
Egypt Arrival Card & Visa: A Guide to Customs & Arrival Steps

By James Taylor
November 5, 2026

If you're flying to Egypt, the arrival card is the one form you probably won't need to worry about. Egypt began the process of removing its paper arrival card in 2026, although some travellers are still being handed the old card. There’s also no digital version to fill in.
What you do need to sort out is your visa, and that's where the bigger changes have happened this year. This guide covers where the Egypt arrival card stands right now, the visa options for Australian passport holders (including Cairo's new QR code visa on arrival), the customs limits and what to expect when you land.
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Egypt Arrival Card & Visa at a Glance
Requirement | Details |
Paper arrival card | Being phased out since early 2026. You may still be handed one at some airports |
Online arrival card | None. Egypt has no official online arrival form |
Cost | Free |
Do Australians need a visa? | Yes, unless you qualify for the free Sinai stamp |
e-Visa | US$30 (AU$43) single entry, applied for at visa2egypt.gov.eg |
Visa on arrival | US$30 (AU$43) as a paper sticker; US$36 (AU$51)as a QR code at Cairo Airport |
Passport validity | At least six months from your arrival date |
Cash to declare | Foreign currency worth more than US$10,000; Egyptian pounds capped at EGP5,000 |

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Do Australians Need an Egypt Arrival Card?
Australians no longer need to fill out an Egypt Arrival Card, but it’s worth being ready to fill one out if asked. The paper arrival card (sometimes called the landing card, immigration card or passport card) used to be handed out on every flight into Egypt. In January 2026, Egypt's Ministry of Civil Aviation announced it would scrap the card at all airports, rolling the change out from Cairo to Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh. Instead of you writing your details by hand, immigration now pulls them from your passport and the airline's passenger data.
But the rollout hasn't been perfect. The ministry's April 2026 update confirmed the card was gone for Egyptian passengers at Cairo from 11 April, with other airports to follow. Although there have been reports of travellerings arriving at Hurghada as recently as August 2026 and still needing to fill one out.
So if a flight attendant hands you a card, or you see a stack of them by the immigration queue, fill it in. It takes two minutes. I'd keep a pen in your carry-on bag just in case. The arrival card is not a visa. Whether or not you're asked for a card, you'll still need a visa or the free Sinai stamp to get through passport control.
Is There an Egypt Arrival Card Online?
No, there’s no online Egypt Arrival Card, as Egyptian Immigration will get the information they need from scanning your passport. There’s nothing to submit before your flight. The only online form you need is the e-Visa, and that's done through Egypt's official portal at visa2egypt.gov.eg.


How to Fill Out the Egypt Arrival Card
Just in case you are required to fill out the Egyptian Arrival Card, it asks the same details as most others.
Field | What to write |
Full name | Exactly as it appears in your passport |
Nationality | Australian |
Passport number | From your passport's photo page |
Date of birth | Check the format printed on the card |
Flight number | From your boarding pass, e.g. EK927 |
Arriving from | The city your flight departed, e.g. Dubai |
Purpose of visit | Tourism |
Address in Egypt | Your hotel's name and city |
Signature | Same signature as your passport |
Hand the card to the immigration officer along with your passport. If you booked your hotel through Trip.com, screenshot the booking confirmation so you have the hotel's name and address ready to copy across.
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Do Australians Need a Visa for Egypt?
Yes, Australian passport holders need a visa to enter Egypt for tourism. The one exception is the free Sinai stamp, which only covers short stays in the South Sinai resorts. Other than that though, here are the options to consider for your trip. Note that prices are given in USD first as that’s what the Egyptian Government charges, rather than in Egyptian Pounds.
