Egypt is a country where ancient history meets modern infrastructure, and this is reflected in its network of airports. Whether you’re landing in Cairo to explore the Pyramids of Giza, heading to Sharm El Sheikh for a relaxing beach getaway, or visiting the southern temples of Abu Simbel, Egypt’s airports serve as vital gateways to the country’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. With over 15 major international airports scattered across the country, Egypt offers an array of convenient entry points for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation. In this guide, we will take you through the key airports in Egypt, highlighting their facilities, services, and the unique regions they serve. From bustling international hubs to serene regional terminals, let’s explore the airports that connect Egypt to the world.
All You Need to Know About Egypt’s Airports
Cairo International Airport (CAI)
Cairo International Airport (CAI) is Egypt’s busiest and largest airport, serving as the primary hub for international flights in and out of the country. Located about 15 km northeast of downtown Cairo, it handles millions of passengers each year. The airport has three terminals: Terminal 1 for international flights, Terminal 2 for regional and domestic services, and Terminal 3, which is shared between both international and domestic operations. Passengers can enjoy a wide range of services, including duty-free shopping, lounges, dining options, and free Wi-Fi in all terminals. Major airlines like EgyptAir, Emirates, Lufthansa, and Turkish Airlines operate from CAI, offering flights to destinations like New York, Paris, Dubai, and Addis Ababa. With its modern infrastructure, Cairo International plays a crucial role in Egypt’s economy and tourism sector.
Hurghada International Airport (HRG)
Located on the Red Sea coast, Hurghada International Airport (HRG) serves as the gateway to Egypt’s popular resort areas along the Red Sea. The airport is particularly busy during the tourist season, catering to travelers from Europe and other international destinations. The terminal is modern and includes various services such as lounges, free Wi-Fi, duty-free shopping, and a variety of dining options. Airlines like TUI Airways, Lufthansa, and EasyJet operate from this airport, with flights heading to cities like Berlin, Moscow, London, and Milan. Hurghada International Airport provides transportation options such as taxis and airport shuttle services to nearby resorts. With its emphasis on tourism, the airport plays a key role in supporting the Red Sea’s vibrant tourism industry.
Sharm El Sheikh International Airport (SSH)
Sharm El Sheikh International Airport (SSH) is located in the Sinai Peninsula, serving the popular tourist destination of Sharm El Sheikh. This airport is essential for accessing the city’s world-renowned beaches, diving spots, and resorts. With a single terminal that accommodates both international and domestic flights, the airport sees a significant number of travelers from Europe, especially during the peak winter months. The terminal offers services like VIP lounges, duty-free shopping, restaurants, and currency exchange. Major airlines such as Aeroflot, Air France, and Ryanair operate from SSH, with flights heading to Moscow, Paris, and London. Sharm El Sheikh International is well-connected to the city and resorts via taxis and hotel shuttles, making it a convenient entry point for tourists.
Luxor International Airport (LXR)
Luxor International Airport (LXR) serves the famous city of Luxor, known for its ancient Egyptian monuments, including the Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple. Located about 6 km from the city center, this airport is a popular arrival point for travelers visiting Egypt's historical sites along the Nile. The airport’s single terminal is equipped with necessary amenities such as lounges, duty-free shops, and eateries. Airlines such as EgyptAir and Air France operate flights to Luxor, connecting it with Cairo, Frankfurt, and Paris. The airport plays a crucial role in promoting Luxor as a top destination for cultural and archaeological tourism. Luxor International is well-served by taxis and shuttle services, providing easy access to the city’s monuments and hotels.
Aswan International Airport (ASW)
Located in southern Egypt, Aswan International Airport (ASW) serves as the gateway to the Nubian culture, the Nile River cruises, and the temples of Abu Simbel. The airport’s terminal is small but equipped with essential services, including restaurants, duty-free shops, and lounges. Aswan is well connected to Cairo and other major cities like Luxor via domestic flights, with airlines such as EgyptAir operating on these routes. The airport also caters to international flights from destinations like Abu Dhabi and Doha. Aswan International plays a pivotal role in the regional tourism economy, offering access to Egypt’s southern heritage sites, including the High Dam and the Philae Temple.
Borg El Arab Airport (HBE)
Borg El Arab Airport (HBE) is located in Alexandria, Egypt's second-largest city on the Mediterranean coast. Serving both domestic and international flights, this airport is smaller compared to Cairo International but still important for travelers heading to Alexandria and nearby resorts. The terminal offers facilities such as duty-free shopping, restaurants, and car rental services. Airlines like EgyptAir and Air Arabia operate flights to destinations such as Cairo, Dubai, and Beirut. Borg El Arab Airport is well connected to Alexandria city via taxis and public transportation, offering convenient access to the Mediterranean coast's historical and cultural attractions.
Marsa Alam International Airport (RMF)
Marsa Alam International Airport (RMF) is a vital airport for those traveling to Egypt's southern Red Sea resorts, particularly for diving and beach vacations. Located about 60 km north of the resort town of Marsa Alam, the airport has a single terminal that caters to both domestic and international flights. The airport offers amenities like free Wi-Fi, lounges, and a variety of dining options. Airlines such as EasyJet, TUI Airways, and Air Cairo operate from Marsa Alam, offering flights to European destinations like London, Milan, and Berlin. With its proximity to the Red Sea's pristine beaches and coral reefs, Marsa Alam International plays a key role in Egypt’s tourism industry, especially for eco-tourism and diving.
