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Sharm el Sheikh

Sharm el sheikh tourist information and tourism, (sharm el sheikh, egypt), more sharm el sheikh information / fast facts and orientation.

  • Country: Egypt
  • Location: Sinai Peninsula (southern tip / Janub Sina)
  • Status: city
  • Population: approximately 35,000
  • Language: Arabic
  • Currency: Egyptian Pound (EGP)
  • Time zone: 2 hours ahead of GMT / UTC
  • Country dialing code: +20
  • Telephone area code: 069
  • Religion: mainly Muslim, small amount Coptic Christian
  • Average daily Sharm el Sheikh January temperature: 21°C / 70°F
  • Average daily Sharm el Sheikh July temperature: 36°C / 97°F

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Sharm el-Sheikh

sharm el sheikh tourist numbers

  • 1.1 Orientation
  • 2.1.1 Airport cafes
  • 2.1.2 Shops in the airport
  • 2.2 By boat
  • 2.3 By car or bus
  • 3.1 By taxi
  • 5.2 Horseback riding
  • 5.3 Quad bikes
  • 5.4 Para sailing
  • 5.5 Camel trekking
  • 7.2 Mid-range
  • 9.2 Mid-range
  • 9.3 Splurge
  • 10 Stay safe

Sharm el-Sheikh (Arabic شرم الشيخ) is a large resort at the south tip of the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt . The main reasons to visit are for scuba-diving and other water and beach activities, and to explore the Sinai desert. Often abbreviated to "Sharm", in Arabic it's pronounced Sharm i-Shaykh : the "Sha" is a sun-letter that absorbs the preceding "el-". It's the most developed and most cosmopolitan of the Sinai resorts.

Understand [ edit ]

Sharm el-Sheikh is at the south tip of a desert peninsula backed by rugged mountains, with no historic trade or pilgrim routes through it, and no mineral wealth. So it remained an insignificant fishing village until the 20th century, when it developed as a naval base to control the shipping lanes east up the Gulf of Aqaba to Jordan and west up the Gulf of Suez to the canal. But that made it a target for military attack. World War II attacks were against the shipping convoys rather than town, Thistlegorm sunk in 1941 being one notable nearby casualty. In 1956 Sinai was occupied by Israel during the Suez conflict, returning to Egyptian control in 1957. The area was again occupied in 1967, this time for 15 years, during which the Israelis developed Sharm as a tourist resort (and to some extent the other small towns along the Sinai coast). A peace deal led to their gradual withdrawal between 1979 and 1982.

By the 1980s Egypt was becoming a mass-tourist destination and Sharm continued to develop. President Hosni Mubarak (in office 1981-2011, died 2020) was very supportive of this; he raked in a dubious fortune from it but it meant that Sharm initially saw little of the turmoil of the "Arab Spring". However, in 2005, 88 were killed by a series of bombs across town, 2006 saw bombings in Dahab, and the long-running Sinai insurgency began in 2011. In 2015 an Airbus was downed shortly after take-off from Sharm, killing all 224 aboard. This plus attacks elsewhere across Egypt utterly blighted tourist visits, as they were intended to do. Better security and a lull in attacks led to resumption of tourist flights in late 2019, and the city was just beginning to recover when in 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic again shut down trade.

The climate is very dry, with sometimes no rain all year. Summer days are blisteringly hot and the nights are warm to hot. In winter, the days are shirt-sleeve warm but the nights and the sea are cold: there's often a shimal , a cold wind blowing from the north.

Orientation [ edit ]

The Na'ama Bay part of the city is the center of nightlife and dining: most of Sharm's clubs, cafes, restaurants and shops are here. Na'ama Bay lies midway between Sharm Airport and Old City, nearly 10 minutes driving from each.

Microbuses can take you from downtown, but to reach Na’ama Bay from the airport, you will have to take a cab.

Sharm el Sheikh has grown into three distinct areas now, Nabq is a new area to the north of Na'ama, Old Market and Hadaba to the south of Na'amaa Bay.

Get in [ edit ]

See Sinai for information on the Sinai visit pass, which allows visa-free travel for up to 14 days.

By plane [ edit ]

You will need a visa only if you plan to go out of the Sharm area (such as Ras Mohammed bus or boat, Cairo, St Catherine's). It can be bought on arrival (price seems to vary day to day, make sure you have £25, US$25, or €25 handy.

For departures: timetable shows only nearest 1-2 hours, makes you watch over the row of check-in desks for your flight number.

Airport cafes [ edit ]

Cafes after security check are: Sbarro (overcrowded), Cafe Europa (on the back of the lounge, less crowded): sandwiches, coffee, Egyptian sweets; an outlet of the Caffè Ritazza international chain (also in Athens, Budapest, Madrid, Milan, London, Paris, New York, Stockholm, Zurich, Vienna) is coming soon.

Shops in the airport [ edit ]

After security check: Patisserie offers lukum, halva and other Egyptian sweets.

By boat [ edit ]

Ferry services between Hurghada on the mainland Red Sea Coast and Sharm were suspended in 2018. The high-speed catamarans used to be run by La Pespes [formerly dead link] .

27.857528 34.280205 2 Sharm El Sheikh Marine Port is along the southern entry road, about 1 km southeast of the old market.

By car or bus [ edit ]

Sharm el-Sheikh can be reached by driving down the eastern coast from Eilat ( Israel ) via Nuweiba and Dahab , or via the western coast from Cairo . There are daily buses for both routes. From Cairo, East Delta buses take approximately 8 hr (LE80) while Superjet buses take 6 hr. When taking the bus from Cairo, keep your bus ticket and passport handy, as you will pass through a number of checkpoints, which require passengers to present identification and ticket. The drive is interesting with beautiful scenery, throughout the route.

27.899099 34.287501 3 Sharm el-Sheikh bus station is about a kilometer from Peace Road. If you should arrive during the evening hours your only option may be to take a taxi, as micro-bus service can be spotty. Since Sharm is a tourist-driven economy, you should be prepared to do some bargaining. If you are of the hiking type, it is roughly 20 minutes' walk to the main road. Just ask anyone to point you in the direction of Peace Road. Once at Peace Road you should have no problem hailing down a micro-bus.

When heading to the bus station via micro-bus along Peace Road, tell the driver that you are going to the bus station, and want to be left off at the gas station. This may take some work, given the limited English skills of the drivers. Once at the gas station, you should see micro-buses, which will take you on the final leg. Remember, transfers are not issued, you must pay another fee for the final leg.

About micro-bus fees If your journey is within a kilometer or two, the cost should be about (LE3-5). If your stop is further out, or if you are traveling during the late night hours, be prepared to get a demand for more money, in some cases drivers may demand up to (LE10-20). Demands for higher fees can also take place, if the driver feels he you have money! So, be prepared to negotiate. If the driver's fee is unreasonable, get out — this will often bring down the cost. When arriving, ask a local how much the bus costs before hailing one down. The information provided will give you a base-line price, from which you can bargain with.

Get around [ edit ]

Map

By taxi [ edit ]

In Sharm the taxis are generally modern models, either Hyundai or Chevrolet. Don't bother with the meter in the taxi: it probably does not work anymore. They soon break due to the dust, and would work out more than the "fixed" prices anyway. Always note the driver's ID number. The tourist police are very helpful if you have a problem, or quickly realise you left something inside, but only with the taxi number.

Don't assume they have meters. Locals tell you they don't. Make sure you have transportation waiting for you as Sharm el Sheikh airport is the worst part of Egypt for getting a reasonably priced taxi. They will ask for LE150-400 for the 10-minute ride to Nabq. It is easy to make it to the main road, hail a cab and pay LE50-100. Otherwise you will walk away from the experience feeling violated.Check with your hotel if they have a pick-up service.

Check sure you have small notes to pay the fare and never pay before you reach your destination, making sure you only pay the pre-arranged price. Make sure that the driver knows that you are paying in Egyptian pounds and not British pounds. Taxis do not like to take coins.

By bus [ edit ]

There are also a fleet of blue and white tuk-tuks, which are basically small buses, of varying roadworthiness, which are used to ferry the locals around the resort of Sharm el Sheikh. These are a most economical method of transport compared to taxis, which are comparatively expensive. They run on a fixed route from north to south with a diversion to the expat/locals area of Hadaba. To hail a tuk-tuk, wait next to the side of the main street and raise your hand to flag one down as it approaches. When you take the bus, go inside and find a seat and simply pass your money forward to the driver (with the help of other passengers if you sit in the back). The fare should never be more than LE3. If you start asking for the price the driver may very well try to make you pay much more than needed. Do not try to pay in foreign currency. When you arrive at your destination call 'hinna quiis' (here is good). The main tourist center, Naama Bay, is known as Marina (and there is no marina!).

Make sure you have a stash of small coins and notes to pay your fare.