Option | Cost | Length of stay | How to get it |
e-Visa (single entry) | US$30 (approx. AU$43) | Up to 30 days; valid 90 days from issue | Online at visa2egypt.gov.eg before you fly |
e-Visa (multiple entry) | US$65 (approx. AU$93) | Up to 30 days per entry; valid 180 days | Online at visa2egypt.gov.eg before you fly |
Digital visa on arrival (Cairo only) | US$36 (approx. AU$51) | Up to 30 days | QR code via the official portal, app or a kiosk in Cairo's arrivals hall |
Paper visa on arrival | US$30 (approx. AU$43) | Up to 30 days | Bank counters before passport control, at other international airports |
Sinai stamp | Free | Up to 15 days | On arrival at Sharm el-Sheikh, if you're staying in South Sinai resorts only |
Note!that these are the prices at time of writing. Egypt is due to increase the price of the visa to US$33 in January of 2027. Check the official website for the latest prices.
As an Australian, my pick would be the e-Visa, having it sorted before arriving so that I don’t have to queue up anywhere or spend time filling out forms after touching down. Plus, it costs the same as the paper visa on arrival and less than the QR version available in Cairo.

Image sourced from Unsplash.
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Egypt e-Visa: How to Apply
Apply at least seven days before you fly, through the official portal run by Egypt's Ministry of Interior.
- Step 1: Go to visa2egypt.gov.eg. Make sure you're on the official site, not a lookalike that adds its own fee.
- Step 2: Create an account and fill in the application. You'll need your passport details, travel dates and your accommodation in Egypt.
- Step 3: Pay by card. US$30 (approx AU$42) for single entry or US$65 (approx AU$92) for multiple entries.
- Step 4: Save your approved e-Visa. It arrives by email. Print a copy and keep one on your phone to show at passport control.
Visa on Arrival at Cairo Airport
You can also opt to get your Visa on arrival at Cairo International Airport. In August of 2026, they brought in the digital version, with kiosks available to use to get your QR code. Here, you'll pay the US$30 visa fee plus another US$6 issuing fee: US$36 in total (approx. AU$51). You can pay by card. Passport control then scans the QR code along with your passport.
Can I Still Buy a Paper Visa on Arrival at Cairo Airport?
Yes, at time of writing the former system where you line up at the bank counters to purchase your Visa is still in use. You need US$30 in cash, and they need to be crisp, uncrumpled notes. Also, the lines at these counters can be long.
However, these might be completely phased out soon as the Egyptian government's ultimate goal with the new e-Visa and self-service kiosks is to completely digitize the arrival process.

Cairo Airport. Image sourced from Wikimedia under the Creative Commons licence.
Visa on Arrival at Other Airports
If you're landing at Hurghada, Sharm el-Sheikh, Luxor, Aswan or Marsa Alam, you'll still get the traditional paper sticker as a visa. Head to the official bank counters before the immigration desks and pay US$30. Bring US dollars in cash. Smartraveller says a non-Egyptian credit card may also be accepted, but travellers at resort airports report the counters are cash only.
Again, note that Egypt's ultimate goal is to digitize the arrivals process, so check the latest information online using official sources before you fly.
Free Entry Options: Sinai Stamp, Luxor & Aswan, 96-Hour Transit
A few routes into Egypt skip the visa fee entirely:
- Sinai stamp: Flying into Sharm el-Sheikh and staying only in South Sinai resorts like Sharm, Dahab, Nuweiba or Taba? You can ask for a free entry stamp valid for up to 15 days. It doesn't cover trips to Cairo, Luxor or anywhere outside the area, so buy the full visa if there's any chance you'll head to the pyramids.
- Luxor and Aswan summer waiver: Travellers flying directly into Luxor or Aswan airports between May and October 2026 and 2027 get their visa on arrival free of charge.
- 96-hour transit visa: If you're connecting through Egypt with an Egyptian airline, you can leave the airport for up to four days without paying for a visa. The scheme runs until April 2027.
Egypt Entry Requirements for Australians
Have these ready before you board:
- Passport valid for at least six months from your arrival date, with a blank page for your visa and entry stamp.
