By Mohamed Attia
The Egyptian Ministry of Civil Aviation has officially begun implementing the state’s strategic plan to significantly increase the role of the private sector in the management and operation of its airports.
In the initial phase of this public-private partnership (PPP) programme, the Ministry has announced the formal opening of applications for alliances and specialised companies.
This process aims to select a strategic partner to manage, operate, and develop Hurghada International Airport (HIA) in accordance with the highest international standards of transparency and efficiency.
This initiative is a core component of the government’s broader privatisation programme, launched in June 2023, and is being supported by the International Finance Corporation (IFC).
Hurghada International Airport was selected as the starting point for the program because it is the country’s second busiest airport in terms of air traffic and a crucial hub for international tourism, playing a vital role in supporting the economy of the Red Sea region.
The overall aim of this partnership is to enhance operational performance and significantly improve the quality of services provided to travelers, which is essential for accommodating the continuous growth in travel and tourism.
Egypt is targeting an increase to 30 million tourists annually by 2030, leveraging the strong recovery the tourism sector is currently experiencing.
Recent data confirms this rapid growth: Egyptian airports served over 50 million passengers in 2024, with Hurghada International Airport alone recording approximately 10.5 million passengers in the 2024-2025 fiscal year, representing a 22% increase.
Minister of Civil Aviation Sameh El-Hefny confirmed that while the private sector partner will be responsible for development, management, and operation, the Egyptian state will retain full ownership of all airport assets.
The Minister emphasised that this structure ensures there is no infringement on Egyptian sovereignty, limiting the partner’s role to development and operation under established regulations.
This comprehensive effort is part of a larger plan to modernise and develop Egyptian airports, recognising the civil aviation sector’s crucial contribution to economic growth and attracting foreign investment.
The partnership aims to leverage the advanced expertise of the private sector to maximise economic returns for the country and upgrade the civil aviation system to global standards.
El-Hefny recently met with a delegation from the International Finance Corporation (IFC), led by Sheikh Omar Kamel Silla, to finalize the technical and regulatory studies and review the Request for Qualification (RFQ) documents prior to the offering.
The IFC is providing key advisory support, affirming its commitment to ensuring accurate studies that enhance management efficiency.
Additionally, Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouli met with el-Hefny to follow up on the progress of the airport development plans and the initiative to attract private sector management, underscoring the state’s firm commitment to advancing the civil aviation sector and raising the quality of services it provides.