See [ edit ]

sharm el sheikh tourist numbers

Sightseeing and excursions in/from Sharm El Sheikh

  • Sharm Old Town Hail a taxi or local bus to take you to the Sharm Old Town, ask the driver for the old market. This is a much different experience for tourists staying in the Na'ama Bay area. Most of Sharm was built after the Israeli invasion, so don't expect a Morrocan-style 'souk' experience! Ignoring the touts outside each shop make a better experience, unless you are serious about buying. Stay strong in you determination of what to pay.
  • Na'ama Bay is the tourist center of Sharm el-Sheikh, an unusual sight and a bit exotic for a westerner are huge fans pumping fresh air and water to street cafes and terraces near hotels. Na’ama Bay is basically a formation of a large number of hotels and spas, sharing the same beach line.
  • 27.88798 34.295383 3 El-Samaeyeen Cathedral . A Coptic church beautifully decorated with frescoes depicting bible verses. Most often, there will be a guide that can offer a tour. ( updated Jan 2017 )
  • A visit to the desert is highly recommended. Various trips to the Bedouins, the beautiful Colored Canyon, White Canyon, quad bike and buggy safari tours.

The more adventurous should try to find a private guide, who takes them for a few days into the mountain desert with a camel. You will walk through hidden valleys, rest at secret oasis and during the night you sleep under a breathtaking firmament.

  • Boat and snorkeling trips to the beautiful snorkeling sites in Ras Mohammed National Park and Tiran Island. For non-swimmers, the submarine or glass-bottom boat is an ideal alternative to discover the underwater world of the Red Sea.
  • Cultural excursions in Sinai like Saint Catherine's Monastery and Mount Sinai, where, according to tradition, the God spoke to the prophet Moses. Excursions from Sharm el-Sheikh to Cairo, where the famous three pyramids, the Sphinx and the Egyptian National Museum, or to Luxor, the famous capital of ancient Egypt. Other sightseeing excursions include those to neighboring countries to visit sites such as Petra or Jerusalem.
  • Day visit to Dahab Lovely relaxing trip - a totally different vibe to Sharm. One hour away through a mountainous road, best not attempted at night. Taxis should be LE150 each way or LE20 each way from the bus station then a Dahab 'taxi' (pick-up) for LE5-10 into town. Take the number of your driver if you want to leave at a different time. The bridge is in the centre of town with a promenade in each direction.
  • Enjoy the sight and sound experience and the live show at Alf Lela w Lela (A Thousand and One Nights) everyday. the live show is amazing, with different shows featuring other belly dancers. Also some Egyptians weddings, tanourra dance and shows. A bit down at heel but worth a look around.
  • Short trips to Aqua Park , the largest water park in Sharm el-Sheikh, Dolphinella where dolphin shows and dolphin swim takes place and crocodile show.

Do [ edit ]

Diving [ edit ].

sharm el sheikh tourist numbers

Diving is the main activity in Sharm el-Sheikh. When you dive into the warm water of the Red Sea and leave the remote desert behind, you will enter a world full of life and colours. Divers, especially photographers, should be confident with their buoyancy to avoid damaging the fragile coral reef system. Some hotels in Na'ama Bay have cleared the coral reef from their section of beach for tourists to use the water.

  • The reefs of Tiran and Ras Mohammed are known as two of the best diving spots in the world. They can be reached by boat from Sharm within two hours. Ras Mohammed is the southern most point of the Sinai peninsula. There, the current of the Gulf of Aqaba meets the Gulf of Suez. Due to the increase of plankton in the water the amount of fish is incredible. Huge schools of barracudas, sharks and murrays can be seen there every day.
  • The wreck of the SS Thistlegorm is generally regarded as one of the finest wreck dives in the world. However, it can also become very crowded with divers and definitely is an advanced dive due to strong currents and part of the dive is usually in an overhead environment.
  • Smarter divers book a diving safari . This way you avoid the crowds at the popular spots and have the possibility to dive beautiful reefs way beyond the reach of any daytripping boats. The overall costs of a diving safari does not exceed daily diving and it saves you a lot of stress. Check out your chosen boat online and make sure the photos are current!

Operators include

  • Oonas Dive Center . A small, friendly dive centre at the quieter end of Na'ama Bay offering daily diving and all PADI courses - discounts for internet bookings.  
  • Sinai Divers Naama Bay .  
  • Camel Dive Club .  
  • Colona Divers .  
  • Emperor Divers .  
  • Enigma Charters .  
  • Ocean College .  
  • RedSea Diving College .  
  • Diving Ocean .  
  • Ultimate Diving Holidays .  
  • Sharks Bay Umbi Diving Village .  
  • Dolphin Diving Center .  
  • Divers International , Sofitel Hotel ( North end of Na'ama Bay ), ☏ +20 106770462 . 9AM-6PM . PADI five star diving centres offering daily diving trips, PADI courses, and liveaboard safaris.  

Horseback riding [ edit ]

  • Stables at Sofitel Hotel . Helpful personnel. Require helmets (provided); several pairs of riding boots available. After the ride, offer you to give showers to your horse. Bambi and Kelly are declared as the fastest horses. Too far from the desert: in a 2-hour route, only 40 minutes is actual ride in desert, the remaining time is spent to get there and to return back. For 2 hours, it is better to choose stables at the edge of desert. €45 (2 hr) . ( updated Dec 2018 )

Quad bikes [ edit ]

There are dozens of operators who seem to use just the same route, length and sequence of stops: when you drive, you meet many groups who follow just the same route as yours. There are several really shaky pieces of the route, very much like a washboard.

Wear a long-sleeved shirt; shoes are safer than sandals. Always wear a helmet and make sure your travel insurance covers this activity. Expect all your wear (and skin) to be covered with gray dust.

2 hours of riding is just enough for a non-professional rider; expect several stops along the way. It's ideal to start your ride at 16:00 or later--to catch a sunset and ride back when air is not that hot.

At departure point, choose a bike in the beginning of the motorcade: being one of the first allows to drive faster, and results in less dust.

  • Tiba Safari/Tiba Trip . Sold by many agencies. Groups are 10-15 bikes; two persons per bike is allowed (although bikes were designed for a single person). Tasting Berber tea is very risky for your stomach--proven several times. Group is accompanied by a car with camcorder--video is not worth buying, and the car generates much extra dust (you can't do much about it unless your whole group ask in advance to not make video at all). US$20 single person per bike for 2 hr; $25 for two people sharing the same bike for 2 hr . ( updated Dec 2018 )

Make sure you stay on the path and follow your guide, as Egypt has one quarter of the world's landmines buried in its deserts, some of them surprisingly close to Sharm el-Sheikh.

Para sailing [ edit ]

Para sailing is very enjoyable. But, for a ride that is less than 5 minutes, they charge LE260 for 2 persons and LE220 for one person.

Camel trekking [ edit ]

The best place to do this is in the Sinai desert on a tour on camels. After this you can look up at the desert stars at midnight after having a homemade meal cooked by the Sinai people.

Buy [ edit ]

Water in shops cost around LE3-5. Bring your sunscreen, because they cost LE80-200 anywhere in town, if you are without tan, shopkeeper will sell you one at very bad price - welcome to Egypt.

Na'ama Bay has very forceful sellers and caution should taken by the naive tourist who accepts a "free gift" (nothing in Egypt is free) or falls for the "come and sign my guest book" in a shop, only to be locked in. When shopping, it is best not to speak to any sellers who engage you unless you are sure that you are going to buy something. This allows you some degree of hassle-free walking (as they do not know what language you speak).

Opening hours are variable, but most shops are open in the early to late afternoon and in the evening. If you are looking for a reprieve from the hassle and haggling, there's a Carrefour Express supermarket with fixed prices. Coming from the bay, it's hidden behind one of the Malls, at Golden Pyramid Mall – on Peace Road. The selection is limited, but all the staples are available without hassle. You just have to make it through the crowds of vendor touts to get there.

  • Carrefour Express , Marina, one street west of 'main disco street' ( one street off from the main shopping/nagging street in Marina part ). One of the classic European shops with price tags, option to pay with credit card without disadvantages, exchange machine and ATM inside. They do have a lot of local spices and even some souvenir items, like small papyrus just for LE2.  

Eat [ edit ]

If you need a break from resort food try one of the local places below. If you're looking for a taste of home, Il Mercato houses a McDonald's, KFC, Pizza Hut, Costa and a Starbucks. Manchow Wok has nice Chinese food and is opposite Stella, the only place to drink in El Mercato.

Na'ama Bay is amusing, especially at night, where lights of Bedouin-style and modern restaurants, café shops, and other 'bazaars' are glittering. Pork is not sold, even when it is advertised on a menu (it is actually a salted beef). A 10-15% service charge will be added to any bill.

Budget [ edit ]

  • El Masrien , Old Market ( next to the market exit ), ☏ +20 69 366 2904 . 12:00-04:00 . Offering Egyptian barbeque cuisine including Kabab, Kofta, Reyash, Nefa, Tarab & liver, all types of oriental dishes including veal shank, stuffed pigeon & stuffed duck, all types of pasta & rice & different types of stuffed vegetables. Alcohol free. Enjoy all types of grills. Also worth is GAD a few more doors down, look for the big red sign. Both are full of locals.  

Mid-range [ edit ]

  • 27.862997 34.304786 1 Fares Seafood ( In Horus Mall ), ☏ +20 115 933 3735 . All kinds of seafood fresh from the Red Sea.  
  • Fawanes Cafe , Naama Bay . Lebanese cuisine. Good place for waterpipes; order a smaller one (Fawanes); apple one is ideal.  
  • Onions ( In Iberotel IL Mercato ). Fusion food, good services and reasonable prices.  
  • Safsafa , Naama Bay , ☏ +20 69 3660474 . Probably one of the best fish cafes in the town. A rare place where grilled calmaras are really good. However, the lobster included in the mixed seafood plate is dry.  
  • Tempo Cafe . Features some percentage of locals. Waiters are uniformed in distinctive orange-and-green. Waterpipe is good, but when served for several people (with many hoses), the menu price may be multiplied by number of people--ask in advance; maybe it's just a scam.  
  • Indian restaurants . There are 3 Indian restaurants in Sharm. One is Maharaja, on the beach pathway. Other two are India House Restaurants, of Thai Chain hotels. One is the old market and another one, opposite little Buddha, on the road near the taxi stand. Can get Indian menus.  