- Visa: a printed or saved e-Visa, a Cairo QR code, or US$30 cash for the paper visa on arrival.
- Accommodation details: your hotel's name and address, which you'll need if you're handed an arrival card and may be asked about at immigration.
- Onward or return ticket: not always checked, but immigration can ask for it.
- Travel insurance: Smartraveller strongly recommends it, as there's no free healthcare agreement between Australia and Egypt.
At time of writing, Smartraveller currently advises Australians to exercise a high degree of caution in Egypt overall and not to travel to North Sinai. Check the latest advice before you go.

✨ Make the most of your trip with the Best Things to do in Egypt, from the Pyramids of Giza to the Grand Egyptian Museum!

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Luxor Rhine River
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Egypt Customs Declaration: Cash, Drones and Phones
Egypt doesn't have a combined arrival and customs form, so most tourists walk straight through the green channel. You'll only need to fill out a customs declaration and use the red channel if you're carrying something on this list:
Item | The rule |
Foreign currency | Declare anything over US$10,000 (approx. AU$14,300) including all forms of currency, not only cash |
Egyptian pounds | You can bring in or take out a maximum of EGP5,000 in cash, as Egypt strictly controls its currency |
Drones | Illegal for any purpose. Customs will confiscate them on arrival |
Prescription medicine | Carry your prescription and a doctor's letter. Some medicines legal in Australia are restricted in Egypt |
Mobile phones | Tourists using an Egyptian SIM are exempt from Egypt's phone import tax for 90 days per visit, longer than a tourist visa lasts. You no longer register your phone at customs |
Egypt Entry Procedure: What to Do When You Land
Here's the order you'll move through at most Egyptian airports:
Disembark → Visa (if needed) → Passport control → Baggage claim → Customs → Arrivals hall
- Visa: If you have an e-Visa, walk straight past the visa counters. At Cairo, scan or generate your QR code if you haven't already. At other airports, buy your sticker at the bank counters.
- Passport control: Join the queue for foreign passports and hand over your passport, plus your arrival card if you were given one.
- Baggage claim: Check the screens for your flight's carousel.
- Customs: Take the green channel if you've got nothing to declare, or the red channel with a completed declaration form.
- Arrivals hall: You'll find ATMs, currency exchange, SIM card counters and taxis here. A pre-booked Cairo airport transfer saves you negotiating a fare at the curb.


The Best Hotels in Cairo
Top Hotels in Cairo
5 star
9.5/10Amazing74 Reviews
Cairo|0.79km from downtown
They thoughtfully arranged taxis and prepared meals for me. The rooftop pool is stylish both day and night. The location is great, only about 30 minutes from Cairo Airport.FromNZD 407
8.1/10Very Good251 Reviews
Cairo|8.05km from downtown
I was upgraded to a suite this time, which is definitely a plus. The hotel's main draw is its safety and expansive grounds; the gardens on a hillside are a rare green oasis in Cairo's often dusty environment. However, the hotel is undeniably old, and the facilities are quite dated. In the suite, one of the wall-mounted AC remote controls had its casing fall off. The breakfast selection was also limited. On the other hand, the hotel's decor, with its sculptures and murals, exudes a strong artistic vibe.FromNZD 124
9.2/10Great241 Reviews
Cairo|3.14km from downtown
Right by the Nile, with great views of the river from the room. It feels very secure, with two checkpoints to enter and exit, and you even need to swipe your card after getting off the elevator to go to your room. Breakfast was good, a typical 'Western' breakfast, which makes sense as most guests are European. The staff are also very friendly. The room was clean, not huge, but very well-appointed.FromNZD 464
9/10Great836 Reviews
Cairo|17.22km from downtown
All the staff at the hotel were incredibly warm and friendly. The room was clean and hygienic, and the bedding was very comfortable. For breakfast, they even had Chinese-style stir-fried potato slices and fried rice. Plus, there was a guest relations officer in the restaurant who spoke Chinese and chatted with us. The elevator to the right as you enter the hotel goes directly to T3 on the 3rd floor, which is super convenient for those with a flight the next day. Highly recommend!FromNZD 344
8.3/10Very Good106 Reviews
Cairo|8.76km from downtown
The hotel is not far from the airport, about a 20-minute drive, but the area around the hotel is prone to congestion. The rooms at Sonesta Hotel Tower & Casino Cairo are quite large, and the breakfast is good. However, the air conditioning is quite noisy, so guests who are sensitive sleepers should prepare earplugs in advance. Additionally, the hotel's check-in security is very strict; not only do suitcases have to go through the machine, but they even check guests' small bags, including chocolate just bought from the supermarket. This feels like an invasion of personal privacy.FromNZD 182
Business travel
7.7/10Good516 Reviews
Cairo|18.18km from downtown
After arrival, I had to wait a bit for check-in. The lady finally gave me a key and told me that my room was outside in the new building to the right. I thought it would be just outside, but the entrance to the new building was actually at the very end of the building on the right.
