Cairo International Airport CAI – Egypt’s Busiest Airport — Travel Guide & Terminal Tips

Plan to arrive at least 3 hours before international flights and 2 hours before domestic ones. Cairo International Airport is Egypt’s busiest gateway, serving as the main hub for egyptair and a broad range of other 承运商. The airport sits in the middle of the Cairo metropolitan area and operates as a modern port for both international and domestic travel. Its three passenger terminals are equipped with clear wayfinding and a growing set of 服务 for travelers.

"(《世界人权宣言》) specifications of baggage and check-in are straightforward: carry-on specifications typically cap at standard limits for most cabins, with checked bags varying by class and route. The grounds are equipped with self-service kiosks, automated bag drops, and broad cards acceptance. Workers at help desks can handle issues from rebooking to terminal guidance, and the port teams coordinate with airlines to keep 班次 moving. The 服务 includes currency exchange, prayer rooms, kids’ zones, and accessible facilities.

Traveling through CAI means passing checkpoints, with security and immigration queues. The length of queues depends on time of day and season. The terminals are interconnected by internal transit, and the middle level of facilities offers lounges and dining near gate clusters. If you need a quick handle on your travel, consult airline counters for operating times and 班次 status. The airport operates year-round and handles high passenger volumes, especially during peak periods.

From a practical traveler perspective, CAI’s 服务 include lounges, shopping, and dining. The main international gateway, Terminal 3, hosts most international 班次 and features upgraded security lanes and flight information displays. egyptair and other 承运商 operate across terminals, and the airport operates with a focus on efficiency. Always check your gate and terminal in the middle of the trip to avoid unnecessary hallway walks or misrouted connections.

Payments and accessibility: most shops and services accept cards, and staff provide multilingual 服务 to assist 旅行 passengers. If you arrive during a busier season, allow extra time for passing crowds and queueing; CAI’s official channels offer specifications for luggage, 服务 lists, and terminal maps to help you plan 旅行 with confidence.

Dining Options by Terminal: CAI’s Cafes, Restaurants, and Fast Food

Make CAI your first stop for nourishment by focusing on Terminal 3’s departures area, where three dining zones cluster around the main concourse. You’ll find a coffee-forward cafe cluster, a casual dining row, and fast‑food counters, all designed to keep you moving without backtracking into crowded spaces.

Terminal 1 offers a compact, practical mix: two cafes, one full‑service restaurant, and several grab‑and‑go counters near the security gates. This setup gives you quick options between check‑in and boarding, with enough space to sit, recharge devices, and plan the next leg of your tour.

Advance planning pays off. Hours vary by outlet, but most open by early morning and stay available through late departures. Use the overview signs to gauge which space is closest to your gate, so you can make a choice without extra movement. If you have three or more transfers, prioritize outlets near your next gate to minimize backtracking.

Currency and payment are designed for convenience: currency exchange counters are nearby, and most outlets accept Egyptian pounds along with major cards and mobile wallets. Availability is clearly posted at each counter, and if you need to inquire about a payment method, staff will assist you with a quick explanation–no delays in negotiations over price or method.

Mobile ordering and touch‑screen menus are provided at several outlets, letting you place orders from your chair or moving walkway. Devices charged at nearby stations keep your screens and tickets ready, so you can focus on your meal without losing track of time before departures. A small army of attendants keeps lines moving, especially during peak hours, and outlets are designed with covered seating to shield you from weather while you wait.

Inquire at information desks about a quick dining tour that matches your timetable. Look for space near the gates and concourses, where fast service meets steady quality. If you’re traveling with family or in a rush between flights, the three most practical options are: a light snack zone, a ready‑to‑eat counter, and a sit‑down option with a short wait–all provided to give you necessary relief between flights.

CAI’s dining layout supports airways and alliance travelers alike, with clear wayfinding and accessible layouts across terminals. Use the signs, ask staff for directions, and take note of special meals or dietary accommodations–availability is updated regularly to accommodate tours, layovers, and emergency schedules. When you’re ready to move on, you’ll find your next space quickly, along with a reliable source of energy to keep you focused for the remaining departures.

Open Hours and Peak Times for CAI Food Outlets

Arrive two hours before international departures to guarantee a quick bite and hot drink; most CAI outlets begin service around 04:30–05:30 and extend into the late evening, with terminal-specific variations.

