The Buraidah to Cairo route connects Gassim Airport (ELQ) in SA with Cairo International Airport (CAI) in EG. This short-haul flight covers approximately 798 miles (1284 km) with a typical flight time of 2h 6m. This route is served by 5 airlines: Nile Air, Nesma Airlines Egypt, Air Arabia Egypt and others. AirportRoutes has tracked 6 daily flights on this route.
The route from Buraidah (Gassim Airport, ELQ) to Cairo (Cairo International Airport, CAI) covers a distance of 798 miles (1284 km) and serves as a vital link between Saudi Arabia and Egypt. With approximately 161 weekly flights operated by 5 airlines, it's a popular choice for business travelers, tourists, and those visiting family. The average flight duration is around 2 to 3 hours, making it a relatively quick journey. This route offers convenient access to Egypt's capital, a major hub for culture, history, and commerce in the Middle East. The high frequency of flights provides travelers with considerable flexibility in scheduling their trips.
For the best fares, book your flight well in advance, ideally several weeks before your intended travel date. Consider flying mid-week (Tuesday, Wednesday) as these days often offer lower prices. At Gassim Airport (ELQ), arrive at least 2 hours before your flight to allow ample time for check-in and security. Cairo International Airport (CAI) can be busy, so familiarize yourself with the terminal layout to expedite your arrival. Remember that carry-on baggage allowance can vary between airlines, so verify before packing. A useful travel hack: download your airline's app for real-time updates and boarding passes.
Cairo is a city brimming with ancient wonders and vibrant modern life. Explore the iconic Giza Pyramids and the Sphinx, must-see landmarks that showcase Egypt's rich history. Visit the Egyptian Museum to marvel at an extensive collection of pharaonic artifacts, including treasures from Tutankhamun's tomb. For a taste of local culture, wander through the bustling Khan el-Khalili bazaar, where you can find unique souvenirs and enjoy traditional Egyptian coffee. Zamalek and Garden City are upscale districts offering tranquil escapes and trendy restaurants. Don't miss trying local dishes like *kushari* (a mix of pasta, rice, and lentils) and *ful medames* (fava bean stew).
The best time to visit Cairo is during the cooler months, from October to April, when the weather is mild and pleasant for sightseeing. Peak tourist season is generally from December to February, so expect higher prices during these months. For better deals, consider traveling in the shoulder seasons (October-November or March-April). Keep an eye out for special events and festivals happening in Cairo, such as the Cairo International Film Festival, which could influence both prices and the overall experience.
OEGSELQHECACAI5
Operators6
Daily Flights798
Miles2h 6m
Flight Duration
| Airline | ICAO | IATA |
|---|---|---|
| Nile Air |
NIA
|
NP
|
| Nesma Airlines Egypt |
NMA
|
NE
|
| Air Arabia Egypt |
RBG
|
E5
|
| Egypt Air |
MSR
|
MS
|
| Air Cairo |
MSC
|
SM
|
| Day | Flights Observed | Frequency | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | 21 | 10% |
|
| Tuesday | 38 | 19% |
|
| Wednesday | 29 | 14% |
|
| Thursday | 34 | 17% |
|
| Friday | 29 | 14% |
|
| Saturday | 42 | 21% |
|
| Sunday | 8 | 4% |
|
| Airline | Flight Numbers | Aircraft Type | Typical Time | Days Active | Last Seen | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Air Arabia Egypt
RBG
/ E5
|
RBG592 | A320 | 22:30 10:30 PM (Representative) |
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
|
Feb 4, 2026 | Active |
|
Air Cairo
MSC
/ SM
|
MSC428 | A320 | 19:10 7:10 PM (Representative) |
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
|
Feb 1, 2026 | Active |
|
Egypt Air
MSR
/ MS
|
MSR634 | B738 | 00:45 12:45 AM (Representative) |
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
|
Feb 4, 2026 | Active |
|
Nesma Airlines Egypt
NMA
/ NE
|
NMA141 | A320 | 14:35 2:35 PM (Representative) |
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
|
Jan 27, 2026 | Active |
|
Nile Air
NIA
/ NP
|
NIA106 NIA116 NMA141 RBG592 | A320 | 15:45 3:45 PM (Representative) |
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
|
Feb 4, 2026 | Active |
| Departure Time | Operator | ICAO | IATA |
|---|---|---|---|
| 00:45 12:45 AM | Egypt Air |
MSR
|
MS
|
| 14:35 2:35 PM | Nesma Airlines Egypt |
NMA
|
NE
|
| 15:45 3:45 PM | Nile Air |
NIA
|
NP
|
| 19:10 7:10 PM | Air Cairo |
MSC
|
SM
|
| 22:30 10:30 PM | Air Arabia Egypt |
RBG
|
E5
|
Time Information
Times are shown in the departure airport's local timezone (OEGS - Asia/Riyadh).