Mersa Matruh

Mersa Matruh International Airport (MUH) is not merely a transport hub, but a true gateway to the "Egyptian Maldives" with their pristine white beaches and turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Originally built as a military facility, today this airport warmly welcomes tourists from all over the world, especially during the peak summer season when the coast comes alive. Despite its modest size, the airport possesses a special charm and allows travellers to begin their holiday almost immediately after landing, avoiding the hustle and bustle of giant aviation hubs. For those planning a route from distant cities such as Mansoura, this airport becomes an important point on the map, unlocking access to the country's northern treasures.

Mersa Matruh Airport has a number of unique features that distinguish it favourably from other air harbours in the region:

• Unique Location: The airport is located just 3–4 kilometres from the centre of Mersa Matruh city. This allows you to reach your hotel or the beach literally 10–15 minutes after exiting the terminal, which is a rarity for international airports.
• Compactness and Speed: Thanks to having only one passenger terminal, all pre-flight formalities are completed very quickly. There are practically no long queues at passport control here, and navigation is intuitively clear.
• Military Heritage: The airport is a joint-base facility with the Egyptian Air Force. While taxiing, passengers can often see military hangars and fighter jets through the windows, adding a distinctive local colour to the flight.
• Seasonal Rhythm: Life at the airport slows down in winter and blooms in summer. The main flow of flights consists of charters from Europe (Italy, Czech Republic, Poland) arriving from May to October, creating a special atmosphere of holiday carefreeness here.

Below is the main contact information for Mersa Matruh International Airport (MUH). It is worth noting that, like many regional airports, it does not always have a full range of online services.

• Official Website: Mersa Matruh Airport does not have its own dedicated website. It is managed by the Egyptian Airports Company (EAC).
• Information Desk Phone: +20 46 493 1251. It is also recommended to contact your airline's representative to clarify questions regarding your flight.
• Airport Address: Marsa Matrouh International Airport, Marsa Matrouh, Matrouh Governorate, Egypt.
• Email: A public email address for passenger communication is not provided.
• Social Media: Official social media accounts for the airport are not maintained.
• Lost Luggage Information: For all issues related to lost or damaged luggage, you must first contact the representative of the airline you flew with. Airline counters are located in the arrivals hall.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general information, you can use the airport information desk phone number.

When planning a trip to Mersa Matruh Airport from the city of Mansoura, it is important to understand that this is not a short drive, but a full intercity journey. The distance between these two points in Egypt is over 450 kilometres, so the choice of transport should be approached thoroughly. The travel time will depend heavily on your chosen method of movement.

Public Transport is the most affordable way to reach your destination.

• Buses: This is perhaps the most balanced option in terms of price and time. Major bus companies, such as Go Bus or Blue Bus, offer comfortable air-conditioned trips from Mansoura to Mersa Matruh, often with a transfer in Alexandria or Cairo. The trip will take approximately 7-9 hours. It is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during the summer season.
• Trains: Rail transport is another alternative. There is no direct train from Mansoura, so at least one transfer will be required (usually in Tanta or Alexandria). The journey by train may take longer than by bus, but it will allow you to enjoy views of the country.
• Metro: There is no metro system for intercity travel on this route.

Taxi and Private Transfer is the most comfortable, but also the most expensive method. You can pre-book a car with a driver who will take you directly to the airport terminal. This is an ideal option for families with children or large groups who value convenience. The travel time by car will be about 5-7 hours, but the cost will be significantly higher than public transport.

Car Rental provides maximum freedom and flexibility. You can rent a car in Mansoura and drive to the airport yourself, sightseeing along the way. The main route runs through Alexandria and then along the scenic Mediterranean coastal highway. Consider the cost of rental, petrol, and be prepared for local traffic nuances. Both short-term and long-term parking are available at Mersa Matruh Airport where you can leave the car.

Recommendation: Given the long duration of the trip, the most optimal option for most tourists is the intercity bus. It offers a good balance of comfort, cost, and travel time. If you are travelling as a group or value personal space, it is worth considering renting a car or booking a private transfer. Always check the schedule and book tickets in advance, especially during the peak tourist season from June to September.

Mersa Matruh Airport (MUH) is distinguished by a simple and clear structure, making it convenient for travellers. You won't have to worry about complex navigation, as there is only one passenger terminal here, which serves all flights — both international charters and domestic routes.

The airport layout is extremely logical. The terminal is a compact two-storey building. The ground floor typically houses check-in counters and the arrivals area with baggage claim belts and customs control. After check-in, passengers proceed to the upper floor, where they pass through passport control and security screening, before entering the general departure area.

Since there is only one terminal, the issue of transfers between them is irrelevant — all services are located within a single building. The arrival and departure zones are clearly separated. The departure zone includes a general waiting hall with several boarding gates, a small Duty Free shop, and a café. The arrival zone leads from passport control through baggage claim to the exit, where passengers are met by tour operator representatives and taxis.

Despite its compact size, during the peak tourist season, the airport can be busy due to the simultaneous handling of several charter flights. It is recommended to arrive at the airport well in advance: approximately 2.5-3 hours before the departure of an international flight. This time is usually sufficient for a calm passage through all formalities — check-in, passport control, and security screening.

Orienting yourself at Mersa Matruh Airport is very easy. There are signs in Arabic and English everywhere. The staff generally speak English and are always ready to help. The main advice is simply to follow the standard procedure: find your check-in counter number on the screen, drop off your luggage, and then follow the "Departures" signs.

Mersa Matruh Airport (MUH) has a rich and multi-layered history that is closely intertwined with key events of the 20th century in Egypt. Originally created as a military airfield, over time it transformed into an important aerial gateway for one of the most picturesque resorts on the Mediterranean coast. Its history is a journey from a strategic military facility to a modern civil airport serving thousands of tourists.