Typical hours and offerings

• Common window: 04:30–23:30 in busy corridors; a few counters near gates may operate until 00:30 during seasonal surges.
• Seasonal adjustments: holiday travel can extend late-night options by 1–2 hours; off-peak weeks may trim late openings.
• Outlet types: cafés, fast-food counters, and grab-and-go kiosks cluster around the center and transfer zones; some outlets exclusively offer grab-and-go items for speed.
• Direct information: digital boards show status and outlet hours by terminal; carry a small map or use the CAI app for specific outlet hours.
• Signs and navigation: signs with arrows point toward gates; the bridge connects concourses to shorten your walk.
• Environment and comfort: spaces are bright and clean, with seating for short sits and long-term layovers; power outlets help you recharge devices.
• Icons and flavor cues: menu icons include pyramid symbols and local flavor cues to help you decide quickly.
• Names and flavor cues: you may notice signage referencing local names; some outlets offer exclusively regional snacks at fast pace.
• Security and intrusion: civil aviation rules prevent intrusion and ensure passenger safety; staff directions and status checks keep everyone on track.
• Parking and access: inside the terminal, cars are not needed; walking paths and centers carry you to most outlets.
• Location references: many options cluster near egyptair gates and transfer zones, making it easy to grab a bite before or after security.
• Local flavor: signage may use Sheikh or Borg-inspired names in decor, adding a familiar touch.

Peak times and navigation tips

1. Early morning rush: 05:30–09:00; expect longer lines at coffee and pastry spots as flights begin to crowd the gates.
2. Afternoon to dinner: 16:00–21:00; international departures and transit passengers spike demand in the main corridors.
3. Late night to pre-dawn: 01:00–04:30; some lounges and grab-and-go counters keep limited service for overnight transit–this is when a quick snack or tea helps you look for a smooth connection.

Helpful tips: check the status on information boards or the official CAI app; this allows you to plan fast and look for specific outlets near your gate. If you are looking for a longer pause, center-area cafes can serve long-term transit needs, and tours in the city can start after a tight connection. For families, egyptair hubs often offer kid-friendly options near gates; when moving, use the bridge sections to minimize walking between concourses. For those traveling without a car, signage and direct routes are clear, and you can do most of the dining in the transit zone without leaving the secure area. Heaven-sent coffee and a warm pastry can make a long wait feel much shorter, especially during suez-bound trips or seasonal surges. They update status constantly, and they can tell you the fastest route using the main center corridors. Always verify hours and status, particularly around peak times, to avoid intrusion into crowded lines or missing your flight. This approach lets you sample options efficiently and enjoy a smoother CAI experience without unnecessary delays.

Where to Find 24/7 Food and Quick Bites at CAI

Head straight to CAI’s central arrivals corridor, where a cluster of 24/7 outlets stays open around the clock. The wide passage links arrivals to the main concourse, and you can grab coffee, a sandwich, or a hot meal within minutes without delaying your plans.

Look for five reliable spots along the terminal: near the information office, by the currency exchange desks, and at two points along the main passage close to civil stations. All these outlets operate 24/7, offering coffee, grab‑and‑go bites, and light bowls for travelers who are between flights.

Choices range from coffee and tea to pastries, fresh sandwiches, wraps, and simple hot soups. If you want a longer meal, there’s a small sit‑down counter nearby and a noodle or rice bowl option that stays open late, heaven for night arrivals.

Tips: use the CAI app, launched recently, to locate 24/7 outlets and check live hours. You can order ahead at several counters and dont miss your connection.

Currency exchange sits near arrivals and information desks, so you can switch to local currency if needed. If you’re travelling from Maadi or Tahrir city areas, these clusters are most convenient, and you can grab a quick bite before moving to hotels or offices nearby.

Payment Methods in Dining Areas: Cash, Cards, Digital Wallets

Use a card or digital wallet for most dining outlets to keep lines short and payments quick. If youre navigating CAI, youre likely to find contactless payments supported across hall and AirMall kiosks, with clear prompts at the point of sale. Navigation signage often highlights the accepted methods, making the flow smoother as you move through the center of the airport. ahlan to travelers who value speed and clarity–this approach helps you stay on schedule rather than chasing change or receipts.

Cash remains widely accepted in all dining areas, including popular outlets in the hall and AirMall. Carry a mix of Egyptian pounds for small purchases and a little USD for larger orders where currency exchange isn’t available. Dont worry about getting stuck if a terminal slows down–you can switch to a card or wallet at most counters without missing a beat. The history of CAI shows a long-standing preference for flexible payment options, which airport vendors continue to support as part of well-maintained service standards.

Digital wallets are increasingly common at CAI, especially in the AirMall zone and near the Novotel entrance. You can pay through Apple Pay, Google Pay, or other wallet apps at many outlets; some shops still rely on card terminals, so carrying a backup method is wise. If youre stopping by the Novotel area after a flight, you’ll notice the same specifications for contactless payments across food stalls and cafés. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite before a taxi ride or settling in for a longer layover, digital wallets offer a fast, touch-free option that keeps you moving.

What to expect in CAI dining outlets

Smart payment tips for quick service

Keep your travel flow smooth by pairing at least two methods, with one ready for contactless use. In emergencies, you should be able to switch from wallet to card without delaying your ride to the center or a metered taxi queue outside the hall. If you’re heading to Alamein or planning a quick hop to France-linked lounges, the AirMall and hall networks are designed to handle busy periods through well-maintained terminals. The idea is to stay flexible so you don’t miss a connection while you’re on the move through transportation hubs around CAI.

