Soho Square is an open-air entertainment and shopping complex in the Om El Seid district of Sharm El Sheikh, in Egypt's South Sinai Governorate. Built as a themed pedestrian plaza, it combines boutiques, gift shops, cafes, restaurants, bars and evening performances, and it is aimed largely at visitors staying in the Sharm El Sheikh resort areas. The shopping side is modest compared with a conventional mall: rather than large department stores, it offers small boutiques and kiosks selling resort wear, swimwear, sunglasses, jewelry, perfume, leather and fashion accessories, Egyptian souvenirs, and gifts such as papyrus, alabaster and decorative items.
The brand mix leans toward small independent retailers and tourist-oriented shops rather than international anchor stores. Quality varies by outlet. Some boutiques sell decent clothing and accessories, while many souvenir counters carry the same mass-produced items found across Sharm El Sheikh, so authentic handmade pieces are the exception rather than the rule. Prices are generally higher than in the Old Market in Sharm El Maya, reflecting the setting, and the price range sits in the middle tier.
Bargaining is customary in the independent shops, though the plaza has more of a fixed-price feel than a traditional bazaar, and discounts are usually smaller. Cash in Egyptian pounds is the safest payment option, and shops may also quote in US dollars or euros. Some larger boutiques and most restaurants accept cards. Egypt's tourist VAT refund applies only at registered retailers with proper paperwork, so shoppers who want a refund should ask for a formal invoice at the time of purchase.
The atmosphere is built around the evening. Opening hours run from about 17:00 until 02:00, and the square is busiest after dark, with music, lighting, street entertainers and a family-friendly crowd alongside late-night groups. Food and drink options are on site, ranging from casual cafes and fast food to sit-down restaurants and shisha lounges, so shopping is easily combined with dinner or a stroll. Visitors looking for gifts and a relaxed evening out, rather than a large range of brands, tend to find the complex most useful.
| Hours | About 17:00-02:00 |
|---|---|
| Price | $$ |
| Address | Soho Square, Om El Seid, Sharm El Sheikh, South Sinai Governorate, Egypt |
Location
Soho Square, Om El Seid, Sharm El Sheikh, South Sinai Governorate, Egypt
27.9050, 34.3250 View on map
Highlights
- Small boutiques selling resort wear, swimwear, sunglasses and fashion accessories
- Gift shops with papyrus, alabaster pieces and Egyptian souvenirs
- Open-air pedestrian plaza in the Om El Seid district with evening entertainment
- Cafes, restaurants and shisha lounges on site for combining dinner with shopping
Tips for visiting
- Visit after 18:00; many shops open late afternoon and the plaza peaks in the evening.
- Negotiate on souvenirs and clothing, but expect smaller discounts than in the Old Market.
- Ask for a formal invoice if planning to claim Egypt's tourist VAT refund.
- Carry some Egyptian pounds, as smaller boutiques may not accept cards.
- Compare gift prices with the Old Market before buying papyrus or alabaster.
When to visit
Evenings from about 19:00 are the liveliest and coolest time to visit. Earlier in the evening is quieter for relaxed browsing.
Accessibility
The plaza is a largely flat pedestrian area, which generally suits wheelchairs and strollers. Some individual shops may have steps at the entrance, so access varies by outlet.
Frequently asked questions
What are the opening hours of Soho Square shops?
Shops and venues generally operate from about 17:00 to 02:00. Hours vary by outlet, and the busiest period is after dark.
What can visitors buy at Soho Square in Sharm El Sheikh?
The complex offers boutiques and gifts, including resort wear, accessories, perfume, jewelry and Egyptian souvenirs. There are no large department stores.
Is it possible to eat at Soho Square?
Yes. The plaza has cafes, restaurants and shisha lounges, so visitors can combine shopping with a meal or evening out.
Can visitors bargain at Soho Square?
In independent boutiques and gift shops, polite bargaining is common. Discounts tend to be smaller than at traditional market stalls.