Egyptair

Egyptair stands as a distinguished pioneer in the aviation industry, holding the title of the first airline established in the Middle East and Africa. With its logo depicting Horus, the ancient Egyptian sky god, the carrier symbolizes a bridge between the rich history of the past and the dynamic connectivity of the modern world. As a proud member of the Star Alliance, the airline offers passengers a seamless travel experience, linking major global capitals to the heart of Egypt. Its enduring legacy, dating back to 1932, combined with a commitment to modernization, makes it a preferred choice for millions of travelers seeking authentic hospitality and reliable service.

Extensive Network and Strategic Connections
Egyptair operates a robust network that spans across Africa, Europe, Asia, and North America, positioning itself as a key player in global aviation. For travelers based in the region, the airline provides vital connectivity with frequent flights from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah. These routes offer convenient access not only to Egypt's historic sites but also serve as efficient gateways for transit passengers continuing their journey to other international destinations within the carrier's vast network.

Modern Fleet and Onboard Experience
The airline has made significant strides in modernizing its fleet to ensure passenger comfort and operational efficiency. The current lineup includes advanced aircraft such as the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner and the Airbus A320neo. These modern vessels are designed to reduce environmental impact while providing a quieter cabin experience. Passengers can expect generous baggage allowances, diverse in-flight entertainment options, and complimentary meal services that reflect the warmth of Egyptian culture.

Safety and Global Standards
With nearly a century of aviation experience, Egyptair places a high priority on safety and regulatory compliance. The airline is IOSA (IATA Operational Safety Audit) certified, adhering to rigorous international safety standards. Its membership in the Star Alliance further reinforces its commitment to quality, allowing travelers to benefit from coordinated schedules, shared lounge access, and the ability to earn and redeem miles across a global network of partner airlines.

Travelers in the United Arab Emirates can easily connect with Egyptair through a robust network of local offices and support channels. With dedicated presence in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah, the airline ensures that passengers have access to direct assistance for bookings, schedule changes, and travel inquiries. Whether you are planning a trip to Cairo or need support with an existing reservation, the local teams are well-equipped to help.

Official Website

For the most up-to-date flight schedules, online booking, and management of your reservations, visit the official global website:

• www.egyptair.com

Contact Information

Passengers in the UAE can reach the airline through the following regional contact points:

• Customer Service (Dubai & General UAE): +971 4 230 6666
• Abu Dhabi Office Line: +971 2 634 4777
• Sharjah Office Line: +971 6 591 2166
• Email Support: callcenter@egyptair.com or webbookingsupport@egyptair.com
• Mobile App: EGYPTAIR (Available on App Store and Google Play)

Social Media

Stay connected and check for the latest updates or announcements via their official social media channels:

• Facebook: facebook.com/EGYPTAIR
• X (Twitter): x.com/EGYPTAIR
• Instagram: instagram.com/egyptair
• YouTube: youtube.com/EGYPTAIR

Local Offices in United Arab Emirates

If you prefer face-to-face assistance, you can visit one of the city offices or airport counters. Please note that operating hours may vary.

• Dubai City Office: Al Dana Building, Al Maktoum Road, Deira, Dubai.
• Abu Dhabi City Office: Khalifa Bin Zayed The First Street, Al Markaziyah West (Al Hisn), Abu Dhabi.
• Sharjah City Office: Orient Travel Building, Al Arooba Street, Al Mareija, Sharjah.
• Airport Counters: Sales and support desks are also available at Dubai International Airport (Terminal 1), Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah International Airport.

Emergency & After-Hours Support

For urgent inquiries outside of standard business hours, the airline typically offers 24/7 support through its main call center numbers. In cases of immediate travel disruption, visiting the airport sales counters is recommended for the fastest resolution. Always verify the current opening hours on the official website before visiting city offices.

Traveling with Egyptair comes with the benefit of a generous baggage policy designed to accommodate the needs of modern travelers, whether you are flying for business or leisure. Understanding the allowances before you pack can ensure a smooth journey from the United Arab Emirates to Cairo and beyond. The airline generally operates on the "Piece Concept" for international flights, providing clear guidelines on the number of bags and weight limits allowed for each class of service.

