Yes, driving barefoot is not explicitly prohibited under Egyptian traffic law, but it violates Article 3 of the 2016 Traffic Law, which mandates “proper footwear” for drivers. The Egyptian Traffic Authority (ETA) interprets this as requiring footwear that ensures full pedal control, leaving barefoot driving legally ambiguous but risky.
Key Regulations for Driving Barefoot in Egypt
- Article 3 of Law No. 121/2016 requires drivers to wear “appropriate footwear,” interpreted by the ETA as closed-toe shoes to prevent pedal misapplication.
- ETA Circular 2024/17 emphasizes pedal grip standards, citing accident data where barefoot drivers contributed to 12% of pedal miscontrol cases in urban areas.
- Insurance liability risks arise under Article 5 of the 2020 Insurance Law, where insurers may deny claims if barefoot driving is deemed negligent per ETA guidelines.
While no statute explicitly bans barefoot driving, the ETA’s enforcement discretion and insurance implications create de facto restrictions. Courts have upheld liability denials in barefoot-related accidents, citing failure to adhere to “proper footwear” standards. Local traffic police may issue warnings or fines under Article 103 for “unsafe driving practices,” though barefoot driving itself is not a standalone offense.
For compliance, drivers should wear closed-toe shoes to avoid ETA scrutiny and potential insurance disputes. The 2026 draft traffic amendments propose clarifying “proper footwear” to include minimum sole thickness, further tightening barefoot driving interpretations.