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Cairo International Airport

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A view of Cairo, the capital of Egypt

Cairo International Airport (CAI)

Cairo International Airport (IATA code CAI) is the main airport in Egypt. It facilitates a mix of international flights from worldwide carriers, as well as domestic flights from Egyptian airlines. It is one of the busiest aviation hubs in Africa and the Middle East.

Located in Heliopolis, about 15 kilometres (9 miles) northeast of Cairo's city centre, it serves as the main base for Air Cairo, AlMasria Universal Airlines, EgyptAir, FlyEgypt, Nesma Airlines, Nile Air and Petroleum Air Services.

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A family at a desk at the airport, handing a woman their passports

Essential Passenger Services

  • Banking & Currency Exchange: Multiple 24/7 bank branches (including Banque Misr, National Bank of Egypt, and CIB) and ATMs are located in both arrival and departure halls. These are essential for purchasing your entry visa upon arrival.
  • Connectivity: SIM card kiosks (Vodafone, Orange, Etisalat, and WE) are positioned immediately after the customs area in the arrivals halls.
  • Medical Facilities: Fully equipped medical clinics and 24-hour pharmacies are available in all terminals.
  • VIP "Ahlan" Service: A premium meet-and-greet service that provides fast-track immigration, luggage handling, and access to private lounges.
A busy airport terminal

Shopping & Dining

  • Duty-Free: Operated primarily by EgyptAir and Dufry, duty-free shops are available in all terminals for both arriving and departing passengers. (Note: Arriving passengers have 48 hours to purchase up to 3 litres of spirits from duty-free shops outside the airport).
  • Air Mall: Located between Terminal 1 and 3, featuring a food court with brands like McDonald's and various cafés.
  • Fine Dining: The Stereo Restaurant (Terminal 2) is a popular 1960s-themed spot with gourmet food.
  • Retail: Specialised stores for souvenirs, electronics, Egyptian jewellery, and books (Gamal Bookstores).

🏨 Transit & Logistics

  • Le Méridien Cairo Airport: A 5-star hotel directly connected to Terminal 3 via a pedestrian bridge, featuring a pool and multiple restaurants.
  • Inter-Terminal Transport: A free MiniMetro (automated people mover) and shuttle buses run 24/7 to connect T1, T2, T3, and the AirMall.
  • Storage & Parking: Luggage wrapping services are available at check-in. The airport also offers extensive multi-story car parks with long-term stay options.
Luxury airport lounge

Lounges

Terminal 1:

  • CAC Lounge (Plaza Premium): Located on the 1st and 2nd floors airside. It is currently the primary high-standard lounge in this terminal and features the only designated indoor smoking area in Terminal 1.
  • First Class Lounge: A more traditional, basic lounge often used by smaller regional airlines.

Terminal 2:

  • Emirates Lounge: Dedicated for Emirates premium passengers; known for high-end dining and luxury finishes.
  • Ahlein Premium & Emerald Lounges: High-quality independent lounges. The Premium side often offers showers and private nap rooms (for an extra fee).
  • CAC Lounge by Plaza Premium (Terminal 2): Located on the 1st floor after passport control. It features a kids' playroom, smoking area, and workstations. It is a popular choice for Priority Pass holders.

Terminal 3:

  • EgyptAir Alioth Lounge: Located near the F gates, often cited as the most modern of the EgyptAir lounges, with better natural light and seating.
  • EgyptAir Gienah Lounge: Located near the G gates. It typically has a more extensive food buffet than the other domestic-run lounges.
  • EgyptAir Almeisan Lounge: Located near gate F10; a standard, smaller option if your gate is at the far end of the pier.
  • CAC Lounge by Plaza Premium (Terminal 3E): Located on the 3rd floor (Zone E). This is an independent lounge that accepts Priority Pass and is generally considered to have superior food and amenities (such as workstations) compared to airline lounges.
An Air Cairo plane on a runway

How to get to and from Cairo International Airport

  • 🚗By driving: Car rental and parking are both available at the airport. The airport can be reached off Airport Road, which can be reached off Orouba Road.
  • 🚌By bus: Bus route 111 runs from downtown Cairo to Cairo International Airport Terminal 1. If you're travelling to a different terminal, you can get a shuttle between terminals.
  • 🚄By Metro: Line 3 of the Cairo metro connects the airport with several destinations within Cairo, including Central Cairo, Heliopolis and Giza.
  • 🚕By taxi: Flagging down a taxi in Cairo is common. Taxis can be identified by their distinct white colour; these taxis run on a meter. Taxi apps such as Careem and Uber can also be used in Cairo.

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