Adults only (18+)

Legal Status of Cannabis in Egypt

Cannabis remains entirely illegal in Egypt. Both recreational and medical use are prohibited under Egyptian law, and there is no legal distinction between small personal amounts and larger quantities. Possession of any amount is considered a criminal offence and can lead to arrest, prosecution and imprisonment. Sentences vary depending on the circumstances, but even first-time offenders may face a year or more in prison along with fines. In more serious cases involving supply or trafficking, penalties can range from long-term imprisonment to, in rare instances, the death penalty. Although cannabis use is widespread in some areas, particularly in social settings, this should never be mistaken for legal tolerance.

Medical Cannabis: Access and Restrictions

Egypt does not currently permit the use of medical cannabis under any circumstances. There is no legal pathway for doctors to prescribe cannabis-based medicines, nor are there licensed dispensaries or approved products. Despite some references in historical texts to cannabis being used in ancient Egyptian medicine, modern Egyptian drug law offers no allowances for its use in healthcare. Proposals to introduce medical cannabis have been raised occasionally by lawmakers, but none have gained legislative traction. As a result, any use of cannabis, even for a recognised medical condition, is considered illegal.

Possession, Cultivation and Supply: Legal Consequences

Possession of cannabis, regardless of quantity, is punishable by law. Even small amounts intended for personal use can lead to severe consequences. First-time offenders may receive a prison sentence, and repeat offences or possession of larger quantities can lead to harsher penalties. Cultivating cannabis plants is strictly forbidden and is treated as evidence of intent to distribute. Trafficking cannabis carries particularly severe punishments, with sentences ranging from lengthy imprisonment to, in extreme cases, capital punishment. Law enforcement has carried out widespread operations to destroy cannabis crops, particularly in regions like the Sinai Peninsula and parts of Upper Egypt.

CBD, Industrial Hemp and CBD Products

While industrial hemp cultivation is permitted under certain agricultural regulations, its use is highly restricted and must conform to approved low-THC thresholds. CBD products, although legal in many parts of the world, exist in a legal grey area in Egypt. Some customs officials and law enforcement authorities interpret hemp-derived products as being equivalent to illegal cannabis. As a result, importing or possessing CBD oils, tinctures or capsules could potentially lead to arrest or prosecution. The Arabic language offers limited distinction between cannabis and hemp, which adds to the ambiguity and potential for misinterpretation.

Practical Enforcement and Cultural Realities

Cannabis use in Egypt does occur, particularly in informal settings, cafés and private gatherings. However, enforcement is unpredictable and can vary widely depending on region, social context and visibility. While some areas may see more lenient enforcement or localised tolerance, this does not translate into legal immunity. Foreign visitors should be especially cautious, as non-citizens may face even stricter enforcement. Egyptian police regularly carry out spot checks and have the authority to detain individuals suspected of drug possession. Relying on informal agreements or hearsay about local customs is highly risky and offers no legal protection.

Common Misconceptions and Clarifications

A widespread misconception is that cannabis is tolerated in Egypt because of its historical and cultural presence. This is false. Cannabis is illegal under all circumstances, and any perception of social leniency should not be taken as legal approval. Another common misunderstanding is that CBD products are legal. In fact, Egyptian authorities may treat them as controlled substances, particularly if they are imported or found without clear documentation. Visitors may also assume that foreign medical cannabis prescriptions are valid in Egypt. They are not. Egyptian law does not recognise prescriptions from abroad, and attempting to bring cannabis into the country can lead to arrest, detention or worse.

Outlook and Potential Reform

While there have been some limited discussions in Egyptian political circles about the potential for cannabis reform, these have not moved forward in any meaningful way. The government remains firm in its stance against legalisation or decriminalisation. Enforcement efforts are ongoing, particularly against cultivation and trafficking, and there is little indication that this approach will change soon. With global trends moving toward medical cannabis and in some cases legal recreational use, Egypt remains among the more conservative nations when it comes to drug policy. Any reform in the future would likely be slow, cautious and subject to strict state control.

In Summary

Cannabis is fully illegal in Egypt, including for recreational and medical use. Possession, cultivation and trafficking all carry serious penalties, including imprisonment and in extreme cases life sentences or the death penalty. Medical cannabis is not permitted, and there are no approved pathways for legal access. Industrial hemp and CBD products are legally uncertain and may be treated as controlled substances by authorities. Tourists and residents are strongly advised not to possess, import or consume cannabis or any related product while in Egypt.