The stadium was built on the site of the former Gezira Sporting Club land reclamation project.
Its design was inspired by the Olympiastadion in Berlin, also designed by Werner March.
The stadium hosted the opening ceremony of the 1991 All-Africa Games.
The facility includes an integrated sports complex covering over 800,000 square meters.
It is commonly referred to by locals as 'The Fortress' due to the intimidating atmosphere created by home fans during international matches.
Cairo International Stadium is the largest multi-purpose arena in Egypt and the primary venue for the Egyptian national football team. Completed in 1960 under President Gamal Abdel Nasser, the stadium was designed by German architect Werner March. It features a capacity of approximately 75,000 spectators following multiple modernization efforts. The complex serves as the heart of the national sports infrastructure, housing an Olympic-standard swimming pool, indoor arenas, and secondary training fields. It is a frequent host for the CAF Africa Cup of Nations, having staged the tournament multiple times. The stadium's architecture reflects the modernist style prevalent in mid-20th-century Egypt.
The main entrance plaza featuring the iconic circular concrete arches and the central flagpole.
Arrive significantly earlier than the scheduled kickoff, as security screening for large-scale matches can take several hours.
Bring a portable power bank and water, as amenities inside can be crowded and subject to long queues during sell-out events.
Download local ride-hailing apps to ensure reliable transportation when leaving the stadium after late-night matches.
Avoid driving personal vehicles to the stadium on match days, as perimeter road closures and heavy traffic congestion are standard.
Operations fluctuate based on the national football league schedule and international tournament dates; often restricted for public access during major matches.
Maintain modest attire consistent with local cultural norms; avoid political slogans or provocative clothing when attending large matches.
