Sharm El Sheikh was essentially built to receive tourists, so it's far more straightforward than many other Egyptian destinations. Still, these seven details are worth knowing before you pack your bags.

1) You Don't Need a Visa in Advance

As a Saudi citizen, you enter Egypt visa-free with a stay allowed up to six months, covering Sharm El Sheikh and the whole country. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from your arrival date. If you're offered a "Sinai-only" stamp on arrival (a free permit restricting movement to South Sinai for fifteen days), ask for regular entry instead if you're planning to travel later to Cairo or Luxor. Always double-check the latest rules with your airline or the embassy before you fly.

2) The Currency Is the Egyptian Pound, Not the Riyal

While some hotels accept dollars or euros as an option, the official currency is the Egyptian Pound, and you get the best value paying or withdrawing in EGP locally. The exchange rate shifts almost daily; as of 2026, one Saudi riyal is worth roughly 13 EGP — check a live rate before you travel, and avoid airport exchange counters, which usually carry a higher margin. Use ATMs in Naama Bay and the malls instead.

3) It's a Resort Zone, Not "Traditional" Egypt

Inside hotels and resorts, the atmosphere is relatively relaxed: alcohol is available, and swimwear is normal on private hotel beaches. Outside resort walls — in markets and residential areas — more modest dress is appreciated out of respect for the conservative local community. This balance is exactly what makes Sharm comfortable for families from many different backgrounds.

4) Tipping Is Part of the Culture

Tipping is expected for nearly every service: bellhops, housekeeping, tour guides, and drivers. Small amounts in EGP cover daily services (around 20–50 EGP for housekeeping, for example), while guides and drivers on longer excursions are sometimes tipped in dollars or euros, depending on local custom.

5) Tap Water Isn't for Drinking

Stick to bottled water, which is cheap and available everywhere. Most hotels also provide it free in rooms.

6) Distances Between Areas Are Bigger Than You'd Expect

Sharm El Sheikh isn't a compact town; its zones (Naama Bay, Sharm El Maya, Nabq Bay, Ras Nasrani) are spread along the coast. Plan your movement around hotel transfers or pre-agreed taxis, since walking between areas usually isn't practical.

7) Summer Is Genuinely Hot

If you can't handle intense heat, avoid June–August, when temperatures can exceed 38–40°C during the day. April–May and September–October offer a better balance of pleasant weather and reasonable prices.

With these small pieces of knowledge, you'll save time and effort and enjoy your trip from the very first moment.