Sharm el-Sheikh

Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt

Surrounded by a crystal-clear, deep-blue sea and a breath-taking desert landscape, Sharm el-Sheikh has developed into one of the most popular holiday destinations in Egypt. Come here to relax in one of the many well-developed tourist resorts, or dive at the area’s unique coral reefs. But ’Sharm’ is far more than just a resort town. It is also an ideal spot to discover real Egyptian culture and to travel to the neighbouring historic sites such as the renowned Mount Sinai.

Population:

Approximately 35,000

Currency:

1 Egyptian Pound (LE) = 100 piasters

Emergency Numbers:

Emergency: 123
Police: 126
Fire Brigade: 180

Opening Hours:

Opening hours may vary. Shops are generally open until late.

Newspapers:

al-Ahram
al-Gomhurija
al-Achbar

The City

Sharm el-Sheikh - "Sharm" for short - is one of the fastest developing holiday resorts in Egypt. What was a sleepy fishing village less than two decades ago, is now a buzzing tourist destination with some 35,000 inhabitants. Its rocky mountains, beautiful deep-blue sea and its breath-taking desert landscape make it a popular sight for globetrotters from across the world.

Situated on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, Sharm is an area of beaches and resorts stretching some 30 kilometres, with Naama Bay forming the main tourist centre.

Do & See

Even if you do not want to spend your entire holiday on stunning Red Sea beaches, there are still plenty of reasons to come here. Sharm gives you a taste of real Egyptian life and culture, and serves as a base to visit some of the historic sites that surround it. Its crystal-clear water and unique sea life have also made Sharm one of the finest diving spots in the world.

Dining

As a seaside resort, Sharm has become famous for its excellent seafood, such as fresh shrimp and deep-fried calamari. Sharm’s international clientele and its many top-notch resorts mean you can find excellent restaurants that serve nearly anything from French, Thai, American and Japanese cuisine to traditional Egyptian food.

Cafes

With the stifling heat of Egypt surrounding you, a hot coffee might be the farthest thing from your mind, but do not give up hope. Taking a break and sipping on an Arabic coffee is surprisingly invigorating and if that is not your cup of tea, there is always the icy alternatives to lessen your thirst.