Arrival/Check-in: The hotel provides a check-in service at Cairo International Airport (CAI), allowing weary travelers to go straight to their rooms if they prefer. In my case the front-desk check-in was quick and efficient. The lobby is striking — a marbled corridor opens into a bright, high-ceilinged atrium with soaring columns, modern furnishings and a central obelisk guarded by four sphinxes. The space is frequented by business travelers in suits alongside local guests in traditional dress, creating a busy yet calm atmosphere where conversations can continue undisturbed. Located adjacent to one of the region’s largest retail and entertainment complexes, the hotel retains an exclusive feel. Security is visible and thorough, with guards and metal detectors at the main entrances. (30/30)
Guest Quarters: My room, facing the pool, was situated at the end of a dimly lit corridor in a practical two-story annex. It was less opulent than rooms in the main building but offered the same functional layout as a standard guestroom. The king-sized bed had plenty of pillows, the bathroom featured a powerful shower, and the workspace included a large desk and complimentary high-speed internet. Views over the pool were especially inviting on a hot summer afternoon. The only downside to the poolside location was being slightly removed from some hotel facilities. (25/30)
Services/Amenities: Regarded as one of Cairo’s leading business hotels, it combines extensive meeting and conference facilities with very attentive service. Staff responded quickly and politely to requests throughout my stay.
Wireless internet made it easy to work from various spots on the property, and a currency-exchange desk on the first floor provided a convenient way to convert dollars into Egyptian pounds. For guests wanting late-night entertainment, a 24-hour casino on the eighth floor is available. The Lifestyle Health Club & Spa is a standout feature — nearly 33,000 square feet of fitness and wellness space, including cardio and resistance equipment, squash and tennis courts, a sauna, a hydrotherapy pool and multiple treatment rooms, all accessible to guests. Dining options include Fayruz, serving Lebanese specialties, and the Mondial Café, which offers an extensive breakfast buffet near the main lobby. (39/40)
Experience: Located about 10 minutes by car from Cairo International Airport and adjacent to the country’s largest mall, the InterContinental Citystars suits business travelers on short stays and families passing through on vacation. While it is not as close to Cairo’s primary tourist sites as some other five-star hotels, the property itself is impressive and the concierge service can quickly arrange private limousine or car transport.
Total Score: (94/100)
InterContinental Citystars
Omar Ibn el Khattab Street
Cairo, Egypt
tel 011 20 2 2480 0100
www.ichotelsgroup.com/intercontinenta