Sphinx International Airport in Cairo serves as a major gateway to Egypt’s ancient wonders and vibrant culture. Located just east of the city, it handles both domestic flights and international travelers heading toward iconic sites like the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx itself. The airport features modern terminals with amenities for comfort during layovers or transfers. Its strategic location makes travel across the country efficient while connecting visitors to Egypt’s rich history through nearby archaeological treasures and lively markets.
| Power Grid: |
220 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type C , Type F
Type C:
  Read about power adapters |
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| Currency: |
Egyptian Pound (EGP) £1 ≈ EGP 74.69 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 4/5
Cashless payments are becoming more common in Egypt, especially in tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and businesses, but cash is still preferred in many places.
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| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is common in Egypt, with a 10-15% tip in restaurants being standard. Taxi drivers, hotel staff, and tour guides also appreciate small tips. |
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| Public drinking: | Public drinking is generally not allowed in Egypt, and alcohol consumption is limited to licensed establishments like hotels, restaurants, and bars. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is permitted in outdoor public spaces and licensed indoor venues such as cafes and bars, but it is prohibited in public transport and closed areas. |
| Revolution Day (25 January) |
National holiday celebrating the 2011 revolution |
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| Eid al-Fitr (dates vary) |
Islamic festival marking the end of Ramadan |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Numbers: 122 (Police), 123 (Ambulance), 180 (Fire) |
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| Taxi apps: | Uber |
| Other: | Egypt is known for its ancient history, including the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and numerous archaeological sites. It offers a rich cultural experience combined with desert landscapes and the Nile River. |
Sphinx International Airport opened in 2020 to serve the Giza region and Cairo’s western outskirts. Its modern terminal caters to both international and domestic flights, designed to ease access to the nearby Great Pyramids and the iconic Sphinx, making it a strategic hub for tourists. The spacious design and updated facilities deliver a comfortable travel experience, with efficient security and check-in processes.
Despite its advantages, travelers often mention some challenges upon arrival: the taxi services can be chaotic and unregulated, with aggressive drivers and inconsistent pricing. Signage and information inside the terminal sometimes lack clarity, which can be daunting for first-time visitors. Language barriers occasionally complicate interactions outside the airport where English proficiency is limited.
Accessing the city or tourist sites may take longer due to traffic and limited public transit options directly from the airport. However, a growing number of private shuttles and reputable transfer services are available, offering more reliable and safer transport alternatives. Within the airport, amenities include a decent selection of cafes and the comfortable Pearl Lounge, designed for international travelers.
The climate here is hot desert (Köppen BWh), so expect warm and dry conditions year-round – pack accordingly! While the airport is still expanding its services, it remains a highly practical entry point for exploring some of Egypt’s richest cultural heritage sites.
Located airside between gates 5 and 8, the Pearl Lounge serves international passengers offering a quiet environment with complimentary snacks and drinks, Wi-Fi, a children's play area, and a prayer room. Open 24/7 with a maximum stay of 3 hours, it is accessible to Priority Pass members and families. Smoking and gaming areas are also available.
Accommodation options near the airport and Giza range from budget hotels to mid-range and upscale hotels focused on tourists visiting the pyramids, with many located closer to the city center. Most travelers prefer staying in Cairo or Giza for easy access to attractions and better urban amenities.
To Giza Plateau:
The Giza Plateau is about a 15-minute drive from the airport. Taxis and private shuttles are the best options; negotiate fares beforehand or book through a trusted provider to avoid overcharges. Beware of unmetered taxis. There is no direct public bus service; traffic can be heavy during peak hours.
To Cairo City Center:
Reaching downtown Cairo takes around 30 to 40 minutes by taxi or private transfer. Similar cautions about fare negotiation and traffic apply. Ride-hailing services like Uber may be available but sometimes unreliable. Public transport options are limited directly from the airport.
To Egyptian Museum:
Located approximately 22 km away, the museum is accessible by taxi or shuttle in about 40 minutes depending on traffic. Using a pre-booked transfer is recommended for convenience and safety, especially for tourists unfamiliar with the area.
