Egypt Daily News – The international competition for the light aircraft rally “Rally Siwa Sands 2025” kicked off today in Egypt, taking place from April 4 to 9, 2025. The event is organized under the supervision of the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI) and is sponsored by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, with coordination and support from the Air Force, the Armed Forces Operations Authority, the Egyptian Aviation Club, and organized by the “Flying Pharaoh” company.
The organization of such international events and competitions reinforces Egypt’s position as a leading hub for aerial sports and promotes Egyptian tourism, especially tourist destinations.
This year’s rally features the participation of 10 light aircraft representing several European and Middle Eastern countries, including England, Germany, France, Poland, Turkey, Bulgaria, Saudi Arabia, alongside the host country, Egypt.
The competition will start from Marsa Matrouh International Airport, passing through Siwa Airport and El Alamein International Airport, and will conclude at Sphinx International Airport. During the race stages, the planes will fly over prominent tourist and archaeological landmarks such as the Pyramids of Giza, the Saqqara area, Siwa Oasis, and the New Alamein City, offering participants a unique experience that combines flying, exploration, and enjoyment of Egypt’s breathtaking tourist and archaeological sites.
This year’s edition carries the slogan “Rally Siwa Sands 2025,” highlighting the central role of Siwa Oasis and showcasing the beauty of Egypt’s unique natural landscape.
The event is part of the tourism and sports events agenda of the Ministry of Youth and Sports, which aims to organize prominent local and global events.
In this context, Dr. Sameh Shoukry, Minister of Civil Aviation, expressed his appreciation for the supporting and participating parties in organizing this event, stressing that Egypt’s hosting of the rally reflects its high organizational capabilities and ability to host international sports and tourism events.
The Minister of Civil Aviation pointed out that the rally represents an opportunity to attract a new group of tourists, particularly private aircraft owners and aerial adventure enthusiasts, highlighting Egypt’s advanced infrastructure, including a network of airports close to key tourist destinations. He also emphasized the importance of such events in promoting aerial sports culture, global tourism, and introducing the country’s rich historical and natural attractions.
Dr. Ashraf Sobhi, Minister of Youth and Sports, confirmed that Egypt’s hosting of the light aircraft rally “Rally Siwa Sands 2025” reflects the country’s commitment to developing and promoting sports tourism and supporting aerial sports as part of the ministry’s strategy to enhance Egypt’s global position on the sports event map.
The Minister of Youth and Sports also noted that the event provides an exceptional opportunity to promote Egypt’s tourist destinations, particularly Siwa Oasis, which boasts unique natural beauty. He emphasized that such events contribute to boosting the sports economy and attracting more tourists interested in aerial adventures and sports. He affirmed that Egypt has become an international hub in Africa and the Middle East for hosting major sports events.
