Red Sea Destination
شرم الشيخ
Expert insights on diving, marine life, and coastal exploration
21-29°C (70-84°F)
Water Temp
25-45m (80-150ft)
Visibility
12+
Species
8
Dive Sites
Marine Biodiversity & Conservation
The Red Sea harbors over 1,200 documented fish species and more than 220 coral species, with approximately 17% found nowhere else on Earth.شرم الشيخ sits within this globally significant marine ecosystem, recognized by UNESCO for its exceptional biodiversity.
Whitetip Reef Sharks
Frequently observed in شرم الشيخ waters, particularly at depths of 10-30 meters
Grey Reef Sharks
Frequently observed in شرم الشيخ waters, particularly at depths of 10-30 meters
Barracuda Schools
Frequently observed in شرم الشيخ waters, particularly at depths of 10-30 meters
Manta Rays
Frequently observed in شرم الشيخ waters, particularly at depths of 10-30 meters
Eagle Rays
Frequently observed in شرم الشيخ waters, particularly at depths of 10-30 meters
Tuna
Frequently observed in شرم الشيخ waters, particularly at depths of 10-30 meters
Conservation & Protection
شرم الشيخ operates within Egypt's Red Sea Protectorates network, established to safeguard critical marine habitats. Local dive operators adhere to HEPCA (Hurghada Environmental Protection and Conservation Association) guidelines, including no-touch policies and mooring buoy systems to prevent anchor damage to reefs.
Protected Marine Area
Sustainable Tourism
Coral Restoration
Responsible tourism practices help maintain reef health for scientific research and future generations
Notable Dive Sites
شرم الشيخ's dive sites range from shallow fringing reefs at 5-12 meters to dramatic wall dives exceeding 40 meters. The region's unique geography—where continental plates meet—creates diverse underwater topography including drop-offs, pinnacles, and coral gardens.
Shark Reef & Yolanda Reef
Advanced
Ras Mohammed - Anemone City
Intermediate
Thistlegorm Wreck
Advanced
Tiran Island - Jackson Reef
Intermediate to Advanced
Tiran Island - Thomas Reef
Intermediate
Ras Nasrani
Beginner to Intermediate
Dunraven Wreck
Intermediate
Diving Standards & Safety
شرم الشيخ dive centers operate under international PADI, SSI, and CMAS standards, with mandatory safety protocols and equipment inspections
Professional Standards
Internationally certified instructors with minimum 500+ logged dives
Equipment Standards
Annual equipment servicing and pre-dive safety checks per manufacturer specs
Group Ratios
Maximum 4-6 divers per guide, following WRSTC recommendations
When to Visit شرم الشيخ
شرم الشيخ's location between the Tropic of Cancer and temperate zones creates distinct seasonal patterns affecting water temperature, marine activity, and visibility
Seasonal Travel Guide
Peak Diving Conditions
Optimal diving March-May and September-November with 25-45m visibility. Strong currents at Ras Mohammed sites require intermediate+ certification. Winter months (December-February) offer excellent conditions with fewer divers.
30-40m visibility
Minimal current
Climate Patterns
Sinai's desert microclimate produces 18-37°C temperature range. Winter months (October-April) provide comfortable conditions for both diving and land excursions. Summer heat (June-August) reaches 35-40°C.
20-28°C air temp
<5% annual rainfall
Visitor Patterns
Peak tourism December-February and July-August. Shoulder seasons offer better dive site access and accommodation availability. Ras Mohammed limits daily visitors to protect reef systems.
Shoulder season
Easier site access
Climate & Conditions
Water Temperature
21-29°C (70-84°F)
Year-round
3mm wetsuit sufficient year-round; 5mm recommended Dec-Feb
Air Temperature
18-37°C (64-99°F)
Seasonal
Desert climate with minimal precipitation; UV index 8-11 year-round
Underwater Visibility
25-45m (80-150ft)
Excellent
Exceptional clarity due to low plankton density and minimal river runoff
Seasonal Considerations
Spring (Mar-May)
Peak conditions
Summer (Jun-Aug)
35-40°C highs
Autumn (Sep-Nov)
Optimal visibility
Winter (Dec-Feb)
18-24°C water
Culture & Heritage
شرم الشيخ's cultural landscape reflects centuries of maritime trade, Bedouin traditions, and coastal settlement patterns. The region's heritage blends ancient Egyptian, Bedouin, and modern influences shaped by Red Sea commerce.
Annual Events & Observances
شرم الشيخ hosts cultural and environmental events reflecting regional heritage and conservation priorities
Sinai Heritage Festival
Red Sea Conservation Day
Bedouin Cultural Week
Languages Spoken
Arabic
English
Italian
German
Tourism infrastructure supports multilingual communication; Arabic is the official language, with English widely spoken in coastal areas
Beyond the Reef
شرم الشيخ's terrestrial attractions complement its marine environment, offering insights into regional history, desert ecology, and contemporary Egyptian coastal life. From archaeological sites to modern infrastructure, the area provides diverse exploration opportunities.
Ras Mohammed National Park
Natural Reserve
Naama Bay
Entertainment District
Attraction Categories
Discover different types of attractions around شرم الشيخ
Cultural Sites
Historic landmarks, traditional markets, and cultural centers
Adventure Sites
Desert excursions, mountain trails, and outdoor adventures
Scenic Spots
Waterfront promenades, viewpoints, and photo opportunities
What to Experience
شرم الشيخ offers diverse marine and terrestrial activities suited to varying skill levels and interests. From PADI-certified diving courses to cultural immersion programs, visitors can engage with both natural and cultural heritage.
Diving
Snorkeling
Activity Booking Information
Everything you need to know about booking activities in شرم الشيخ
Easy Booking
Book online or through our local partners with instant confirmation
Expert Guides
Professional guides with local knowledge and safety certification
All Equipment
High-quality equipment included in all activity packages
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Guide
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Complete guide to planning your Red Sea adventure with insider tips
Ready to Book Your Red Sea Adventure?
Browse our complete collection of Red Sea tours and activities, or contact our experts for personalized recommendations.
Plan Your شرم الشيخ Visit
Whether you're interested in marine biology, underwater photography, or cultural exploration, شرم الشيخ provides year-round access to Red Sea ecosystems and regional heritage. Connect with certified operators for guided experiences tailored to your interests and skill level.