UAE, Egypt agree 5-year plan to expand bilateral air traffic rights
Framework responds to rising passenger demand and airline opportunities
CAIRO – The United Arab Emirates and Egypt have agreed to gradually expand bilateral air traffic rights over the next five years, marking a significant step towards strengthening aviation cooperation and improving connectivity between the two countries.
The understanding reflects the close strategic relationship between Abu Dhabi and Cairo while addressing growing demand for passenger and air transport services. It is also expected to create fresh opportunities for airlines and support wider economic cooperation.
The understanding was reached on the sidelines of the 11th edition of ICAO AFI Week in Cairo. It was signed by Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), and Captain Sameh Fawzy, President of the Egyptian Civil Aviation Authority (ECAA).
Expanding air services
The agreement establishes a phased framework for expanding air services between the UAE and Egypt over the next five years. The gradual increase in air traffic rights is intended to match rising passenger demand while supporting the sustainable growth of air services.
Officials said the arrangement will strengthen air connectivity between the two countries, provide greater opportunities for airlines and contribute to deeper economic integration. The expanded aviation links are also expected to facilitate tourism, business travel and investment flows between the UAE and Egypt.
UAE-Egypt ties
Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism and Chairman of the Board of the General Civil Aviation Authority, said the understanding reflects the depth of the strategic relationship between the two countries and their shared vision of improving regional air connectivity.
He said the phased expansion of air traffic rights would support the aviation sector while promoting tourism, economic activity and investment. According to Bin Touq, the move will further strengthen the longstanding economic partnership between the UAE and Egypt and help drive future growth and prosperity.
Dr Sameh Ahmed El Hefny, Egypt's Minister of Civil Aviation, described the understanding as another important milestone in the long-standing cooperation between the two countries in civil aviation. He said it would enhance air connectivity, respond to increasing demand for air transport services and reinforce the position of both nations as leading aviation hubs in the region.
Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi said the agreement demonstrates the high level of trust and close cooperation between the UAE and Egypt. He added that the phased approach creates a balanced framework for sustainable growth in air services while offering greater opportunities for airlines and travellers in both countries.
Captain Sameh Fawzy said the understanding reflects the constructive cooperation between the aviation authorities of the UAE and Egypt. He noted that both sides share a vision of developing a modern, safe and sustainable air transport sector capable of meeting future growth requirements while improving the efficiency of aviation services.