 Many charter airlines use the airport, as it is a popular tourist destination for those visiting the River Nile and the Valley of the Kings.In 2005 the airport was upgraded to accommodate up to 8 million passengers a year.Facilities for passengers include 48 check-in desks, 8 gates, 5 baggage claim belts, a post office, a bank, a Bureau de change, an auto exchange machine (CIB), restaurants, cafeterias, a VIP Lounge, a duty-free shop, a newsagent/tobacconist, a chemist shop, a gift shop, a travel agency, a tourist help desk, car rental, first aid, a baby/parent Room, disabled access/facilities and a business centre.