Hurghada, EgyptSmoking policy at Hurghada, Hurghada International Airport (HRG)
Hurghada International Airport (HRG) maintains a relatively smoker-friendly policy, offering several designated areas both before and after security checks, which is a welcome feature for many travelers. The airport's approach ensures that passengers have options to smoke without needing to exit the terminal and re-enter, which is often a significant inconvenience. This comprehensive provision makes HRG one of the more accommodating airports for smokers in the region, reflecting a commitment to passenger comfort. Before passing through security and passport control, passengers will find smoking facilities available. There are at least two smoking cabins located inside the terminal building, providing a convenient option for a quick smoke before proceeding to check-in or security. Additionally, for those who prefer an open-air environment, designated smoking areas are available outside the terminal buildings. These outdoor zones are ideal for passengers arriving at the airport or those who have just landed and are waiting for ground transportation. Recent updates from December 2023 confirm the presence and accessibility of these pre-security options, ensuring up-to-date information for travelers. Once past security and passport control, Hurghada Airport continues to cater to smokers with multiple options across its terminals. In Terminal 1, which primarily handles international flights by non-Egyptian airlines, travelers can find several smoking cabins. A notable feature is a large smoking lounge situated conveniently near the departure gates, as reported in November 2023, offering a more spacious environment. For arriving passengers in Terminal 1, a specific smoking cabin is located after passport control, down the stairs, and around the corner to the right, accessible while waiting for baggage. Terminal 2, serving Egyptian Airlines for both domestic and international flights, also provides ample smoking facilities. A substantial smoking area is located at Gate 15, positioned behind the duty-free shops, making it easily accessible for departing passengers. Furthermore, arriving passengers in Terminal 2 will find a smoking area on the left after passport control, again, while waiting for their luggage. These provisions indicate that Hurghada Airport is well-equipped for smokers, offering a variety of indoor and outdoor, pre- and post-security locations. Travelers should look for clear signage indicating "Smoking Lounge" or "Smoking Cabin" throughout the terminals. While the policy is accommodating, it's always advisable to use only the designated areas to avoid any potential issues, although no specific warnings about fines or penalties were mentioned in the provided content. Vaping policy is not explicitly stated, so it's generally safer to assume it falls under the same restrictions as traditional smoking.