I really didn’t have the feeling it was a new building, as the room was not that clean and the lock on the door was broken. The room itself was big and spacious with a big bed, a sofa bed, a working desk, a safe, and a refrigerator, but the view from the window was just a wall and construction debris. The bathroom was big, with amenities like shower gel and shampoo.
On the positive side, the hotel has a super convenient shuttle bus service to the airport, running every 30 minutes (on the hour and half-hour). The stop is located just to the left outside the main entrance. The hotel amenities are also wonderful. I enjoyed a late lunch at the Italian restaurant and then relaxed by the beautiful pool until it closed at 6:30 PM.
My main issue happened the next morning. At 7:30 AM, I was suddenly awakened by a knock on the door. I tried to ignore it, but the person insisted and I suddenly heard a key in the lock. Because the door lock was broken, I rushed to the door and asked who it was. The reply was housekeeping! For an airport hotel where guests frequently arrive in the middle of the night for a single-night stay, housekeeping at 7:30 AM is completely unacceptable and frustrating.
Since I was already awake, I decided to get ready and go to the airport. When I went to check out, the front desk staff kindly asked how my stay was. I mentioned the early housekeeping incident and suggested they train them not to knock on guests' doors so early. The staff member was incredibly empathetic, apologized sincerely, and promised to share the feedback with management. When he realized my flight wasn't until the afternoon, he insisted on offering me a complimentary breakfast as a gesture of goodwill.
I was not really in the mood, but I am so glad I accepted! The breakfast was absolutely amazing, with an incredible variety of choices. They have so many kinds of bread, plenty of pastries, fresh and dried fruits, cereal, a live egg station, and plenty of salads and hot dishes. It was truly an impressive spread.
I want to thank the front desk team for their professional service and for insisting I try the breakfast. Hopefully, they can adjust the morning housekeeping schedule for future guests. If I ever return to Egypt and need to stay near the airport, I will definitely choose this hotel again!FromNZD 156
7.8/10Good88 Reviews
Cairo|3.04km from downtown
The hotel is located in an excellent spot in Zamalek. The staff were professional and friendly and always ready to go above and beyond for the guests. The rooms had excellent presentation and were exceptionally clean. I specifically like to thank Nagla from the housekeeping team for her excellent service.FromNZD 210
8.7/10Very Good226 Reviews
Cairo|1.77km from downtown
The highlight of this trip was definitely booking the Cairo Marriott Hotel! The service was impeccable, and our room had a fantastic view of the Nile. Even with the view, once the door was closed, you couldn't hear any of the outside noise. The hotel's decor is luxurious and grand, and the Italian dinner was also quite good.FromNZD 469
8.6/10Very Good136 Reviews
Cairo|1.24km from downtown
Fantastic from start to finish. It was a short 1 night stay but was spoilt for choice with restaurants and amenities. Every member of staff went above and beyond. Very quick and helpful check-in by Sahonda. Thank you. Pool view was amazingFromNZD 360
8.7/10Very Good135 Reviews
Cairo|0.42km from downtown
My overall experience at this hotel was truly exceptional.
