Flights from Dubai to Cairo

The flight from Dubai to Cairo transports you from a world of modern glass to the very heart of ancient civilisation. While the Great Pyramid of Giza and the Sphinx are the most famous attractions, the Egyptian capital offers a wealth of history within the streets of Old Cairo. You can browse the vibrant Khan el-Khalili bazaar or view the treasures of the Egyptian Museum. With the Nile river providing a scenic backdrop to the busy urban life, this journey links two of the most influential and historic cities in the region.

The flight covers a distance of about 2,400 km and usually takes around 4 hours and 10 minutes. Several airlines operate this route every day, including Emirates, EgyptAir, and flydubai. You will usually depart from Dubai International Airport and arrive at Cairo International Airport. If you are looking for the most comfortable weather for sightseeing, the best time to visit is between October and April. During these months, the temperatures are cooler, making it much easier to walk around the outdoor archaeological sites. While there are many flights available throughout the week, booking your seat a few weeks in advance often helps you find a better range of departure times. Most flights arrive at Terminal 2 or Terminal 3, both of which have straightforward transport links to the city centre.

Travel between these two major hubs is simple, as several gateways in Dubai provide direct and connecting routes. Most international travellers depart from one of the primary aviation centres that link the Middle East with North Africa.

Dubai International Airport (DXB)

This is the busiest hub in the region and handles the vast majority of departures to Egypt. Located just 5 km from the city centre, Dubai International Airport is accessible via the Red Line of the local metro system. If you are flying with Emirates or EgyptAir, you will likely depart from Terminal 3 or Terminal 1. The facility remains open for 24-hour service and has extensive lounges and dining areas to use before your 3-hour and 30-minute flight.

Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC)

Situated near the site of the World Expo, Al Maktoum International Airport serves as a secondary option for certain seasonal and low-cost carriers. While it is further from the central districts, the site provides a quieter experience and shorter queues at security. You can reach this location by taking a dedicated bus from the Ibn Battuta metro station. It is a practical choice for those staying in the southern parts of the city.

After a flight of roughly 3 hours and 30 minutes from Dubai, you will reach the heart of North Africa in Cairo. The city is a major aviation hub, and passengers arriving from Dubai International Airport typically use the primary international gateway.

Cairo International Airport (CAI)

Cairo International Airport is the busiest airport in Egypt and handles the vast majority of traffic from the United Arab Emirates. It has four terminals, with Terminal 3 being the main hub for EgyptAir and other Star Alliance members. If you fly with Emirates, you will typically arrive at Terminal 2, which was recently renovated to improve passenger flow. This facility sits about 22 km from the city centre. You can reach the downtown area using the Cairo Metro Line 3 or by taking a pre-booked car.

Sphinx International Airport (SPX)

Sphinx International Airport is a newer option located on the western outskirts of the city. This location is particularly convenient if you plan to visit the Giza Pyramid Complex or the Grand Egyptian Museum immediately upon arrival. Several low-cost carriers use this secondary landing site to provide easier access to the western districts and the 6th of October City.

Managing your travel from Dubai to Cairo becomes much simpler when you have all the best flight options in one place. Using Opodo allows you to compare different airlines and schedules to find a journey that fits your specific needs. If you are looking for extra savings, a Prime subscription provides access to exclusive discounts on every booking. You can also streamline your holiday by bundling your flight with a hotel stay, which often reduces the total cost of your break in Egypt. With everything from seat selection to flexible booking policies available at your fingertips, you can focus on the sights and sounds of the capital. Take a look at the latest flight deals and start your next adventure to Cairo today.