Sharm El-Sheikh

شرم الشيخ

A world-class Red Sea resort city known for its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and luxury accommodations. It's the premier destination for diving, snorkeling, and water sports in the region with excellent infrastructure and nightlife.

Things to do

• Red Sea Diving — Explore world-renowned coral gardens and shipwrecks in the pristine Red Sea, with dive sites like the Thistlegorm wreck and colorful reefs accessible from the shore or by boat.
• Ras Muhammad National Park — Visit the protected marine reserve at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula featuring dramatic coastal cliffs, diverse marine life, and stunning snorkeling opportunities.
• Old Market (Souk) — Wander through the traditional bazaar in downtown Sharm El-Sheikh to browse spices, handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs while experiencing local merchant culture.
• Naama Bay Beach — Relax on the main sandy beach strip lined with resort hotels, water sports vendors, and beach clubs offering jet skiing, parasailing, and sunset views.
• Sharm El-Sheikh Aquarium — Tour the compact aquarium displaying Red Sea fish species, sea turtles, and coral specimens with educational exhibits about local marine ecosystems.
• Sinai Heritage Museum — Discover exhibits on Bedouin culture, local archaeology, and the history of the Sinai Peninsula through artifacts and traditional craft displays.
• Colorful Reef Snorkeling — Snorkel in the shallow turquoise waters near the beach to see vibrant coral formations and tropical fish without requiring a diving certification.

Food to try

• Grilled Sea Bream (Dorado Mashwi) — Fresh-caught red sea bream seasoned with lemon, garlic, and herbs then grilled whole, a signature local preparation found at beachfront fish restaurants.
• Shrimp Saganaki — Large Mediterranean shrimp cooked with tomatoes, feta cheese, and olives in a clay pot, reflecting the fresh seafood abundance of the Red Sea coast.
• Mezze Platter — A spread of small dishes including hummus, baba ganoush, tabbouleh, falafel, and fresh bread served as appetizers at most local restaurants.
• Egyptian Koshari — A layered street food combining rice, lentils, pasta, and chickpeas topped with spiced tomato sauce and crispy onions, popular casual dining throughout the city.
• Fresh Fish with Za'atar — Locally caught fish fileted and seasoned with za'atar (thyme-based spice blend) then baked or grilled, highlighting Levantine flavors in Sinai cuisine.

Local customs & good to know

• Modest Dress in Public Areas — While beachwear is acceptable at resorts, wear modest clothing (covered shoulders and knees) when visiting the Old Market, mosques, or dining away from tourist zones to show respect.
• Friday is the Holy Day — Many local shops and restaurants may have adjusted hours on Friday (the Islamic holy day), so plan activities accordingly and expect larger crowds at popular spots after midday prayers.
• Haggling in Markets — Negotiating prices is expected practice in the souk and with street vendors; polite back-and-forth over cost is part of the cultural interaction, not considered rude.
• Tea and Hospitality — Accept offered mint tea or coffee at shops and restaurants as a gesture of welcome; declining may be seen as impolite, and the beverages are complimentary.