier, distinct from the narcotic tables.
Consequences if caught: Unauthorised possession is prosecuted (imprisonment plus fine); undocumented traveller imports have led to detention. Egypt's death penalty (Law 182/1960, arts. 33–34) attaches to narcotic-table substances — Schedule IV benzodiazepines sit outside the death-eligible tables.
If prescribed / medical: Dispensed as a Schedule IV prescription medicine on a controlled register.
Documentation: Carry a prescription and keep medicines in original packaging; declare controlled medicines — undocumented benzodiazepines have led to arrests.

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

LSA (Morning Glory)

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

LSD

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

MDA

Legal status: Controlled — MDA is a scheduled narcotic under the Anti-Narcotics Law 182/1960 tables. NAMED/scheduled mechanism. CAPITAL caught: trafficking/dealing scheduled narcotics is death-eligible under Law 182/1960; MDA reached as a scheduled substance.
Consequences if caught: Trafficking death-eligible; severe penalties.
If prescribed / medical: Scheduled narcotic with no recognised medical use; no lawful prescription route.
Documentation: No lawful personal import; trafficking death-eligible in law.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

MDMA

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

MDPV

Legal status: Controlled. Egypt schedules psychotropics per the 1971 Convention (Law 182/1960 narcotic tables) and has actively scheduled cathinones, so MDPV (a Schedule II psychotropic) is controlled; the specific by-name entry is left to confirmation. Capital exposure is via the general trafficking regime (death penalty available for trafficking table-listed drugs); MDPV-specific reach is left to confirmation.
Consequences if caught: Illegal; trafficking is death-eligible under the general narcotics regime. Do NOT carry.
If prescribed / medical: MDPV has no recognised medical use and no lawful prescription route in Egypt.
Documentation: No lawful personal-import route for a controlled substance; do not carry.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Memantine

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Mephedrone (4-MMC)

Legal status: Controlled — TREATY-floor / NAMED. Mephedrone is captured by Egypt's narcotics/psychotropics tables (Law 182/1960 as amended), which incorporate 1971 additions and under which Egypt has actively scheduled NPS. Capital is reachable on a class basis — Law 182/1960 permits death for trafficking/manufacture of controlled narcotics/psychotropics.
Consequences if caught: Controlled substance: trafficking/manufacture can be capital (class-based). Extreme risk.
If prescribed / medical: Controlled psychotropic with no recognised medical use and no lawful prescription route.
Documentation: No personal-carry or import route; trafficking carries death exposure.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Mescaline

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

Methadone

Legal status: Methadone is a controlled narcotic under Law No. 182 of 1960 (as amended); Law 182/1960 (with Law 122/1989) imposes death plus heavy fine for producing/manufacturing/importing/trafficking narcotic-table substances with trafficking intent — methadone is within that capital scope at aggravated trafficking; prescribed use is non-capital.
Consequences if caught: Aggravated trafficking of narcotic-table substances is death-eligible; prescribed personal use is non-capital, but undocumented traveller imports have led to detention.
If prescribed / medical: Prescribed as a controlled narcotic on a controlled register (OST access limited).
Documentation: Prior MoH approval is required to import controlled narcotics; carry a prescription and keep medicines in original packaging — undocumented opioids have led to arrests.

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

Methamphetamine

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

Methaqualone (Quaaludes)

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Methylone

Legal status: Controlled — methylone is caught by the BLANKET clause added by the 2019 amendment to Anti-Narcotics Law 182/1960 covering synthetic substances harmful to the body/mind/nervous system, which reaches synthetic cathinones (specific named listing left to confirmation). Capital-ELIGIBLE.
Consequences if caught: Zero tolerance. Art. 33 (trafficking) plus the 2019 amendment expressly imposing death for importing/exporting harmful synthetic drugs; methylone is caught by that synthetic-drug capital language. Hanging is used in civilian drug capital cases.
If prescribed / medical: No recognised medical use; no lawful prescription route.
Documentation: No lawful personal import; trafficking carries the death penalty.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Methylphenidate