Drink [ edit ]

For nightlife, Na'ama Bay offers several clubs: The Pacha, Little Buddha and Hard Rock Cafe. (Yes, the latter is one of the chain.) There are countless bars and the pedestrian walkways offer many coffee houses where you may also enjoy a shisha along with some people watching.

Alcohol (including beer) is available in restaurants and street cafes. Travellers must be aware that taxes are now levied on alcoholic drinks that are purchased in cafes or bars that are not associated with the hotels. Drinks can be relatively expensive, compared to those in European destinations. Always ask to see a drinks menu before ordering a drink. Check in the Naama Bay cafes that you will not be charged 'entrance' and to watch the 'floor show' (bad dancing). Tea and coffee is around LE15-25, make sure you are paying sensible prices.

Fresh Guava juice is a must-try, excellent in any cafe, along with Bedouin or Mint tea.

  • Black House . Second famous venue after Pacha club. Presumably owned by Russians and avoided by everyone.  
  • Bus Stop , Nabq Bay . ( updated Dec 2018 )
  • Hard Rock Cafe , El Soultan Qabous St., Nabq . Daily 12:00-04:00 . ( updated Dec 2018 )
  • Little Buddha , Naama Bay Hotel , ☏ +20 69 350 1030 . Good music and cocktails. Not the cheapest place in town.  
  • Ministry of Sound Red Sea , Pacha/Sanafir hotel , ☏ +20 31624930603 . 23:00-03:45 .  
  • Pacha club , Sanafir hotel, Naama Bay , ☏ +20 69 360-0197-8 . One of the most famous dancing clubs.  
  • TGI Fridays , Naama Bay .  

Sleep [ edit ]

Most hotels in Sharm, particularly in the Na'ama Bay area cater for package tourists. There are mostly 3-6 star all-inclusive hotels and there are very few (if any) budget options. Generally it is best to knock a star off the official rating to avoid disappointment. Renting privately owned apartments is economical, but they vary in facilities.

Nabq or Montaza area it is quite a distance to the north (12 km) from Na'ama Bay and Old Market, so you either are tied to their all-included ration, or need to pay for taxi for every dinner in Na'ama (although taxi is inexpensive from most of hotels, or take the hotel courtesy bus). You do have Soho Square and the 'Mall Strip' of Nabq area of all inclusive Hotels.

For hotels in Na'ama Bay, their territory is frequently crossed by a pedestrian street, so the beach may appear across the street from the hotel building--obviously affecting privacy even when using a hotel's pool. The zebra crossings on the main roads are best ignored as the drivers have no idea what they are for! Check your choice out on Google maps to see if it is really near a beach as some are set back from the water some distance, although they do have shuttle buses (some of which incur local fees).

  • 27.863162 34.302676 1 Egyptian Youth Hostel Assosiation , Qesm Sharm Ash Sheikh , ☏ +20 693660317 . A government-run youth hostel. Very friendly English-speaking staff. Good location. It could use some remodeling. Foreigners: LE105 dorm, private room LE135 .  
  • Oonas Dive Club , Na'ama Bay , ☏ +20693600581 . Small, independent hotel on the beach at the quieter end of Na'ama Bay. With integrated restaurant and bar facilities, roof bar and on-site Dive Centre. Friendly staff and personal service.  
  • Savoy . Extremely spacious and modern rooms.  
  • Sierra . Very small territory for its number of visitors. Airport is very close, and planes fly over the hotel's territory.  
  • Sofitel . Large territory is isolated and private, but still within walking distance from Naama Bay--allowing pleasant promenades through a flower alley for a dinner in Naama. Moroccan-style interior and territory decoration; territory smothered in flowers. Very courteous staff--compared to many other resorts of this grade in Sharm. Built around late 1980s-early 1990s, as bathrooms equipment suggests; plastic chairs on most private terraces. Large swimming pool, tennis court (pay for electric light only?), gym, horse stables available. 3 private beaches, each with a private piece of a coral reef right near the beach. Breakfast is from 06:30-10:30; buffet is not refilled after 10:00. Good choice of traditional breakfast meals; custom-made omlettes and fried eggs; coffee is American only; cocoa is made of instant. Whole fruits are not served, but all components for fruit salad are. The Horizon Bar overlooks the sea; terraces next to the pool both serve dishes from the main restaurant where the breakfast is served. Caesar salad is fine; lentil soup is not spicy and pretty good (if you like lentil soup). Pizzas are quite rubbery. Cucumber soup cold and strange. There's also an Indian restaurant.  

Splurge [ edit ]

  • Domina Oasis Hotel & Resort ( near Sharm El Sheikh Golf Resort ).  
  • Grand Rotana Resort & Spa . About ten minutes from the airport.  
  • Hilton Sharm Dreams Resort , Nabq ( near Nabq Bay ). Guestrooms have balconies, air conditioning, and sofa beds. Rooms also include minibars and handheld showers. ( updated Dec 2018 )
  • Hilton Fayrouz Resort Sharm El Sheikh ( near Naama Bay Beach ).  
  • Hilton Sharks Bay Sharm El Sheikh ( near Sharks Bay ).  
  • Hyatt Regency Sharm El Sheikh , Gardens Bay, South Sinai , ☏ +20 69 360 1234 , [email protected] . 5-star resort-style hotel with 439 rooms and suites, a watersports centre and a spa.  
  • Noria Resort ( near Naama Bay Beach ). It has been built in traditional Roman style. It is not on the beach but has a free shuttle bus. They charge €3 per hour for wifi.  
  • 27.921352 34.367168 3 Sheraton Sharm Hotel, Resort, Villas & Spa ( near Sharm El Sheikh Golf Resort ), ☏ +20 69 3602070 .  

The super-luxury resorts:

  • 27.956592 34.392243 4 Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh , 1 Four Seasons Boulevard , ☏ +20 69 3603555 .  
  • Ritz Carlton . Spa, diving and snorkelling from the hotel.  
  • 28.021725 34.43764 5 The Cleopatra Luxury Resort Collection , ☏ +20 69 37 10 850 , fax : +20 69 37 10 851 . Spa, diving and snorkelling from the hotel. LE444 half-board .  
  • 27.981311 34.422725 6 [dead link] Jaz Belvedere Resort Hotel , El Montaza , ☏ +20 69 367 04 41 , [email protected] .  
  • 28.057524 34.435658 7 [dead link] Jaz Mirabel Beach ( Sharm El Sheikh Hotel ), Nabq Bay , ☏ +20 69 371 03 71 , [email protected] . Jaz Mirabel Beach offers stunning views of the Red Sea in a luxurious but relaxed family-friendly setting for the perfect Egypt holidays package. Jaz Mirabel Beach lies on the shores of a lagoon in Nabq Bay, a ten-minute drive from Sharm El-Sheikh International Airport.  

Stay safe [ edit ]

As of 2023, Sharm El-Sheikh is generally considered the safest place to be in the Sinai Peninsula. Police and the Egyptian Miliary have installed a wall around the city and there are military/police checkpoints even on the main streets. Each vehicle is checked before entering the city.

Mild food poisoning, the so-called traveler's diarrhea and stomach-ache is common among the European travelers. Tap water is not drinkable, but considered safe for tooth-brushing and showering. Always drink bottled water. Avoid food that is not cooked in front of you or likely have been stored for days without proper refrigeration. Cheese, salads, vegetables, yoghurts, mushrooms, fresh fruit juices are potentially not stored properly and therefore would cause diarrhea/stomach-ache.

There have been several fatal shark attacks, however, if you keep in mind the following, there is little-to-no-chance that you would be exposed to danger:

  • Always swim near the coastline and with more people.
  • Do not go swimming during the night, early in the morning or after sunset as the animals in the sea get more active during these times and the sharks may confuse you for another animal.
  • Do not go swimming near ports or places where the sea is unpredictable.

Go next [ edit ]

  • Dahab is a small and relaxing resort 90 km north of Sharm, with snorkelling, diving and other sports. The signature dive is the "Blue Hole".
  • Cairo and especially Giza has all the classical sights of ancient Egypt. Lots of day trips but it deserves several days to explore.
  • Hurghada , if the ferry from Sharm resumes, puts you on the road to fabulous Luxor .

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sharm el sheikh tourist numbers

Sharm el-Sheikh is a crucial part of Egypt’s economy – but it will bounce back from the Sinai crash

sharm el sheikh tourist numbers

Assistant Professor of Marketing, Warwick Business School, University of Warwick

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Magda receives funding from PEDL (Private Enterprise Development in Low-Income Countries) .

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Sharm el-Sheikh is a well-known holiday destination. On the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt, it is characterised by its year-round hot weather, long white sandy beaches, luxury hotels and warm blue sea. But with the recent tragedy of the Metrojet Flight 9268 crash, it is worth examining the importance of Sharm el-Sheikh’s position on the peninsula and within the Egyptian economy, as well as how it can recover from this terrible event.

