No, paintball guns are not legally permitted in public spaces in Egypt under current firearms regulations enforced by the Ministry of Interior’s Arms and Ammunition Department. While not explicitly banned, their use violates the 2023 Firearms and Explosives Law (Law No. 149/2023), which classifies them as “imitation firearms” subject to confiscation and penalties. Local police directives in Cairo and Alexandria have intensified enforcement, particularly in tourist-heavy zones, citing public safety risks.
Key Regulations for Paintball Guns in Public in Egypt
- Prohibition in Public Spaces: Paintball guns are treated as “dangerous weapons” under Article 3 of Law No. 149/2023, barring their use in streets, parks, or commercial areas without prior authorization from the Ministry of Interior.
- Licensing Requirements: Private ownership or operation requires a special permit, typically reserved for licensed shooting clubs or security firms, with applications reviewed by the Arms and Ammunition Department.
- Enforcement Actions: Police in Greater Cairo and coastal governorates (e.g., Giza, Red Sea) conduct regular patrols targeting unauthorized paintball activity, often leading to confiscations and fines up to EGP 50,000 (≈$1,600) under Article 25 of the same law.