Sharm El-Sheikh

شرم الشيخ

A world-renowned Red Sea resort at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, celebrated for pristine beaches and spectacular coral reefs. It's the premier destination for diving, snorkeling, and luxury beach resorts in the region.

Things to do

• Dive Ras Mohammed National Park — Explore Egypt's most famous dive site featuring steep coral walls, vibrant fish populations, and visibility up to 60 meters in this protected marine reserve south of Sharm.
• Snorkel at Coral Garden — Wade into shallow waters near the beach to encounter colorful coral formations and tropical fish without requiring certification or boat access.
• Visit Naama Bay — Stroll the main tourist promenade lined with restaurants, shops, and bars offering beachfront dining and water sports equipment rentals.
• Glass-bottom boat tour — Observe the underwater reef ecosystem from the comfort of a boat with a transparent hull, ideal for non-divers wanting to see marine life.
• Camel trek in desert — Ride camels into the Sinai desert interior for sunset views and Bedouin cultural experiences departing from town.
• Old Market (Souk) — Browse traditional Egyptian handicrafts, spices, textiles, and souvenirs in the atmospheric bazaar near the harbor area.

Food to try

• Grilled hammour — Fresh Red Sea grouper fish seasoned simply with garlic, lemon, and olive oil, grilled whole and served at waterfront restaurants throughout Sharm.
• Mezze platter — An assortment of Egyptian dips and starters including hummus, baba ghanoush, tabbouleh, and fresh pita bread typical of Mediterranean dining here.
• Seafood tagine — A slow-cooked Moroccan-style pot of mixed Red Sea fish, shrimp, or lobster with preserved lemons, olives, and aromatic spices.
• Koshari — Egypt's beloved street food layering rice, lentils, pasta, and chickpeas topped with tangy tomato sauce and crispy fried onions.
• Bedouin salt-baked fish — Whole fresh fish encased in salt crust and slow-roasted, a traditional desert preparation offered at some resort restaurants and beach camps.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress modestly at non-beach areas — While beach resorts are liberal, cover shoulders and knees when visiting the old market, mosques, or dining away from tourist zones to show respect.
• Learn basic Arabic greetings — Egyptians appreciate visitors who attempt 'As-salaam alaikum' (peace be upon you) and 'Shukran' (thank you), enhancing interactions with locals.
• Ramadan sensitivity — During the Islamic holy month, many local restaurants close during daylight hours and public behavior is more reserved; alcohol sales are restricted.
• Negotiate in the souk — Haggling over prices is expected custom in traditional markets; start at 50-60% of asking price and view it as friendly bargaining, not confrontation.