Carry-on Baggage Allowance

Egyptair allows passengers to bring essential items into the cabin to ensure a comfortable flight. The specific allowance depends on your booking class:

• Economy Class: Passengers are typically permitted one hand bag weighing up to 8 kg.
• Business Class: Travelers can usually bring two hand bags, each weighing up to 8 kg.

In addition to the main carry-on, all passengers are entitled to one personal accessory, such as a laptop bag, a purse, or a camera bag, provided it is small enough to fit under the seat in front of you. It is important to ensure that your carry-on luggage fits within the overhead bins to avoid it being checked at the gate.

Checked Baggage Limits

For international routes, including flights departing from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah, Egyptair offers one of the most competitive baggage policies in the region. Always check your specific ticket conditions, as allowances can vary by fare type, but general guidelines include:

• Economy Class: Most fares include two pieces of checked baggage, with a maximum weight of 23 kg per bag.
• Business Class: Passengers generally enjoy an allowance of two pieces, with a higher maximum weight of 32 kg per bag.
• Egyptair Plus & Star Alliance Gold Members: Frequent flyers may be eligible for additional baggage allowance. It is advisable to present your membership card at the check-in counter.

Excess and Special Baggage

If you plan to travel with more than the standard allowance, Egyptair provides options for excess baggage. Fees are calculated based on the number of extra pieces and their weight. To save time and money, it is often recommended to purchase prepaid excess baggage online via the official website or mobile app up to 24 hours before your scheduled departure, as airport rates are typically higher.

For those transporting special items such as sports equipment (e.g., golf bags, diving gear) or musical instruments, specific rules apply. Small musical instruments can often be carried as hand luggage if they fit in the overhead bin, while larger items may need to be checked or have a separate seat booked for them. Sports equipment usually counts towards your free baggage allowance, provided it meets weight and size restrictions.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

To ensure the safety of all passengers, certain items are strictly prohibited in both checked and carry-on luggage. These include explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids, and toxic substances. Furthermore, lithium batteries and power banks must never be placed in checked luggage; they must be carried in your cabin baggage. Liquids, gels, and aerosols in carry-on bags must follow standard international security regulations (containers of 100ml or less, placed in a transparent, resealable plastic bag).

Tips for Packing Efficiently

To maximize your allowance and avoid unexpected fees at the airport, consider these helpful tips:

• Weigh at Home: Use a portable luggage scale to check your bags before leaving for the airport.
• Distribute Weight: If you have two bags, distribute the weight evenly so neither exceeds the single-item limit (23 kg or 32 kg depending on class).
• Label Your Bags: clearly attach name tags with your current contact information inside and outside each bag.
• Secure Fragile Items: Wrap fragile goods in soft clothing and place them in the center of your suitcase for cushioning.

Egyptair welcomes furry companions on board, understanding that pets are often an integral part of the family. Whether you are traveling from the UAE to Cairo or connecting to other destinations, the airline offers dedicated services to ensure your dogs and cats travel safely and comfortably. However, strict regulations apply to ensure the safety of all passengers and animals, so advanced planning is essential.

Transport Options

In cabin (carry-on)
For smaller pets that can remain with you throughout the flight, the airline offers cabin transport under specific conditions:

• Carrier dimensions: The maximum dimensions for the pet container are typically 55x40x20 cm, though this may vary by aircraft type.
• Maximum weight: The total weight of the pet including the carrier must not exceed 8 kg.
• Allowed pet types: Generally, only cats and dogs are permitted in the passenger cabin.
• Placement: The carrier must be stored under the seat in front of you and the animal must remain inside at all times.
• Limit per passenger: One container per passenger is permitted.

In cargo hold (checked baggage)
Larger pets that exceed cabin weight limits can travel as checked baggage in the air-conditioned cargo hold:

• Container requirements: Animals must travel in a rigid, leak-proof, and escape-proof IATA-compliant plastic crate with adequate ventilation.
• Weight and size limits: This option is available for pets that, combined with their crate, exceed 8 kg but are within the hold baggage size limits (usually up to 45 kg).
• Temperature restrictions: For safety, pets may not be accepted if temperatures at departure or arrival airports are extreme (too hot or too cold).
• Required documentation: The crate must be clearly labeled with the owner's name, flight details, and contact information.

