What to expect when you arrive at Cairo International Airport for the first time?

There are certain standards, when it comes to airports worldwide. In this article, I want to point out some small differences you might notice, if you are a first time traveller to Cairo International Airport.

If you decide to arrive with an Egyptian airlines, Egyptair, the first thing that might be new to you, is a prayer played at the aircraft just before the take off. There is nothing to be worried about, neither required from you to do. Just relax and enjoy your flight.

Flight attendant handed me a form to fill out, why?

A flight attendant distributes a small forms among the passengers during the flight. She or he will ask, if you are going to Cairo, as your final destination or it's just a transfer and you have a connecting flight. This form will be required by officer at the custom office. The lines are pretty long there, therefore It's recommended for you to fill out your form while still on the plane and save yourself time later. If you have lost your form, don't panic, there are plenty of copies available at the desks by the customs. Useful TIP: bring a PEN.

You have landed in Cairo. What now?

Either you arrived directly to the airport or you were transported by bus. It's time to pass through customs. Prepare your above mentioned filled out form, passport and visa.

Where can I buy tourist visa from?

As you are arriving to the customs, there are several small exchange offices on the right hand side. You can buy your "visa sticker" there . It's advisable to have an exact amount of money with you, as they give change back only in a local currency with a bit inconvenient exchange rate. The current price is $25, I believe.

I have passed the customs, what's next?

All that is left, is to pick up your luggage. There are 4 things, that might be slightly odd to you. First, you can smell cigarette smoke. It's coming from a small smoking room in baggage hall, where people go to smoke while waiting for their bags. Not sure though it's an official smoke room :) Second, there is a person or two, working in each restroom. This might make you feel funny and obligated to pay them. You are not. Of course if you want to tip them, feel free. Third, there might be this "man" who miraculously comes in the moment, when there are no more luggage carts available, offering you help. It's ok, if you decide to accept his help. Keep in mind, this service is not for free and you should pay him for help at the end. Fourth, they will scan your bags while going out as well.

Entering the arrival hall

Welcome to Cairo. If you are standing at the arrival hall now, being asked by the 37th person: "taxi?", you are at the right place. The hall is really huge, but no family members are greeting the travelers there. There are no people allowed inside for the security reasons, unless they have a flight ticket. There is one last opportunity to shop at the duty free shop, located directly at the arrival hall. You can buy anything in this place with your passport within 48 hours after arrival.

Once you come out, you will find a lot of people waiting by the door. It might feel little bit overwhelming. Unless there is anybody expecting you, it's time for you to manage your transportation to the city. More information about ways of transportation will be available in my next posts. Good Luck fellow Traveler!

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