Would you like to discover the untouched beauty of the Red Sea, its calm turquoise waters, and its underwater world that resembles an aquarium? Marsa Alam is a paradise where you can get away from the crowds of Egypt and find peace and adventure together. It is up to you to explore this unique geography as you wish. You can plan your own itinerary. As soon as you land at Marsa Alam International Airport (RMF), you can rent a car and start your vacation freely. You can find all the information you need about car rental at Marsa Alam Airport in this guide. Buckle up, our Red Sea adventure is about to begin!
Car Rental Companies Inside Marsa Alam Airport Terminal Building
Once you get off your flight and pick up your luggage, there is no need to search for a long and tiring transfer vehicle. Marsa Alam Airport has thought of everything for your comfort. As soon as you step into the Arrivals hall, you will immediately see the offices of the world’s leading car rental companies.
The airport has offices for reliable companies such as Sixt, Europcar, Avis, Budget, and Green Motion. You can rent a car from these offices immediately. The car rental companies’ offices are located directly opposite the baggage claim area.
Europcar: Located near the exit door of the arrival corridor. Open every day from 09:00 to 22:00.
Sixt: Offers a “Meet & Greet” service. A Sixt representative will meet you at the exit of the arrivals hall and deliver the car from the parking lot.
Green Motion: Offers both economy and mid-range car options.
If you have made a reservation online in advance, you can complete the process in a few minutes. Once you have completed the process, you can pick up your car from the parking lot outside the terminal.
Cost of Car Rental Marsa Alam Airport
Car rental costs vary depending on the model of the vehicle you choose, the rental period, and the season you are traveling in. I can say that car rental in Marsa Alam is quite budget-friendly. The average daily rental prices in Marsa Alam are around 40-50 USD during the low season. Prices increase during the high season (especially in winter and summer). You can reduce these prices to 30-40 USD by making early reservations and following the campaigns.
Green Motion
Renault Logan (manual): Offering comfort for up to five passengers with its spacious interior, Logan is one of the most preferred vehicles by tourists with its luggage capacity and fuel economy. Daily price: 50-60 USD. Full “Collision Damage Waiver” (CDW) and TP insurance included.
Nissan Sunny (manual): With its smooth ride and good trunk space, the Sunny is particularly suitable for long desert roads. Daily price: 60-70 USD. CDW and TP insurance included.
Kia Cerato (manual): With a slightly more powerful engine and spacious interior, the Cerato is one of the best vehicles for large families and groups of friends. Daily price: 60-75 USD. CDW and TP insurance included.
Sixt
Ford Fiesta (economy): With its high maneuverability in the city and low fuel consumption, the Fiesta is one of the most suitable vehicles for short trips. Daily price: 75-85 USD.
Toyota Corolla (compact): Fully equipped and with a reliable engine, the Corolla is a suitable vehicle for desert roads. Daily price: 90-100 USD.
Nissan Qashqai (SUV): With its high ground clearance and spacious interior, the Qashqai offers a comfortable and safe SUV experience. Daily price: 115-125 USD.
Europcar
Chevrolet Aveo (economy): This affordable vehicle is ideal for city driving and can seat up to five passengers. Daily price: 40-50 USD.
Toyota Corolla (compact/intermediate): Positioned in the mid-range segment, the Corolla offers drivers both comfort and fuel efficiency. Daily price: $65-75.
Nissan X-Trail (SUV): Family- and off-road-friendly, the X-Trail is a desert-ready vehicle with ample cargo space and four-wheel drive. Daily price: $80-90.
Keep in mind that these prices are valid at the time of writing this guide. To get the most up-to-date and affordable prices, you should make your car reservation at least a week before your trip using online comparison sites.
Finding Your Car Rental Company Inside Marsa Alam Airport
Marsa Alam Airport has a compact and user-friendly design. After collecting your luggage, when you enter the Arrivals hall, you will see “Car Rental” signs. All major companies have offices located next to each other inside the terminal. Here you can do some research and evaluate your options.
Some companies, such as Green Motion, also offer a “Meet and Greet” service, where you will be met at the arrivals gate with a name sign. If you are arriving at Marsa Alam Airport for the first time, I recommend using a company that offers a “Meet and Greet” service.
Pick-up and Drop-Off Points Car Rental Marsa Alam
After completing the procedures at the rental office, the company representative will show you where to pick up your vehicle. The vehicles are located in a private parking lot right next to the terminal building. This parking lot is only a few minutes’ walk from the terminal.
Returning your vehicle is also quite simple. Just park your vehicle in the parking area specified by your rental company and return the keys to the relevant office. You must return your vehicle at the agreed time. If you return it late, you may have to pay an extra fee.
