Airport scams in Hurghada are spoiling the first impression of an Egyptian holiday
For many travellers arriving in Egypt, Hurghada International Airport represents their first encounter with the Red Sea – but, unfortunately, also with a series of scams that can spoil a holiday right from the moment of arrival. Although Hurghada attracts over a million tourists annually thanks to its all-inclusive resorts and rich underwater world, the experience at the airport itself is often anything but hospitable.
The most common scams awaiting travellers
One of the most common tricks involves a man in front of the toilets posing as a cleaner and asking for a tip to use the facilities – even though he is actually an employee of a nearby café.
An even more serious problem involves fake “tour operator representatives” who intercept passengers in a specially marked hall and claim to work for well-known agencies such as Alltours, Coral Travel, or Schauinsland Reisen. They charge 35 US dollars for a visa, even though the official price is 25 dollars, and the actual government visa counter is discreetly located and often overlooked. The aim is clear – to take advantage of tired travellers who want to leave the airport as quickly as possible.
Even VIP services for “faster passage” through passport control are not without pitfalls – while they speed up document checks, they do not affect baggage wait times.
Other pitfalls: SIM cards, luggage and taxis
Online forums are flooded with stories about aggressive SIM card sellers whose products often don't work, as well as cases of theft during “hand luggage checks” carried out by uniformed individuals. It's also not uncommon for taxi drivers to charge fabricated “airport fees” or to deliberately leave passengers at the wrong terminal.
Despite the challenges at the airport, Hurghada remains a favourite destination. Luxury resorts along the coast offer a safe and carefree environment, with professional staff, fantastic diving and snorkelling opportunities, and complete relaxation facilities.
