Wednesday, 27 May 2026
Borg El Arab Airport rebrands to celebrate Pearl of the Mediterranean
Starting September 4, 2025, travellers arriving in Egypt’s storied port city will notice a meaningful change: Borg El Arab International Airport is officially becoming Alexandria International Airport. More than just a new name, this rebranding honors the city’s illustrious past, and points toward a vibrant future.
This decision, announced through official channels, takes effect as the busy 2025/2026 winter flight season begins. As part of a broader plan to unite Alexandria’s image both at home and abroad, all airlines will adopt the new name and codes in their schedules and permit processes.
For residents and visitors alike, the change feels long overdue. Since 2011, when the centrally located El Nozha Airport closed permanently, Borg El Arab has been Alexandria’s main air gateway, even if its name referred to a quiet neighboring town. Over the years, as the city blossomed as a tourism and business hub, many felt it deserved an airport name fitting its global prestige.
Nestled some 40 kilometers southwest of Alexandria’s celebrated Corniche, the airport’s modern facilities reflect the city’s ambitions. The main runway, 3,400 meters long and capable of handling heavy aircraft, is complemented by expanded taxiways and efficient night operations.
Recent eco-friendly renovations have nearly doubled terminal space, now nearing 40,000 square meters. Lounges, duty-free shops, family-friendly restaurants, 16 check-in counters, and four baggage belts make the travel experience smooth for the 1.2 million annual passengers. The site also offers parking for 350 vehicles, helping journeys begin and end with ease.
But why does the name change now? City and tourism officials point to Alexandria’s mounting global appeal. Known as the “Pearl of the Mediterranean,” Alexandria has been Egypt’s dynamic second city for centuries, a crossroads of history, culture, and learning.
From the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern tribute to the ancient world’s greatest library, to the Qaitbay Citadel guarding the harbor, to submerged treasures from Queen Cleopatra’s era, Alexandria’s rich past draws travelers from around the world. Yet for years, its airport brand didn’t quite match the city’s iconic status.
By rebranding the airport, Alexandria aims to be instantly recognizable on flight boards and around the world—helping travelers connect with a destination that’s both legendary and lively.
This move is a key part of Egypt’s sweeping tourism strategy, which aspires to welcome 30 million annual visitors by 2030. In 2025 alone, new visa policies, incentives for charter flights, and bold marketing are expected to boost arrivals by 10-12 per cent.