As cargo (for large animals)
Some situations require animals to be shipped as cargo rather than checked baggage:

• When required: Mandatory for very large animals, unaccompanied pets, or flights to countries that require cargo entry by law.
• Special requirements: This process involves an Airway Bill and specific customs clearance procedures.
• Booking procedure: You must coordinate with the Egyptair Cargo department well in advance of your intended travel date.

Required Documentation

To ensure a smooth departure from airports like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah, you must present valid papers:

• Veterinary passport: An official document identifying the animal.
• Health certificate: A valid certificate issued by a government-approved veterinarian, typically required to be dated within 14 days of travel.
• Vaccinations: Proof of current vaccinations, most importantly a valid rabies vaccination administered at least 30 days prior to the flight.
• International certificates: Any specific import/export permits required by the destination country's agricultural or health authorities.

Service Costs

Pet transport is not included in the free baggage allowance and incurs additional fees:

• In-cabin fee: Charges are generally applied as a fixed rate or equivalent to excess baggage fees.
• Cargo hold fee: Costs are typically calculated based on the total weight of the animal and crate, often charged as double or triple the normal excess baggage rate depending on size.
• Note: Prices vary significantly by route and currency; payment is usually collected at the airport service desk.

Preparation Tips

Preparing your pet beforehand can make the journey less stressful for everyone:

• Carrier requirements: Ensure the pet can stand, turn around, and lie down naturally in their crate.
• Feeding: Feed your pet a light meal approximately 4 hours before the flight; avoid feeding right before departure to prevent nausea.
• Stress reduction: Place a familiar absorbent blanket or a piece of clothing with your scent inside the carrier to help calm the animal.

Restrictions

Certain restrictions apply to ensure animal welfare and operational safety:

• Prohibited breeds: Snub-nosed (brachycephalic) cats and dogs (such as Persians, Pugs, and Bulldogs) are often restricted or prohibited due to respiratory risks at high altitudes.
• Prohibited animals: Rodents, reptiles, and animals considered aggressive are generally not accepted.
• Exceptions: Service animals (such as guide dogs) are usually exempt from weight restrictions and fees but require specific pre-notification and documentation.

Important: Airline policies regarding live animals are subject to change and can be affected by seasonal weather. It is strongly recommended to contact Egyptair directly or visit a local office at least 48 hours before your flight to confirm the latest rules and reserve space for your pet.

Loyalty Program: EGYPTAIR Plus

Frequent travelers can enhance their journey by joining EGYPTAIR Plus, the airline's dedicated loyalty program designed to reward passengers for their continued patronage. Whether you are commuting regularly for business or planning leisure trips, this program transforms your miles into valuable privileges, ensuring a more comfortable and rewarding travel experience with every flight.

Membership Tiers

The program consists of four distinct levels, each offering progressively higher benefits as you accumulate status miles:

• Blue Card: The entry-level membership allowing you to start earning miles immediately upon registration.
• Silver Card: Offers a 20% mileage bonus, dedicated check-in counters, and Star Alliance Silver status recognition.
• Gold Card: Unlocks priority boarding, access to airport lounges, extra baggage allowance, and Star Alliance Gold benefits.
• Platinum Card: The highest tier providing exclusive services, guaranteed seat availability, and the ability to gift status to a spouse.

Earning Miles

Members have numerous ways to accumulate miles, making it easy to reach the next tier or redeem rewards:

• Flight Activity: Earn miles on all scheduled flights with Egyptair and Star Alliance partners.
• Route Bonuses: Collect miles on your frequent trips from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah to Cairo.
• Family Program: Pool miles with immediate family members into a single account to earn rewards faster.
• Partners: Accumulate points through stays at partner hotels, car rental bookings, and co-branded credit card spend.

Redeeming Miles

Your accumulated miles can be exchanged for a wide variety of travel perks and services:

• Award Tickets: Book free flights to Cairo and over 1,300 destinations within the Star Alliance network.
• Cabin Upgrades: Use your miles to upgrade your seat from Economy to Business Class for added luxury.
• Excess Baggage: Pay for additional luggage weight using your miles instead of cash at the airport.
• Non-Flight Rewards: Redeem miles for hotel stays, car rentals, or shopping vouchers with select partners.

Alliance Membership

As a member of the prestigious Star Alliance, EGYPTAIR Plus extends its benefits globally:

• Global Network: Enjoy recognition and privileges across 26 member airlines, including Lufthansa, United, and Turkish Airlines.
• Seamless Travel: Benefit from smoother transfers, shared lounge access, and coordinated schedules worldwide.

