Egypt in May: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect
Climate Map for May
Average temperature across Egypt in May.
City Weather in May
| City | High | Low | Rain | UV | Feels |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Giza | 32° | 18° | 1 mm | extreme | Warm |
| Shubra El Kheima | 32° | 17° | 1 mm | extreme | Warm |
| Port Said | 28° | 18° | 2 mm | extreme | Mild |
| Suez | 33° | 19° | 0 mm | extreme | Warm |
| Mansoura, Egypt | 31° | 16° | 3 mm | extreme | Mild |
| El Mahalla El Kubra | 31° | 16° | 3 mm | extreme | Mild |
| Tanta | 30° | 15° | 2 mm | extreme | Mild |
High / low are average daily temperatures (°C). “Feels” reflects how hot or cold it feels, allowing for humidity.
Mediterranean Coast & Nile Delta (Alexandria, Rosetta, North Coast)
Early summer arrives in May with steadily warming days and hectic seaside towns as Egyptians begin weekend trips to the North Coast. Temperatures typically reach the low to mid-20s, and humidity rises slightly; the sea is inviting for swimming by late month. Expect local crowds on highways to beach resorts on weekends, and plan travel midweek if you want quieter stretches of sand.
Greater Cairo & the Nile Delta cities (Cairo, Giza, Rosetta, Mansoura)
May heats up quickly; the city feels dry and bright with highs often in the high 20s to low 30s and the first of the summer humidity building closer to the Delta. Dust storms can still occur, and the intense sun makes midday walking in the old city uncomfortable. Plan sightseeing for mornings and evenings and carry water and sun protection when visiting the Pyramids or open archaeological sites.
Nile Valley & Upper Egypt (Luxor, Aswan, Abu Simbel, Edfu)
By May, the heat is unmistakable - daytime highs regularly near 38°C in Aswan and Luxor and nights are much warmer, so sleep under a fan or air-conditioning. The upper Nile’s temples remain accessible but the intense sun limits sightseeing to mornings and late afternoons; always carry plenty of water. If you can, schedule visits to Abu Simbel in cooler early hours - the site is exposed and midday sun is relentless.
Red Sea Coast & Resort Strip (Hurghada, El Gouna, Safaga, Marsa Alam, Sharm el-Sheikh)
May is a prelude to high summer, with temperatures rising into the low 30s farther south and gentle sea breezes providing some relief along the coast. Visibility remains superb beneath the surface, making it one of the best months for underwater photography. Boat schedules run frequently but expect increasing daytime heat; plan dives for early morning and enjoy shaded afternoon poolside.
Sinai Highlands & Saint Catherine area (Mount Sinai, St. Catherine Monastery, Dahab to Nuweiba)
May offers warm, stable days across Sinai’s coast and the desert floor, with much hotter conditions at lower elevations and cooler conditions above 2,000 meters. Daytime temperatures in places such as Dahab and Nuweiba often reach the high 20s; the highlands have pleasant daytime hiking weather but colder nights. This is a good month for mixed itineraries - beach by day, cooler mountain walks at altitude.
Western Desert & Oases (Siwa, Bahariya, Farafra, White Desert, Kharga)
May pushes the Western Desert toward summer heat - daytime highs approach the low 30s in many oases while shaded gardens and palm groves in Siwa remain refreshingly cooler. Roadside services thin out as day heat rises, so ensure your vehicle is prepared and carry extra water. Early starts are best for long drives, and overnight camping becomes hotter; plan desert activities for dawn and dusk.