Sharm El Sheikh, also rendered as Sharm el-Sheikh or Charm el Sheikh, is an Egyptian city on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, in South Sinai Governorate, along the Red Sea. The city was historically a fishing town and military base, which was later developed into a commercial and tourist hub. Today, Old Market Sharm El Sheikh represents the authentic soul of Egyptian marketplace culture, seamlessly blending centuries-old trading traditions with modern Red Sea tourism.
Historical Significance
Sharm El Sheikh is on a promontory overlooking the Straits of Tiran at the mouth of the Gulf of Aqaba. Its strategic importance led to its transformation from a fishing village into a major port and naval base for the Egyptian Navy. It was conquered by Israel during the Suez Crisis of 1956 and returned to Egypt in 1957.
Egypt's former president Hosni Mubarak designated Sharm El Sheikh as The City of Peace in 1982 and the Egyptian government began a policy of encouraging massive development of the city. The city has played host to a number of important Middle Eastern peace conferences, including the 4 September 1999 agreement to establish Palestinian self-rule over the Gaza Strip.
Located in the historic heart of Sharm El Sheikh, Old Market spans several interconnected streets and courtyards, creating a maze-like experience filled with the intoxicating aromas of spices, the melodic calls of merchants, and the vibrant colors of traditional Egyptian crafts.
Old Market Sharm El Sheikh serves as more than just a shopping destination-it's a living museum of Egyptian culture. The bazaar acts as a cultural bridge, connecting international visitors with authentic Egyptian experiences while supporting local communities and preserving traditional crafts.
Read also: Safety and Hygiene in African Meat Markets
Sharm El Sheikh Old Market Night Tour | What to See & Do
Exploring the Old Market
The Old Market, also known as Sharm El Sheikh’s Old Town, is one of the city’s most atmospheric places, blending Egyptian tradition with seaside charm. Walking among the colorful stalls is a unique sensory experience, where the scents of spices mingle with the sounds of bargaining.
Built around the concept of a traditional bazaar, the Old Market is a lively mix of stalls, local eateries, and craft shops. Vendors sell everything from handmade jewelry, colorful lanterns, and leather goods to aromatic oils and herbs used in Egyptian remedies.
Shopping at the Old Market
The Old Market is a shopper's paradise with hundreds of shops and stalls selling a wide array of products. Visitors can find quality products and items at reasonable prices, and bargain with the friendly vendors to get the best deals.
Old Market Sharm El Sheikh offers an extensive collection of authentic Egyptian products including:
- Handcrafted silver jewelry with traditional motifs
- Traditional textiles like galabeyas and pashminas
- Aromatic spices and herbal blends
- Hand-painted papyrus artwork
- Alabaster figurines and sculptures
- Handwoven kilim carpets
- Premium leather goods
- Traditional perfume oils
- Copper and brass decorative items
- Unique souvenirs crafted by local artisans
Tips for Shopping:
Read also: Black Market in Ethiopia
- Bargain: Negotiate prices respectfully.
- Dress Modestly: Cover shoulders and knees, especially when visiting religious sites.
- Examine Craftsmanship: Check materials and origin.
- Visit Multiple Vendors: Compare prices and quality.
The Enchanting Al-Sahaba Mosque
One of the market’s highlights is the impressive Al Sahaba Mosque, a striking architectural landmark. Its grand domes and twin minarets rise above the surrounding streets, creating a captivating contrast to the rustic market stalls below.
The Al-Sahaba Mosque is undoubtedly the crown jewel of Sharm El Sheikh's Old Port. Its striking architecture, inspired by Fatimid and Mamluk styles, features two tall minarets and a grand dome, making it a visually stunning landmark.
While the mosque is a place of worship, it is generally open to visitors outside of prayer times. It's important to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, and women may wish to wear a headscarf. The mosque's presence adds a significant cultural and spiritual dimension to the Old Port experience, offering a moment of tranquility amidst the bustling market.
Dining at the Old Market
The Old Port is a fantastic destination for food lovers, offering a taste of authentic Egyptian cuisine. Street food vendors are abundant, serving up popular local snacks like falafel wraps, grilled meats, and savory pastries. These are often very affordable and a great way to experience local flavors on the go.
Numerous cafes and restaurants dot the area, providing a more relaxed dining experience. Diners can find everything from traditional Egyptian dishes to international fare. Many offer outdoor seating, allowing visitors to enjoy the lively ambiance while they eat.
Read also: Key Trends in Nigeria and South Africa
Must-Try Culinary Experiences:
- Family-operated establishments serving authentic Egyptian cuisine for over 40 years.
- Popular seafood restaurants located in the heart of Old Market Sharm El Sheikh, specializing in fresh Red Sea fish and seafood dishes prepared with traditional Egyptian flavors.
- Authentic Egyptian coffee houses preserving traditional cafe culture.
- Traditional Egyptian confectionery specializing in authentic Middle Eastern sweets and desserts.
Expect generous portions and complimentary tea or bread. Egyptian cuisine is generally mild to medium spiced, with fresh herbs and aromatic spices creating complex flavors. Lunch is traditionally the main meal (1-3 PM), while dinner is served late (8-11 PM).
Planning Your Visit
Old Market Sharm El Sheikh operates daily from 10:00 AM to 1:00 AM, with individual shops and restaurants having slightly varying hours. The optimal time to visit is between 6:00 PM and 10:00 PM when temperatures are cooler, the atmosphere is most vibrant with cultural activities, and the market comes alive with traditional music and social interactions.
Accessibility:
- From Naama Bay: 10-15 minute taxi ride (80-120 EGP)
- From Sharm Airport: 15-20 minutes (150-200 EGP)
- From Sharks Bay/Hadaba: 15-20 minutes (100-150 EGP)
Plan to spend 4-6 hours at Old Market Sharm El Sheikh to fully appreciate the experience. This allows sufficient time for browsing the hundreds of shops, engaging in proper bargaining negotiations, enjoying a traditional meal, experiencing cultural activities, and participating in authentic interactions with local merchants and artisans.
Safety and Practical Information
Old Market Sharm El Sheikh is very safe for tourists and families. The area has regular security presence, tourist police patrol regularly, and the local community depends on tourism, making visitor safety a priority. Use common sense precautions: keep valuables secure, don't display large amounts of cash, stay aware of your surroundings, and travel in groups when possible.
Egyptian Pounds (EGP) are strongly preferred and typically get you the best prices. US Dollars and Euros are widely accepted but at less favorable exchange rates. Credit cards are accepted in larger shops and restaurants but not by smaller vendors, so cash is essential for the full market experience. Multiple ATMs are available in the market area from major Egyptian banks.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Operating Hours | 10:00 AM to 1:00 AM Daily |
| Optimal Visit Time | 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM |
| Currency | Egyptian Pounds (EGP) preferred |
| Safety | High security, tourist police presence |
Popular articles:
tags: #Egypt
