When I first performed in Egypt in 1981, I was required to get a liscense called a "mu stan na fate". To get this liscense I had to do a full audition in costume. They rate the dancer per costume, music interpretation, choice of music w/costume, looks,figure,etc. Your star rating was 1 to 5. You were able to dance in places according to your rating. I received a five star rating, which basically let me perform anywhere I wanted, but I was encouraged to perform in only 5 star establishments. After I got the rating I had to register with the police station (vice) in every sector of the city I would be dancing. My liscense had my picture on it and I was required to carry it with me to a performance. I was made aware on several occasions that there were vice agents that come to the performances to "check" that all is "up and up" in your dance, i.e. nothing lwed or suggestive that would lead to other "activities". It didn't take them long to realize I was just there to dance. Today's system is much different, I believe, and I can still dance on my liscense in Egypt when the occassion arises. I don't believe a liscense is required to dance in Sharm.
Leyla Amir, Las Vegas, Egypt tours, dancer, performer
Egypt National Tours