My stay did not begin on the best note, as my check-in experience with one of the front desk agents was disappointing due to a lack of professionalism and hospitality. At that point, I had already decided to stay for just one night and then move to the Marriott, as I am a Marriott Bonvoy Gold member.
However, everything changed when I had the pleasure of dealing with Mr. Omar Bakr at the front desk. His warmth, professionalism, intelligence, and exceptional guest service completely transformed my impression of the hotel. His ability to understand guests’ needs, communicate with genuine courtesy, and handle every interaction with confidence and efficiency convinced me to extend my stay from one night to three.
I would like to express my sincere appreciation to Mr. Omar Bakr. He possesses an outstanding level of professionalism in dealing with VIP guests, combined with remarkable emotional intelligence, sharp judgment, and genuine hospitality. He is a true asset to the InterContinental Cairo team and an excellent ambassador for the InterContinental brand.
Employees like Mr. Omar Bakr are the reason guests return. Please extend my heartfelt thanks and recognition to him for making my stay memorable and for exceeding my expectations.
.FromNZD 400
Family friendly
9.3/10Great131 Reviews
Cairo|1.09km from downtown
Apart from the amazing location; beautiful old fashioned glamorous interior design , amenities cleanness and good F&B quality , I’d like to highlight absolute professionalism in hotel’s staff attitude and service level. One of my best experiences staying in a hotel.FromNZD 1,084
9.2/10Great414 Reviews
Cairo|0.26km from downtown
There was a minor hiccup during check-in, as the room type I originally booked wasn't available. However, both the hotel and Ctrip customer service were very proactive in resolving the issue. Every staff member was incredibly kind, always greeting us with a smile when we returned to the hotel each day. The breakfast was plentiful and of high quality. The hotel's location is excellent, right next to the Old Egyptian Museum, offering a quiet retreat in a bustling area.FromNZD 365
8/10Very Good77 Reviews
Cairo|5.91km from downtown
The staff of this hotel was not good, At about 8 PM in the evening, the hotel front desk staff called the room and said that the hotel we booked only allows one person to stay. If two people stay, they need to add an additional fee of 70 US dollars. Very unlogic, so I leave my friend and I booked another hotel.but the facilities and environment is good .only their service is badFromNZD 66
9.3/10Great145 Reviews
Cairo|2.21km from downtown
In stark contrast to the chaotic and noisy Old Cairo, this hotel felt like a peaceful oasis! They were very prompt in changing our room after we mentioned a smoke smell. The hotel has a Chinese restaurant, which is great for those who aren't used to Egyptian cuisine – just make sure to book in advance. Breakfast was also delicious, with a wide variety of options and excellent service. The security check with sniffer dogs at the entrance for all vehicles entering and exiting also made us feel very safe.FromNZD 704
8.7/10Very Good244 Reviews
Cairo|0.86km from downtown
Exceptional! Absolutely excellent. The staff are cheerful, kind, highly respectful, and professional. Everyone treats you like family, as if you're the owner of the place. My greetings and thanks to my two honorable and respected daughters, Miss Aya and Miss Menna, and to Mr. Khaled, the restaurant manager, and to all the staff. The location is superb. The views from the back rooms towards Cairo Tower are no less wonderful and beautiful than the views from the front rooms overlooking the magnificent Nile. The breakfast buffet is rich and varied with appetizers, salads, fruits, pastries, natural juice, and a cappuccino machine, but there are few hot dishes. God willing, we will have future visits to this outstanding location.FromNZD 266
Hot spring
8.1/10Very Good402 Reviews
Cairo|0.75km from downtown
1) Came for check in at 5 pm but still room was not ready. The reason given was I did not mention smoking or non-smoking room.
2) The bathroom floor was extremely old style and very dirty.
