Getting tickets to see the popular Egyptian football club Al Ahly play can be a challenge, especially for big matches. Al Ahly is one of the most successful and supported clubs in Africa, with a passionate fanbase of millions across Egypt and beyond. As the club plays at the giant Cairo International Stadium, tickets are highly sought after. However, with some preparation and persistence, it is possible for fans to get seats to watch the Red Devils in action.
When do tickets go on sale?
The first step is knowing when tickets will be available to purchase. For league matches in the Egyptian Premier League, tickets normally go on sale around one week before matchday. Tickets are sold from booths around the Cairo International Stadium and also online. For big cup games or derby matches against rivals like Zamalek, tickets will be on sale further in advance, usually around two weeks prior.
Keep checking the Al Ahly website and social media pages for announcements of when tickets will be released. Sign up for email alerts from the club for the fastest information on ticket sales. The club may announce a date after which tickets will be sold online and/or in person.
Where can I buy tickets?
There are a few options for where to purchase Al Ahly tickets when they go on sale:
- Online – Tickets can be purchased on Al Ahly’s official website or partner ticketing sites. Purchasing online is more convenient but can sell out fast.
- Stadium ticket booths – Tickets are sold from booths set up around Cairo International Stadium in the days leading up to a match. Expect long queues as thousands flock to get tickets.
- Authorized resellers – A limited number of tickets may be sold through a few authorized ticket agencies around Cairo.
The club announces ahead of ticket sales which of these options will be available. Your best chance of success is to try all legitimate channels when tickets become available to have the highest chance of securing seats.
Can I get tickets on matchday?
It is very difficult to get tickets on matchdays at the stadium. Almost all tickets are sold out through pre-sales online and at ticket booths. There may be a very limited number of tickets released on matchday at the stadium box office, but those sell out instantly to fans waiting in line.
Instead of hoping to get lucky on matchday, focus your efforts on obtaining tickets online or at ticket booths in advance when they are announced. This will save you the trouble of going to the stadium on matchday and finding no tickets available.
What’s the best way to get tickets?
Here are some tips to optimize your chances of getting the coveted Al Ahly tickets when they go on sale:
- Be ready online – Have all your payment and personal details ready on the ticketing website ahead of time. This will make for a smooth purchasing process.
- Use multiple devices – Try to buy tickets concurrently on your phone, computer, tablet, etc. The more devices you try with, the better chance you have of getting through.
- Get in line early – If buying in person, get to the ticket booths extremely early, ideally the night before sales open. Being at the front improves your odds.
- Buy maximum allowed – When purchasing online or at booths, buy the maximum number of tickets permitted per person to avoid going home empty-handed.
- Try fan forums – Some fans resell extra tickets at face value on fan forums and groups when plans change. This is a good option closer to matchday.
How much do tickets cost?
Al Ahly ticket prices vary depending on the section and match. Here are average ticket prices:
Section | Average Price |
---|---|
First Class | 200-400 EGP |
Premium Stands | 100-200 EGP |
Sideline Stands | 50-100 EGP |
End Stands | 20-50 EGP |
These are just rough estimates, with derbies and cup matches against rivals usually the most expensive. Expect to pay premium prices for high-demand matches.
Are there any restrictions?
Al Ahly has some restrictions in place on who can purchase tickets. This helps maintain security and prevent overcrowding:
- ID required – Fans must show valid photo ID when purchasing tickets in person and also to enter the stadium on matchday.
- No away fans – Tickets are not sold to fans of the away side to prevent clashes between rival supporter groups.
- Age requirements – Children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21+ to enter the stadium.
- No-fly list – Some fans may be prohibited from purchasing tickets if they have a past record of violence, pitch invasions, etc.
Make sure you meet all requirements before trying to buy Al Ahly tickets or you may be denied at the time of purchase or entry.
Can I get tickets as a foreigner?
Foreign fans of Al Ahly are certainly able to purchase tickets to matches. However, the following tips will help make the process smoother:
- Team up with a local – Having an Egyptian friend or contact buy the tickets for you can avoid hassles
- Bring your passport – When buying tickets and entering the stadium, make sure to bring your passport as a form of ID
- Arrive early – Give yourself extra time to get through security checks as a foreigner when entering the stadium
- Sit in the first class or premium sections – Opt for more expensive seating areas to avoid overcrowded general admission sections of rowdier local fans
While language or cultural barriers exist, they can be overcome with common sense and patience as a foreigner attending an Al Ahly match.
Conclusion
Getting tickets to see Egyptian giants Al Ahly play is no easy feat, but can certainly be achieved with preparation and persistence. Know when tickets are going on sale, use every method possible to buy them, and meet all requirements set by the club. Securing a seat at the massive Cairo International Stadium to cheer on the Red Devils alongside 60,000 passionate fans is an experience like no other for football lovers.