How to Join

Becoming a member is simple and free of charge. Travelers can register online through the official Egyptair website or via the mobile app to receive their membership number instantly and begin earning miles on their very next trip.

Flying with Egyptair offers a blend of traditional Egyptian hospitality and modern aviation standards. Whether you are traveling for business or leisure from the United Arab Emirates to Cairo, the airline provides a range of service classes and amenities designed to make your journey comfortable and enjoyable. From the moment you step on board, you can expect attentive service and a cabin environment tailored to your needs.

Business Class

For travelers seeking luxury and efficiency, Business Class on Egyptair provides a premium experience. Passengers enjoy priority check-in, increased baggage allowance, and access to exclusive airport lounges before departure. On board, the experience differs slightly depending on the aircraft:

• Wide-body Aircraft (e.g., Boeing 787 Dreamliner): Often used on major international routes, these aircraft feature full flat-bed seats that allow for complete relaxation. The 1-2-1 configuration ensures direct aisle access for every passenger.
• Narrow-body Aircraft (e.g., Airbus A320neo): On shorter regional flights, such as some connections from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah, passengers enjoy spacious recliner seats with generous legroom and personal entertainment screens.

Economy Class

Economy Class is designed to offer value without compromising on comfort. The seats are ergonomically designed to provide ample legroom, ensuring a pleasant journey even on longer flights. Passengers in Economy Class receive the same warm hospitality as those in premium cabins, with complimentary amenities such as blankets and pillows provided on overnight or long-haul services to enhance rest.

In-Flight Entertainment

Boredom is not an option with Egyptair’s modern in-flight entertainment systems. Most aircraft are equipped with personal seat-back screens offering a wide selection of content. Travelers can choose from the latest international movies, classic Egyptian cinema, TV shows, and audio channels. The system also includes a flight map, allowing you to track your progress across the Middle East and Africa in real-time.

Dining and Beverages

Egyptair takes pride in its culinary offerings, providing complimentary hot meals on almost all international flights. The menu typically features a mix of international dishes and Egyptian specialties, prepared with high-quality ingredients.

• Halal Certified: All meals served on board are fully Halal compliant.
• Beverages: The airline offers a selection of refreshing juices, soft drinks, tea, and coffee. Please note that Egyptair is a dry airline, meaning alcohol is not served on board.
• Special Meals: Passengers with specific dietary requirements (vegetarian, diabetic, gluten-free, etc.) can request special meals at least 24 hours prior to departure through the website or call center.

Special Services

The airline is committed to making air travel accessible and convenient for everyone, offering specialized assistance for passengers with unique needs:

• Families with Children: Young travelers are well looked after. Bassinets are available for infants on select aircraft (must be booked in advance), and kid-friendly meals can be requested.
• Unaccompanied Minors: For children traveling alone, a dedicated escort service ensures their safety from check-in until they are handed over to their guardian at the destination.
• Passengers with Reduced Mobility: Wheelchair assistance and priority boarding are available. It is recommended to notify the airline of any medical or mobility needs at the time of booking to ensure the ground staff and cabin crew are fully prepared to assist.

Egyptair serves as a vital aviation link between the United Arab Emirates and North Africa, offering passengers robust connectivity and reliable schedules. The airline's network is designed to cater to the high demand for travel between the two regions, centering its operations on its primary hub in Egypt. For travelers departing from the UAE, the carrier provides a straightforward and comfortable gateway to the historic and commercial centers of Egypt, as well as seamless transit options to the rest of the world.

Direct Connections to the Hub

The cornerstone of Egyptair's service from the region is its direct connection to Cairo. As the airline's main hub, Cairo International Airport receives all flights departing from the UAE. This central node not only allows for immediate access to Egypt's capital but also functions as an efficient transit point for passengers continuing their journey to other destinations across Africa, Europe, and the Middle East.

Flight Routes from the UAE

To ensure convenience for travelers located across different emirates, Egyptair operates regular scheduled flights from three major airports in the country. This multi-city approach allows passengers to choose the departure point closest to their home or office:

• From Dubai (DXB): The airline offers its highest frequency of flights from Dubai, providing passengers with multiple options throughout the week to connect to Cairo.
• From Abu Dhabi (AUH): Travelers based in the capital benefit from consistent direct services linking Abu Dhabi directly to the Egyptian hub.
• From Sharjah (SHJ): Serving the needs of residents in the northern emirates, the airline also maintains a steady schedule of flights departing from Sharjah.