3) The bath tub had foldable glass doors which never closed completely and water fell on the floor everytime had a bath.
4) Therebwere totally 4 table/bedside lamps. 1 was blinking and the other 2 bedside lamps had a switch which only the hotel employees could switch on and off
5) Carpet was very dirty at some places.
6) It appeared they purposely allotted this room as I had argued about the room not being ready even at 5.00 pm
7) No toothbrush or comb or paste in the bathroom.
8) Priced so expensive but quality was not worth the price.FromNZD 266
8/10Very Good175 Reviews
Cairo|13.95km from downtown
I liked the Hotel is in Proximity to the Airport. The Hotel offered us Meet & Greet service at the Airport to ensure our immigration & our transfer was smooth. Hotel has a very friendly staff. The checkin process was somewhat lengthy. However, we enjoyed staying there. Breakfast was great and served many options. Room was spacious and was overlooking the Pool. Hotel is currently going through expansion/ renovation. But we dis not feel any disturbances.
I highly recommend staying here.FromNZD 207
8.5/10Very Good515 Reviews
Cairo|18.04km from downtown
I booked for 1 night. The service is great, and you can't hear any airplane noise. There are shuttle buses every 30 minutes to the airport (about 20 minutes). Personally, I missed cereals and muesli for breakfast; there were only cornflakes, but you can't please everyone 😊. Otherwise, the breakfast was sufficient. I can recommend this hotel.FromNZD 131
8.1/10Very Good115 Reviews
Cairo|11.53km from downtown
Great for business travelers abroad. The service was excellent, and the location was convenient. I'd definitely choose this hotel again for my next business trip. The breakfast was also fantastic, with a wide variety of options. A superb experience overall!FromNZD 266
8.7/10Very Good86 Reviews
Cairo|11.17km from downtown
We chose the InterContinental Cairo Citystars for our last night in Egypt, and it was by far the best experience of our trip. We drove there, and the hotel security was very strict; they checked our reservation details one by one upon entry, which made us feel very safe. We handed our car over to the staff to be parked in the underground garage. We had a bit of a mishap while parking – I couldn't find my car keys for a moment. Several staff members kindly helped us search without rushing us, maintaining a friendly and patient attitude, which really diffused the awkwardness. Later, when we saw each other again, they even joked about it, creating a very relaxed atmosphere.
The front desk service was meticulous and thoughtful. We needed an extra bed for our double room, and the staff responded quickly, arranging it promptly. The extra bed was a thick cot, not the most comfortable, but the efficiency of the service was commendable. The front desk staff communicated gently and respectfully and even proactively offered a QR code for the hotel's Chinese introduction, showing great attention to detail.
The hotel's biggest highlight is its location. An internal passage leads directly to a large shopping mall, so you don't have to go outside, which is incredibly convenient for shopping and dining. However, the mall is huge, and popular stores are scattered, so you might feel a bit rushed if you're planning extensive shopping. As an InterContinental property, the hardware facilities are new and well-maintained, providing a comfortable stay. Overall, the service, location, and amenities were all excellent, making it a perfect last stop in Egypt for travelers with cars and shopping needs.FromNZD 404
Gym
8.8/10Very Good204 Reviews
Cairo|0.39km from downtown
The breakfast was absolutely delicious with a huge variety of fresh ingredients. On our third day, we had an early domestic flight and heard there would be long queues, so we skipped breakfast and the hotel prepared breakfast boxes for us. Turns out, there was no one at the airport, and I really regretted missing out! I wish breakfast started at 6 AM instead. Getting a taxi in Cairo is so easy to get ripped off; an Uber driver tried to charge me 1200 EGP, which was four times the 300 EGP quoted in the app. The bellboy at the entrance was very helpful and found me a car for 600 EGP, which was much more reasonable.FromNZD 698
8.5/10Very Good289 Reviews
Cairo|14.2km from downtown
location is good depends or your purpose of visit. For me was very good, i didnt go to ol cairo and no traffic, close to airport, close to my meet points. Breakfast is better than average. Staff was very helpful. Facility is a bit old but good and clean. There is very nice restaurants inside the facility and big pool also.FromNZD 251
8.7/10Very Good110 Reviews
Cairo|12.43km from downtown
Upon entering the lobby, the decor is simple yet stylish, with warm lighting that instantly creates a relaxing atmosphere. The front desk staff are warm and attentive, providing quick check-in and helpful information about nearby attractions and hotel facilities.