The cause of the crash is still unconfirmed . The Egyptian-led international investigation team has announced that it is too soon to jump to conclusions amid high speculation that the crash was a result of a terrorist attack.

Security fears expressed by the international community as well as past events such as the 2011 revolution, which saw a dramatic decline in Sharm el-Sheikh’s popularity , have led to worries that the crash could have a severe impact on Egypt’s tourism. It has even spawned social media campaigns such as #COME_To_Egypt to try and improve the country’s image.

Tourism is one of the three most important pillars of the Egyptian economy, along with income from the Suez Canal and agriculture. In 2014 tourism’s total contribution to Egypt’s GDP was about 12.8% and the source of 11.6% of total employment.

Egypt’s tourism sector has a history of being resilient in face of dire situations. In 2005, a series of explosions targeted the heart of the city of Sharm El-Sheikh. A year later, a similar attack targeted the town of Dahab, another tourist destination about 92km from Sharm el-Sheikh. Both attacks targeted mainly Egyptians. However, the number of tourist arrivals in these years did not seem to suffer very much and increased steadily in following years, as the graph below shows.

sharm el sheikh tourist numbers

Chequered history

Sharm el-Sheikh developed from a small fishing town, inhabited by Bedouins, into a modern city – and conference hub – buzzing with tourists from all over world, and businessmen looking for investment opportunities. It was only in March this year that it hosted the Egypt Economic Development Conference , which aimed to restore investor trust in the Egyptian economy after recent turmoil.

But the Sinai peninsula has been the ground for a great deal of conflict since the 1950s. It was under Israeli occupancy for 12 years and returned to Egypt after its peace treaty with Israel in 1979. However, it was not until 1982 that Egypt gained full control over the peninsula after the last Israeli soldier withdrew.

The commercial development of Sharm el-Sheikh started when the Israeli government built a settlement in the area called Ofira during their 12-year occupation of Sinai. Unlike Yamit (another Israeli settlement in the northern part of Sinai, which was evacuated and bulldozed after its return to Egypt), Ofira was evacuated but not demolished, so that it could be populated by Egyptians.

Between 1982 and 2000, Sharm el-Sheikh grew rapidly from a town with only three resorts to one with 91. By 2011, it had 180 hotels . This has been a major factor behind the huge increase in conferences and tourism in the region.

Development was significantly driven by the controversial businessman Hussein Salem, known as the “Father of Sharm el-Sheikh”. He was one of the first investors in the area and made a fortune building hotels and luxury resorts there, although he has been criticised for not building a single project to serve the local community. Indeed, increased living costs made it difficult for the locals to live in the town, and public projects that were intended to benefit the community were granted to Hussein Salem.

sharm el sheikh tourist numbers

Salem fled Egypt after the 2011 revolution and has since faced trial for various corruption charges. Now the region needs fair investment opportunities for everyone and projects that include and benefit previously marginalised local communities. This will significantly benefit the tourism industry. Previous policies of favouring a small business elite prove to have been a major reason for destabilising the region, by forcing members of marginalised communities to join radical and militant groups.

Another result of the Egyptian revolution is the deteriorating security situation in northern Sinai. Although this is mainly confined to the cities of Arish and Rafah, near the border with Israel, it still harms the tourism industry. Significant efforts are being made to resolve this. Since President Mohamed Morsi was ousted in July 2013, the Egyptian army has launched several security operations in an attempt to gain control of the region.

Although the tourism sector is suffering an immediate blow, the beauty of Egypt’s tourist attractions and the government’s commitment to tackle the security situation in Egypt, should soon restore confidence in Sharm el-Sheikh as an attractive holiday destination. Let’s hope so; it is a crucial component of Egypt’s economy.

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Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt: The Ultimate Guide

Sharm El-Sheikh is one of Egypt’s most popular tourist destinations – with good reason – offering visitors a unique combination of relaxation, adventure, and luxury. Sharm is located on the Sinai Peninsula’s southern tip, renowned for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. The city has numerous ancient landmarks, including the 12th-century Monastery of Saint Catherine and the historic Old Town of Sharm El-Maya. 

Sharm is one of the best places to stay in Egypt if you are looking for a base from where you can easily explore the rest of Egypt. Whether you’re looking to explore Egypt’s rich history, enjoy the sun and sea, or relax in style, use this guide to plan your next Sharm El-Sheikh vacation.

Best Known For: Enjoying the Red Sea

sharm el sheikh red sea

Sharm El-Sheikh is world-renowned for its stunning coastline along the Red Sea. The warm waters of the Red Sea are home to a diverse range of marine life, including over a thousand species of fish and hundreds of coral varieties. This makes it a paradise for divers, who can explore the vibrant underwater world and see everything from tiny seahorses to massive whale sharks.

There are plenty of other ways to enjoy the Red Sea in Sharm El-Sheikh. Why not go snorkeling with our by take a glass-bottomed boat excursion, or relax on one of the many beaches, relishing the breathtaking vistas?

Sharm El-Sheikh: Essential Travel Information

Interactive map of sharm el-sheikh.

More Things to See in Sharm El-Sheikh

mount sinai sunrise camel

What else is there to do in Sharm El-Sheikh, you ask?

Mount Sinai: Visiting Mount Sinai is an unforgettable experience that should be at the top of any traveler’s list when exploring Sharm El-Sheikh. One of the most popular ways to experience Mount Sinai is by taking a sunrise tour. This guided excursion will have you hiking to the mountain’s summit in the early morning hours, arriving just in time to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the surrounding desert landscape.

Discover the Desert: The rugged desert expanse is just waiting to be explored. We offer an unforgettable two-day camel tour and desert camping experience departing from Sharm El-Sheikh – perfect for exploring the stunning desert landscape.

Saint Catherine Monastery : This ancient relic – dating back to the 6th century – will leave you amazed. Visit the UNESCO site that draws travelers and pilgrims alike.

Where to Stay

Sharm El-Sheikh is filled with luxurious resorts boasting private beaches and top-class amenities. When considering where to stay in Sharm El-Sheikh, there are many popular areas to consider.

Old Town: Sharm El-Maya, also known as the Old Town, is perfect for travelers who want to immerse themselves in the local culture and experience the traditional way of life in the city.

Na’ama Bay: Located just 3 miles up the coast from Sharm El Maya, Na’ama Bay is known for its beautiful beach. It boasts some of the city’s best hotels, nightlife venues, and restaurants.

Shark’s Bay: Shark’s Bay is known for its many resort hotels and beautiful beaches with views of Tiran Island. Perfect for a relaxing beach vacation with plenty of amenities and activities.

If you’re still feeling spoiled for choice, our Egypt package tours offer an unforgettable experience with expert local tour guides to renowned destinations and attractions, taking care of all the details for you.

Sheikh El-Sharm’s Restaurants & Markets

sharm el sheikh food market

Sharm El-Sheikh is a culinary paradise, offering many food options and vibrant markets. The Old Market is a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts, with its narrow alleyways filled with eclectic shops and bustling stalls. Here, you can immerse yourself in the riveting culture, rub shoulders with the locals, and explore a variety of traditional Egyptian goods and wares.

The market is a treasure trove for food lovers, with enticing aromas filling the air as vendors serve mouth-watering delicacies such as morish koftas, succulent kebabs, and fresh seafood. Sharm El-Sheikh’s diverse culinary scene offers street food to sit-down restaurants, satisfying every palate.

If you want to explore more of the delicious food in Sharm, consider booking one of our Egypt Food Tours .

Our Recommendation: Things to Book Ahead 

When traveling anywhere, there is always a list of things you should book beforehand. We recommend ensuring that your accommodation and your airport transportation are arranged before you arrive in Sharm.

Sharm El-Sheikh is a popular choice for travelers looking for a base to explore the rest of Egypt. One of our most popular tours, the Cairo and Highlights of Egypt 4-Day Tour departing from Sharm, books up quickly, so we always recommend booking this one in advance.  Our Tours Leaving from Sharm El-Sheikh are also highly recommended to check out. Additionally, this range of Package Tours is best for adventurous travelers who want to see the best of Egypt.

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North of Ras Muhammad, on a beautiful natural harbour much damaged by the ill-planned building of successive occupants, is the town of Sharm El Sheikh, international gateway to the region and the hub of a series of resorts that merge into one another – Ras Muhammad (see above), Na’ama Bay, Coral Bay, Shark’s Bay (a good family resort) and Ras Nasrani. Peace Road, running a little way inland, links all the bays together (taxis and minibuses ply the route).

The best travel tips for visiting Sharm El Sheikh

Best things to do in sharm el sheikh, best areas to stay in sharm el sheikh, best restaurants and bars, how to get around, when is the best time to visit sharm el sheikh, how many days do you need here, how to get here, tailor-made travel itineraries for egypt, created by local experts.

The Best of Egypt

8 days  / from 1999 USD

The Best of Egypt

Explore the history and culture of Egypt and its ancient rulers on this trip throughout the country. Start and end in Cairo and make your way down to Luxor, Aswan and Abu Simbel. Instead of domestic flights, you will hop on luxurious sleeper trains for your journey.

