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Cairo International Airport Insider Guide
CAICAI is large, multi-terminal, busy. Lounges vary, ground transport mostly taxi/ride apps.
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55min
Transit to city
🛂
60min
Immigration
🔒
60min
Security buffer
✅
Leave with 10+ hours+
Leave the airport?
OK to leave:
10h+
🛋️
Lounges
| Terminal | Lounge | Access | Showers | Good for | Price (paid) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| T2/T3 | PP/contract lounges | PP/Dragon/Paid | Some | Snacks/buffet | About $30–50 USD |
| Various | Airline lounges (MS/alliances) | Eligible tickets/status | Some | Buffet, showers | N/A |
Coverage better in T2/T3; T1 is basic.
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Traveler notes
- Security/immigration can be lengthy; add big buffers.
- Terminal transfers take time; check your terminal early.
🛏️
Sleep / Rest
- Limited comfy seating; lounges better.
🍽️
Food
- Egyptian/fast food; quality mixed.
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Showers
- Available in some lounges.
🧳
Luggage Storage
- Limited; travel light.
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Transit to City
- Taxi/Ride apps: 30–70 minutes to central Cairo depending on traffic.
- Bus: Cheaper, slower.
- Buffer: Back at CAI 3h intl (or more if traffic is bad).
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Essentials
- SIM/eSIM: Airport kiosks; eSIM cheaper beforehand. ATMs: Decline DCC; pay in USD/EGP via bank. Wi‑Fi: Limited.
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