Is Sharm El Sheikh worth visiting?
At the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, Sharm El Sheikh pairs world-renowned diving at Ras Mohammed National Park with polished resorts, desert canyons, and Naama Bay's lively waterfront.
History
Sharm El Sheikh occupies the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, where the Gulf of Aqaba meets the Gulf of Suez, a strategic position that shaped its modern development from the 1980s into Egypt's premier diving and resort destination. Its offshore waters were recognized early for their exceptional biodiversity, leading to the creation of Ras Mohammed National Park in 1983 as Egypt's first protected marine area.
The destination grew rapidly around Naama Bay, which became the social and dining heart of the resort, while purpose-built hotel zones spread along the coastline to the north and south. Sharm's sheltered bays, warm waters, and consistently excellent visibility have made it one of the most awarded diving destinations in the world, drawing visitors to sites such as the SS Thistlegorm wreck and the reefs of Tiran Island.
Beyond diving, Sharm El Sheikh's role as a venue for major international gatherings, including the COP27 climate summit in 2022, reflects its standing as a modern, well-connected resort city, while nearby desert canyons and Bedouin villages offer an easy escape into Sinai's dramatic interior landscapes.
Climate
Sharm El Sheikh has a hot, dry desert climate softened by sea breezes, with warm winters around 22°C and hot, sunny summers ideal for beach and water activities.
Best Time to Visit
Diving is excellent year-round, while March–May and September–November offer the most comfortable overall weather for combining the beach with desert excursions.
Travel Tips
Factor in the Ras Mohammed National Park entrance fee when planning a snorkeling or diving day trip; head to Naama Bay for the widest choice of restaurants and nightlife; consider a day trip into Sinai's Colored Canyon for a change of scenery from the coast.
Featured Attractions
- Ras Mohammed National Park
- Naama Bay
- Tiran Island dive sites
- Old Market at Sharm el-Maya
- Colored Canyon day trip
- Ras Um Sid reef
- SOHO Square