The room was cozy, with soft and comfortable bedding, ensuring a good night's sleep. Cleanliness was impeccable; every corner was spotless, and the toiletries were of good quality.FromNZD 119
7.4/10239 Reviews
Cairo|15.09km from downtown
I am Dr. Faiez Bin Rashed Ali Al Ali Al Shammari, founder of the Knights of Arab Poets Forum and the Arab Literature Forum. I stayed at the hotel with colleagues, and it is truly an amazing place. The staff are very respectful. I highly recommend it to everyone for accommodation and relaxation. It's close to the airport and services, and the price is very reasonable. Wishing you all the best.FromNZD 205
8.5/10Very Good107 Reviews
Cairo|10.95km from downtown
Amazing experience! The service was excellent, very friendly and professional. The amenities were well-maintained, and everything was clean and comfortable. I really enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere and how helpful the staff were. Highly recommended for solo travellers or anyone looking for a relaxing stayFromNZD 231
Swimming pool
8.2/10Very Good117 Reviews
Cairo|2.86km from downtown
This is the best hotel I've ever stayed at in Egypt! Even the cars entering the hotel grounds are checked by staff and sniffer dogs, which made me feel incredibly safe. The hot water for showering was plentiful and the water pressure was excellent! That's really important, and the room was very clean.
The room also had two large balconies with beautiful views of the Nile. I highly recommend it to everyone.FromNZD 316
8.7/10Very Good101 Reviews
Cairo|8.19km from downtown
The room was nice. This month, there was no need to turn on the central air conditioning; the temperature was just right. The bed wasn't directly under the AC vent. If the AC was on, it would get cold, so I only turned it on when it got warm. The room was cleaned daily, and two bottles of water were provided. I had to call the front desk for slippers. This time, I brought my own toothpaste and toothbrush. Breakfast was Egyptian-style Western, and I had bread every day, while lunch and dinner were burgers and fries.
For hot water from the tap, turn the faucet to the left.
Hotel experiences need to be compared. For example, the Spire West Hotel in Giza, despite having new facilities, has a less-than-ideal surrounding environment. One of the elevators to the 11th floor would inexplicably stop working. The hotel is also currently undergoing renovations, so the air quality isn't great. For instance, the toilet wasn't cleaned properly, there were flies around, and even inside the room. In comparison, the Triumph Hotel, which is rated one star higher, offers a much better living environment.
However, the Triumph Hotel rooms don't have a main light, so they can be a bit dim.FromNZD 129
8.3/10Very Good109 Reviews
Cairo|10.33km from downtown
Overall, it was a decent stay, but I really can't agree with the efficiency of the staff. The room cleaning was done quite well. However, the bathroom was clogged, and despite reporting it for days, nothing was done. My friend left their wallet in the room, and it took four trips and speaking to the manager to finally retrieve it. Each time we went, they made us wait, and we'd end up waiting for half an hour. It was quite frustrating. The breakfast, however, was commendable.FromNZD 223
8.7/10Very Good170 Reviews
Cairo|2.98km from downtown
This hotel boasts an excellent location, right next to the Chinese Ambassador's residence and across from an international school, placing it in Cairo's affluent district. The room was clean and tidy, though a bit small. The breakfast was plentiful. Google Maps shows that a home decor store called Madu is just a ten-minute walk away. There are also soldiers stationed near the hotel, making it feel very safe. Highly recommend!FromNZD 188
8.5/10Very Good46 Reviews
Cairo|16.14km from downtown
It was OK for the 3 nights, I booked it without breakfast and it was perfectly adequate for visiting the trade fair nearby - typical local quality.FromNZD 110
Breakfast
7/10130 Reviews
Cairo|2.3km from downtown
This hotel is simple in terms of facility and services. But, it was good enough for me. The cost was reasonable and location was convinient for me. Only thing I want to complain is the shower room. After taking shower, I needed to wipe water spiled over outside the shower room.FromNZD 24
8.9/10Very Good88 Reviews
Cairo|0.44km from downtown
One of the best Hostel ever.
