If you’re looking for an artistic escape from the noise of everyday life, you’ve got to visit Cairo Opera House. It’s not just a theater — it’s a world full of art and magic that captivates you from the first moment.

Overview

When you visit the Cairo Opera House, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another world full of art and magic.

It’s not just a theater — it’s a space that blends culture, creativity, and elegance right in the heart of Cairo.

From the very first step inside, you’ll notice how every detail is crafted to perfection, creating a calm and artistic atmosphere you’ll never forget.

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Why Cairo Opera House Matters

What makes the Cairo Opera House truly special is how it combines Egyptian heritage with a global artistic spirit.

You’ll find everything from opera, ballet, and classical music performances to Arabic music nights that capture the essence of the East.

It’s more than just a stage — it’s a cultural bridge that connects artists and audiences from around the world.

That’s why it’s considered one of the most important artistic landmarks in the Middle East and Africa, reflecting Egypt’s deep love and appreciation for art in all its forms.

After enjoying a show at the Cairo Opera House, explore more of Egypt with our  10 Days Cairo, Aswan, Luxor & Hurghada Overland Tour .

Quick Facts and Location in Zamalek

If you’re planning to visit Cairo Opera House, you’ll find it in Opera Square, right in the Zamalek district on Gezira Island, overlooking the Nile. 

It’s in the heart of a calm, elegant area filled with fine restaurants, cafés, and luxury hotels.

• Official address: Opera Square, Zamalek, Cairo
• Postal code: El Borg El Gezira, Zamalek 11567

GPS Coordinates

If you’re using GPS or Google Maps, here are the coordinates that’ll take you straight to the entrance:

• Latitude: 30.0425
• Longitude: 31.2235

They’re verified and accurate — you won’t get lost following these!

Nearby Landmarks

The Opera House is surrounded by some of Cairo’s most iconic spots:

• Cairo Tower – just a few minutes away with a breathtaking view of the Nile.
• Gezira Club and Al Ahly Club – perfect if you want to stroll around green open areas.
• Museum of Modern Egyptian Art – located within or right next to the Opera complex.
• Hotels and restaurants along the Corniche, like Sofitel El Gezirah, offering stunning Nile views.

Simply type “Cairo Opera House” in Google Maps and it’ll take you right there without a hassle.

Space, Opening Date, and Visitor Info

Cairo Opera House isn’t just a performance hall — it’s a full cultural complex with multiple theaters, exhibition spaces, libraries, and museums.

It was built with the support of the Japanese government and officially opened on October 10, 1988, as a replacement for the old Khedivial Opera House that was destroyed by fire in 1971.

The main hall seats around 1,200 people, spread over several levels, and there are also smaller halls and an open-air theater used for summer events.

While there’s no official public report on annual visitor numbers, the Opera welcomes thousands of guests every month, from local art lovers to international tourists.

Combine your cultural night at the opera with a breathtaking journey on the  8 Days Pyramids & The Nile by Air package.

History

The story of Cairo Opera House isn’t just about a building that was constructed, burned, and rebuilt — it’s a tale of passion for art and music that’s been alive for over 150 years.

Each era added its own touch, shaping the Opera House into one of the most iconic cultural symbols in Egypt and the Arab world.

The Khedivial Opera House – Where It All Began (1869)

It all started with Khedive Ismail, who dreamed of turning Cairo into a city that could rival Europe’s capitals.

To celebrate the opening of the Suez Canal, he ordered the construction of a grand opera house worthy of Egypt’s new image.

Italian architects Avoscani and Rossi designed and built the magnificent structure in record time — completed in 1869.

The first performance was Rigoletto, since Aida — which was specially commissioned for the occasion — wasn’t ready due to delays in shipping costumes and sets from Paris.

Two years later, in 1871, Aida finally premiered in Cairo, marking a legendary moment that placed Egypt firmly on the world’s cultural map.

Extend your trip beyond the Cairo Opera House and experience the charm of the temples with our  8 Days Cairo, Luxor, Aswan Classic Tours .

The 1971 Fire and the Silent Years

On October 28, 1971, tragedy struck — a massive fire broke out and completely destroyed the old Khedivial Opera House in downtown Cairo.