Cairo & a luxurious Dahabieh sailing cruise

13 days  / from 5499 USD

Cairo & a luxurious Dahabieh sailing cruise

Explore Egypt at a leisurely pace on board a dahabieh, a traditional sailing ship. In Cairo, visit the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, and in Giza, the pyramids; cruise to world-renowned sites alongside lesser-known treasures, such as Luxor’s tombs, el Kab and Gebel Silsileh’s Temple of Horemheb.

A Nile Cruise in Egypt

8 days  / from 2200 USD

A Nile Cruise in Egypt

Experience Cairo with the pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian museum before flying to Luxor to board your Nile cruise. Highlights include Karnak temple, Valley of Kings, Hatshepsut temple and an optional visit to Abu Simbel. Spend your last night in fascinating Cairo.

Five Star Egypt

8 days  / from 2900 USD

Five Star Egypt

A tour through the ancient wonders of Giza, Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan. Start and end your trip in beautiful Cairo, exploring the surroundings before heading down to Aswan: you will spend four nights on a luxurious Nile cruise ship, discovering ancient sites such as Abu Simbel.

An introduction to Egypt

7 days  / from 1999 USD

An introduction to Egypt

Marvel at the pyramids in Giza, explore busy Cairo, sleep on a luxurious sleeper train and explore more temples close to Luxor. This itinerary is fast-paced, with several nights in Cairo at the beginning and end, enabling you to see many fascinating sights in Egypt.

Old Sharm lies a little way inland, as authentic a piece of Egypt as you will see on this part of the Sinai coast, with small shops on backstreets and an unhurried atmosphere: it is well worth a visit.

Eight kilometres (5 miles) farther on, Na’ama Bay is the centre of Sinai’s tourist boom, with hotels, restaurants, camping grounds and diving shops. It is over-developed but it makes a good base for visiting local beaches.

Some of the best for diving and snorkelling are The Tower, Ras Umm Sid, Ras Nasrani and Nabq. Equipment can be rented at one of many diving centres, where boat trips to Gazirat Tiran, an island in the middle of the straits with superb corals, can also be arranged.

Shipwrecks dot the shoreline, testifying to the difficulty of navigation between the reefs.

Looking for inspiration for your trip? Talk to our Egyptian travel experts .

Egypt Sharm el Sheikh © Shutterstock

Sharm el Sheikh © Shutterstock

From great resorts and the lofty Mt Sinai to the Oasis of Feiran and charming Old Sharm, these are the best things to do in Sharm El Sheikh.

#1 Check out Al-Tur

Al-Tur, the capital and largest town in South Sinai, is reached after 75km (45 miles) of hot driving through a wide valley. Settled in ancient times because of its good water supply and excellent harbour, it was the chief quarantine station for pilgrims returning to Egypt from Mecca.

Modern Al-Tur, despite scattered palm groves and a beautiful beach, retains this way-station atmosphere. The town’s population is a broad ethnic mix, many of them descended from Berber and African immigrants.

#2 Discover Old Sharm

#3 go diving at na’ama bay.

Na’ama Bay is the centre of Sinai’s tourist boom, with hotels, restaurants, camping grounds and diving shops. It is over-developed but it makes a good base for visiting local beaches.

Some of the best for diving and snorkelling are The Tower, Ras Umm Sid, Ras Nasrani and Nabq. Equipment can be rented at one of many diving centres, where boat trips to Gazirat Tiran, an island in the middle of the straits with superb corals, can also be arranged. Shipwrecks dot the shoreline, testifying to the difficulty of navigation between the reefs.

Naama Bay in Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt © Shutterstock

Naama Bay in Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt © Shutterstock

#4 Find peace at the Oasis of Feiran

The Oasis of Feiran is the largest and most fertile patch of cultivation on the peninsula. Parched for most of the year, winter rains and melting snow send down short-lived torrents to water the valley. Peppered throughout the palm groves are clusters of Bedu huts.

The wadi may have been the site of the biblical battle between the Amalakites and the Israelites. Within the mountain are the scattered remains of monasteries, chapels and hermit cells of early Christian monks who believed this to be the Elim of the Bible. Tranquil and serene, it is difficult to imagine that Feiran was a cathedral city in the Middle Ages.

Today it is spread with the ruins of dozens of ancient churches, some dating back to the 4th century AD, and you can often visit the small operating convent here with permission.

#5 Seek solace at St Catherine’s Monastery

From Feiran the road climbs into an open plain and after 32km (20 miles) reaches the settlement of St Catherine. The St Catherine’s Monastery is in a wadi between Jebel Musa – most popular candidate for the site of the delivery of the Ten Commandments – and the Jebel al-Dayr just up the hill to the south.

The Roman emperor Justinian ordered the building of a fortress-monastery on the site in AD 537 in order to protect the Sinai passes against invasion. Originally dedicated to the Transfiguration of Christ, the church built within the fortress was renamed after St Catherine (a 4th-century Alexandrian martyred for her derision of Roman idol-worship), after her body miraculously appeared atop Sinai’s highest peak, apparently looking none the worse for wear.

This miracle, coupled with the Crusaders’ occupation of nearby Palestine, ensured the support of Christian rulers. The monastery’s fame spread, so that by the 14th century up to 400 monks lived there.

st-catherine-monastery-sinai-egypt-shutterstock_142326277

St. Catherine Monastery, Sinai© Shutterstock

#6 Climb Jebal Musa (Mt Sinai)

Just behind the monastery, a path leads ultimately to the summit of 2,285-metre (7,497ft) -high Jebel Musa, popularly known as Mount Sinai. There are two principal routes to the top and it takes about two-and-a-half hours each way.

The longer and less steep route, Siket El Bashait, can also be negotiated by camel (for hire in the village). The steeper, more direct route, Siket Sayidna Musa, is up the 3,750 “steps of penitence” – rough stone steps that were likely constructed in the 6th or 7th century. The climb is fairly easy, but coming down is trickier, and care should be taken.

The view from the top is magnificent, particularly at dawn or sunset. In fact, many visitors book tours that arrive at approximately 1am at the foot of the mountain in order to climb to the top to watch sunrise.

#7 Go kite-surfing in Dahab

Sediments washed down from the mountains have created a broad sandy plain hereat Dahab. An Israeli-built town on a sandy cove, it has hotels, restaurants, camping and diving facilities and a reputation as the “Ibiza of Egypt”.

It is world-renowned for its wind- and kite-surfing as reliable winds provide superb flat-water conditions inside Dahab’s sand spit. The scuba diving is also excellent thanks to coral reefs just offshore, and there are several dive schools.

Hurghada kitesurfing, Egypt © Pixabay

Kite-surfing in Dahab © Shutterstock

#8 Try snorkelling at Ras Muhammad National Park

Ras Muhammad is a coral peninsula thrusting its head into the Red Sea at the southernmost tip of the Sinai. It is a national park and one of the outstanding snorkelling and diving areas in the world.

At the Shark’s Observatory, a coral ridge falls over 80 metres (262ft) into the open sea and the wary diver or snorkeller can float along its edge (under 1 metre/3ft deep at high tide) and look out into an underwater paradise.

Most of the best accommodations in Sharm El Sheikh are lined along the coastline. Here are some of the best areas to stay in the resort.

From luxurious hotels and resorts to individual villas, beach houses, and budget apartments, Ras Um Sid caters to families, honeymooners, and groups alike. Right at the tip of the peninsula, this area offers stunning views of the Red Sea and the reefs, making it the perfect location to unwind and enjoy the tranquillity of the area.

As the bustling tourist hub of Sharm El Sheikh, Naama Bay offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. From budget hotels to high-end resorts, the bay has something for everyone.

Shark's Bay

With some of the best diving and snorkelling spots in Sharm El Sheikh. Shark’s Bay has a number of luxury hotels with great views over the Red Sea.

This charming historic area is more relaxed and traditional than the rest of Sharm El Sheikh and the hotels and guesthouses reflect that.

Browse the best hotels in Sharm El Sheikh.

Divers passing over soft coral. Ras Muhammad National Park, Red Sea -Sinai Penninsula © Shutterstock

Divers passing over soft coral. Ras Muhammad National Park, Red Sea -Sinai Penninsula © Shutterstock

Get out of your resort and you’ll find that Sharm El Sheikh is a food lover's paradise, offering a range of cuisines from traditional Egyptian street food to high-end fine dining options. Here’s where to eat.

Naama Bay is a bustling area that is home to numerous restaurants and cafes. Visitors can find a range of cuisines, including Italian, Indian, and Lebanese at Naama Bay. Most restaurants offer beautiful sea views, too.

The Old Market is a charming area and filled with street vendors selling traditional Egyptian street food. Visitors can sample authentic dishes such as shawarma, kofta, and falafel.

If you are looking for fine dining options, Soho Square is the perfect place for you. It is a trendy area that is home to many high-end restaurants, including Japanese, Italian, and French.

Sharm El-Sheikh is a popular tourist destination for exploring the Sinai Peninsula. Getting around this coastal city can be a bit overwhelming for first-time visitors, but with the right information and planning, it can be a breeze.

Taxis are readily available in Sharm El Sheikh and can be hailed on the street or arranged through your hotel. Always negotiate the fare before getting in the taxi. Bargain hard.

By microbus

Microbuses are an inexpensive way to shoot around Sharm El Sheikh. They run from the resort to Na’ama Bay early morning until late at night and are marked with the destination in Arabic. Flag down on the street.

It is possible to hire a car and private driver for smaller trips in and around Sharm El Sheikh, including tours.