The most vivid period in the airport's history occurred during the years of World War II. Known then as RAF Matruh airfield, it served as one of the key bases for the British Royal Air Force and the United States Army Air Forces during the North African campaign. Its strategic location made it a critically important point for controlling the region, and the airfield repeatedly became the arena for significant military events. This experience left an indelible mark on the history of the airport and the entire region.

After the war ended, a new stage in the airport's life began. With the development of Mersa Matruh as a popular summer resort, known for its white beaches and turquoise water, a need for civil aviation connections arose. The former military airfield was gradually adapted to receive passenger flights. This transformation played a key role in establishing the region as a tourist hub, making it accessible to travellers from Cairo and other cities.

In the modern era, Mersa Matruh Airport functions primarily as a seasonal international airport. Its operations peak during the summer months when it receives numerous charter flights from European countries, particularly Italy, Germany, and Poland. To meet modern standards and ensure passenger comfort, the airport infrastructure, including the passenger terminal, has periodically undergone modernisation. Today, it is an integral part of the region's tourism industry, opening the way for travellers to the treasures of the Egyptian Mediterranean.

Mersa Matruh Airport (MUH) is primarily a seasonal international airport serving a popular resort on the Mediterranean coast. The level of service here corresponds to its size, offering passengers all the essentials for a comfortable wait for their flight.

Within the terminal, you will find several cafés and snack bars where you can have coffee, refreshing drinks, and a bite to eat before departure. There are small shops offering souvenirs, locally produced goods, and daily necessities. A Duty Free shop is also available for international passengers, although its assortment may be more modest compared to major aviation hubs in Egypt.

General waiting lounges are equipped for passengers. Information regarding the availability of VIP halls or business lounges may change, so it is recommended to check access possibilities with your airline. Free Wi-Fi is usually available throughout the terminal, and charging stations for mobile devices can be found in the waiting areas. Financial services are represented by ATMs and currency exchange points, which is particularly convenient for arriving tourists.

Basic amenities have been created for passengers with special needs and families with children. The airport is equipped to serve passengers with reduced mobility; however, to receive assistance (such as the provision of a wheelchair), it is necessary to notify the airline in advance. For travellers with infants, mother and child rooms are provided. In case of illness, a medical unit is operating at the airport, ready to provide first aid.

It is worth noting that there are no hotels or specialised business centres and conference halls directly within the airport building. All nearby hotels, as well as venues for business meetings, are located in the city of Mersa Matruh itself, which can be easily reached by taxi.

When planning a departure from Mersa Matruh Airport (MUH), keep in mind that this is a small and primarily seasonal airport. Consequently, the choice of dining establishments here is quite limited and does not compare with the assortment at major international hubs. Nevertheless, finding basic options for a snack and drinks before a flight is certainly possible.

In the main terminal, typically in the area before security control (landside), there are several small cafés or kiosks. Here, passengers can purchase sandwiches, pastries, crisps, chocolate, as well as hot and cold drinks — coffee, tea, juices, and sparkling water. After passing through security (airside), in the departure zone, the selection is usually even more modest and may be represented by a small refreshment counter or vending machine.

You are unlikely to find authentic Egyptian cuisine dishes within the airport. The assortment mainly consists of standard international snacks. Regarding special dietary needs, options for vegans or people with gluten intolerance are practically absent. It is recommended to bring suitable snacks with you. All food offered in Egypt generally complies with Halal standards.

Prices at Mersa Matruh Airport, as in most airports around the world, are noticeably higher than in the city. The opening hours of establishments depend directly on the flight schedule — they open a few hours before departure and close after the last aircraft has left. If you wish to have a full meal, it is strongly recommended to do so at one of the restaurants in the city of Mersa Matruh before travelling to the airport. For a quick bite before boarding, a coffee and sandwich purchased at a local café will suffice.

To ensure your journey through Mersa Matruh Airport goes smoothly and without unnecessary stress, make use of our tips. Proper preparation will help save time, money, and nerves, leaving only pleasant impressions of your trip to Egypt.

Arrival Time at the Airport: We recommend arriving at the airport at least 2-3 hours before international flights and 1.5-2 hours before domestic ones. This will give you enough time to go through all formalities without rushing, especially during the peak tourist season.

Check-in and Security Control: To speed up the process, complete online check-in if your airline offers this option. Keep your passport, visa, and boarding pass ready. Be prepared for a thorough inspection — this is a standard procedure to ensure flight safety.

Seat Selection: If it is possible to choose a seat in advance, consider your preferences. Window seats will offer you magnificent views during take-off and landing, while aisle seats allow you to stand up freely and stretch your legs without disturbing neighbours.

Hand Luggage: Liquids in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag, are allowed in hand luggage. It is prohibited to carry sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances. Laptops and other large electronics are usually required to be removed from bags when passing through security control.

For Passengers with Transfers: If you have a connecting flight, clarify in advance whether your luggage will be automatically transferred to the next plane or if you need to collect and re-check it. Leave sufficient time between flights, especially if repeat passport control and screening are required.

Customs Control: When leaving the country, be prepared for questions about souvenirs being exported, especially if they are antiques or corals (their export is prohibited). Declare cash if the amount exceeds the established limit.

Saving Time and Money: Plan your intercity trip in advance, for example, to Mansoura or another city, to avoid inflated prices from taxi drivers on site. Bring an empty water bottle that can be filled after passing security control. Study the offers in Duty-Free shops to compare prices.

In Case of Flight Delay: In the event of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative for information. Depending on the duration of the wait, the carrier is obliged to provide drinks, meals, and for long delays — hotel accommodation. Keep all receipts if you incur additional expenses.