First Direct Flight from El Alamein to Moscow Takes Off – Egypt's North Coast Goes International
Egypt's Mediterranean coast continues to gain importance as an international travel destination. In August 2026, Egypt welcomed the Russian aviation authority's decision to allow direct flight connections to the international airports of Borg El Arab and El Alamein.
This is intended to give international visitors easier access to Alexandria, the North Coast, and the new city of El Alamein. Until now, a large share of Egypt's international beach and package tourism has been concentrated on Red Sea destinations such as Hurghada and Sharm El-Sheikh.
First Direct Flight Between El Alamein and Moscow
Just days after the announcement, concrete action followed: in mid-August, Air Cairo launched its first direct flight between El Alamein and Moscow. The inaugural flight from El Alamein to the Russian capital carried 176 passengers.
The new route is part of efforts to open El Alamein further to international visitors and to position Egypt's Mediterranean coast as a destination in its own right, alongside the well-established Red Sea resorts.
El Alamein Emerges as an International Holiday Destination
The region offers holidaymakers a different side of Egypt: Mediterranean beaches, modern hotel and resort complexes, and a convenient base for trips to Alexandria and other destinations along Egypt's North Coast.
El Alamein Airport is seeing significantly growing demand in 2026. Passenger traffic for the year is expected to reach around 266,000 travellers, while the number of flight movements is also set to rise substantially compared with the previous year.
Alongside Air Cairo, several international airlines already serve the airport. Further connections to European and other international destinations are expected to improve the region's accessibility even more.
New Prospects for Egypt's Mediterranean Coast
For European travellers, El Alamein could become an appealing addition to Egypt's classic holiday destinations. While Hurghada and Sharm El-Sheikh are known above all for the Red Sea, diving, and year-round beach holidays, El Alamein stands for a Mediterranean travel experience.
New international direct connections are likely to play a key role in this shift. They make the journey easier while helping to position El Alamein, Alexandria, and Egypt's entire North Coast more firmly on the international tourism map.
