Borg El Arab Airport is 40 km from central Alexandria, which makes it one of the farther-from-city airports you will encounter. That distance drives the cost up compared to airports closer to their cities.
Negotiated taxi
There are no metered taxis at HBE. You negotiate the fare with a driver outside the terminal. The realistic fare to central Alexandria (Corniche, Raml Station, Bibliotheca area) is 300-500 EGP, which is roughly $6-10 at 2026 exchange rates.
Drivers will start higher — 800 EGP or more is a common opening. Be polite but firm. If the first driver will not come down, walk to the next one. Having the fare range written on your phone to show (in Arabic numerals if possible) can help.
To Montaza or eastern Alexandria, expect 400-600 EGP. To Agami or western beach areas, 200-350 EGP since they are closer to the airport.
Pre-booked private transfer
A sedan (up to 3 passengers) to central Alexandria: $25-40.
A minivan (up to 7 passengers) to central Alexandria: $35-50.
These prices are fixed at booking and paid in advance. No negotiation, no cash needed on arrival. The vehicles are air-conditioned and in good condition. For the 40 km journey in Egyptian heat, air conditioning is not a luxury — it is a necessity.
Longer distances
To El Alamein (100 km): $60-90 by private transfer, or 600-900 EGP by negotiated taxi.
To Marsa Matrouh (300 km): $150-220 by private transfer.
To Cairo (220 km): $120-180 by private transfer. A negotiated taxi will ask for 2000-3500 EGP, but this is a long journey and vehicle quality matters — a transfer is strongly preferred.
Currency notes
Egypt's currency has seen significant fluctuation in recent years. The rates above are based on 2026 conditions, but the EGP/USD rate can shift. Dollar-denominated private transfers protect you from currency surprises. If paying a taxi in pounds, check the current rate on your phone before negotiating.
ATMs at the airport sometimes run out of cash or have low withdrawal limits. Bring some US dollars or euros as backup — taxi drivers will sometimes accept foreign currency, though at a poor rate.
Bottom line
The 40 km distance means you cannot get to Alexandria for pocket change. A negotiated taxi at 300-500 EGP is the cheapest option but requires effort and confidence. A pre-booked transfer at $25-40 removes all friction and is the better value when you account for the time, stress, and comfort difference — especially in summer.