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

Mitragynine

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

Modafinil

Legal status: Prescription-only registered pharmaceutical (e.g. Modasomil) — NOT on the Anti-Narcotics Law 182/1960 controlled tables.
Consequences if caught: Unlicensed possession/sale is a pharmacy/health-law offence; no narcotics-trafficking (capital) exposure (not scheduled).
If prescribed / medical: Carry the prescription.
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

Morphine

Legal status: Morphine is a Schedule 1 narcotic under Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960 (as amended by Law 122/1989) and is death-eligible: producing, manufacturing, importing or trafficking narcotic-table substances such as morphine with trafficking intent carries the death penalty plus a heavy fine; no per-gram floor is published.
Consequences if caught: Unauthorised possession draws imprisonment and fines; producing, importing or trafficking morphine with intent is death-eligible under Law 182/1960.
If prescribed / medical: Available on prescription as a Schedule 1 narcotic for severe and cancer pain under strict records.
Documentation: TRAVELLER TRAP — prior Ministry of Health approval is required to import controlled narcotics; carry a prescription and original packaging (the 1960 law applies equally to foreigners).

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

MXE

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Nicotine

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Nitrous Oxide

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Oxycodone

Legal status: Oxycodone is a controlled narcotic-table substance under Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960 (as amended by Law 122/1989) — a strong opioid; producing/manufacturing/importing or trafficking narcotic-table substances with trafficking intent is death-eligible, so aggravated oxycodone trafficking is within the capital tier.
Consequences if caught: Unauthorised possession is prosecuted (imprisonment plus fine); Law 182/1960 (as amended) imposes death plus a heavy fine for trafficking narcotic-table substances with intent — oxycodone as a strong opioid is within that capital scope. Undocumented traveller imports have led to detention.
If prescribed / medical: Dispensed as a controlled narcotic on a controlled-prescription register.
Documentation: TRAVELLER TRAP: prior Ministry of Health approval is required to import controlled narcotics — carry a prescription and original packaging; the 1960 law applies equally to foreigners.

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

PCP

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

Peyote

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

Phenibut

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Pink Cocaine / Tusi

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Poppers

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Pregabalin

Legal status: Pregabalin is a controlled narcotic-scheduled medicine in Egypt — added to paragraph (D) of Schedule No. 3 of the Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182 of 1960 by Ministry of Health Decree No. 475 of 2019 (in force August 2019) after a severe abuse crisis in which pregabalin ranks among the most-misused substances; gabapentin was not scheduled alongside it.
Consequences if caught: Handling pregabalin outside the controlled framework is penalised under Law 182/1960; large-scale trafficking of scheduled substances carries severe penalties, and undocumented traveller imports have led to arrest.
If prescribed / medical: Dispensed only against an authorised physician's prescription, which the pharmacy retains for inspection by the Ministry of Health.
Documentation: Personal-use import requires a prescription or authorisation; the 1960 law applies equally to foreigners — carry documentation and keep pregabalin in original packaging.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Psilocybin

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

Quetiapine

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Salvia divinorum

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

Scopolamine (Devil's Breath)

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Synthetic Cannabinoids (K2 / Spice)

Legal status: Controlled. Egypt has actively scheduled synthetic cannabinoids by amendment to the Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960 - the synthetic cannabinoid sold as 'Voodoo' was added to Schedule 1 in 2014, and the five synthetic cannabinoids common in 'Strox' (AB-FUBINACA, AMB-FUBINACA, 5F-ADB, AB-CHMINACA and XLR-11) were added by Decree No. 440 of 2018. Capital exposure is via the general trafficking regime (death penalty available for trafficking table-listed drugs), which now reaches these listed synthetic cannabinoids.
Consequences if caught: Illegal; trafficking the scheduled synthetic cannabinoids is death-eligible under the general narcotics regime, personal use a minimum 1 year plus fine. Do NOT carry.
If prescribed / medical: These synthetic cannabinoids have no recognised medical use and no lawful prescription route in Egypt.
Documentation: No lawful personal-import route for scheduled synthetic cannabinoids; do not carry.

