Information & Travel Guide for Cairo International Airport
Cairo International Airport (CAI)

Cairo International Airport is located just 14 miles outside the city of Cairo in Egypt. As the primary gateway to the ancient Egyptian pyramids, this airport takes on over 16 million tourists annually. Due to its popularity, it is the most convenient stopover for European and African flights worldwide. All facilities have been deemed clean and efficient by travellers from around the world, but it lacks in amenities.

History

During World War II, the United States originally constructed an airfield in Cairo referred to as the Payne Airfield. When the army left the area, the airport was turned into the Cairo International Airport by 1963. Once the airport grew in popularity, it was apparent that it would need an expansion to accommodate all of the travellers entering into the country. Thus Terminal 2 was constructed in 2010 and Terminal 3 followed shortly after that.

Services and Amenities

Unfortunately the Cairo International Airport lacks severely in amenities. Most travellers would agree that it is not a pleasant airport for long layovers; however, the customs and security checkpoints are highly efficient for the volume they see each year. As of now the airport offers travellers:

  • Cash services, including ATMs and currency exchange offices

  • Baggage trolleys

  • A few duty-free shops, but overall limited shopping opportunities

  • A few restaurant and bars within each terminal

  • Cafeteria

  • Free Wi-Fi

  • Small business centers located within Terminal 1

Parking

Cairo International Airport currently offers short -term and long-term parking that is located next door to Terminal 1. Short-term rates are charged by the hour, while long-term rates are on a daily count.

Surrounding Area

One of the best ways to get around Cairo is through the use of public transportation. Since the trains are run by the Cairo Transport Authority, they are efficient and inexpensive for travellers. There are microbuses available as well throughout the city center. Taxis are easy to find and hail, but they are costly, especially for travel to high-tourism areas.

Once in the city, tourists are encouraged to check out the entertainment available within the city center that is referred to as Sufi Dancing. Those looking to sit down, relax and watch Cairo pass them by can enjoy the numerous cafes located throughout the city offering authentic, Egyptian cuisine. Naturally, those in Egypt will want to see one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, which include the Egyptian pyramids. Taxis, busses and other public transportation will frequent these hot-spot-tourist locations and private tours are available.

Hotels are located throughout the city and most will have English-speaking workers. Travellers who are on a budget will find cheaper hotels on the outer perimeter of Cairo. There are several four and five star resorts located within the city as well as closer to the coast.

Contact Information:

Airport IATA Code: CAI
Location: The airport is located 22km (13.5 miles) northeast of Cairo
Telephone: +20 (0)2 291 4255
Fax: (0)2 633 2522 or 7132
Address: Cairo International Airport, Oruba Road, Heliopolis, Cairo, Egypt
Number of Terminals: 2
E-mail: ciap@idsc.net.eg
Time Zone: GMT + 2 (GMT + 3 from the last Friday in April to the first Friday in October)