Siem Reap International Airport

Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport (SAI) is not merely a transport hub, but a true modern gateway to the ancient Kingdom of Cambodia. Opened in late 2023, this air harbour replaced the old airport to preserve the unique temples from vibrations and noise. It now welcomes guests with spacious terminals inspired by traditional Khmer architecture. Here, the latest technologies harmoniously intertwine with national character, creating an atmosphere of comfort and anticipation of meeting the great Angkor Wat even before stepping out into the city.

Airport Features and Highlights:

Architectural Masterpiece. The terminal design is executed in a "modern Khmer classic" style: the roofs resemble the outlines of temple complexes, while the interiors are adorned with local decorative elements, allowing you to immerse yourself in the country's culture from the very first minutes of arrival.

Heritage Preservation. The main reason for building the new airport at a significant distance from the city was the protection of the Angkor Archaeological Park. Moving flights here eliminated the harmful impact of aircraft vibrations on the ancient structures, preserving them for future generations.

Technology and Scale. The airport is capable of handling almost all types of modern aircraft, including long-haul liners, opening up opportunities for direct flights from Europe, the Americas, and the Middle East. Passengers have access to 15 aerobridges, modern check-in systems, and spacious waiting areas.

Transport Accessibility. Despite its distance from the centre, the city can be reached comfortably via the specially built Airport Highway. The journey by taxi or shuttle takes about one hour, passing through picturesque rice fields and rural landscapes.

To ensure your journey to Siem Reap goes as smoothly as possible, we have compiled all the necessary contact information for the new Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport (SAI). Save these details so they are close at hand.

• Official Website: sai.com.kh. On the site, you will find the current flight schedule, terminal maps, and information about services.
• Information Desk Phone: +855 (0) 63 900 800. Operators can assist with questions regarding flights, airport operations, and available services.
• Address: National Road 6, Ta Yek Commune, Soutr Nikom District, Siem Reap Province, Cambodia.
• Email: For general inquiries and feedback, please use the address info.rep@sai.com.kh.
• Social Media: The airport maintains active pages on social networks where important updates for passengers are published. We recommend finding their official accounts to receive prompt information.
• Lost Luggage Information: If you have lost items within the terminal building (before or after security), please contact the Lost and Found desk in the Arrivals Hall. You can also call +855 (0) 63 900 800 or write to lostproperty.rep@sai.com.kh. For items lost on board the aircraft, you must contact your airline representative directly.
• Passenger Support Service: For general issues requiring immediate resolution, you can contact the main information desk phone number or speak to staff at the information counters within the airport building.

It is important to remember that the new Siem Reap International Airport (SAI) is located at a significant distance from the city — approximately 50-55 kilometres east of the centre of Siem Reap. Because of this, the trip to the terminal will take on average between 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Please plan your departure in advance to avoid rushing.

The most common and convenient way to get to the airport is to use a taxi or tuk-tuk service. You can book a car via mobile apps popular in Cambodia, such as Grab or PassApp. This allows you to know the cost of the trip in advance, which is usually $30-35 for a car. You can also arrange a ride with a driver of a traditional tuk-tuk (motor-rickshaw), which will cost slightly less — around $20-25, but the journey will be less comfortable and take more time. Official fixed-rate taxis (around $35-40) are also available to order through your hotel or directly on the street.

For travellers looking for a more budget-friendly option, there is an official shuttle bus. These are comfortable air-conditioned buses running between the airport and a designated station in the city. The fare is approximately $8 per person one way. This is an excellent choice for solo tourists and those travelling light, offering a good balance of price and comfort.

Renting a car for self-driving to the airport is not the most popular option among tourists due to the specifics of local traffic. More often, travellers hire a car with a driver for the whole day or for a specific transfer. If you do decide to drive your own or a rented car, the new airport features modern parking facilities for both short-term and long-term stays.

The new Siem Reap International Airport (SAI) is a modern and thoughtfully designed complex, engineered for maximum passenger convenience. Its key feature is an efficient and clear structure that makes it easy to navigate even for first-time visitors.

The airport consists of a single passenger terminal that serves both international and domestic flights. This significantly simplifies navigation: you do not have to transfer between different buildings. The internal space of the terminal is divided into two main zones: for international and domestic departures/arrivals, which helps to intelligently distribute passenger flows.

The terminal layout is logical and intuitive. Generally, the Arrivals area is located on the Ground Floor, while the Departures area is on the First Floor. Signs are in Khmer and English; they are clear and highly visible. Thanks to the spacious layout and design elements inspired by traditional Khmer architecture, the waiting halls feel bright and welcoming.

Departure and Arrival zones are clearly demarcated. Upon arrival, you will proceed through passport control, then to the baggage claim hall and customs area. The Departures hall houses check-in counters, security checkpoints, and passport control, after which you enter the airside zone featuring duty-free shops, cafes, and boarding gates.

Formalities at SAI Airport are usually completed quickly thanks to its novelty and modern equipment. On average, check-in, baggage drop, and security screening take about 30-45 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance: 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight, especially during the peak tourist season.

The history of Siem Reap International Airport (SAI) is essentially the story of Cambodia's newest and most modern aviation hub. Its opening took place quite recently, on 16 October 2023. The main reason for its construction was the necessity to replace the old airport (REP), which was located too close to the famous Angkor temple complex. Vibrations and noise from aircraft posed a threat to the ancient monuments, so the decision was made to create a new, more remote, and technologically advanced air harbour.

The construction of SAI became one of the largest infrastructure projects in the country over the last decade. It was built from scratch at a significant distance from Angkor — approximately 40 kilometres east of the city. This massive project was implemented with the goal of not only protecting world heritage but also drastically increasing the region's tourism potential. From the very beginning, the new airport was designed to handle a large flow of passengers and large long-haul aircraft.

