Sharm El Sheikh is known by most as an easy, sun-soaked escape. The weather is wonderful, the nightlife is varied and its setting on the Red Sea coast makes it ideal for relaxing.
But there is far more to the place than many visitors will know or expect. From global diplomacy to ancient history (and, of course, world-class diving), here are five facts that reveal a different side to this ever-popular resort.
It’s Known as the “City of Peace”
Long before it became a tourism hotspot, Sharm El Sheikh was a small fishing outpost on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula. Its real transformation began in the late 20th century, when its strategic location between Africa and the Middle East made it an ideal meeting point for international leaders. Over the years, it has hosted numerous high-profile peace summits and diplomatic gatherings, earning its nickname as the “City of Peace.”
A Breathtaking Underwater Time Capsule
For many divers, Sharm is synonymous with the Red Sea’s most famous wreck: the SS Thistlegorm. Sunk in 1941 during World War II, the ship was carrying supplies to British troops when it was bombed. Today, it lies remarkably intact beneath the surface, its cargo still clearly visible. Motorbikes, trucks, rifles and even crates of Wellington boots remain scattered across the wreck, creating a haunting and fascinating underwater museum that draws divers from across the globe.
It’s a Gateway to the World’s Oldest Monastery
Not in Sharm as such, but a short journey inland lies one of the most historically important religious sites on Earth – St Catherine’s Monastery. Built in the 6th century at the foot of Mount Sinai, it is widely regarded as the oldest continuously inhabited Christian monastery in the world. Pilgrims have travelled here for over 1,500 years, drawn by its spiritual significance and remarkable setting. Many visitors combine the trip with an early-morning climb up Mount Sinai, reaching the summit in time for sunrise – a moment that’s as powerful as it is unforgettable.
Summer Never Ends
One of Sharm’s biggest draws is its year-round climate. With over 300 days of sunshine annually, it’s a destination that delivers reliable warmth whenever you visit. Even in the middle of winter, air temperatures are typically in the low to mid-20s, while the Red Sea rarely drops below 21°C. That consistency makes it a go-to option for divers and sun-seekers alike – whether you’re escaping the winter or just making your summer last a little longer.
It’s Home to Africa’s Most Famous Marine Park
Just south of the resort lies the legendary Ras Mohammed National Park, Egypt’s first protected marine area. Positioned where the Gulf of Suez meets the Gulf of Aqaba, the park benefits from nutrient-rich currents that support an extraordinary ecosystem. The result is some of the most vibrant reef life in the world, with over 1,000 species of fish and around 200 types of coral. From swirling schools of snapper to encounters with sharks and turtles, it’s a place that showcases the Red Sea at its absolute best.
Find out more about visiting Sharm El Sheikh and the incredible diving on offer. If you have any questions, just email us on [email protected] and we will do anything we can to help.