Many hotels and rental shops offer bicycles for rent. Cycling is a great way to explore the resort, allowing riders to take in the sights at a leisurely pace.

Mount Sinai, Egypt © Anton Kozlovsky/Shutterstock

Mount Sinai, Egypt © Anton Kozlovsky/Shutterstock

The best time to visit Sharm El Sheikh is between October and April when the weather is mild and pleasant. During these months, temperatures range from around 20-30°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities like swimming, snorkelling, and diving.

Additionally, this period is the peak tourist season, so you can expect most activities and events to be happening during this time.

However, if you are looking for a cheaper time to visit, you can consider traveling during the shoulder season from May to September. During this time, the weather is hotter with temperatures often reaching above 35°C.

While it might be too hot for some activities, you can still enjoy the beautiful beaches and resort facilities. Additionally, prices for accommodations and flights are often cheaper during this period.

It's worth noting that during the months of November to March, the water temperatures in the Red Sea can be quite cool, so if you're planning on swimming or snorkelling, you may want to bring a wetsuit.

Find out more about the best time to visit Egypt .

Street market in Egypt. Old Market. Sharm el-Sheikh © Shutterstock

Street market in Egypt. Old Market. Sharm el-Sheikh © Shutterstock

The number of days to spend in Sharm El Sheikh depends on what you want to do and see.

If you just want to relax on the beach and enjoy the resort amenities, 3-4 days may be enough.

However, if you want to explore the surrounding area and go on excursions, you may want to stay for a week or more, especially if you wish to hike to the summit of Mt Sinai.

With its own international airport, it’s easy to fly into Sharm El-Sheikh but there are plenty of other ways to get here as well.

Sharm El-Sheikh International Airport is the nearest airport to the resort, around a 20-minute drive to the resort centre.

There are regular bus services from Cairo and other major cities in Egypt to Sharm El-Sheikh, including Alexandria, Dahab, Luxor and Nuweiba. Note that the bus station is around 7km northwest of the resort near the ring road.

If you are driving from Cairo, take the Suez Road and then the Sharm El-Sheikh Road until you reach the resort.

There is a high-speed ferry that links Sharm El-Sheikh and Hurghada which takes two-and-a-half-hours and runs twice weekly.

Find out the best ways to get to Egypt .

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17 Top-Rated Things to Do in Sharm el-Sheikh

Written by Jess Lee Updated Dec 24, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Sharm el-Sheikh is the Sinai Peninsula's major tourism center and one of the world's top diving destinations .

It was the underwater tourist attractions of the Red Sea –particularly the waters of the Ras Mohammed Marine Park just south of town–that put "Sharm" center stage on Sinai's tourism map in the first place, and for anyone planning an Egypt diving holiday, this is one of the best destinations in Egypt.

Sharm el-Sheikh

This is also one of Egypt's best destinations if you just want to chill out on the beach . Non-divers will find plenty of land-based things to do, as Sharm is day-tripping distance to many of the Sinai Peninsula's historic and natural sightseeing attractions.

It's a particular favorite for family-friendly holidays due to the excellent facilities on offer. You can find a good selection of resorts in Sharm el-Sheikh.

Whether you're here for the sand or the sea-life, Sharm el-Sheikh is a great choice for a beach break after exploring the temples and tombs in the rest of the country.

Plan your trip with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Sharm el-Sheikh.

See also: Where to Stay in Sharm el-Sheikh

1. Explore Ras Mohammed National Park

2. dive the thistlegorm wreck, 3. soak up the sun at naama bay, 4. dive the jolanda reef site, 5. snorkel off ras um sid beach, 6. day trip to saint catherine's monastery, 7. climb mt. sinai, 8. relax on the beach at shark's bay, 9. dive jackson reef, 10. snorkel or dive the blue hole, 11. day trip to dahab, 12. wreck dive the dunraven site, 13. shop at sharm old market, 14. snorkel or dive the gardens sites, 15. dive thomas reef, 16. scramble around the colored canyon, 17. discover the nature reserve of nabq protectorate, where to stay in sharm el-sheikh, map of things to do in sharm el-sheikh.

Ras Mohammed National Park

Ras Mohammed National Park is what put Sharm el-Sheikh on the tourist map.

Surrounded by some of the world's most incredible dive sites, this peninsula, 38 kilometers south of Sharm, is home to glorious beaches with excellent snorkeling just offshore, the world's second-most-northerly mangrove forest, and a saltwater lake.

While diving trips concentrate on the offshore reefs, land-based day trips to Ras Mohammed explore the peninsula's desert environment and its beaches with swim and snorkel stops along the way.

The best beaches are Old Quay Beach (with its top-notch coral reef easily reached from the shore) and Aqaba Beach.

Travelers seeking a good view should head to the Shark Observatory cliff-top , right on the southern edge of Ras Mohammed, where views stretch across both sides of the Red Sea.

Diving the wreck of the Thistlegorm

For many advanced divers, a trip to Sharm el-Sheikh means only one thing: diving the Thistlegorm.

One of the top wreck dives in the world and among the top places to visit in Egypt , this ship packed full of cargo to resupply British troops was sunk during World War II by German bombers.

Fish now flit through its rooms and cargo holds filled with jeeps, motorbikes, and armaments that never made it to the front.

The wreck is situated in the Straits of Gubal , off the western coast of the Sinai Peninsula, so diving trips are offered as overnight liveaboard tours.

These dive tours generally include at least two dives of the Thistlegorm wreck, plus dives at the Dunraven wreck (or one of Ras Mohammed's dive sites) along the way.

Many also include night dive opportunities at the Thistlegorm site.

Naama Bay

Fringed by a white-sand beach and swaying palm trees, Naama Bay is the epicenter of Sharm el-Sheikh's resort life.

There are plentiful restaurants, cafés, and souvenir stores if you get bored of the sand, but Naama Bay is really all about the beach.

A pedestrian-only promenade rims the entire beach area, backed by a cluster of luxury and mid-range resorts.

For those looking for a holiday full of sloth-like sunbathing, Naama Bay is one of Egypt's best beaches .

The entire beach area has excellent facilities, including ample sun-shades and loungers, and the beachside cafés mean you don't even have to move from your patch of sandy bliss all day.

Note that the entire sweep of beach here is sectioned into separate areas owned and run by the hotels, with complimentary access for resort guests.

When choosing your Naama Bay accommodation, especially if it's not beachfront, always check what beach access they provide.

Jolanda Reef

Jolanda Reef (also called Yolanda Reef ) is one of the most popular dive sites in the Ras Mohammed Marine Park area .

Dive trips here (accessed by boat from Sharm el-Sheikh) usually include Shark Reef as well, making this a two-for-one deal with a kaleidoscope of fish life and corals to be seen.

Jolanda Reef is home to the wreck of the Jolanda, an old Cypriot freighter ship that had been carrying a cargo of bathroom porcelain when it ran aground on the reef in 1980.

As well as the highlight of exploring the wreck site, the steep, rainbow-colored coral walls of Shark Reef that lead to the wreck, and Jolanda Reef's coral garden plateau, are prime sea life spotting destinations.

Scorpionfish, crocodilefish, turtles, moray eels, and barracuda are all regularly spotted by divers here.

Aerial view of the fabulous snorkeling off Ras Um Sid Beach

One of Sharm el-Sheikh's best snorkeling destinations is Ras Um Sid Beach, right at the southern tail of the town, near the lighthouse.

Here, people slouch on the beach, or at the café on the cliff above, between snorkeling trips into the water, where an excellent coral reef is just offshore and so easily accessed by non-divers.

Farther away from the sand, Ras Um Sid Reef is perfect for first-time forays into diving and is used as a try-dive site by many local dive operators.

If you're just here for the snorkeling, though, there is still plenty of variety of reef fish to see closer to the shore.

Address: Al-Fanar Street

Saint Catherine's Monastery

The Sinai Peninsula's top historical destination, St. Catherine's Monastery sits at the foot of Mt. Sinai, where Moses is said to have received the Ten Commandments.

One of the oldest working monasteries in the world, this Greek Orthodox hermitage is home to the famous "burning bush" of the Old Testament, which many of the Christian pilgrims who visit are specifically here to see. The bush is a rubus sanctus bramble that is native to the Sinai.

One of the highlights of a visit to Saint Catherine's Monastery is the museum, which showcases a selected collection of some of the monastery library's glittering cache of religious icons and ancient manuscripts. The library (not open to visitors) is renowned for containing one of the most important early Christian manuscript collections in the world.

The monastery is 209 kilometers northwest from Sharm el-Sheikh, within the Sinai's barren mountainous interior.

Group tours from Sharm are offered both as overnight trips, including the hike up Mt. Sinai for sunrise, and as early morning departures to just visit the monastery.

Mt. Sinai at sunrise

Inland from the sun-drenched beaches of the coast, the Sinai's rugged, mountainous heart is rawly beautiful.

For a taster of this craggy landscape, head 209 kilometers inland from Sharm el-Sheikh to hike up to the summit of Mt. Sinai to see an expanse of orange-hued peaks rippling out before you.

Revered by all three of the major monotheistic faiths as the place where Moses received the 10 Commandments, the summit hike is a pilgrimage for many people (and usually combined with a visit to St. Catherine's Monastery , which sits at the trailhead for the hike).

