The plane’s wheels touched the runway, the warm Egyptian air hit your face, and your vacation has officially begun! After picking up your luggage, it’s time to focus on that first and most important question: “How will I get to my hotel?” Don’t worry, at Sharm El Sheikh Airport, there is an option for every budget and every travel style to get you to your destination. In this article, I have reviewed all transportation options in detail for you.
Your Transport Options from Sharm El Sheikh Airport
After exiting Sharm El Sheikh Airport, various transportation options await you to start exploring the area. Whether you are a freedom-loving explorer, a vacationer who prioritizes comfort, or a budget-conscious traveler, you will surely find the most suitable means of transportation at the airport exit. You can read my detailed transportation guide to find the method that best suits your travel style.
1. Car Rental From Sharm El Sheikh Airport
Adventurous souls who are fond of freedom, want to chart their own course, and discover the hidden beauties of the Sinai Peninsula (such as Dahab and Ras Mohammed National Park) should rent a car as soon as they land at the airport. In addition to international brands such as Avis, Sixt, and Hertz, local companies also have offices in the airport’s arrival terminals. Located just a few steps from the baggage claim corridor, these offices offer a wide range of vehicles, from economy-class small city cars to spacious family-friendly SUVs.
I strongly recommend booking online in advance to get the best prices and vehicle guarantees. If you have your driver’s license and international credit card with you, you can review the additional insurance options and sign the contract right away. Once you pick up your vehicle, you can get behind the wheel and start your vacation immediately.
Traffic in Sharm El Sheikh can be more dynamic and chaotic. Download offline maps to your phone for navigation. Alternatively, you can purchase a local SIM card. Also, make sure you read the rental agreement and insurance coverage carefully.
2. Private Transfers Sharm El Sheikh Airport
Companies offering private transfer services are the preferred choice for passengers who do not want to bother finding a car after a long flight. Anyone who values comfort and time can consider using this service. It is particularly advantageous for families with children and large groups.
Private Transfers for only you and your party
This is the most stress-free and comfortable method. Your driver will meet you at the exit gate with a sign bearing your name and assist you with your luggage. You can reach your hotel directly in a climate-controlled and comfortable vehicle. If you want to start your vacation with a VIP touch, you can book your vehicle online. During the booking process, you must specify the type of vehicle and the number of passengers. Most drivers speak English fluently. In addition, many companies monitor flight delays and do not charge extra for waiting within a certain time frame.
Shared Transfers with other passengers
This is a great alternative for those on a budget. You share a large minibus with other passengers going to hotels in the same or nearby areas. The price is more affordable than private transfers. However, the journey time is longer due to the route. Minibuses make scheduled stops at different accommodation points to drop off passengers. Therefore, if you have a flexible schedule and a few minutes’ delay won’t affect you, I recommend considering this transportation option.
3. Taxis At Sharm El Sheikh Airport
Taxis are a classic option for travelers who have not planned ahead, are looking for an immediate solution, and are not afraid to bargain. White taxis are always available at the terminal exit and wait for passengers at the stops. If you want to get to Naama Bay or Nabq Bay quickly, you can take a taxi. The golden rule here is: Agree on the price before getting in the car! Taximeters are not widely used in Egypt. Therefore, tell the driver your destination clearly and agree on the price.
As a modern alternative, you can use the Uber or Careem apps, which are quite popular in Egypt. The price is fixed for vehicles called through the app. This way, you won’t have to worry about bargaining.
4. Buses at Sharm El Sheikh Airport
Backpackers traveling on a very limited budget, who want to experience the local culture in its most authentic form and who have little luggage, can travel around the city by bus. Local buses do not stop at the airport terminal. Just outside the airport, once you reach the main road, you can see the blue-colored microbuses used by the local population. These minibuses have a specific route. However, they do not have a fixed schedule. You must stop the minibus by signaling with your hand.
This option is not very practical for tourists. You need to know the routes and communicate with the driver in Arabic. Additionally, it is quite difficult to board these crowded vehicles with large suitcases. If you want to start your vacation in a pleasant and hassle-free manner, I recommend that you choose this option as your last resort.
If you want to start your vacation comfortably as soon as you land, I recommend booking an online transfer with a private transfer company. Door-to-door private transfers are perfect for you. Even if your flight is delayed, the staff will continue to wait for you at the airport. Most companies do not charge extra fees for delays under a certain time limit.