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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.