These routes are operated using a mix of the airline's modern fleet, ensuring that whether you are flying from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah, you experience the same standard of service and hospitality. Passengers are advised to check the official schedule for the most accurate flight timings and frequencies.

To secure the best fares with Egyptair, it is generally recommended to book your tickets at least a few weeks in advance. Travelers flying from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah to the airline's hub in Cairo can often find better rates by avoiding peak holiday seasons and being flexible with their travel dates. Signing up for the airline's newsletter or monitoring their official website is an excellent way to spot flash sales and special promotions early.

Save time at the airport by utilizing the airline's online check-in service, which typically opens 48 hours prior to your scheduled departure. This allows you to choose your seat and print your boarding pass or save it to your mobile device before you even leave home. If you have specific seating preferences, such as extra legroom or a window view, selecting your seat during this online window is highly advisable to ensure a comfortable journey.

For a seamless travel experience, consider downloading the Egyptair mobile app. It offers convenient features like real-time flight status updates, booking management, and digital boarding passes. Additionally, while planning your trip, do not forget the importance of comprehensive travel insurance. Protecting your investment against unexpected cancellations or medical emergencies provides peace of mind, allowing you to focus entirely on enjoying your trip.

Founding and Early Vision

The story of Egyptair begins on May 7, 1932, marking a historic moment not just for the nation but for the entire region. Founded as MisrAirwork, it holds the prestigious title of being the first airline established in the Middle East and Africa, and the seventh carrier created globally. The airline commenced operations with a modest fleet of Spartan Cruiser aircraft, initially connecting Cairo to Alexandria and later expanding to other domestic destinations. This early period laid the foundation for a legacy of aviation leadership, driven by a vision to connect Egypt with the world.

Evolution and Expansion

Throughout the decades, the airline underwent several transformations that mirrored the region's development. In 1949, the company was renamed Misrair, and by the 1960s, following political shifts in the region, it became known as United Arab Airlines (UAA). It wasn't until 1971 that the carrier adopted its current name, Egyptair, accompanied by the iconic logo of Horus, the ancient Egyptian sky god. This era saw significant route expansion, stretching the airline's wings beyond the Middle East to serve key capitals in Europe, Asia, and eventually North America.

Entering the Jet Age and Fleet Modernization

The airline has consistently strived to stay at the forefront of aviation technology. In the early 1960s, it entered the jet age with the acquisition of the De Havilland Comet 4C, becoming the first carrier in the Middle East to operate jet aircraft. Over the years, the fleet evolved to include the Boeing 707 and later the Boeing 737, 747, and 777 series, as well as various Airbus models. Today, the fleet has been extensively modernized with state-of-the-art aircraft, including the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner and the Airbus A320neo, focusing on fuel efficiency, passenger comfort, and reduced environmental impact.

Strategic Restructuring and Star Alliance

A major turning point in the company's corporate history occurred in 2002 when it was restructured into a holding company with specialized subsidiaries for maintenance, ground services, and cargo. This strategic move enhanced operational efficiency and service quality. Another significant milestone was reached in July 2008, when Egyptair officially joined the Star Alliance. This membership integrated the airline into the world’s largest airline network, offering its passengers seamless connections and reciprocal benefits across the globe.

Connecting the Region

From its inception, the airline has played a pivotal role in linking the Arab world. The establishment of robust routes to the Gulf region has been a priority, facilitating trade and tourism. The frequent connections between Egypt and the UAE—specifically flights from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah—represent the continuation of this long-standing commitment to regional connectivity. These routes have grown from simple point-to-point services into a comprehensive network that supports the strong historical ties between the two nations.

Modern Innovations

In recent years, Egyptair has focused on digital transformation and upgrading the passenger experience. The opening of Terminal 3 at Cairo International Airport served as a new, modern hub for the airline and its alliance partners, streamlining transfers and improving ground services. With a commitment to innovation, the carrier continues to introduce advanced in-flight entertainment systems and mobile connectivity services, ensuring that the legacy which began in 1932 continues to thrive in the modern aviation landscape.