You keep seeing the photos, promos, and hearing people’s amazing firsthand experiences. The crystal-clear waters, the white sandy beaches, that photo of a family laughing together whilst riding camels, friends racing quad bikes across the desert, and a couple in love enjoying a romantic dinner at sunset overlooking the sea.
Holidaymakers snorkelling in Sharm El Sheikh
You’ve decided Sharm is your next holiday destination. The only question left is when you should go?
Sharm El Sheikh Weather
Sunshine all year round, one or two days of rain per year, and warm weather no matter what all sound amazing but are not always suited for everyone.
So, here is a closer look at what to expect from the local climate:
- Summer (June to August): 30°C to 40°C (86°F to 104°F)
- Autumn (September to November): 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F)
- Winter (December to February): 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
- Spring (March to May): 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F)
Winter and spring months are those when you are most likely to see rain, and although the rain falls hard and fast, it never lasts for long, and after 24 hours it is usually dried up as if it never happened.
Water temperature usually stays above 22 degrees, making for good diving temperatures all year round.
Water sports in Sharm El Sheikh during summer
Although the summer months are hot, it is a dry heat and not humid, making it much more bearable than those in Europe or in a tropical climate.
Busy Periods
You’ll find the busiest period for Sharm El Sheikh is in the winter months, when the rest of the world chooses to take a break from their long, cold winters in the warm, bright sunshine Sharm has to offer. With temperatures still remaining warm, the water temperatures also remain warm and swimmable.
Guests having fun with a volleyball match
With the winter season also having the Christmas and New Year’s celebrations, most resorts host a gala event on both of these nights. Sometimes they are included in the price; otherwise, they are an extra surcharge. Your travel agent will be able to advise on this.
Quieter Periods
The quieter periods are the summer months due to the red-hot temperatures. Since it is a quieter period, you will find cheaper deals for the resorts.
Due to the heat from the sun, the water temperatures are wonderful this time of year, making snorkelling and diving a delightful experience.
Guests soaking up the sun on the beach
A quiet period for local visitors would be the month of Ramadan, as the Muslim world fasts from sunrise to sunset; however, since this changes yearly due to the Islamic calendar, we cannot say a specific month for this.
Best Diving Times
The best time for warmer waters is in the summer months, but for the best chance to see a variety of different marine life, the months of May and September are your best option.
Although it doesn’t matter what time of year you go, you will always find a beautiful array of fish, coral, and marine life to see, which is why Sharm El Sheikh is known as one of the best diving spots in the world.
A boat anchored by a coral reef in Sharm
Best Time for Adventuring
If it is adventure and exploration you are after, the best time to visit is the spring and autumn months. With milder temperatures, a breeze in the air, and cooler evenings, it allows for many different activities to be done such as safari trips, exploring the local areas such as Soho Square and Naama Bay, and boat trips.
Naama Bay, Sharm El Sheikh
Things to Consider
When booking, it is best to consider what is on your list of things to do whilst you visit this beautiful country. Whether you want to make the most of the diving, snorkelling, and different boat trips to see why it is known to be one of the most popular diving spots in the world, or whether you want to learn as much as you can about the local history and explore every corner possible, there is definitely a ‘prime time’ to visit.
However, offering good weather all year round means that it would be possible to do anything you want at any time of year.
If you are visiting in the summer months, it should be considered that it is not recommended to be out in the peak heat of the day between 11AM and 3PM pm. UV rays are strong, and the sun is very hot. You will also find that many of the local stores, marketplaces, and bars do not open until after 3PM in the summer months, as most of the locals stay inside in the air conditioning throughout the day.
Bright and sunny day on Sharm El Sheikh’s shoreline
If you have decided the winter months are the best option for you, then it is recommended to take a small jacket (what would be your summer jacket in Europe) for the evenings. As Sharm El Sheikh is located in the desert, you get desert temperatures, meaning that although the number may be the same as a European summer, it may feel a little chillier due to the winds and open air.
A guest wearing a light jacket during winter in Sharm El Sheikh
For the spring and autumn months, it is advised to remember that winds can be strong and there are high chances of sandstorms and a spot of rain. This can cause cancellations of certain trips, especially if they are outside or based on the sea.
Remember Remember Remember
It doesn’t matter what time of year you visit; always remember to take care in the sun. Drink plenty of water, wear a good sun cream with UV ray protection, and bring a trusted hat with you.
In the end, the time of year depends on what you want to do, your budget, and which climate you think you can cope best with.
