Sharm El Sheikh is a Red Sea resort city at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, known for diving at Ras Mohammed and the Straits of Tiran, beach resorts and Naama Bay nightlife.
Best souvenirs
Authentic items worth bringing home.
Sinai herbs and spices
Hibiscus (karkadeh), cumin and dukkah by weight.
Price: EGP 40-250 (~$1-5)
Where: Old Market
Perfume oils
Essential oils in glass bottles.
Price: EGP 100-500 (~$2-10)
Where: Old Market
Bedouin textiles and silver
Woven bags and silver jewellery.
Price: EGP 200-1,500 (~$4-30)
Where: Naama Bay shops
Papyrus art
Papyrus pictures; check authenticity.
Price: EGP 150-800 (~$3-16)
Where: Naama Bay
Shisha pipes
Decorated hookah.
Price: EGP 400-1,500 (~$8-30)
Where: Old Market
Traditional markets
Where locals shop and travellers find treasures.
Shopping districts
Neighbourhoods known for retail.
Old Market (Sharm El Maya)
Naama Bay Promenade Shops
Soho Square Shops
Malls & modern shopping
Air-conditioned, international brands, and food courts.
Soho Square Shops
Hours: About 17:00-02:00
Bargaining tips
Negotiate like a local.
Start at 30-40% of the asking price in souq shops.
Walk away politely if the price does not fall.
Fixed prices apply in supermarkets and hotel shops.
Carry small notes for exact change.
Do not buy coral, shells or sea creatures; export is prohibited.
Check papyrus by its fibres, not printed banana leaf.
Customs & restrictions
What you can and can't take home.
Friendly bargaining (Tea may be offered; it carries no obligation to buy.), Ramadan hours (Shops open later in the day and stay open after sunset.), Cash (Cash is preferred in small shops.), Souvenir export (Coral and marine animal souvenirs are illegal.)