By Mohamed Attia
The international light aircraft competition, ‘Rally Siwa Sands 2025’, concluded its events in Egypt under the supervision of the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI).
Sponsored by the Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the event was organised in collaboration with the Egyptian Air Force, the Armed Forces Operations Authority, and the Egyptian Aviation Club, and was managed by The Flying Pharaoh Company.
Hosting such international competitions reinforces Egypt’s growing stature as a premier destination for aerial sports and strengthens its tourism outreach — particularly in showcasing the country’s unique and diverse attractions.
This year’s rally featured 10 light aircraft representing countries across Europe and the Middle East, including the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Poland, Türkiye, Bulgaria, Saudi Arabia, alongside the host nation, Egypt.
The rally route began at Marsa Matrouh International Airport, passed through Siwa Airport and Alamein International Airport, and concluded at Sphinx International Airport.
Throughout the competition, participants flew over some of Egypt’s most iconic historical and natural landmarks, such as the Giza Pyramids, Saqqara, Siwa Oasis, and New Alamein City, offering a breathtaking blend of aviation, exploration, and cultural discovery.
Held under the theme “Rally Siwa Sands 2025,” this edition spotlighted the central role of Siwa Oasis and celebrated the exceptional beauty of Egypt’s natural landscapes.
Minister of Civil Aviation, Dr Sameh el-Hefny, expressed his gratitude to all the entities involved in organising the event. He noted that Egypt’s successful hosting of the rally demonstrates its high-level organisational capacity and readiness to accommodate such international sporting and tourism events.
He further highlighted the rally’s potential to attract a new demographic of tourists — particularly private aircraft owners and aviation enthusiasts —thanks to Egypt’s advanced infrastructure, including a network of airports strategically located near key tourist sites.
Events like this, he added, are vital for promoting a culture of aerial sports, enhancing Egypt’s global tourism presence, and showcasing its rich natural and archaeological heritage.
Minister of Youth and Sports, Ashraf Sobhi, affirmed that hosting Rally Siwa Sands 2025 reflects Egypt’s strategic focus on expanding sports tourism. He emphasised the ministry’s commitment to elevating Egypt’s position on the global map of major sporting events.
Sobhi also described the rally as a valuable opportunity to promote Egypt’s tourism offerings, especially Siwa Oasis, famed for its pristine natural beauty. He stressed that such events not only strengthen the sports economy but also attract tourists seeking adventure and aerial experiences. He concluded by affirming Egypt’s growing status as a leading destination in Africa and the Middle East for hosting high-profile international sports events.
