Sharm El-Sheikh, a picturesque city in Egypt, is situated in the southern region of the Sinai Peninsula. This city serves as a significant hub for the tourism sector in Egypt, attracting numerous international conferences and diplomatic gatherings.
Sharm El-Sheikh
As the administrative capital of the South Sinai Governorate, Sharm El-Sheikh is regarded as one of the premier destinations for relaxation following traditional tours of Egypt. Extending over 20 kilometers along the coastline of the Sinai Peninsula, it is renowned among snorkelers and scuba divers. The city is positioned on a bay that features a rocky outcrop, with the sea on one side and mountains on the other. The beachfront is lined with a palm tree-adorned promenade that leads to various bars, cafes, and restaurants. Despite the increasing influx of tourists, the expansive reef continues to teem with remarkable marine life.
Sharm El-Sheikh is divided into two main areas: the southern section, which includes the port city, and approximately 7 kilometers to the north lies the renowned Naama Bay, a luxurious tourist enclave. This area offers a diverse range of water activities, including sailing lessons, windsurfing, and parasailing, as well as the enchanting glass-bottom boat tours available in Sharm El-Sheikh.
Located about 10 kilometers north of Naama Bay is Sharks Bay, a smaller and more tranquil resort area that is also more affordable. The recent establishment of a five-star hotel has drawn additional visitors, with further development anticipated. The coral reefs and tropical fish are stunning, and despite its name, Sharks Bay does not host any sharks; rather, the shoreline's shape resembles that of a shark, which is how the area acquired its name.
To the north of Sharks Bay, where the Red Sea converges with the Gulf of Aqaba, lies the Straits of Tiran. Diving excursions to Tiran and Sanafìr Island are available from Naama, Sharm, and Sharks Bay, with the island recognized as a protected natural area home to a variety of fish and coral species. Additionally, Nabq National Park features the northernmost mangrove forests in the world.