Sharm El-Sheikh

Sharm El Sheikh. The City of Peace and the Magic of Nature in the Heart of the Red Sea

Sharm El Sheikh is one of the most famous and beautiful tourist destinations in Egypt and the world, as it is a city that combines the splendor of marine nature, the luxury of tourist resorts, and the variety of recreational activities, which made it a favorite destination for millions of visitors annually. Located in the south of the Sinai Peninsula on the coast of the Red Sea, Sharm El Sheikh is characterized by its clear turquoise waters, rare coral reefs, charming beaches, and distinctive desert mountains.

Sharm El Sheikh is known as the City of Peace, due to hosting many important international conferences and events, and has become a symbol of modern Egyptian tourism thanks to its advanced infrastructure, world-class hotels, and the distinctive level of services it provides to visitors.

Sharm El Sheikh offers an integrated tourist experience that combines relaxation, adventure, nature and culture, as it is a suitable destination for lovers of beaches and marine sports, as well as for families and those looking for entertainment and desert trips.

Sharm El Sheikh City Location

Sharm El Sheikh is located in the southernmost part of the Sinai Peninsula, at the confluence of the Gulf of Aqaba and the Gulf of Suez, and is administratively affiliated to the South Sinai Governorate.

Its unique geographical location is characterized by its view of the Red Sea and its proximity to many picturesque natural areas, and it is about 500 kilometers away from Cairo, and it is easily accessible by flights through Sharm El Sheikh International Airport, or via road roads.

Its location gives it a unique opportunity to enjoy the sea and mountain views at the same time, as the clear sea meets the magnificent Sinai mountain ranges.

The history of Sharm El Sheikh and its tourism development

Sharm El Sheikh was initially a small area that relied on fishing and some local activities, but the discovery of the beauty of the Red Sea nature and its wealth of coral reefs contributed to its gradual transformation into one of the most important tourist cities in the region.

The city's real tourism development began during the last decades of the twentieth century, with modern hotels, resorts, and roads, and it became a global hub for beach tourism and diving.

The city has also gained international fame after hosting several political and economic conferences, which strengthened its position as a safe and well-equipped city to receive visitors from all over the world.

Top attractions in Sharm El Sheikh

Naama Bay

One of the most popular tourist areas in Sharm El Sheikh, Naama Bay is the beating heart of the city and a major hub for entertainment, shopping, and nightlife.

The bay features a beautiful promenade that stretches close to the sea, and is dotted with restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it an ideal place for strolling, especially in the evenings.

Visitors can enjoy music and entertainment shows, dine in a distinctive tourist atmosphere, or buy gifts and souvenirs.

Ras Mohammed Reserve

Ras Mohammed Reserve is one of the most famous nature reserves in Egypt and the world, and it is located in the far south of Sinai near Sharm El Sheikh.

The reserve is characterized by its unique natural beauty, as it includes rare coral reefs, colorful fish, picturesque beaches, and landscapes that combine the sea and the desert.

Ras Mohammed is an ideal destination for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts, where you can see a marine world rich in diversity and beauty.

It also includes distinctive natural areas such as God's Gate, Mangrove Lake, and magnificent coral reef areas.

Tiran Island

Tiran Island is located at the entrance to the Gulf of Aqaba, and it is one of the most beautiful marine areas near Sharm El Sheikh.

Known for its pristine waters and magnificent coral reefs, the island is a popular destination for boat trips, diving and snorkeling.

Excursions to Tiran Island give you the opportunity to enjoy a full day amidst the sea and nature away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Old Market

The Old Souq is one of the most popular shopping places in Sharm El Sheikh, and it is characterized by its oriental atmosphere and Sinai-inspired design.

The market includes several shops that sell:

• Handicrafts.
• Spices.
• Perfumes.
• Clothing.
• Souvenirs.
• Sinai products.

It is also dotted with restaurants serving Egyptian and oriental cuisine, making it a distinctive cultural and entertainment experience.

Soho Square

Soho Square is one of the most famous modern entertainment areas in Sharm El Sheikh, and it is characterized by its high-end design and the variety of activities in it.

The venue includes:

• International restaurants.
• Cafes.
• Dancing fountains.
• Shops.
• Children's entertainment areas.
• Musical and artistic performances.

It is one of the best places to spend a pleasant evening with family or friends.

Mount Moses and St. Catherine's Monastery

Although St. Catherine's Monastery and Mount Moses are located outside the city of Sharm el-Sheikh, they are among the most popular trips organized by visitors during their stay in South Sinai.

Jabal Musa is one of the most important religious and historical sites in the region, and visitors come to enjoy the experience of climbing the mountain and watching the sunrise from its top.

St. Catherine's Monastery is one of the oldest Christian monasteries in the world, and is distinguished by its great historical and religious value.

Diving & Marine Sports

Sharm El Sheikh is one of the best diving destinations in the world, thanks to its warm waters and unique coral reefs.

Among the most important marine activities that can be practiced:

• Diving.
• Snorkeling.
• Yachting.
• Cruises.
• Water skiing.
• Glass boat rides.

Dive centres scattered throughout the city offer beginner and professional programmes with specialist instructors.

Safari & Desert Adventures

The Sharm El Sheikh experience is not limited to the sea, as the surrounding desert offers many fun adventures.

Visitors can:

• Camel trips.
• Quad Bike Driving.
• Visit the Bedouin tents.
• Eat Bedouin dinner.
• Watch folklore shows.
• Enjoy the stars in the desert.

These trips give you an opportunity to discover the beauty and authentic culture of Sinai.

Food & Restaurants in Sharm El Sheikh

Sharm El Sheikh is characterized by a great variety of food options, as it includes restaurants serving Egyptian, international, Asian and seafood cuisines.

Some of the most popular foods to try are:

• Fish and seafood.
• Egyptian grills.
• Sinai Bedouin cuisine.
• Koshari.
• Fattah.
• Oriental sweets.

Many restaurants offer great sea views, making the dining experience part of the tourist pleasure.

Best Time to Visit Sharm El Sheikh

Sharm El Sheikh has a warm climate all year round, making it suitable for visiting in different seasons.

Autumn, winter and spring are among the best times, especially from October to April, when temperatures are mild and suitable for trips and outdoor activities.

In summer, it is suitable for lovers of swimming and marine activities, as the sea water is warm.

Tips for visitors to Sharm El Sheikh

To enjoy a special trip to Sharm El Sheikh, it is recommended that the following are recommended:

• Use sunscreen especially during cruises.
• Wear appropriate clothing for diving and beach activities.
• Book cruises with reliable companies.
• Experience more than one activity to discover the beauty of the city.
• Respect the nature of the reserves and do not dump waste.
• Make time to visit the cultural and Sinai areas