The Abu Dhabi to Cairo route connects Zayed International Airport (AUH) in AE with Cairo International Airport (CAI) in EG. This medium-haul flight covers approximately 1479 miles (2380 km) with a typical flight time of 3h 30m. This route is served by 3 airlines: Air Arabia Abu Dhabi, Egypt Air, Etihad Airways. AirportRoutes has tracked 9 unique flight numbers on this route.
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The Abu Dhabi (AUH) → Cairo (CAI) air route links the UAE and Egypt across about 1,479 miles (2,381 km). It’s a high-demand corridor for business, visiting friends and relatives, and leisure travel to one of the Middle East and North Africa’s biggest cultural hubs. Nonstop flights typically take around 3.5–4.5 hours, with schedules that suit both short breaks and longer itineraries. Travelers choose this route for strong airline competition, frequent departures, and straightforward entry into Cairo’s historic core and wider Nile Valley. AUH’s efficient terminals and CAI’s extensive domestic connections also make the route practical for onward travel to Alexandria, Luxor, or Aswan.
For better fares, book 3–6 weeks ahead and compare nonstop vs one-stop options; typical one-way economy prices often range AED 450–1,200 (about USD 120–330) depending on season and baggage. At AUH, arrive 2.5–3 hours early, use online check-in, and confirm your terminal and gate area, as walking distances can be long. Expect a full international security process and occasional boarding-bus transfers. At CAI, keep USD or EGP handy for small purchases; SIM kiosks and ATMs are widely available after arrival. Pre-arrange airport pickup or use official ride-hailing to avoid negotiation, and allow extra time for Cairo traffic when planning connections.
Cairo is a layered capital where Pharaonic heritage meets modern street life. Start with the Giza Pyramids and the Sphinx, then explore the Egyptian Museum or the Grand Egyptian Museum (as openings and galleries expand). In Islamic Cairo, visit Al-Azhar Mosque, Khan el-Khalili bazaar, and historic lanes filled with crafts and coffeehouses. For city views, head to Cairo Tower or stroll the Nile Corniche at sunset. Food is a highlight: try koshari, ful medames, ta’ameya (Egyptian falafel), and grilled kofta; finish with basbousa or konafa. Popular bases include Downtown, Zamalek for dining and galleries, and Garden City for a quieter, central stay.
The most comfortable months are October–April, when days are milder and sightseeing is easier. December–February is peak season with higher demand and prices, while May–September brings hotter weather and often better deals (though midday touring can be intense). Shoulder months like October, November, and March balance pleasant temperatures with more moderate fares. Notable periods that can affect pricing and availability include Ramadan (dates vary annually) and major holiday travel windows in the UAE and Egypt.
OMAAAUHHECACAI3
Operators9
Tracked Flights1479
Miles3h 30m
Flight Duration
| Airline | ICAO | IATA |
|---|---|---|
| Air Arabia Abu Dhabi |
ADY
|
3L
|
| Egypt Air |
MSR
|
MS
|
| Etihad Airways |
ETD
|
EY
|
| Day | Flights Observed | Frequency | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | 38 | 15% |
|
| Tuesday | 37 | 15% |
|
| Wednesday | 30 | 12% |
|
| Thursday | 40 | 16% |
|
| Friday | 34 | 14% |
|
| Saturday | 34 | 14% |
|
| Sunday | 36 | 14% |
|
Pattern Analysis
| Airline | Flight Numbers | Aircraft Type | Typical Time | Days Active | Last Seen | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Air Arabia Abu Dhabi
ADY
/ 3L
|
A320 | 23:45 11:45 PM (Representative) |
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
|
Jun 20, 2026 | Active | |
|
Egypt Air
MSR
/ MS
|
B738 | 16:30 4:30 PM (Representative) |
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
|
Jun 20, 2026 | Active | |
|
Etihad Airways
ETD
/ EY
|
A320 | 14:35 2:35 PM (Representative) |
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
|
Jun 29, 2026 | Active |
| Departure Time | Operator | ICAO | IATA |
|---|---|---|---|
| 14:35 2:35 PM | Etihad Airways |
ETD
|
EY
|
| 16:30 4:30 PM | Egypt Air |
MSR
|
MS
|
| 23:45 11:45 PM | Air Arabia Abu Dhabi |
ADY
|
3L
|
Time Information
Times are shown in the departure airport's local timezone (OMAA - Asia/Dubai).