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Is Sharm El Sheikh safe? An honest guide for visitors
Short answer
Sharm El Sheikh's resort areas are heavily guarded, with security at hotels, checkpoints on the roads and controls at the airport, and most visitors have no problems. The usual issues are taxi overcharging, pushy sellers, sun and heat, and sea safety. Check your government's advice before travelling elsewhere in Sinai.
The real risks
Taxi overcharging
Agree the fare before getting in, or have your hotel book a taxi. Carry small notes.
Pushy sellers and touts
Common in Naama Bay and the Old Market. A firm, polite 'no, thank you' usually works. Book trips through licensed operators.
Heat and sun
Summer highs average about 38–40°C. Drink plenty of water, wear a rash vest when snorkelling and avoid midday sun.
Sea safety
Currents can be strong at some reef sites. Snorkel with a buddy, follow guides and enter the water from pontoons, not over coral.
Marine life
Do not touch coral, fish or sea urchins. Stonefish and lionfish are venomous; wear reef shoes.
Areas and times to take care
Naama Bay, Hadaba, Old Sharm, Sharks Bay and Nabq Bay are all fine to visit in the evening. For trips outside Sharm — Dahab, St Catherine or the desert — check the current official travel advice and use licensed tour operators.
Getting around safely
Taxis are the main way around; agree the fare first. Microbuses on Peace Road are cheap but hard to use without Arabic. Tours to Mount Sinai and Dahab use licensed transport through checkpoints; carry your passport.
Solo and women travellers
Solo women generally find the resort areas comfortable, though unwanted attention from sellers can be tiring. Dress modestly away from the beach and pool, use hotel-booked taxis at night and book trips through reputable operators.
Health, water and heat
Do not drink tap water; use bottled water. Sun and heat are the main risks, along with stomach upsets, so wash hands and eat freshly cooked food. Hospitals in Sharm treat visitors, and there is a decompression chamber for divers. Have travel insurance that covers diving if you dive.
Official travel advice
Check your government's advice before you travel — it is updated when things change.
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Common questions
Is Sharm El Sheikh safe?
The resort areas are heavily guarded and most visitors have no problems. Check official advice before travelling elsewhere in Sinai.
Is it safe to visit Mount Sinai from Sharm?
Many visitors go on licensed night tours. Check your government's current advice for South Sinai before booking.
What is the emergency number in Egypt?
122 for police, 123 for ambulance, 180 for fire and 126 for the Tourist Police.