Meal Options for Diets: Halal, Vegetarian, and Local Egyptian Dishes

Start with a clear choice: head to the central hall’s halal-friendly counters, opened daily, where you can grab grilled chicken, kofta, and falafel bowls clearly labeled to meet halal standards. These outlets operate under trusted brands, ensuring consistent quality across the airport.

Vegetarian options are especially abundant along the walkway and in outlets with outdoor seating, including falafel wraps, hummus bowls, and roasted vegetables–perfect for visitors traveling with teams or families.

For a true taste of Egypt, look for local dishes like koshari and ful medames served near the main food court; these options vary by vendor, and each serves generous portions. You can request no meat to keep them vegetarian-friendly.

Whether you rely on cards or mobile devices, most counters accept cards for payment and have menus mount beside each counter; you can view menus on nearby devices and connect to airport networks to compare options before ordering.

Nearby drivers and business travelers from many companies appreciate quick-service counters that open early and extend after peak hours; hours vary by wing and brand, with those in the northeast hall and its walkway offering the fastest pickup for those in a hurry.

A france network partners with local outlets to diversify vegetarian options, adding light salads and plant-forward plates that still suit halal needs; here, those options rotate with seasons and supply chains from france and local suppliers.

For heaven-level comfort, ask for hot portions on arrival and check sauces or dressings; koshari bowls, ful medames, and ta’amia are prepared with attention to freshness even in remote terminals, and staff can adjust spices to taste.

In summary, CAI serves halal, vegetarian, and local Egyptian dishes across multiple halls; use this plan: start near the northeast walkway, explore nearby outlets, and use convertible meal deals when time is tight, paying with cards or devices as needed, here at the airport.

Budget vs. Premium Dining: Price Ranges at CAI

Opt for budget dining for fast, reliable meals under 150 EGP to keep moving between gates and enter your next flight on time. CAI’s operating outlets near check-in halls and at several stations offer quick bites that fit tight layovers, while outdoor seating areas provide a pleasant pause during hot days. If you wish to explore local flavors, you can find falafel wraps and simple koshary at outside vendor stalls around the main concourses. With wi-fi across the facility, you can compare menus and prices as you wait, making it easy to choose the option that fits your plan.

Budget dining: price ranges and tips

Budget options typically span about 30–60 EGP for snacks and 60–120 EGP for a light meal, with most mains in the 120–180 EGP band. Beverages stay affordable at 15–40 EGP. The layout across CAI means you have easy access to quick-service counters in busy hubs, plus express counters near security checkpoints. Prices depend on location, but you have reliable portions and steady speed even during peak hours; you can hold a quick bite before advancing to your gate without wasting time.

Premium dining: price ranges and what you pay for

egypts fast-paced travel scene has grown premium options. Premium dining starts around 350 EGP per person and can reach 700–800 EGP for chef-driven plates, premium beverages, and plated courses. These options sit inside dedicated facilities or lounges, often offering advanced ordering, table service, and faster turnaround for travelers with tight schedules. Expect higher-quality ingredients, larger portions, and comfortable seating with airfield views; some venues include private booths and robust wi-fi to work or relax before flying. This can feel like heaven for coffee lovers and fans of refined flavors, especially during longer layovers or on routes to Luxor and other hubs. Arabia-inspired dishes may appear on curated menus at some venues, adding regional flair. Outside the core terminals, third-party venues provide similar experiences, focusing on local specialties with quick service. This adds additional value for travelers who want a more relaxed dining moment during layovers.

Pro Tips: Navigating Food Courts and Pre-Flight Snacks

进入 the post-security food court near Gate C3 and grab a hot wrap from a non-star cafe; this choice saves several minutes before your flight departs.

Use wi-fi to view an overview of options and a specific menu from each cafe, and the plan goes quickly once you pick a bite that fits your schedule.

During peak times, head to counters with clear queues and select a special combo that is labeled to speed up service.

Choose items that travel well: fruit cups, nuts, cheese sticks, wraps, and yogurt cups. These options stay fresh 不带 creating a mess, and there are various flavors to fit different tastes, providing reliable choices for late travelers.

Pick a location inside the international zone for reliable service; if you’re outside security, follow signs to the main concourse to minimize backtracking and avoid 安全 control delays. The beauty of CAI lies in its compact layout, helping you reach options quickly.

Arrivals by 豪华轿车? 进入 the terminal at the arrivals hall and walk to the food courts to refresh; travelers from aswan, arabia, or marsa routes and various airways often find these outlets quickest.

Before boarding, use a quick snack from a special counter near the gate and finish at least 15 minutes ahead to move efficiently, providing a calm start to the flight.