Egypt Unveils New Groundbreaking Strategy For Hurghada International Airport Privatization With Plans To Boost Competitiveness And Modernize Passenger Services Across The Nation

Published on December 13, 2025

Egypt is embarking on a transformative journey to enhance its aviation sector by inviting private companies to manage and develop Hurghada International Airport. This move is part of a broader strategy to modernize the country’s airport infrastructure, improve operational efficiency, and elevate passenger services. By involving the private sector, Egypt aims to boost the competitiveness of its aviation industry, accommodate growing tourist numbers, and solidify its position as a leading destination for Red Sea tourism. This initiative reflects the country’s commitment to fostering long-term economic growth and attracting international investment.

Egypt is moving forward with a major step in enhancing its aviation sector by inviting private companies to manage, operate, and develop Hurghada International Airport. This airport, the country’s second-busiest, serves as a key gateway for Red Sea tourism, a vital sector for Egypt’s economy. The government’s move signals the beginning of a broader initiative to encourage private sector involvement at 11 airports across the nation.

The Civil Aviation Ministry of Egypt has opened applications for managing and developing Hurghada International to both individual companies and consortiums of commercial institutions. This is part of a larger effort by Egypt to attract private investment and expertise to improve airport operations and services. The new strategy is designed to increase efficiency, enhance passenger experience, and bolster the competitiveness of Egypt’s aviation sector on the global stage.

In an effort to streamline and support this initiative, the Egyptian government sought assistance from the International Finance Corporation (IFC) in March to help facilitate public-private partnerships (PPP). This collaboration aims to bring in the necessary investment and expertise to modernize airport management and operations. The long-term goal is to ensure that Egypt’s airports, including Hurghada, are better equipped to handle increasing passenger traffic, provide enhanced services, and remain competitive with regional and global airports.

The move to privatize airport management is part of a broader push for modernization within Egypt’s transport and tourism sectors. The Egyptian Holding Company for Airports and Air Navigation reported a substantial increase in air travel, with over 50 million passengers traveling through Egyptian airports in 2024. This growth in passenger traffic is a sign of the expanding role aviation plays in Egypt’s economy, particularly as tourism continues to grow.

With an eye on the future, Egypt’s government is focusing on creating a more efficient and passenger-friendly air travel experience. The involvement of private companies is expected to introduce more innovation, better management practices, and cutting-edge technology to the aviation sector. This shift towards private-sector involvement is seen as a critical move to maintain Egypt’s position as a leading hub for travel in the region.

In parallel with the aviation reforms, Egypt continues to make significant investments in tourism and infrastructure development. The government’s commitment to improving airports like Hurghada aligns with broader initiatives aimed at bolstering the country’s tourism industry. Egypt’s tourism sector, with its rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning landscapes, remains one of the country’s most important revenue sources.

Hurghada, in particular, is a crucial entry point for tourists visiting Egypt’s famous Red Sea resorts. The airport serves as a hub for international tourists heading to popular destinations such as Sharm El Sheikh, Marsa Alam, and the nearby resort towns. By modernizing Hurghada’s airport and increasing its capacity, Egypt hopes to better accommodate the growing number of tourists flocking to the region.

Egypt’s move to privatize airport management comes amid a regional trend across Africa to modernize transportation infrastructure. Many countries on the continent are opening up their aviation sectors to greater private sector involvement. These developments reflect a broader push for modernization in the region as African nations continue to strengthen their transport infrastructure to better serve both domestic and international travel.

This trend is particularly relevant as Africa’s younger population drives the continent’s growth and global competitiveness. The aviation sector is seen as a key area for investment, with the potential to fuel further economic development, trade, and tourism. Egypt’s move to embrace private sector partnerships is not only a step toward improving its own aviation sector but also a sign of Africa’s growing importance on the global stage.

For Egypt, the modernization of its aviation infrastructure is a long-term strategy to ensure it remains competitive in an increasingly connected world. With the involvement of private companies, the country aims to create a world-class air travel experience that attracts tourists and facilitates easier movement of goods and services. This transformation could also pave the way for similar initiatives in other sectors of the economy, contributing to Egypt’s overall economic growth.

Egypt’s decision to invite private companies to manage Hurghada International Airport marks a key step in the country’s broader effort to modernize its aviation and tourism sectors. The involvement of private entities is expected to improve efficiency, enhance services, and boost competitiveness. As Africa’s transport infrastructure continues to evolve, Egypt’s actions reflect a growing regional momentum toward modernization, with the potential for significant economic and tourism benefits.