Best Maritime Lawyer in Egypt 2026

Maritime Law in Egypt — What Shipowners, Charterers and Seafarers Must Know (2026)

Egypt's position across the Suez Canal and the Mediterranean and Red Sea coasts makes it one of the world's most active maritime jurisdictions. Where a vessel is arrested, cargo is damaged or lost, or a crew claim arises, timing decides the outcome. Our firm provides practical maritime representation across Egyptian ports, in court and in arbitration, guided by Egyptian Maritime Law No. 8 of 1990.

Ship Arrest in Egyptian Ports

An arrest can secure a claim that would otherwise be lost. We act for owners, charterers, bunker suppliers, agents and cargo interests in obtaining preserved and precautionary attachment orders for vessels in the Suez Canal, Port Said, Alexandria, Damietta and Sokhna, and in obtaining fast release once security is provided.

Charter Party and Bill of Lading Disputes

Hire and demurrage disputes, off-hire deduction battles, and shortage or damage claims under bills of lading all turn on contract wording, survey evidence, protest notes and timely notices. Our team reviews the operative contracts — and can advise on negotiating better terms before a voyage. See our guide to contract review services in Egypt.

Casualties, Salvage and General Average

After a collision, grounding or fire, cargo interests and shipowners interact through salvage operations and general average adjustments. We protect contribution rights, challenge doubtful adjustments, and coordinate surveyors and adjusters so that each party's exposure is allocated lawfully.

Crew Wages, Repatriation and Injury

Unpaid seafarer wages carry a privileged maritime lien that can be enforced by arrest of the vessel. We also pursue personal injury and accident compensation where crew or passengers are harmed. Where an incident involves injury or death, the accident legal assistance we provide is directly relevant, and seafarers employed through Egyptian entities can rely on employment law support alongside the lien.

Customs Bonds and Port Authorities

Customs guarantees, temporary import bonds, port dues and documentation errors can detain vessels and cargo. We assist shipping lines, freight forwarders and importers with the licences, bonds and corporate structures needed to move goods smoothly through Egyptian ports — including setting up an Egyptian trading or shipping entity where needed.

Maritime Arbitration and Dispute Resolution

Many charter parties and bills of lading refer disputes to arbitration. We represent parties in maritime arbitration in Egypt and advise on locking in evidence, survey reports and notices before limitation periods run. Our broader practice also covers commercial and financial areas when a maritime dispute crosses into them.

Protecting Your Position Against Maritime Fraud

False bills of lading, forged endorsements, phantom cargoes and diversion of payment are recurring risks in trade through Egyptian waters. Where fraud is suspected, immediate steps preserve both your claim and the vessel. The guidance in our fraud protection practice applies closely to maritime and trade fraud.