WARNING: Because of the threat of attacks by militants associated with the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, western governments (including US, UK and Australia) recommend against all travel to northern Sinai including Arish.
	(Information last updated 19 Mar 2020)

Arish or El Arīsh (Arabic: العريش, El ʿArīš ) is the largest city on the Sinai Peninsula, with about 165,000 inhabitants, as well as the capital of North Sinai Governorate. Lying on the Mediterranean coast of the peninsula, it is 344 km (214 mi) northeast of Cairo. The city is close to the borders with Gaza Strip and Israel.

Understand

A seaside city with potential for tourism, Arish has been an focal point of terrorist activity with several attacks having taken place in and near the city.

Get in

As of 2017, it is not possible to fly into Arish as 1 El Arish International Airport (AAC  ^IATA) remains closed due to a deteriorating security situation. Before the closure, the airport was used by Palestinian Airlines due to its proximity to the Gaza Strip.

It is possible to travel overland from Cairo and other cities in the Sinai Peninsula with both public transport and private vehicle. The border with Gaza is open as of late 2017, but there is always a risk of closure. The nearest border crossing with Israel open for tourists is in Taba, almost 200 km (120 mi) to the south.

Sleep

• 1 Swiss Inn Resort El Arish Hotel (تى كونر منتجع سويس إن العريش), ☏ +20 68 3351321. A seaside resort just outside the city. (updated Nov 2017)

Go next

• Port Said