There are two main trails up to the top. The Camel Trail is a well-worn switchback path, while the Steps of Repentance is a more difficult, but much more scenic, set of stone-cut staircases that was carved out by one of the monastery's monks.

From Sharm el-Sheikh, most tours travel overnight to reach the trailhead in the wee hours of the morning so that the hike up the Camel Trail is completed in the cool, dark hours, and the summit is reached in time to watch sunrise over the surrounding peaks.

Shark's Bay

One of Sharm el-Sheikh's newer resort development areas, Shark's Bay sits 11 kilometers north from Naama Bay.

The vibe here is slightly more exclusive, with some of Sharm's most luxurious five-star resorts and hotels clustered around Shark Bay's sweep of sand.

As with Naama Bay, the beach areas are run by the individual hotels, which means facilities are well-kept and there are restaurants and cafés right on the sand. The snorkeling right off the shore, is also good here.

Behind the beach, the focus of Shark's Bay life is the Soho Square Center . This mall complex is home to some of Sharm el-Sheikh's top restaurant and café choices, as well as shops selling Egyptian craft work and other souvenirs.

In the evenings, Soho Square has a regular 'dancing fountain' display at its central fountain and plenty of various free family-friendly musical performances and entertainment . After dark the mall complex bustles with vacationers.

This means Shark's Bay resort guests often choose to not move from this northern section of Sharm for their entire vacation.

Jackson Reef

The Straits of Tiran , in the Red Sea's Gulf of Aqaba , are home to some of Sharm el-Sheikh's prime dive sites for experienced divers, and Jackson Reef is usually on most diver's lists to cross off on a Sharm vacation.

This is the most northerly reef in the Straits of Tiran group, and it's known for being one of the top spots in the area for hammerhead shark and manta ray sightings.

The reef is home to a plethora of soft and hard coral gardens, and advanced divers can also explore the wreck of the freighter Lara, which ran aground in 1981.

The Blue Hole

The Sinai's most notorious dive site is the Blue Hole, just north of Dahab and 100 kilometers north from Sharm el-Sheikh.

This sinkhole's infamy is due to the number of lives it has claimed, but all the deaths that have happened here are due to divers diving beyond the normal recreation diving limits.

Despite the site's reputation for danger, divers who stick within sensible limits are perfectly safe here, and the fish life and incredible vistas of ethereal blue below make this an incredibly beautiful dive.

As the Blue Hole can be accessed from the shore, it's also a popular snorkeling spot, with plenty of fish life to see flitting near the surface if you don't fancy heading into the depths.

Dahab

Dahab, 90 kilometers north from Sharm el-Sheikh, is the Sinai's backpacker beach resort and a chilled-out alternative to the holiday package feel of Sharm el-Sheikh.

The rocky shoreline here is lined with open-air cafés and restaurants, while a little shopping district winds its way up to the main highway in a jumble of souvenir shops.

There is some excellent diving and snorkeling here, with nearly all the local dive sites accessed from the shore, and most people who choose to base themselves in Dahab are here for a dive-centric vacation.

Dahab's laid-back atmosphere, though, is also great for a day out from Sharm el-Sheikh.

Diving the wreck of the SS Dunraven

The SS Dunraven had been traveling from Mumbai (then Bombay) back to the UK, when it hit the reef and sunk just off the tip of the Sinai Peninsula in 1876.

Today, this 80-meter steam ship, torn in two pieces on the sea floor, is home to a rich variety of fish, which have made their home within the barnacle-encrusted hull.

Divers here regularly spot big schools of colorful reef fish with cardinalfish, goatfish, scorpionfish, and pipefish all patrolling the area.

The boat trip to the dive site takes two hours from Sharm eI-Sheikh, so the Dunraven is often combined as either a day trip with one of the dive sites in the Ras Mohammed Marine Park area or as a stop along the way on an overnight liveaboard trip to dive the Thistlegorm wreck.

Sharm Old Market

Sharm Old Market (also known as Sharm al-Maya) is the town's souq (bazaar) area, where twinkling Arabic lamps, traditional shisha pipes, and finely engraved woodwork can be found in abundance.

It's best to come at sunset or later, when the worst heat of the day has dissipated, and you can shop and browse in comfort.

Egyptian craftwork is cheaper here than you'll find in other Sharm el-Sheikh shopping destinations such as Soho Square and Naama Bay.

The area is full of inexpensive and cheerful restaurants and cafés as well, so it's a good place to visit for dinner and a stroll in the evening.

This is one of the best areas in Sharm el-Sheikh to seek out classic Egyptian cooking, as the restaurants of the resort areas focus on more international fare. Head here for traditional café life complete with shisha and Arabic coffee as well.

On the edge of the market area is the new Al-Sahaba Mosque with an imposing facade that cherry-picks influences from Fatimid, Mamluk, and Ottoman mosque styles.

Non-Muslims are welcome to visit the mosque outside of prayer times, though the exterior architecture is the true highlight rather than the interior. After dark, the mosque is lit up, which makes for dramatic photos.

Address: Sharm al-Maya Road

Gardens Reef

At the northern end of Naama Bay, the Gardens Reefs stretch out just offshore from the coast.

This reef system is actually three different snorkeling and diving sites called Near Garden, Middle Garden and Far Garden that can be accessed by both the shore and by boat.

If you just want to snorkel, Near Garden is the best (and easiest) site to access, and is home to some amazing coral pinnacles with plenty of flitting clownfish and butterfly fish in residence.

Far Garden and Middle Garden are often used as dive sites for beginners learning to dive, and provide an excellent taster of what the Sharm el-Sheikh area offers.

Thomas Reef

Thomas Reef is the smallest reef in the Straits of Tiran and is renowned for its abundance of soft coral gardens .

Dive trips here are usually part of a boat day trip including one of the other Straits of Tiran Reefs–most often the neighboring Gordon Reef.

Due to the site's strong currents, diving here is recommended for experienced divers. It's also a popular site with technical divers, as the deep "three arches" area can be explored by advanced divers.

Plenty of fish life, including clownfish, pufferfish, and giant moray eels, can be spied while drift-diving along the site, and the rainbow-colored soft and branching corals are among the most pristine and vivid in the Red Sea.

Coloured Canyon

The swirling mineral-rich layered rock formations of the aptly named Colored Canyon are one of the Sinai's top out-of-the-water natural attractions .

The canyon, 177 kilometers north from Sharm el-Sheikh, is a showcase of the natural beauty of the desert, carved out of by millennia of wind and water whittling away the rock.

There are plenty of opportunities for visitors to scramble along the canyon path, accessing the rose-pink striped interior of the rock face.

For nature lovers, this is one of Sharm el-Sheikh's top days out. Exploring the bizarrely-shaped pinnacles and boulders, which have been brushed with shimmering red and orange hues, offers up some fantastic photography opportunities.

Wear walking shoes with a decent tread if you want to visit, and bring along plenty of water.

Nabq Protectorate

Just to the north of Sharm el-Sheikh (around 20 kilometers from the central Naama Bay area), Nabq Protectorate is a coastal desert landscape of arid beauty and home to the world's most northerly mangrove forest .

The landscape here inside this nature reserve is a vista of sand dunes, lonely beaches, and arak bushes, and it's one of Egypt's most important protected wilderness sites, with a huge amount of birdlife, as well as endemic gazelles and ibexes.

For snorkelers, the beaches here offer pristine reefs easily accessed from the shore, while inland, this is also a good area for hiking and cycling trips.

Sharm el-Sheikh is very spread out. Naama Bay is the center, Sharm Al-Maya is to the south, and Shark's Bay is to the north. In general, Shark's Bay is home to the most exclusive resorts, Sharm Al-Maya and Hadaba (between Naama Bay and Sharm Al-Maya) do mid-range and budget resorts, and Naama Bay has a mix of all three.

Luxury Hotels:

  • In Garden Bay (between Naama Bay and Shark's Bay) the Park Regency Sharm El Sheikh Resort has rooms overlooking the lush gardens that lead down to the beach.
  • Farther along the coast, in Shark's Bay, the Four Seasons Resort Sharm el-Sheikh has plenty of Arabic styling in the rooms and a perfect strip of palm-tree-lined white sand.

Mid-Range Hotels:

  • Family-friendly Stella Di Mare Beach Hotel & Spa has palm-lined pools, multiple restaurants, and a fun animation team.
  • Movenpick Resort Sharm el Sheikh is perched on the cliff-top overlooking the bay, with plenty of private beachfront and one of the best restaurants in town.
  • Xperience Sea Breeze Resort in Shark's Bay has good-value rates, sea views, large pools, and themed dinners.

Budget Hotels:

  • The best budget hotels are in the Naama Bay area and are very diver-centric, operating as dive centers as well as accommodation. Oona's Dive Club Hotel is snug within the northern curve of the bay with beach access, a well-regarded dive center on-site, and neat rooms that all have balconies.
  • There are also a number of budget resorts in Naama Bay such as the Tropitel Naama Bay , which offers a large central pool area, good-sized rooms with balconies, and a small patch of beach.

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City Break: Many here for the sun and sea decide to skip the capital, but Egypt's big, bustling metropolis is the beating soul of the country. Dive into the chaos with our guide to Cairo . Be sure to allow time to explore the city, as well as the Pyramids of Giza .

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Sharm El Sheikh tourist numbers disappoint after lifting of European travel ban

The country has registered a huge boost in arabic tourists, with a 38 per cent jump in numbers in the first three months of 2017 compared with a year before..

Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt’s main tourist resort, is still only posting 35 per cent occupancy in its high season even after most European nations have lifted travel restrictions to the area. Chris McGrath / Getty Images

Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt’s main tourist resort, is still only posting 35 per cent occupancy in its high season even after most European nations have lifted travel restrictions to the area. Chris McGrath / Getty Images

Andrew Scott author image

Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt’s main tourist resort, is still only posting 35 per cent occupancy in its high season even after most European nations lifted the block on travel to the location, according to the chairman of the country’s tourism board.

While Russia and the United Kingdom, traditionally two of its main source markets, still do not fly to the resort after a bomb brought down a Russian plane flying from the resort killing everyone on board in 2015, Egypt’s other tourist centres such as Cairo, Luxor and Hurghada have experienced something of an uptick, recording occupancy levels between 50 and 60 per cent. The country has registered a huge boost in Arabic tourists visiting, with a 38 per cent jump in numbers in the first three months of 2017 compared with a year before.

Egypt is looking to promote a positive image after a number of attacks targeting churches there over the past six months, including this month in Alexandria. The government is looking to assuage the concerns of visitors and the country’s Coptic population by encouraging the building of churches where the demographic is suitable and pushing “spiritual” tourism.

“Egypt has learnt a lot since 2011 when it was talked about very negatively,” said Hisham El Demery, the chairman of the Egyptian Tourism Promotion Board. He said Egypt was a magnet for Arab tourists because of a common culture and history and after the devaluation in November 2016, when the Egyptian pound fell by 50 per cent.

“The whole world is now troubled with insecurity and Egypt has recently had a period of stability, which has shown itself in the increasing visitor numbers. We have seen huge numbers of Italians, Germans and Scandinavians visiting the country, obviously not in the numbers beforehand but we are slowly bringing them back.” Mr El Demery added that the country was also promoting itself to religious tourists in conjunction with Jordan.

Egypt currently has between 200,000 and 210,000 hotel rooms, which tourism chiefs believe is the right level. However it is adding 3,000 kilometres of road infrastructure, enhancing the site around the Pyramids and will be opening the biggest museum in the world in 2018.

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Sharm El-Sheikh

  • Wednesday، 22 June 2022 - 02:21 PM

sharm el sheikh tourist numbers

Sharm el-Sheikh is a tourist city located at the confluence of the Gulfs of Aqaba and Suez on the Red Sea coast. It covers an area of ​​480 km2 and has a population of 35 thousand people. It is the largest city in South Sinai Governorate.

The city includes tourist resorts that has been visited by visitors from all over the world.

It is famous for being one of the international diving centers that attract amateurs and professionals of this sport. It also includes an international airport. In front of its coast are the islands of Tiran and Sanafir.

Among its most important areas are Ras Nasrani; Ras Umm Sid; Ras Jamila; Ras Kanisah; Sharm El Maya;Nakhlet al-Tabal; As well as  Ras Muhammad,  a protected area that is  located south of it, and the Nabq Protectorate between it and Dahab, and Naama Bay at the confluence of the continents of Asia and Africa.

It contains more than 200 hotels and resorts, in addition to restaurants, cafes, shopping malls, entertainment cities, nightclubs and casinos.

Sharm el-Sheikh was built in 1968 and it is known as the City of Peace. Since that date, the city has developed rapidly until it has become one of the most famous tourist cities in Sinai and the world, and it is considered one of the four most beautiful cities in the world according to the BBC classification for the year 2005.

The city's transformation also led to modern systems in architecture, entertainment, safety and hotel service to qualify it to win an organized award.

UNESCO selected it among the top five cities of peace in the world out of 400 global cities.

Here we review the most important tourist activities, sports and natural reserves in the city:

Diving tourism:

Diving hobby is one of the important sports that has been spread recently in Egypt, where the number of practitioners of this sport underwater has reached (100 thousand athletes), due to the many sections that our country enjoys for practicing this sport, especially South Sinai governorate, which has unique characteristics that make it at the forefront of the areas that any practitioner wishes for this.

Diving sport and enjoying the treasures it contains under the water is rarely found anywhere in the world, especially the Ras Mohammed area, which has an annual number of practitioners (10 thousand) divers.

Diving areas:

-Ras Mohammed area to the south.

-Ras Umm Sid area  to Al-Tawer area in the north, beginning of the Gulf of Aqaba.

-There are also more than 20 internationally recognized diving training centers in the region, and the trainee is given a diving license and is inspected by international organizations (PADI).

Sail sport:

-Visitors come from all over the world to enjoy the air, the sea and the water sports area served by more than 50 hotels and 100 diving centers.

It is known that the region has the largest amount of different types of ornamental fish and fishing fish, and annual international competitions are held in which fishing professionals from all over the world participate and prizes are presented to them.

Tourism reserves in Sharm El-Sheikh:

-Ras Mohammed Reserve:Ras Mohammed was declared a natural reserve in 1983 as the first natural reserve in Egypt.

The reserve is located at the confluence of the Gulf of Suez and the Gulf of Aqaba in the southern part of the Sinai Peninsula, about 12 km from Sharm El-Sheikh and about 70 km from the city of Al-Tur.

Abu Gallum Reserve:The Abu Gallum Reserve is located on the Gulf of Aqaba, on the road between Sharm El-Sheikh and Taba, in an area called Wadi Al-Rasasa, and it was declared a reserve in 1992.

This area is characterized by a special topography and an integrated environmental system that combines the desert and mountainous environment and the range of valleys that permeate it, which adds a special beauty to the area.

In addition to a marine environment rich in wonderful qualities of coral reefs and colorful fish.

There is also a rich wildlife in the reserve that includes deer, wildebeests, foxes, hyraxes, mother of quills, dorsal hedgehog, and many rodents and reptiles.

Nabq Reserve: The Nabq region was considered a natural reserve in 1992. This reserve is located in the area between Sharm el-Sheikh, Dahab, and Wadi Um Adawi in South Sinai. The reserve is 35 kilometers north of Sharm El-Sheikh.

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Sharm el-Sheikh wins safest tourist destination award

Photo of Al-Masry Al-Youm

The Red Sea resort city of Sharm El-Sheikh won the African-Asian Union (AFASU) Golden Award for the Safest Tourist Destination to visit.

South Sinai Governor Khaled Fouda also won the AFASU Golden Award for the best governor and development leader for a tourist city in the world.

Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly stressed that this victory comes as a culmination of the efforts of various state agencies in cooperation with the South Sinai Governorate, to develop and grow the city of Sharm el-Sheikh.

Sharm el-Sheikh is being converted into a smart, green city, through the solidarity of all concerned parties in the country, he said, alongside the implementation of a large number of infrastructure and service projects based on sustainable foundations.

He added that measures are in place to preserve biological diversity.

Madbouly pointed out that this victory is in honor of Khaled Fouda, for serving the sustainable development and tourism development of the governorate.

He said that this international award also honors everyone who contributed with all their tireless effort and sincerity into the development of this tourist city, from across the nation.

Madbouly continued that what was accomplished in this city is a rolemodel that the state seeks to achieve in various Egyptian cities.

The spokesperson for the Egyptian Cabinet, Mohamed al-Hommosany, said that Sharm el-Sheikh adopts important standards, including improving sustainability, transportation networks, social impact, and consolidating the foundations of sustainable development in the areas of government administration, development, and tourism security.

Edited translation from Al-Masry Al-Youm

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Hotel and which bay

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So i was thinking to stay in nabq but have been told in December will be windy so now im thinking to stay in habada thinking either aqua blu or maybe even reef oasis. Jaz fanara looks ok to anyone have any suggestions will be travelling with a 1 year old

13 replies to this topic

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Thank you for your reply any hotel in mind.

Yeah beach is always ideal

I've also stayed in the Novotel Beach ..... Jolie Ville Resort & Casino, and the awful Ghazala Beach hotel (don't go there !!!) All in December ...

I think Naama Bay would suit you - as the bay is protected from too much wind ;)

Most welcome, depends on your budget and preferences, but perhaps Jolie Ville or Jaz Fayrouz. Perhaps you can check those and others out and come back with a shortlist for Sharm DEs or recent travelers to give you specific updated feedback.

What was novotel like i did look at this one. Also when you mean full board what extras did you have to pay for

The extras were ...... There's a bar called the pirate bar - you have to pay for food and drink there - although it's part of the hotel (we never used it !)

There were several 'premium drinks' you had to pay for... we never bothered!

There is an Italian restaurant which at lunchtime you have to pay for the food on the menu..... you can go there once during your stay in the 'full board' price .... Nice hotel, nice rooms.... but just a crazy way of doing 'full board' instead of AI .... IMO !!

We stayed in Novotel several years ago and only B&B..... so can't say about what it's like now.... We like the beach and the snorkelling there..... it's next door to Jaz Fayrouz and the sea is lovely .... with good house reef snorkelling !!

Yeah just crazy charge a bit more and then just make it AI. The other one i was looking at was reef oasis reef got alot of food options etc. You planning going soon to egypt

I've looked at reef oasis in the past... but it looks like a huge hotel to me... 600 plus rooms....that's a lot of people around the pool and on the beach !!

I'm always plotting my next visit..... but only been back 6 weeks from my last one - so will wait a bit longer until my next time - prob in the Autumn now :)

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