What should I know before visiting Sharm El Sheikh?

Direct answer

Sharm El Sheikh is a Red Sea resort on Egypt's Sinai Peninsula known for diving, beaches, and year-round sunshine. Before you go, understand entry rules, safety considerations, local customs, and transport options to ensure a smooth trip.

Visa / entry requirements

• Many nationalities can obtain an e-Visa for Egypt online or a visa on arrival; check the official Egyptian e-Visa portal well before travel.
• Some countries are eligible for visa-free entry for short stays; verify your nationality-specific rules with your embassy.
• Passport must be valid for at least six months from arrival; carry a printed e-visa or confirmation.
• Expect basic health screening and occasional document checks at ports/airports; have hotel booking info ready.

Best time to visit

• Peak season: October–April — cooler temperatures (20–28°C / 68–82°F), excellent diving and more comfortable daytime weather.
• Shoulder season: May and September — hotter but still popular; deals possible.
• Summer (June–August): very hot (often 35–40°C+ / 95–104°F) and humid; suitable if you plan pool/sea activities and don't mind heat.

Safety tips

• Sharm El Sheikh is generally safer than many other parts of Sinai due to heavy security and tourist infrastructure, but remain cautious.
• Follow local authorities' guidance; avoid travel into central/north Sinai where advisories often deter travel.
• Use hotel safes for valuables; keep photocopies of passport/visa separate.
• Take out travel insurance that covers diving and water sports.
• Be aware of sun exposure and heatstroke risk; hydrate and use sunscreen.

Local customs and etiquette

• Egypt is socially conservative. Dress modestly when away from beach/resort areas (shoulders and knees covered) to respect local norms.
• Public displays of affection are discouraged outside tourist zones.
• Use right hand for giving/receiving items when interacting locally.
• Tipping (baksheesh) is common: small tips for porters, housekeeping, drivers and guides are expected.

Currency and money

• Egyptian Pound (EGP) is the local currency.
• Cash is widely used for small purchases, tipping, and markets. Major hotels, restaurants and shops accept credit cards, but have some cash for taxis and small vendors.
• ATMs available in town and at airport; notify your bank of travel and check card fees.
• Exchange some currency at the airport or local exchange bureaus; compare rates and avoid street exchangers.

Transportation

• Sharm El Sheikh International Airport (SSH) serves many international flights; taxis and hotel transfers are common from the airport.
• Taxis: agree on price or insist on metered fares where available. Use official airport/blue taxis or arrange hotel transfer for peace of mind.
• Ride-hailing: apps may be limited; hotel staff can help arrange reputable drivers.
• Getting around: many visitors stay within Naama Bay or Hadaba; dolmus (shared minibuses) and local taxis connect nearby districts.
• Day trips: boat trips to Ras Mohammed and Tiran Island are popular — book through reputable dive centers or tour operators.

Must-know tips and local insights

• Diving and snorkeling: world-class reefs. Choose dive operators with good safety records, check equipment and dive insurance.
• Coral protection: do not touch or stand on reefs; use reef-safe sunscreen where possible.
• Water: tap water is not recommended for drinking—use bottled water.
• Language: Arabic is official; English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
• Dress for the beach at resorts, but pack a light wrap or long clothing for visiting mosques or traditional neighborhoods.
• Shopping: haggle politely in markets (souks). For fixed-price malls and shops, bargaining isn’t expected.
• Electricity: 220V, European-style two-pin plugs are common; bring an adapter if needed.
• Health: bring basics like sunscreen, insect repellent, and any prescription meds; pharmacies are available but bring important meds with you.
• Cultural events: Friday is the Islamic holy day—some businesses may have reduced hours.

Final practical checklist

• Confirm visa/e-Visa and passport validity.
• Book airport transfer or note trusted taxi options.
• Arrange travel insurance covering diving and medical evacuation.
• Pack reef-safe sunscreen, sun protection, light modest clothing, and copies of important documents.
• Choose reputable dive/tour operators and stay informed of any travel advisories.

Enjoy the beaches, reefs and nightlife, and respect local customs for a pleasant visit to Sharm El Sheikh.