The building, made mostly of wood, burned down within hours. 
 For years after that, Egypt had no official national opera house. Artists and musicians had to perform in smaller, temporary venues, and the country’s performing arts scene suffered a noticeable decline.

Still, the passion for art never faded — Egyptians kept the dream alive, waiting for the day the Opera House would rise again.

For a full Egyptian adventure, try the  8 Days Cairo to Abu Simbel and Back Overland  right after your opera visit.

The New Era – Opening of Cairo Opera House in 1988

That long-awaited comeback finally happened in the 1980s, when the Egyptian government partnered with Japan, supported by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), to build a brand-new Cairo Opera House on Gezira Island in Zamalek.

The new complex was designed with a mix of modern architecture and subtle oriental elements, featuring multiple halls, a library, a museum, and an open-air theater for summer performances.

On October 10, 1988, the new Cairo Opera House was officially inaugurated in a grand ceremony attended by top Egyptian and international artists.

Since then, it has become Egypt’s beating cultural heart — a place where music, art, and history meet under one timeless roof.

Add a touch of elegance to your vacation after the opera with the  12 Days Pyramids, Nile & Sinai Tour .

Venues and Facilities at the Cairo Opera House

The Cairo Opera House isn’t just a venue — it’s a real piece of art that blends culture, history, and elegance in every corner. 

Whether you’re attending a classical concert, a ballet show, or an art exhibition, every hall is designed with style and precision to make the experience unforgettable.

Enjoy culture and comfort with our  10 Days Round Trip Nile Cruise and Pyramids — the perfect follow-up to a night at the opera.

Main Hall

This is the heart of the Opera House and the stage for its biggest events. It can seat around 1,200 people and was built with perfect acoustics to deliver the best sound quality no matter where you sit.

The interior design is stunning — from the lighting to the layout — everything enhances the performance and lets the audience truly live the moment.

The Main Hall hosts opera shows, ballet performances, symphonic concerts, and major international events that are sometimes broadcast on TV.

Small Hall

The Small Hall is perfect for intimate performances where the audience feels close to the artists. 

It seats around 500 guests and is used for chamber concerts, lectures, and small-scale artistic shows.

It’s cozy and warm — you don’t just watch the performance, you feel like you’re part of it. That’s why it’s a favorite for fans of calm and emotional music.

Discover Egypt’s spiritual side with our   15 Days Egypt Holy Family Trip after your visit to the Opera House.

Open-Air Theater

This one’s got a totally different vibe, especially in summer. The Open-Air Theater can host around 600 people, surrounded by greenery and fresh air.

Here, music fills the night sky, with seasonal concerts and outdoor performances that blend art with the perfect atmosphere.

If you love energetic shows with a lively crowd, this is definitely your spot at the Opera House.

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Museums, Galleries, and Library

The Opera House isn’t only about performances — it’s also a full cultural hub.

There’s a special museum that tells the story of the Egyptian Opera from its very beginnings till today, featuring photos, stage costumes, and vintage programs that show how art evolved in Egypt.

You’ll also find the Salah Taher Gallery, one of the most famous art halls inside the complex, displaying exhibitions by Egyptian and international artists.

And for music lovers, the Music Library is a treasure — it holds rare manuscripts, recordings, and audio archives that preserve Egypt’s musical heritage.

Families visiting the Cairo Opera House will love the  Egyptian Family Holiday packages.

Performances and Programs at the Cairo Opera House

The Cairo Opera House isn’t just a stage — it’s a full story of art and creativity. 

It brings together every form of expression, from opera, ballet, and classical symphonies to Arabic music nights and international festivals that connect cultures from all over the world.

Opera, Ballet, and Symphonic Concerts

The Opera House is home to its resident troupes like the Cairo Opera Company, the Cairo Opera Ballet Company, and the Cairo Symphony Orchestra — each one delivering world-class performances that keep the artistic spirit of Cairo alive.

It also hosts international troupes from Europe and Asia, presenting joint productions that always impress audiences and highlight Cairo’s place on the global art map.

