There are a few things to remember when planning a trip to Sharm El Sheikh. Here are our top tips to ensure a smooth travel experience.
The official language of Egypt is Arabic. While English is widely spoken, learning a few phrases in Egyptian Arabic is always a good idea. Some words have distinct pronunciations, so you may want to use a tool like Google Translate to practice! Here are a few useful phrases to get you started:
Hello = Ahlan
Goodbye = Salam
Yes = Na’am
No = Laa
Thank you = Shokran
How much is this? = Bekam dah?
Where is...? = Fein...?
Taxi to the hotel? = Taxi lel ‘otel?
Do you speak English? = Btetkallem engeleezi?
The official currency of Egypt is the Egyptian pound. Sharm El Sheikh is generally well equipped for credit cards, with most hotels, restaurants, and supermarkets accepting them. But having cash on hand for small purchases and small kiosks is always a good idea.
You can find ATMs all over Sharm El Sheikh, and most international banks have branches in the city. But when withdrawing cash, consider any possible fees or exchange rates that may apply. In addition to ATMs, banks and exchange offices can also be found around the city to exchange your currency for Egyptian pounds.
Egypt uses Type C and F electrical sockets with a voltage of 220-240V. Remember to bring an adaptor if you're traveling from a country with different electrical sockets.
Sharm El Sheikh is a small city, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. However, you'll need transportation to explore places outside the city, like Dahab or Na'am Bay.
Travel To and From Sharm El-Sheikh
Sharm El Sheikh has an airport with domestic flights to Cairo and other cities. However, if you want to travel to another country, you may need to fly from another major airport in Egypt. Be sure to check flight schedules and book in advance.
Shuttle Services
There is no metro system in Sharm El Sheikh, but some hotels offer shuttle services to popular tourist areas.
Hiring a Taxi
Taxis are the most common way to get around Sharm El Sheikh. They're readily available and relatively affordable. But make sure you negotiate the fare before getting the car. Some drivers will offer exorbitant prices because you're a tourist, so it's best to agree on a specific price before you depart.
Renting a Car
You might consider renting a car to explore outside your immediate area. This can be arranged through your hotel or a local rental agency. It should be noted that traffic in Sharm El Sheikh can be heavy, so plan your trip accordingly to avoid delays. Or better yet, hire a taxi and avoid the hassle of driving a car yourself.
Taking a Bus
For sightseeing trips and moving around the city, many hotels provide minibus excursions to tourist areas. You can join these groups, which are often accompanied by a tour guide.