Due to the security situation, the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of the Slovak Republic recommends against traveling to certain areas of Egypt. He also advises to consider the necessity of traveling to Turkey. The department informs about it on the website.
“The security situation in Egypt is currently relatively stable. The threat of terrorist attacks in the country is not excluded,” the ministry said. Egypt’s main tourist destinations such as Sharm el-Sheikh, the Red Sea coast, the wider downtown Cairo and other areas of major national monuments are considered safe by Egyptian security forces. Increased caution is advised in some regions that may be at risk.
Due to the situation in Gaza, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs warns against traveling to the immediate vicinity of the border between Egypt and Israel. Areas to be careful of are the Dahab – Nuweiba – Taba road, Nuweiba and Taba towns, Al Qantara Shark – Ras Sedr road, Cairo – Suez desert road and towns along the Ras Sedr and El Tor roads.
Travel to the northern region of the Sinai Peninsula is prohibited by the government due to ongoing counter-terrorism operations and frequent attacks against security forces and local residents. The army continues to severely restrict movement in the area. The north of Sinai, as well as the western territories on the border with Libya, have long been considered risk areas, and Slovak citizens are strongly advised not to travel to the mentioned parts of the country.
“The movement of tourists in the desert areas (Libyan Desert, Western Desert, White Desert), but also in some parts in the west and south of the country, may be limited, or possible only with a police escort. In general, individual tourism to desert areas is not recommended,” the ministry added.
He also reminds that in connection with the escalation of the conflict in the Middle East region, airspace is being closed and commercial flights to several countries in the region are being cancelled. “Check with your airline for up-to-date flight information before you travel, as there may be delays, diversions or changes to flight schedules,” MZVEZ advises.
The department warns that the conflict in the Middle East may also affect air traffic in transit through Turkey. It recommends contacting the airline or travel agency to check alternative connection options, keep up-to-date with flight information and follow the instructions of local authorities and airlines. MZVEZ advises to consider the necessity of traveling to areas in the immediate vicinity of the border with Iran.
He further recommends increased caution when traveling to the southeastern and eastern provinces of Turkey adjacent to Syria and Iraq. “There may be an increased military presence, security operations, checks and possible administrative restrictions on movement in the mentioned areas. Travelers are advised to follow the current security announcements of local authorities and follow their instructions,” the ministry said. It added that the situation in Turkey’s seaside resorts remains calm, but delays at airports due to tightened security controls should be expected.
MZVEZ also informs about the security situation in Cyprus. According to the Slovak Embassy in Nicosia, it is stable and safe. However, due to the development of the situation in the region, some flights may be diverted or delayed. “Arrive at the airport well in advance, keep an eye on your airline’s information,” advises the department.
In the event of an emergency, citizens of the SR can contact the MZVEZ International Operations Crisis Center on the numbers +421 2 5978 5978 or +421 906 07 5978, which are in continuous operation. “At the same time, we recommend Slovak citizens to use the voluntary registration service or the Svetobežka mobile application when traveling abroad,” added the ministry.
