- Home
-
Guide
Essentials
🏙️ City | Sharm El Sheikh is a popular resort city located in Egypt, known for its stunning beaches, coral reefs, and warm climate. |
👥 Population | Approximately 35,000 residents, with a largely international community due to tourism. |
💻 Internet Speed | Average internet speed is about 20 Mbps, with some cafes and coworking spaces offering higher speeds. |
💸 Currency & Banking | 1 USD ≈ 29.60 EGP. ATMs are widely available, and major credit cards are accepted. |
🚰 Tap Water | Not drinkable; bottled water is recommended. |
🔌 Power | Electicity is 220V, 50Hz, with Type C and F sockets. |
📶 SIM Card | Local providers include Vodafone Egypt, Orange, and Etisalat, with good coverage and affordable data packages. |
💳 Banking for Expats | International banks available, including HSBC and local banks that accept major cards. |
🛌 Accommodation | Options include hotels, resorts, and rental apartments through platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com. |
💳 Cashless Friendly | Yes, cards are widely accepted in resorts and shops. |
🏠 Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and local agencies offer a variety of short-term rental options. |
🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Hostels like Aloha Sharm and budget hotels starting at about $10 per night. |
🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | Naama Bay is the most popular area for tourists, with easy access to beach activities and nightlife. |
🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | Sharm El Maya area is preferred for long-term stays, offering a quieter atmosphere and local amenities. |
Working and Networking
🏢 Best Coworking Space | The Hive Sharm provides a good environment with fast internet and networking opportunities. |
☕ Best Cafe for Work | Café Moka offers a relaxed atmosphere with good coffee and Wi-Fi. |
💼 Networking Events | Frequent expat meetups can be found on local Facebook groups, such as Sharm El Sheikh Expats. |
🥂 Social Events for Expats | The Sharm International Community Group organizes various social events and gatherings. |
Transportation
🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | Careem offers reliable rides and cashless payments. |
🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Local shops provide scooter and bike rentals for beach exploration. |
🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | Shark's Bay is known for its stunning coral reefs and clear waters. |
✈️ Top Regional Airline | EgyptAir operates frequent domestic flights to Cairo and Hurghada. |
✈️ Top International Airline | Air France and British Airways have regular flights to Europe. |
🛣️ Highway Access | The roads are well-maintained, providing easy access to neighboring cities and resorts. |
🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | There are no trains; most transport is via taxis and buses. |
🚍 Public Transport Passes | Buses operate between popular tourist spots, but no specific transit passes available. |
✈️ Regional Travel | Buses and shared taxis are available for travel to nearby towns and attractions. |
Health and Wellness
🏥 Best Hospital | Sharm International Hospital offers good medical services for residents and travelers. |
🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | Yoga Sharm offers yoga classes and wellness retreats regularly. |
🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Fitness centers like Gold's Gym and private hotels provide workout facilities. |
🧺 Laundry Services | Various laundry services are available, including Express Laundry and local laundromats. |
Food and Drink
📱 Best Food Delivery App | Otlob is a popular choice for food delivery from local restaurants. |
🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Try Koshari, a traditional Egyptian dish available at local eateries. |
🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Restaurants like The Blue Fountain offer a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes. |
🍫 Best Dessert Spots | L'Oriental and El Masry offer delicious local desserts like Basbousa. |
🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Local markets, such as Old Market, feature fresh produce and local goods. |
🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Jumia Egypt is a popular online marketplace for various goods. |
🛒 Grocery Delivery | Grocery stores like Carrefour and Spinneys offer delivery services. |
🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | Naama Bay has numerous bars and clubs with vibrant nightlife. |
🍻 Local Brewery | Local beers are available but there are no major breweries; imported brands are common. |
🍷 Wine Bars | Local wine selections can be found at upscale restaurants and hotels. |
🍲 Street Food Stalls | A variety of street food is available near the Old Market. |
🍕 Popular International Cuisine | Many restaurants in Naama Bay serve international cuisine, including Italian and Chinese. |
Culture and Attractions
🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | Visit the Ras Muhammad National Park for its stunning natural beauty and marine life. |
🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | The Sinai Museum offers insight into the local heritage and history. |
🏰 Historical Sites | Visit the historic St. Catherine's Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site. |
🕍 Religious Sites | Saint Simon Monastery is notable for its unique architecture and serene atmosphere. |
🎉 Annual Events | The Sharm El Sheikh Film Festival is a notable event attracting international filmmakers. |
🎨 Cultural Districts | Old Market provides a glimpse into local life and culture with its shops and cafes. |
🎭 Theater Venues | Theater performances are generally available in major resorts or during festivals. |
🛍️ Local Markets | The Old Market is recommended for shopping and experiencing local culture. |
🎼 Music Scene | Live music can be found at various resorts and venues, particularly in Naama Bay. |
🎨 Street Art | Art murals and installations can be found in some of the newer resorts. |
🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Local cooking classes are available for tourists interested in Egyptian cuisine. |
👩🎨 Art Galleries | Visit the local galleries in Naama Bay showcasing Egyptian art. |
🕰️ Historic Buildings | Traditional architecture can be seen throughout the Old Market area. |
🏴 Local Heritage | The Bedouin heritage is prominent, with cultural displays and experiences available. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | Dahab is a short drive away for beautiful beaches and diving spots. |
🏞️ National Parks Nearby | Ras Muhammad National Park is a top destination for diving and snorkeling. |
🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | The promenade along Naama Bay is ideal for walking and cycling. |
🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | The view from Mount Sinai is breathtaking, especially at sunrise. |
🦉 Birdwatching Locations | Near Nabq Protected Area, birdwatching opportunities can be found. |
🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Designated areas at beaches and campsites allow bonfires. |
Other Services and Amenities
📦 Parcel Delivery Service | Local courier services available through companies like DHL and Aramex. |
🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Local repair shops in Sharm El Sheikh can handle electronics and mobile repairs. |
🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Some resorts offer table tennis facilities. |
🧑🏫 Language Classes | Language schools provide Arabic classes for expats. |
📚 Libraries & Study Spots | Limited libraries; best study spots found in cafes and hotels with Wi-Fi. |
🏘️ Community Centers | Community events are hosted in various resorts and hotels. |
🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Limited gaming lounges; most gaming culture exists in home settings or hotels. |
🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | Gaming is limited; most entertainment revolves around hotels and resorts. |
Business
🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,200 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = $48,000) |
🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $900 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = $36,000) |
🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,600 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = $96,000) |
🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,200 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = $72,000) |
🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,500 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = $120,000) |
🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,100 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = $88,000) |
💼 Corporate Tax | 22.5% for corporations. |
💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | 10% for foreign shareholders. |
🏦 Tax System | Residency-based taxation system for residents. |
📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | 25% for income above EGP 400,000. |
🧾 VAT | Standard rate is 14%. |
🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, applies to foreign corporate entities. |
🏠 Property Tax | Property tax rates apply based on value. |
🏠 Property Transaction Tax | Approximately 3% of property value. |
💻 Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | Non-residents are only taxed on income generated in Egypt. |