Car Rental Companies – Off-site Outside Marsa Alam Airport
The majority of car rental services in Marsa Alam are located inside the airport terminal. This is a great advantage for tourists, as it eliminates the need for an additional transfer. However, there are also local car rental companies operating outside the airport. If you want to stretch your budget a little or rent a car from a discounted local car rental company, you can also choose the off-site offices around the airport. Below is information about car rental companies located in Marsa Alam city center:
National Car Rental – Marsa Alam City Center Office
Address: Marsa Alam City Center, Red Sea Governorate, Egypt
Avis Rent a Car – Marsa Alam City Office
Address: Kasr el Nil Street No: 5, Marsa Alam City, Red Sea Governorate, Egypt
Budget Car Rental – Port Ghalib
Address: Sheraton Road, Port Ghalib, Marsa Alam, Red Sea Governorate, Egypt
Enterprise Rent-A-Car – Marsa Alam Office
Address: Marsa Alam City Center, Red Sea Governorate, Egypt
Hertz – Near Port Ghalib Marina
Address: Port Ghalib Marina, Port Ghalib, Marsa Alam, Red Sea Governorate, Egypt
Surprice Car Rental – Port Ghalib Branch
Address: Sheraton Road (next to Port Ghalib Market), Port Ghalib, Marsa Alam, Red Sea Governorate, Egypt
Caldera Car Hire – Port Ghalib Marina Village
Address: Marina Village, Port Ghalib, Marsa Alam, Red Sea Governorate, Egypt
This list includes both international chains and local offices.
Exploring Marsa Alam
Now the most exciting part of the adventure begins! Once you get behind the wheel of your rental car, you can explore the beauty of Marsa Alam and its surroundings at your own pace. Here are a few route suggestions to inspire you:
Abu Dabbab Beach: This world-famous beach is home to giant sea turtles and, if you’re lucky, you can swim with the adorable creatures known as “dugongs.” If you’re into snorkeling and diving, you should definitely add this to your itinerary.
Sharm El Luli: Known as the “Maldives of Egypt,” this place will enchant you with its white sands and turquoise waters. It’s also a great option for families with children.
Wadi el-Gemal National Park: Meaning “Valley of the Camels,” this national park captivates visitors with its desert landscapes, historical ruins, and rich biodiversity. If you rent a 4×4 vehicle, you can visit Bedouin villages. Don’t leave Marsa Alam without experiencing an unforgettable desert safari.
El Quseir: El Quseir is an authentic port town with a historic Ottoman castle and narrow streets. It is a great destination for a day trip.
Note: There are small petrol stations and markets along the way. However, be careful not to let your fuel tank drop below 25% in remote areas.
Tips When Booking A Car
Book Early: If you are visiting during peak season, you should book your car well in advance. I recommend booking weeks in advance to get better prices and find the car you want.
Understand the Insurance: Rental offers usually include basic CDW. However, this insurance does not usually cover tires, windows, and the undercarriage. Consider additional insurance (SCDW) options for full coverage.
Check Your License: In addition to your own country’s driver’s license, it is recommended that you carry an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) when driving in Egypt. Don’t forget to check with your rental company.
Ask About Fuel Policy: The most common and fairest policy is “full to full.” This way, you only pay for the fuel you use.
Comparison Sites: Platforms like KAYAK, Skyscanner, or HolidayCars allow you to view both local and international options on a single screen.
Tips When Collecting Your Car
Detailed Inspection: Take a walk around the vehicle and photograph and video any existing scratches or dents. Include the damage in the rental agreement.
Fuel and Equipment: Make sure the fuel tank is full, the air conditioning is working, and emergency equipment such as a spare tire is in place.
Ask Questions: If you are unfamiliar with the vehicle’s features (automatic transmission, headlights, etc.), don’t hesitate to ask the attendant any questions about the vehicle before setting off.
Document Check: Ensure that the rental agreement includes insurance coverage (CDW/LDW), additional drivers, and any extras such as GPS.
Contact Information: Be sure to write down the number for 24/7 emergency roadside assistance and customer service.
Tips When Returning Your Car
Be on Time: Keep your flight time in mind and allow yourself enough time to return the vehicle.
Fill Up the Tank: Fill up the tank according to the agreed fuel policy and keep the last fuel receipt.
Personal Belongings: Check the car one last time. Don’t forget your personal belongings such as your phone or glasses in the car.
Get the Final Bill: Don’t leave the office without getting your delivery receipt or confirmation document.
By renting a car in Marsa Alam, you can tailor your diving, desert safari, and historical exploration experiences to your own schedule. Enjoy the freedom of planning your own route, stopping wherever you like, and making the most of your vacation. Safe travels!