Travel time: Year-round
Sharm El Sheikh occupies a unique geographical position at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula. Nestled between the arid Sinai mountains and the deep waters of the Red Sea, the region enjoys a hyper-arid desert climate characterized by year-round sunshine and virtually no rainfall.
Rain is a rare event in Sharm El Sheikh, with annual precipitation rarely exceeding 5mm. The most common atmospheric feature is the prevailing northwesterly wind, which originates over the Mediterranean and travels across the Sinai desert. This breeze is a local lifeline, providing essential cooling during the intense summer months and maintaining the crystal-clear water visibility for which the Red Sea is world-famous.
Summers are characterized by extreme heat, with daytime highs frequently reaching 38°C to 40°C (100°F+). Despite the high air temperatures, the low humidity prevents the air from feeling "heavy." The sea temperature peaks at around 28°C to 29°C, making the water feel like a warm bath. This is the peak season for serious divers who seek the warmest water for long underwater excursions.
September remains hot, but by October, the climate settles into a "perfect" range (approx. 27°C to 31°C). The sea retains its summer warmth well into November, even as the air begins to cool. This is widely considered the best season for a balance of comfortable air and warm water.
Sharm El Sheikh is a premier winter escape. Highs average a comfortable 21°C to 24°C, though nights can feel quite chilly as they drop to 13°C. The water temperature dips to its annual low of 21°C or 22°C in February. While still swimable for many, the "feel" of the water can be bracing, especially when exiting into a winter breeze.
Spring brings a rapid return of heat. However, this season is also marked by the Khamsin, a hot, dry sandstorm wind that can emerge from the desert for several days at a time. During a Khamsin event, visibility drops, the sky takes on an orange hue, and temperatures can spike 10°C above the seasonal average within hours.
The Sinai mountains play a critical role in local weather. They act as a barrier to some northerly winds, creating sheltered pockets in bays like Naama Bay and Sharks Bay. Conversely, areas near Nabq are much more exposed to the open sea and experience significantly higher wind speeds, which makes them cooler but often results in rougher water conditions.
While rain is rare, historical records show that the region is prone to flash floods. When rain does fall—usually in the mountains during the winter—it can travel down dry desert valleys (wadis) with incredible speed and force, reaching the coast as a torrent. Significant floods occurred in 1994 and 2010, leading to the construction of extensive drainage systems around the city.
Locals adapt to the heat by shifting the pace of life. During the height of summer, the city effectively "naps" in the mid-afternoon, with activity peaking after sunset when the desert air cools. You will notice that many buildings are designed with thick walls and small windows to naturally regulate the interior temperature against the intense Sinai sun.