Sharm El Sheikh

Sharm El Sheikh, located near the southern extremity of Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula, has evolved from a little fishing hamlet into a globally recognized tourism hub. Referred to in Egyptian Arabic as شرم الشيخ (pronounced “Sharm esh-Sheikh”), this coastal haven in the Red Sea is renowned for its opulent resorts, immaculate beaches, and diverse marine ecosystems.

Sharm El Sheikh, situated in the South Sinai Governorate, functions as the administrative center for the region, encompassing smaller coastal towns like Dahab and Nuweiba, along with the mountainous interior that has notable sites such as St. Catherine’s Monastery and Mount Sinai. In 2023, the city has a population of around 13,000 inhabitants, which increases considerably during high tourist seasons.

The history of Sharm El Sheikh is as intriguing as its topography. Initially a little fishing town and thereafter a pivotal military installation, the city’s course altered significantly in 1968 when Israel started its transformation into a commercial and tourism-centric locale. This renovation established the foundation for what would become one of Egypt’s premier tourism hubs.

The economy of Sharm El Sheikh is predominantly fueled by both international and domestic tourism. The city’s allure stems from its distinctive blend of natural beauty, favorable climate, and contemporary facilities. Sharm El Sheikh, characterized by a consistently arid environment, endures prolonged, sweltering summers and temperate winters, rendering it a desirable locale for sun enthusiasts year-round. The city’s extensive beaches, characterized by golden sands and clean seas, offer an ideal setting for leisure and enjoyment.

Sharm El Sheikh’s underwater realm is one of its most notable attractions. The waters around the city are known for their transparency and tranquility, creating optimal conditions for many aquatic activities. Scuba diving and snorkeling have gained significant popularity, drawing fans worldwide. The region’s marine biodiversity is exceptional, with 250 distinct coral reefs and over 1,000 fish species. This aquatic wonderland serves both recreational visitors and scientific tourism, attracting researchers and marine biology aficionados keen to investigate this abundant habitat.

The expansion of tourism in Sharm El Sheikh has been extraordinary. In 1982, the city had just three resorts. By 2000, this figure had surged to ninety-one, indicating the swift advancement and growing appeal of the location. The expansion of tourist infrastructure corresponded with a significant increase in visitor numbers, as guest nights escalated from 16,000 to 5.1 million throughout the same year.

International hotel brands have seen the potential of Sharm El Sheikh, with several establishing a presence in the city. Prominent brands include Accor, Deutsche Hospitality, Four Seasons, Hilton, Marriott, and Rotana manage a variety of three to five-star establishments, accommodating various visitor tastes and financial capacities. The hotel sector is continually evolving, with novel concepts being used to improve the guest experience. In 2007, the city inaugurated its inaugural aqua park hotel resort, the four-star Aqua Blu Sharm Resort, including an extensive 133,905 square meters on Ras Om El Seid.

In addition to its status as a recreational destination, Sharm El Sheikh has become an important site for international conferences and diplomatic gatherings. The congress center of the city, located on Peace Road, has facilitated several prestigious events, such as peace conferences, ministerial meetings, World Bank assemblies, and Arab League summits. The Maritim Sharm El Sheikh International Congress Centre exemplifies the city’s ability to hold large-scale events, including facilities that can accommodate up to 4,700 attendees.

The dynamic ambiance of Sharm El Sheikh persists into the evening, including a bustling nightlife that appeals to tourists in search of post-sunset entertainment. Individuals intrigued by local culture may explore vibrant handicraft stalls that display Bedouin creativity, offering insight into the region’s rich tradition and distinctive gifts.

Nature aficionados seek refuge at the adjacent Ras Muhammad National Park, situated at the southernmost extremity of the Sinai Peninsula. This protected area functions as a sanctuary for various animals, safeguarding the natural terrain, coastline, and coral reefs. The park’s creation highlights Egypt’s dedication to conservation and sustainable tourism.

Naama Bay serves as the epicenter of Sharm El Sheikh’s tourism, including a vibrant array of international hotels, restaurants, and entertainment establishments. Along the seaside, visitors may discover golf courses and supplementary recreational amenities, broadening the array of activities accessible to tourists.

The Nabq Managed Resource Protected Area provides a 600-square-kilometer swath of natural beauty for anyone desiring a more serene experience. This protected area includes mangrove forests, coral reefs, and fertile dunes, serving as a refuge for many avian species and fauna, contrasting sharply with the more developed regions of Sharm El Sheikh.

Accessibility has been essential in Sharm El Sheikh’s development as a tourist resort. Sharm El Sheikh International Airport, Egypt’s third-largest airport, serves the city by linking the resort town to prominent cities in Europe and the Middle East. Regular coach services run between Sharm El Sheikh and Cairo, departing from the Delta Sharm bus station for those favoring ground transportation.