One of SAI's key achievements is its modern infrastructure. The airport is equipped with a runway 3,600 metres long, allowing it to accommodate wide-body liners such as the Airbus A350 and Boeing 787. This opens up possibilities for direct flights from Europe, the Americas, and other distant corners of the world, which was impossible at the old airport. The spacious and bright terminal offers passengers a high level of comfort and service consistent with international standards.

An interesting fact from its still short history: the transfer of all flight operations from the old airport to the new one was carried out practically overnight. On the evening of 15 October 2023, the last flights landed at REP, and by the morning of 16 October, all aircraft began arriving at SAI. This coordinated and rapid transition marked the beginning of a new chapter in the development of tourism in Siem Reap, making the journey to the treasures of Angkor even more accessible and convenient.

The new international airport of Siem Reap (SAI) is designed with modern comfort requirements in mind and offers passengers a wide range of services. While waiting for your flight, you can enjoy local and international cuisine in one of the restaurants or have a coffee in a cosy cafe. In the departure zone, duty-free shops are in operation, offering a standard range of goods, as well as stalls with unique Cambodian souvenirs and handmade crafts.

For a more comfortable wait, passengers can utilise the premium lounges (VIP lounges). They offer a private atmosphere, snacks, beverages, and other privileges. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and plenty of power outlets and USB ports are provided in rest areas and at boarding gates for charging electronic devices.

All necessary financial services are available in the terminal: there are bank branches, currency exchange points, and ATMs. Should you require medical assistance during your journey, a medical centre operates around the clock at the airport, ready to provide first aid.

The airport is well-equipped for travellers with special needs. For families with small children, there are mother and child rooms where you can feed and change your baby in a quiet environment. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with special assistance upon prior request, and the terminal infrastructure, including ramps and elevators, ensures a barrier-free environment.

Although there are no hotels directly within the airport grounds, several accommodation options can be found in the immediate vicinity. For business travellers, business lounge services may be available, though it is best to verify information regarding full-scale conference rooms for meetings in advance.

At Siem Reap International Airport (SAI), passengers will find diverse options for a snack or a full meal, suiting various tastes and budgets. Most establishments are located in the departures area after passing passport control and security (airside), but a few cafes are also available in the public zone (landside).

This is your last opportunity to enjoy Khmer cuisine before departing Cambodia. In the food court and some restaurants in the departure zone, you can order national dishes such as fish amok or lok lak with beef. Additionally, coffee shops are scattered throughout the airport, offering both classic espresso and the famous Cambodian coffee with condensed milk.

For those who prefer familiar food, establishments serving international cuisine operate in the airport. You will easily find Asian restaurants offering noodles and rice, as well as fast-food outlets with burgers and sandwiches. Most restaurants offer vegetarian options; however, choices for vegans or those on a gluten-free diet may be limited, so it is best to check the ingredients with the staff. Please note that while many options are suitable for diverse dietary needs, we recommend confirming Halal certification directly with the outlets. The operating hours of most cafes and restaurants are aligned with the flight schedule, ensuring food availability even for early morning or late evening departures.

If you are short on time, an ideal choice would be one of the coffee shops or kiosks with ready-made sandwiches and pastries. For a more leisurely meal, you can choose one of the à la carte restaurants. Prices at the airport are generally higher than in the city but are quite comparable to other international airports in the region. You will be able to find both budget options for a quick snack and more expensive dishes in full-service restaurants.

To ensure your journey through Siem Reap airport goes smoothly, take advantage of these tips. Although the airport is not very large, it serves many international flights, so it is better to arrive early. For international flights, it is recommended to allow 2.5-3 hours before departure, and for domestic ones — about 1.5-2 hours. This time is sufficient to complete all formalities without rushing, especially during the high tourist season.

To save time, use online check-in if your airline provides this option. This will allow you to avoid queues at the counters. The security screening procedure is standard, but be prepared to present all electronics for inspection. Keep your passport, visa (if required), and boarding pass close at hand for quick clearance.

When selecting a seat on the plane, consider that from some flights during take-off or landing, views of the Tonle Sap Lake or even the distant outlines of the Angkor temple complex open up. If beautiful shots are important to you, choose a window seat. If comfort and the ability to easily stand up and stretch are a priority, an aisle seat would be more suitable.

Hand luggage rules are mostly standard. Liquids are permitted in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. Be sure to put all valuables, documents, medication, and portable chargers in your hand luggage. Remember that exporting certain antiques and unprocessed gemstones from Cambodia without a special permit is prohibited.

For passengers transferring in Siem Reap, navigating the airport will be simple thanks to its compactness. Follow the "Transit" signs. Ensure that you do not require a transit visa, especially if your transfer involves leaving the transit zone. There are several cafes and shops in the airport to pass the waiting time.

Upon arrival in the country, you will have to undergo customs and passport control. For citizens of many countries, a visa can be obtained upon arrival (Visa on Arrival); for this, you need to fill out a form and pay a fee. You will also need to complete an immigration and customs declaration. Honestly declare all goods subject to declaration to avoid misunderstandings.

To save money, book a transfer from the airport in advance through your hotel or special apps (for example, Grab) — this is often cheaper than taking a taxi on the spot. Exchanging a large amount of money at the airport is not advantageous due to a less attractive exchange rate; it is better to change a small amount for initial expenses, and the rest in the city.

In case of a flight delay, the first thing to do is contact your airline representative for information about the new departure time and possible compensation (for example, food vouchers). The airport has Wi-Fi, cafes, and shops. Keep a charged power bank and pre-downloaded films or books with you to make the wait more comfortable.