Cairo International Airport, the primary gateway to Egypt, is embarking on an ambitious expansion project that will significantly enhance its capacity and modernize its infrastructure. The centerpiece of this development is the construction of a brand-new Terminal 4, accompanied by a spacious parking area equipped with solar panels. Improvements to road networks surrounding the airport will also be implemented to streamline access and optimize traffic flow. This comprehensive expansion program aims to solidify Cairo’s position as a leading aviation hub in Africa and a major player in global trade.
The design and construction of Terminal 4 will be spearheaded by Pangiam, a travel technology firm, which is currently conducting a feasibility study to finalize the project’s specifics. While construction is yet to commence, the project is estimated to span four to five years. Upon completion, the new terminal will boost Cairo International Airport’s passenger handling capacity to 30 million annually, a notable increase from the current 26 million. Further expansion phases are also envisioned, potentially raising the capacity to an impressive 40 million passengers in the future, accommodating the anticipated growth in air travel demand.
This expansion initiative, initially announced in 2022, is part of a broader national strategy to upgrade Egypt’s airport system and elevate the quality of services offered to passengers. Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, the Prime Minister of Egypt, recently reaffirmed the government’s commitment to this ambitious project, emphasizing its alignment with presidential directives to enhance the country’s aviation infrastructure. Mohamed Abbas Helmy, the Minister of Civil Aviation, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the goal of transforming Cairo International Airport into a world-class facility that can compete with the most modern airports globally. The strategic objective is to establish Egypt as the premier gateway for passenger and air cargo movement in Africa, capitalizing on its advantageous geographical location between Africa, Asia, and Europe.
Beyond the airport expansion, Cairo boasts a wealth of cultural and historical attractions. The recently inaugurated Grand Egyptian Museum, housing over 100,000 artifacts, stands as the world’s largest archaeological museum complex. Its proximity to the Pyramids of Giza, the sole remaining wonder of the ancient world, further enhances its allure. Guided tours of the pyramids are readily available for visitors eager to explore these iconic structures. Other notable points of interest in Cairo include the Egyptian Museum, the Museum of Islamic Art, and the Al Azhar Mosque, showcasing the city’s rich heritage and architectural splendor.
Practical information for travelers planning a trip to Cairo includes a two-hour time difference ahead of the UK. While Arabic is the official language, English is widely spoken in hotels and tourist areas. The local currency is the Egyptian pound (EGP), with an approximate exchange rate of 367 EGP to £10. Visitors are required to have a passport with at least six months of validity remaining upon arrival and obtain a visa for entry. Cairo serves as a convenient base for exploring other destinations in Egypt, including the Red Sea Coast’s resort towns, which offer warm winter sunshine and stunning coastal landscapes.
The airport expansion is just one facet of Egypt’s ambitious development agenda. The country is also undertaking the construction of Ras El Hekma, a massive waterfront development on the North Coast, projected to be twice the size of Barcelona. Located between Alexandria and Marsa Matrouh, this mega-project will feature a new international airport, a cruise terminal, and high-speed rail links, facilitating seamless connectivity with Cairo and international destinations. The development is poised to become a major tourist hub, with plans for luxury resorts, golf courses, public beaches, and coastal communities. This ambitious undertaking underscores Egypt’s commitment to expanding its tourism infrastructure and attracting visitors from around the globe. The recent launch of new flights from Manchester and London Luton to Cairo further enhances accessibility to this vibrant destination.