Such down to earth staff and friendly guys.
Love u guys, keep doing thts fab work.
For every Cairo trip my stay is fixed.
Prime location and golden peopleFromNZD 15
8/10Very Good119 Reviews
Cairo|0.74km from downtown
The moment I arrived, I was impressed by the magnificent and beautiful entrance. The hotel interior was clean and reassuring, and the staff were always smiling and helpful. The photos online were exactly like the actual room, which met my expectations. The elevators were new, and the wait times were short, making them comfortable to use. The hotel's overall security was excellent, allowing me to stay alone with peace of mind. The breakfast offered a wide variety of delicious options daily, and I enjoyed both Egyptian and Western cuisine. The location is also very convenient, with easy access to tourist attractions and restaurants. It offers great value for money, and I would definitely want to stay here again when I visit Cairo.FromNZD 31
8.1/10Very Good19 Reviews
Cairo|0.7km from downtown
It's convenient and clean for two people, but the shower head is too high and can't be moved, so it's not very convenient to take a shower.FromNZD 52
7.8/10Good26 Reviews
Cairo|0.39km from downtown
1. The location is good, within walking distance to the Egyptian Museum, subway, and kazaz, which is a 1.3km walk from gobus tahir station, which is very downtown.
2. The hotel has an elevator, which is very rare. I have stayed in a nearby hotel which is also located in an old house. There is no elevator and I need to carry my luggage. The elevator is not big enough to accommodate about 4 people (without luggage), but it is much better than climbing stairs by yourself.
3. There is one triple room and one double room. The triple room is quite spacious and the standard room is not large enough.
4. There is no hot water kettle or hair dryer in the room, you can ask for it at the front desk, but the number of these two items in the entire hotel is limited, so I waited for a long time...
5. It’s more cost-effective to pay in US dollars than in Egyptian pounds. The exchange rate for paying Egyptian pounds is not so good.
6. Breakfast starts at 8:00. If you want to go to the Black and White Desert, the driver usually picks up at 7:30. If you don’t have time to eat breakfast, you can go to the rooftop restaurant to pack some (the restaurant is still preparing breakfast at 7:30, and the things that can be packed are limited. Eggs, bread, flatbread, jam, that’s all)FromNZD 68
FAQs About Egypt Arrival Card & Visa
-
Is the Egypt arrival card the same as a visa?
No. The arrival card only records your personal and trip details for immigration. You still need a visa, a Cairo QR code visa or the Sinai stamp to enter Egypt. -
How much is the visa on arrival in Egypt?
The visa on arrival in Egypt currently costs US$30, although you'll also have to pay a processing fee of US$6 if you use the kiosks, bringing the total to US$36. Note that the Egyptian government will increase the cost of the visa to US$33 in January of 2027. -
Do children need their own Egypt visa?
Yes. Every traveller, including children and infants, needs their own passport and visa, and the full fee applies to each.
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Hi, I'm James, an Australian travel writer based in Europe. Years of trips across Asia, Europe, the US and back home in Australia have taught me that good travel comes down to having the right information beforehand: knowing the details of transfers and public transport, which queue to skip, what's worth it and what's not. I'm bringing all that knowledge and research to my travel guides for Trip.com so you can spend less time working it out and more time enjoying your trip.
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