A Guide to the Main Airports in Egypt – Including Hurghada
A popular destination and there are plenty of choices when it comes to choosing which of the airports in Egypt to fly to. This handy guide talks you through the options so you can make the best choice for your travel plans.
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Airports in Egypt
Egypt, with its rich history and thriving tourism industry, is home to a well-developed network of airports that connect the country to the rest of the world. These airports play a vital role in facilitating international tourism, business travel, and domestic connectivity across the nation.
From the bustling capital city of Cairo to the sun-soaked resorts along the Red Sea, Egypt’s airports serve as key gateways for millions of travelers each year. Whether you’re arriving to explore the ancient wonders of the pyramids or relax on a beach holiday, Egypt’s airports ensure smooth and efficient access to the country’s most popular destinations.
Cairo International Airport stands as the busiest and largest airport in Egypt, offering a range of international and domestic flights, and acting as a major hub for the national carrier, EgyptAir. In addition to Cairo, the resort cities of Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh are served by busy international airports that cater primarily to tourists visiting Egypt’s famed Red Sea coast.
Choosing the best airport
Each of Egypt’s major airports serves different regions and offers distinct advantages depending on your itinerary. For instance, Cairo International Airport is ideal if you’re looking to explore the cultural and historical landmarks of the capital. Or if you’re planning onward travel to other parts of the country. With its extensive international connections, Cairo is also the most convenient choice for business travelers or those planning multi-city tours.
For travelers heading to Egypt’s famous Red Sea resorts, selecting either Hurghada International Airport or Sharm El Sheikh International Airport can save time and make your journey more efficient. These airports are located close to the country’s most popular beach destinations, reducing the need for lengthy transfers.
If your trip focuses on exploring Egypt’s ancient sites, particularly in the south, flying into Luxor International Airport is the smartest choice. This airport places you right at the doorstep of some of Egypt’s most famous attractions, including the Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple, eliminating long overland travel.
Our Guide To Egypt’s Main Airports
1. Cairo International Airport (CAI)
As Egypt’s largest and busiest airport, Cairo International handles approximately 15-17 million passengers annually. It is a major hub for EgyptAir and serves as a key connection point for international flights to Europe, Africa, the Middle East. It operates three main terminals and is the busiest airport not only in Egypt but also in Africa.
2. Hurghada International Airport (HRG)
Hurghada International Airport sees around 8-10 million passengers each year, making it the second busiest in Egypt. It mainly caters to European tourists visiting the Red Sea resorts. The airport has seen significant expansion in recent years, and it operates numerous flights to cities in Europe, especially during the holiday season.
3. Sharm El Sheikh International Airport (SSH)
This airport serves the resort city of Sharm El Sheikh and handles around 7-8 million passengers annually. Known for its charter flights and tourist traffic, Sharm El Sheikh International sees a large volume of visitors. Many are from Europe and the Middle East, thanks to its reputation as a diving and beach holiday destination.
4. Borg El Arab International Airport (HBE)
Located near Alexandria, Borg El Arab International serves approximately 3-4 million passengers per year. It is the primary airport for the northern region of Egypt and handles both domestic and international flights, with a focus on traffic to the Middle East and North Africa. The airport has gained importance after Alexandria International Airport’s closure for commercial flights.
5. Luxor International Airport (LXR)
Luxor International Airport handles around 2.5-3 million passengers annually, primarily from tourists visiting the ancient temples and tombs in the Luxor area. It is a key hub for charter flights and seasonal tourism. This is especially during Egypt’s cooler months when visitors flock to historical sites along the Nile.
Book Your Trip
Book Your Holiday
Find a great package trip with TUI UK. They’re my favourite, with a great choice of hotels in Hurghada. Compare prices at On The Beach and Sunshine.co.uk.
Book A Hotel
You should book your hotel with Booking.com. They have the biggest selection of hotels, with many of them ‘book now pay later’ or with ‘free cancellation’.
Book A Flight
Find a cheap flight with Skyscanner. They cover all airports and hundreds of airlines – so you know you’re getting the best options. Visit AirHint for tips on when to book.
Trips and Activities
We always use GetYourGuide or Viator when travelling. Both have a huge selection of things to do and places to visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you plan to visit the Pyramids of Giza, Cairo International Airport (CAI) is the best option. It is the closest airport to the capital, Cairo, where the pyramids are located, and provides easy access to other major historical sites.
For a beach holiday, Hurghada International Airport (HRG) and Sharm El Sheikh International Airport (SSH) are the best choices. Hurghada is ideal for those visiting the resorts along the Red Sea, while Sharm El Sheikh offers easy access to the Sinai Peninsula’s coastal resorts and world-renowned diving spots.
If your focus is on exploring ancient Egyptian sites such as the Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple, Luxor International Airport (LXR) is best. It places you directly in the heart of Upper Egypt’s historical region. However, Cairo is a better choice if you’re also planning to visit the Pyramids and museums in the capital.
Borg El Arab International Airport (HBE) is the closest airport to Alexandria, Egypt’s second-largest city. It serves as the main airport for northern Egypt and offers both domestic and international flights. This makes it the best choice for those visiting Alexandria’s historic sites or coastal areas.
To choose the right airport, consider the main focus of your trip. Cairo International is best for historical and cultural exploration in Cairo. Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh airports are perfect for beach and diving holidays. Luxor International is ideal for ancient site enthusiasts.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right airports in Egypt is key to saving time and ensuring a smooth trip. Cairo International is best for exploring historical landmarks, while Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh airports offer easy access to beach resorts. For ancient sites, Luxor International is the ideal choice. Selecting the airport closest to your destination ensures a more convenient and enjoyable travel experience.
