Cairo Opera House

The Cairo Opera House is a cultural landmark located on Gezira Island in the Zamalek district of Cairo. Opened in 1988, it serves as the main venue for the performing arts in Egypt, hosting opera, ballet, classical music concerts, and theatrical performances. The complex includes multiple halls, such as the Main Hall, the Open-Air Theatre, and the Small Hall, each designed for different types of performances. The architecture is a blend of modern Islamic design and sleek lines, with a striking facade and spacious foyers. Visitors can attend world-class productions by the Cairo Opera Company, the Cairo Symphony Orchestra, and visiting international artists. The surrounding gardens and Nile views add to the experience, making it a cultural hub in the heart of Cairo.

Don't miss

• Attend a performance in the Main Hall, known for its excellent acoustics
• Explore the Open-Air Theatre for summer concerts under the stars
• Visit the adjacent Museum of Modern Egyptian Art
• Stroll through the lush gardens overlooking the Nile
• Catch a ballet or symphony by Egypt's top ensembles

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Cairo Opera House

Cheapest way inPrivate Departure Transfer from Cairo City to Cairo Airport4.8★ · 253 travelers1-2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$12 per personSee dates →Best full dayCairo Private Day Tours: Discover Islamic and Coptic Cairo4.6★ · 255 travelers~6 hoursFree cancellationFrom$15 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleAll Inclusive Cairo Highlights and Giza Pyramids from Cairo5★ · 23 travelers~11 hoursFree cancellationFrom$119 per personSee dates →

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Getting there

Know before you go

• Smart casual dress is recommended; avoid shorts and flip-flops.
• Silence your phone and refrain from photography during performances.
• Check the schedule in advance – performances range from opera to Arabic music.
• The on-site café offers refreshments during intermission.

A bit of history

The Cairo Opera House was inaugurated in 1988 as a gift from Japan to Egypt, replacing the original Khedivial Opera House that burned down in 1971. It was designed by Japanese architect Koichi Sato and built with Japanese funding.