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

THC-P

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Tobacco

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Tramadol

Legal status: Tramadol is a Schedule I narcotic (most-dangerous tier) under Egypt's Anti-Narcotics Law 182/1960, added by Ministry of Health Decree No. 125 of 2012 (up from an earlier Schedule II placement) after the 2010–2012 abuse crisis; Law 182/1960 provides the death penalty for trafficking and large-scale dealing, so large-scale tramadol trafficking can fall within a capital tier, though a tramadol-specific capital sentence is left to confirmation.
Consequences if caught: Possession and trafficking are heavily penalised (imprisonment and heavy fines, rising at the trafficking tier to capital exposure); undocumented traveller imports have led to arrest and prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Dispensed only as a Schedule I narcotic under prescription/authorisation on a controlled register.
Documentation: Personal-use import requires a prescription or authorisation; the 1960 law applies equally to foreigners, and undocumented tramadol has led to travellers being jailed — carry documentation and keep it in original packaging.

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

Xanax (Alprazolam)

Legal status: Alprazolam is a Schedule IV prescription-only medicine (MoH Decree 301/1976 under Law 182/1960) — a less-harmful psychotropic tier, distinct from the narcotic tables.
Consequences if caught: Unauthorised possession is prosecuted (imprisonment plus fine); undocumented traveller imports have led to detention. Egypt's death penalty (Law 182/1960, arts. 33–34) attaches to narcotic-table substances — Schedule IV benzodiazepines sit outside the death-eligible tables.
If prescribed / medical: Dispensed as a Schedule IV prescription medicine on a controlled register.
Documentation: Carry a prescription and keep medicines in original packaging; declare controlled medicines — undocumented benzodiazepines have led to arrests.

Source · Updated 2026-07-13

Xylazine

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-06-25

Zolpidem

Legal status: Not confirmed — verify with Egypt's authorities (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960) / your embassy
Consequences if caught: EGYPT IS A DEATH-PENALTY COUNTRY for drug trafficking. This specific substance was not named in the reachable Egyptian statute (Anti-Narcotics Law No. 182/1960, Arts 33–38, as amended) — do NOT assume it is permitted; verify before travel. Note: synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. 'Voodoo' 2014; 'Strox'/AB-FUBINACA by Act 440/2018) have been added to Schedule 1 by amendment. Art 33: DEATH PENALTY plus a fine of 100,000–500,000 LE for unlicensed import/export, manufacture with intent to traffic, or cultivating/trading Schedule 5 plants (including cannabis). Art 34: death OR life hard labour plus a fine for possession/purchase/sale with intent to traffic. Art 38(1): possession/acquisition WITHOUT trafficking or personal-use intent = 3–10 years hard labour plus a fine of 50,000–200,000 LE. The law applies equally to foreigners, with no minimum-quantity threshold — mere presence of the substance triggers prosecution.
If prescribed / medical: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines (e.g. amphetamine/Adderall, methylphenidate/Ritalin, methadone) cannot be imported even with a foreign prescription; verify any controlled medicine before travel (see documentation).
Documentation: Schedule 1 and Schedule 3(a,b,d) medicines CANNOT be imported even with a foreign prescription — explicitly banned: amphetamine/dexamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) and methadone; tramadol is banned for recreational use and tightly controlled. Codeine, diazepam and some sleep aids may be carried WITH a doctor's letter, original packaging, a 2–3 month maximum supply, and a customs declaration. (Reference: a 2017 traveller received a 3-year sentence for carrying 290 tramadol tablets.)

Source · Updated 2026-07-14

Drug laws and enforcement change and vary by country. This is not legal advice. Always confirm with the destination’s embassy or official drug authority before traveling — penalties can be severe, including imprisonment.

Before you travel

Verify current rules with the destination country’s official drug authorityand your own country’s embassy before traveling. Find the destination’s U.S. embassy & official country guidance →
Non-U.S. travelers: check your own government’s travel advisory and embassy.

If you’re detained or arrested abroad

Contact your own country’s embassy or consulatein the destination immediately — notthe destination’s authorities. U.S. citizens: contact the nearest U.S. embassy/consulate and the U.S. State Department at +1-202-501-4444 (from abroad). If a U.S. citizen is arrested or detained abroad →

← All countries Drug index