Port Said Airport (PSD)
Port Said Airport (PSD) serves the northern coastal city of Port Said, located near the Suez Canal. The airport is primarily used for domestic flights, connecting Port Said with Cairo and other Egyptian cities. The terminal offers basic amenities such as restaurants and taxis for transportation to the city center. Although smaller in scale compared to major international airports, Port Said Airport plays an essential role in the local economy and regional travel. Its proximity to the Suez Canal adds a unique significance to this airport, especially for business travelers involved in maritime industries.
Sohag International Airport (HMB)
Located in Upper Egypt, Sohag International Airport (HMB) serves the city of Sohag and surrounding areas. It is a regional hub connecting travelers to and from Cairo and other major Egyptian cities. The airport’s small terminal offers basic amenities, including lounges and duty-free shops. Airlines like EgyptAir operate flights to destinations like Cairo and Luxor. Sohag International is primarily used by domestic travelers and offers convenient access to Upper Egypt’s historical sites, including the ancient city of Abydos.
Taba International Airport (TCP)
Taba International Airport (TCP) serves the resort city of Taba, located near the Egyptian-Israeli border on the Red Sea. The airport mainly caters to international flights from neighboring countries, with a focus on tourism and resort visitors. The terminal offers basic services, such as duty-free shopping and transportation options to nearby resorts. Airlines like Air Sinai and EgyptAir operate from Taba, offering flights to Cairo, Tel Aviv, and other regional destinations. Taba International is well-placed to cater to the growing tourist market in the region, offering access to the Sinai Peninsula and surrounding beach resorts.
Abu Simbel Airport (ABS)
Abu Simbel Airport (ABS) is located in the far southern part of Egypt, serving the famous Abu Simbel temples. The airport provides access to one of Egypt’s most iconic tourist sites and is a vital point for travelers visiting the temples, which were relocated due to the construction of the Aswan High Dam. The airport has a small terminal that mainly handles domestic flights from Cairo. Airlines such as EgyptAir offer flights to and from Abu Simbel. Abu Simbel Airport plays an important role in supporting the tourism industry, especially for those visiting this UNESCO World Heritage site.
El Alamein International Airport (DBB)
El Alamein International Airport (DBB) is located along the Mediterranean coast, near the historic city of El Alamein. The airport primarily serves tourists visiting this significant World War II site, as well as those traveling to nearby coastal resorts. The airport is equipped with a modern terminal offering services like duty-free shopping, lounges, and restaurants. Airlines such as EgyptAir and other regional carriers operate domestic and international flights from El Alamein. The airport is connected to the city by taxis and private car services, providing easy access to El Alamein’s historical landmarks, such as the WWII cemeteries and the El Alamein Museum.
Sphinx International Airport (SPX)
Sphinx International Airport (SPX) is a newer airport located in Giza, very close to the iconic Giza Pyramids, making it a vital alternative entry point for tourists visiting this ancient site. The airport was designed to alleviate congestion at Cairo International Airport and offer a more accessible option for travelers to the Giza region. With a modern terminal, it offers amenities like restaurants, lounges, and free Wi-Fi. Airlines operating from Sphinx International Airport include EgyptAir and a few charter airlines, offering flights to regional and European destinations. With easy access to the pyramids, Sphinx International serves both leisure and business travelers.
Sharq El Owainat Airport (GSQ)
Sharq El Owainat Airport (GSQ) is located in the Western Desert of Egypt, near the Oases of Egypt. The airport serves primarily for domestic flights, mostly to and from Cairo. It is strategically located to support the development of the oasis region and provide services for those exploring this remote part of Egypt. Due to the sparsity of air traffic, the airport operates a smaller terminal with basic services. It plays an important role in supporting the agriculture and tourism sectors in the desert areas. Sharq El Owainat is typically used by travelers heading to the oasis towns of Kharga, Dakhla, and Farafra.
St. Catherine International Airport (SKV)
St. Catherine International Airport (SKV) is located in the southern part of the Sinai Peninsula, near the town of St. Catherine, which is home to the famous St. Catherine’s Monastery. This airport plays a crucial role in bringing pilgrims and tourists to one of Egypt’s most spiritual sites. The airport has a small terminal that mainly handles flights from Cairo and other regional destinations. It provides basic services like transportation to the monastery, restaurants, and lounges. Airlines like EgyptAir offer flights to this airport, with many travelers visiting for religious purposes, hiking the Sinai mountains, or exploring the local Bedouin culture.
El Arish International Airport (AAC)
El Arish International Airport (AAC) serves the capital of North Sinai Governorate, El Arish. The airport is located in a strategic position, facilitating both domestic and limited international flights. El Arish is known for its proximity to the Mediterranean coast and the Sinai Peninsula. The terminal offers essential amenities like lounges, taxis, and restaurants. Though smaller than other airports in Egypt, El Arish is crucial for serving the northern Sinai region, especially for travelers visiting the coastal resorts or the Al-Tor area. EgyptAir and other smaller regional carriers operate flights to and from El Arish, making it an important hub for local travel.
Mersa Matruh Airport (MUH)
Mersa Matruh Airport (MUH) is located in the Mediterranean coastal city of Mersa Matruh, a popular tourist destination for Egyptians and international visitors seeking beach resorts and a laid-back atmosphere. The airport has a single terminal that provides essential services such as restaurants, transportation options, and lounges. It is mainly used for domestic flights, with EgyptAir operating routes connecting the city to Cairo. The airport offers easy access to the beaches of Mersa Matruh and other coastal attractions. The Mediterranean charm of the city, coupled with its proximity to the Libyan border, makes the airport a key transport point for this area.