Among the most unforgettable shows are Swan Lake, Aida, and Carmen, which left the audience mesmerized with their beauty and emotional power.

Arabic Music Nights and International Shows

The Opera House regularly organizes Arabic music nights, featuring some of the biggest names in Egyptian and Arab music. 

These evenings are full of warmth, nostalgia, and authentic vibes that bring the audience closer to their roots.

At the same time, the venue welcomes artists from all over the world — so you might find a performance that beautifully blends traditional Arabic melodies with modern Western sounds, creating a unique cultural harmony.

Complete your artistic journey with the   Grand Egyptian Museum Tour , just minutes from the Opera House.

Notable Festivals and Annual Events

One of the most anticipated events every year is the Arab Music Festival, one of the oldest and most respected festivals in the Middle East, featuring singers and musicians from across the Arab world.

Throughout the year, the Cairo Opera House also hosts theater performances, art exhibitions, and cultural festivals, keeping it at the center of Egypt’s artistic life.

In short, the Cairo Opera House isn’t just a venue for performances — it’s a complete cultural experience that immerses you in the beauty of art, music, and creativity.

Tickets and Schedule at the Cairo Opera House

If you’re looking to enjoy a classy artistic experience at the Cairo Opera House, getting tickets and attending shows is super easy — you just need a few quick tips to help you pick the right event and plan your visit.

How to Check What’s On

The easiest way to find current and upcoming performances is through the official Cairo Opera House website, where you’ll find a section called “Calendar” or “Monthly Schedule.” 

It’s updated regularly with all concerts, ballet shows, and cultural events.

You can also follow the Opera House on social media to get instant updates whenever new shows are announced — whether it’s a concert, ballet, or a major festival.

Booking Options and the Best Seats

You can book tickets in two main ways: 

• Directly from the official website or through trusted platforms like Viator and TripAdvisor, which let you reserve in advance, even if you’re outside Egypt.
• For the best experience, aim for seats in the front or center sections, or on the first balcony — the view and sound there are the best, so you can really enjoy the atmosphere.

Pricing Tiers and Discounts

Ticket prices vary depending on the type of show and where you sit — big opera and ballet performances usually cost more than smaller concerts or cultural events.

Sometimes, there are discounts for students or large groups, so it’s worth asking about them before booking.

Keep in mind that some foreign visitors reported facing issues when booking online, since the system may require an Egyptian phone number. If that happens, you can easily buy your ticket at the box office a day or two before the show.

Visitor Etiquette

If you’re coming by metro, find out the nearest station to the venue — there are usually signs or directions to guide you.

For taxis or ride-hailing apps like Uber, it’s a good idea to book a little in advance so you arrive on time. And if you’re driving, check in advance if there are parking areas nearby.

Dress Code and Arrival Time

If you’re planning to attend the show, try to dress neatly. The best choice is something semi-formal or smart — not too casual and not overly formal. 

Aim for an elegant, well-put-together look that suits the atmosphere of the place.

Also, make sure to arrive a bit early. That way, you’ll have time to find your seat comfortably, relax before the show begins, and enjoy the ambiance without rushing.

Photography and Device Policy

Before you start taking photos, check if photography is allowed. Some performances restrict flash or video recording to maintain the quality of the experience.

If you’re using your phone, switch it to silent or airplane mode to avoid disturbing others or interrupting special moments during the show.

Access and Getting There

The venue is designed to be comfortable and accessible for everyone. There are elevators, ramps for wheelchairs, and designated seating for those who need additional support. 
 This ensures that all visitors can enjoy the show comfortably and without any obstacles.

Metro, Taxi, and Parking Tips

If you’re coming by metro, find out the nearest station to the venue — there are usually signs or directions to guide you.

For taxis or ride-hailing apps like Uber, it’s a good idea to book a little in advance so you arrive on time. And if you’re driving, check in advance if there are parking areas nearby.

Accessibility Information

The venue is designed to be comfortable and accessible for everyone. There are elevators, ramps for wheelchairs, and designated seating for those who need additional support.

This ensures that all visitors can enjoy the show comfortably and without any obstacles.