Egypt raises border crossing fees, sparking anger in Israel

Egypt’s decision to sharply increase fees at the Taba border crossing has triggered anger in Israel, prompting calls for a boycott of travel to Egypt, according to Middle East Monitor on March 31, 2026.

The fee on the Egyptian side of the crossing has risen to $120 per person, doubling from $60 within days and significantly above the $14–$25 range recorded late last year. The increase follows a series of rapid hikes in March, with charges moving from $25 to $60 before reaching the current level on March 28.

The crossing links Eilat with Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula and remains a key transit route for Israeli and foreign travellers, particularly during periods of regional disruption. The latest increase has drawn criticism from travellers who rely on the route as an alternative to air travel, which has been affected by ongoing instability and flight limitations.

Israeli travellers have expressed frustration at the sudden rise in costs, with many reporting that the increase came without prior notice. The development has gained additional sensitivity given the broader security context, as land crossings have become more important for those seeking to leave the region or avoid disrupted flight routes.

According to the report, the fee hike has led to calls within Israel to boycott travel to Egypt. Some travellers have also staged protests opposing the new charges, reflecting wider dissatisfaction with what is seen as a steep and unexpected financial burden.

The Taba border crossing has historically served as a major gateway for tourism to Sinai resorts and as a transit corridor for overland travel between Egypt and Israel. Its importance has increased in recent weeks as regional tensions have disrupted conventional travel routes.

The report also noted that the crossing has seen growing traffic amid ongoing conflict dynamics in the region, further amplifying the impact of the fee increase on travellers. For many, the route has been one of the few viable options for movement, making the higher costs more consequential.

Separately, updated procedures at the crossing have added to concerns. Travellers are required to carry cash to pay exit fees and comply with revised entry and transit regulations, further complicating the travel process.

The fee increase underscores mounting pressure on regional transport corridors, as demand shifts toward land routes in response to security-related disruptions affecting air travel across the Middle East.

Middle East Monitor, Maghrebi.org