Sharm El Sheikh International Airport

Sharm El Sheikh International Airport sits on the Sinai Peninsula's southern tip, serving as the primary aerial entry point for one of Egypt's most frequented resort destinations. It handles millions of passengers annually, predominantly from Europe and Russia, who come for the Red Sea's coral reefs and year-round sun. The airport operates two terminals – Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 – with Terminal 2 handling the bulk of international charter traffic. Despite its compact size, the airport manages a significant seasonal surge between October and April, when tourist arrivals peak. Located about 15 kilometers northeast of Sharm El Sheikh's city center, the airport is easily reachable by road, with the journey typically taking 20 to 30 minutes.

Getting There

The most common way to reach the airport from Sharm El Sheikh is by taxi. Taxis are readily available from Naama Bay, Old Market, and the hotels along the coast. The fixed price from Naama Bay to the airport is around 150–200 Egyptian pounds (as of 2025), though negotiation is standard. Many hotels also offer private transfer services, which can be arranged at the reception desk. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem have limited presence here; it is more reliable to rely on official airport taxis or pre-booked cars.

For those driving, the road to the airport is well-maintained and clearly signposted. It runs along the coastal route, passing through the residential area of Hadaba. The airport has multiple paid parking options: a large outdoor lot, a multi-storey car park, and limited street parking. Parking fees are reasonable, with the multi-storey offering shaded spots. Rental cars are available from agencies like Avis and Hertz inside the arrival hall, but most tourists opt for taxis or hotel shuttles.

Buses do not serve the airport directly, though some tourist coaches drop off passengers for charter flights. If traveling from other Sinai cities like Dahab or Nuweiba, shared microbuses go to Sharm El Sheikh's main bus station, from where a taxi to the airport costs about 100 EGP.

Inside the Terminal

Upon arrival, passengers enter a modern, air-conditioned hall with a polished stone floor and high ceilings. The airport is wheelchair-accessible, with ramps and dedicated entrances. Wheelchair rental is available at the information desk in the arrival area. The terminal has accessible toilets with changing tables, which is a helpful feature for families with infants.

Wi-Fi is free throughout the terminal, though the connection can be slow during peak hours. The busiest times are Monday through Thursday at 9 PM, coinciding with the departure rush of evening flights to Europe. At those times, queues at check-in and passport control can extend 30 minutes or more. Arriving passengers should expect a thorough security check on entry; all bags are screened.

Departure operations are straightforward. After check-in, travelers proceed to passport control and then into the duty-free shopping area. The duty-free offers perfume, cosmetics, local souvenirs, and Egyptian cotton products. There are a few cafes and snack bars serving sandwiches, pastries, and beverages, but no full-service restaurants. A small chapel and a VIP lounge are available, though the lounge requires a separate fee or membership.

The terminal is compact, so walking distances are short. Gate areas are equipped with seating and basic amenities. Be aware that the airport does not operate 24 hours – it closes overnight, and passengers are not allowed to remain inside after the last flight departs. Plan your arrival accordingly.

Sharm El Sheikh International Airport and Sharm El Sheikh 2

Sharm El Sheikh 2 – often referred to simply as Sharm El Sheikh – is a resort city built around tourism. Its economy depends almost entirely on visitors drawn to the Red Sea's marine life, warm climate, and sandy beaches. The airport's development has been central to this transformation. Before its expansion in the 2000s, the city was a quiet diving village; now it hosts hundreds of hotels and welcomes over five million tourists per year.

The primary attraction is the underwater world. Ras Mohammed National Park, located at the tip of the Sinai Peninsula, is a protected marine reserve with vibrant coral reefs and sea life. Snorkeling and scuba diving trips depart daily from Sharm El Sheikh's marinas. Another famous dive site is the SS Thistlegorm wreck, a World War II shipwreck accessible by boat. The Blue Hole in nearby Dahab is also a popular excursion.

On land, the city offers a mix of relaxation and activity. Naama Bay is the main entertainment district, filled with restaurants, bars, and shops. The Old Market (Sharm El Maya) provides a more traditional Egyptian experience, with spice stalls, textiles, and local crafts. For history enthusiasts, St. Catherine's Monastery – located at the base of Mount Sinai, about two hours away – is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a significant pilgrimage destination.

The surrounding desert landscape supports jeep safaris, camel rides, and quad biking. The weather is warm year-round, with summer temperatures reaching 40°C, while winters are mild and pleasant. The city's development has been rapid, leading to a somewhat sprawling layout with hotels concentrated along the coast. Infrastructure like roads and utilities have struggled to keep pace, but the airport remains the most efficient point of entry.

Sharm El Sheikh's status as a tourist hub has also made it a target for security concerns. The airport and city maintain a visible police presence, and access to certain areas is restricted. Most visitors find the atmosphere safe and welcoming, but it is wise to stay within tourist zones and follow local advice.

Practical Information

The airport is open only during flight operation hours, typically from early morning until around midnight. It is closed overnight, so plan to be inside only if you have a confirmed flight. Website: https://www.civilaviation.gov.eg/Airport/getAirport/2 . Phone: +20 69 3623304.

Actionable tip: Arrive at the airport at least three hours before an international flight, especially during the busy evening peak at 9 PM. Check-in lines can be long, and security screening thorough. Also, pre-arrange your taxi back to the city or to your hotel to avoid the higher prices drivers quote for unbooked rides from the terminal.