Quick answer
Sharm El Sheikh Airport (SSH) is just 10km from Naama Bay and about 15km from the Old Market area. The trip takes only 15-20 minutes. Most package tourists get a hotel shuttle, but if you're independent: a taxi costs 100-200 EGP (~€2-4), though tourists often get quoted more. A pre-booked transfer runs $15-25 USD / €14-23 and eliminates all the haggling.
What actually happens after landing
SSH is a simple, somewhat dated airport. After landing, you'll go through passport control — most nationalities need a Sinai entry stamp (free for 15 days if staying in the Sinai Peninsula) or a full Egypt visa ($25 USD, available on arrival).
Buy the visa sticker from the bank desk BEFORE going to the passport counter. This confuses many first-timers — the bank desk is off to the side and easy to miss.
After customs, you'll enter a small arrivals hall. This is where things get chaotic. You'll be immediately approached by taxi drivers and tour representatives. The hall is hot, crowded, and everyone wants your attention.
Tip: Walk past everyone and step outside. Take a breath. Then decide on transport.
Transport options explained honestly
Taxi — The main option for independent travelers. There's no official taxi meter system — you must negotiate the price before getting in. Local rate to Naama Bay is 100-150 EGP, but tourist rate is often 200-400 EGP. If you speak some Arabic or look confident, you'll get a better price.
Pre-booked transfer — A driver meets you inside with your name, takes you directly to your hotel. Costs $15-25 USD (~€14-23). No negotiation, no stress, air-conditioned vehicle. This is what we'd recommend for first-timers.
Public minibus (microbus) — Technically exists but not practical from the airport. You'd need to walk to the main road, flag one down, and know the route. Not recommended unless you're very experienced in Egypt.
Rental car — Available but driving in Sharm is chaotic and you really don't need a car. Most resort areas are walkable or a cheap taxi ride apart.
Realistic pricing expectations
| Destination | Distance | Taxi estimate | Transfer estimate | |---|---|---|---| | Naama Bay | 10 km | 150-300 EGP / ~€3-6 | $15-20 USD / ~€14-18 | | Old Market (Sharm El Maya) | 15 km | 200-350 EGP / ~€4-7 | $15-22 USD / ~€14-20 | | Sharks Bay | 8 km | 100-250 EGP / ~€2-5 | $15-20 USD / ~€14-18 | | Hadaba | 12 km | 150-300 EGP / ~€3-6 | $15-20 USD / ~€14-18 | | Dahab | 100 km | 600-1000 EGP / ~€12-20 | $45-70 USD / ~€41-64 | | Ras Mohammed | 35 km | 400-600 EGP / ~€8-12 | $30-45 USD / ~€27-41 |
Note: Egyptian pound (EGP) prices fluctuate significantly. USD and EUR are widely accepted. Taxi prices are always negotiable — the first price quoted is never the final price.
Late night arrivals
Many charter flights arrive at SSH after midnight. The airport handles these regularly. Taxis are available 24/7, though the late-night drivers tend to be more aggressive with pricing. Expect to pay 20-30% more than daytime rates.
Pre-booked transfers are especially valuable at night — your driver is waiting regardless of the hour, and the price is fixed.
The road from the airport is well-lit and safe. The drive to any resort area is short. Your hotel front desk will be staffed even for late arrivals — call ahead if arriving after midnight.
Families and luggage
Sharm airport taxis are generally older vehicles — don't expect a luxury ride. If you're a family of 4 with resort luggage (big suitcases, beach gear), a standard taxi will be tight.
Pre-booked transfers let you specify a larger vehicle. Child car seats are not standard in Egypt — neither taxis nor most transfer companies provide them automatically. If you need one, bring your own or specifically request and confirm one when booking.
The airport has luggage carts available. The walk from baggage claim to the car park is short.
Where you meet the driver
Hotel shuttle: Look for your hotel name on signs in the arrivals hall, or ask the hotel rep desk.
Pre-booked transfer: Your driver will be in the arrivals hall with your name on a sign. They'll walk you to the car, which is usually in the nearby car park.
Decision helper
- Package tourist with hotel shuttle: Use it — it's free and sorted
- Budget backpacker: Negotiate a taxi — you can get to Naama Bay for 150 EGP (~€3) if you're firm
- First time in Egypt: Pre-booked transfer — avoid the arrivals hall chaos
- Family with kids: Pre-booked transfer with a specified larger vehicle
- Going to Dahab: Pre-booked transfer (it's 100km and you want a fixed price)
- Confident traveler who speaks some Arabic: Taxi — you'll get local rates
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to enter Egypt at Sharm El Sheikh?
It depends. If you're staying only in the Sinai Peninsula (Sharm, Dahab, Nuweiba) for up to 15 days, you can get a free Sinai entry stamp. For a full Egypt visa (needed if visiting Cairo, Luxor, etc.), you pay $25 USD at the bank desk before passport control.
How much should I pay for a taxi from Sharm airport?
To Naama Bay, a fair price is 150-200 EGP (~€3-4). Drivers will initially ask for 300-500 EGP or try to quote in USD/EUR. Negotiate firmly. Walk away if the price is too high — there are always more taxis.
Is it safe to take a taxi in Sharm El Sheikh?
Yes, it's generally safe. The main issue isn't safety but overcharging tourists. Always agree on the price before getting in. Taxis don't use meters. The drivers are persistent but not threatening.
Can I pay in euros or dollars at Sharm El Sheikh?
Yes, USD and EUR are widely accepted in Sharm, especially for tourist services. However, you'll get a better deal paying in Egyptian Pounds (EGP). ATMs are available at the airport and throughout town.
How do I get from Sharm El Sheikh to Dahab?
Dahab is about 100km north (1.5 hours drive). Options: pre-booked transfer ($45-70 USD), negotiated taxi (600-1000 EGP), or the East Delta bus company which runs several daily services for about 100 EGP. The bus station is in Sharm town, not at the airport.