Christmas in Sharm El Sheikh | What is Sharm El Sheikh like at Christmas?

Christmas in Sharm El Sheikh offers the perfect escape from winter's chill—warm sunshine, festive resort galas, and the crystal-clear Red Sea. From Christmas Eve dinners to snorkeling on Christmas Day, here's everything you need to know about spending Christmas in Sharm El Sheikh.

Christmas in Sharm El Sheikh | Warm Weather, Resort Galas & Red Sea Magic

The plane descends over the Sinai Peninsula. Below, the desert stretches in shades of gold and ochre, meeting the impossibly blue water of the Red Sea. You step off the aircraft, and the air hits you—not the bitter cold you left behind, but a gentle 23°C warmth that feels like a gift.

This is Sharm El Sheikh. And this is Christmas.

Forget the grey skies, the frozen streets, the layers of thermal underwear. Christmas in Sharm El Sheikh is something entirely different. It's a festive dinner on a beach under the stars. It's snorkeling in 24°C water on Christmas morning. It's the warmth of the sun on your skin while the rest of the world shivers. Whether you're planning Christmas in Sharm for the first time or returning for another year, the experience never gets old. Here's how to make it unforgettable.

Why Christmas in Sharm El Sheikh Is the Perfect Winter Escape

Weather That Makes Christmas in Sharm Feel Like Summer

Let's start with the obvious: the weather. While much of Europe and North America battles December chills, Christmas in Sharm El Sheikh delivers daytime temperatures between 23°C and 25°C. Evenings cool to around 15–18°C—a light jacket at most, not a heavy coat. This is precisely why so many travelers choose Sharm at Christmas over traditional winter destinations.

The Red Sea itself stays at a comfortable 24–26°C in late December. Yes, you can swim on Christmas Day. The water is warmer than the air, and the winter clarity makes it an exceptional time for diving and snorkeling. For anyone seeking sun, sea, and sand, planning Christmas in Sharm is a no-brainer.

Rain? Almost none. Sharm El Sheikh has a hyper-arid desert climate with virtually no rain and year-round sun. That means your Christmas in Sharm El Sheikh won't be rained out. No indoor backup plans required.

December is not just acceptable for visiting Egypt—it is the best month. The summer heat has completely gone, the skies are blue and clear from dawn to dusk, and the sea is at its most inviting.

A Festive Atmosphere for Christmas in Sharm El Sheikh

Sharm El Sheikh knows how to do Christmas. The city lights up with decorations—illuminated palm trees, twinkling hotel facades, and festive displays along the main tourist areas. Hotels compete to create the most spectacular holiday experiences, with towering Christmas trees in lobbies, beachfront markets, and elaborate gala dinners. This festive energy is what makes Christmas in Sharm El Sheikh so special.

Tourism occupancy during the Christmas season routinely exceeds 90%. Thousands of families and travelers from various nationalities flock to SOHO Square for the annual lighting festival, marking the start of the winter season and New Year celebrations. Whether you're experiencing Sharm at Christmas for the first time or the tenth, the atmosphere never fails to impress.

The atmosphere is festive but not overwhelming. It's the kind of place where you can dress up for a gala dinner or stay casual on the beach—your choice, your pace.

How Sharm El Sheikh Celebrates Christmas

Resort Gala Dinners – The Centerpiece of Christmas in Sharm

For most visitors, the heart of Christmas in Sharm El Sheikh beats within the walls of its resorts. This is not your standard hotel buffet with a few balloons. These are elaborate, meticulously planned celebrations that define Christmas in Sharm for countless travelers.

On Christmas Eve, tables are set for traditional festive dinners under the starry skies. Many hotels offer multiple dining options: a sumptuous dinner buffet of holiday classics, or an elegant four-course feast. On Christmas Day, indulge in vibrant brunches with live stations, ceviche, flame-grilled BBQ, and spectacular dessert buffets. These galas are the centerpiece of Sharm at Christmas celebrations.

The food is a major draw. Visitors consistently describe Christmas Eve galas as "spectacular," "incredible," and "truly festive." Chefs excel at presentation, and the variety is extensive—from authentic Levantine fare to Italian and Latin American cuisine.

For those seeking ultimate luxury, some resorts offer private chefs preparing bespoke Christmas feasts served directly in the suite's dining room, or outdoor movie screens under the stars for Christmas favorites with milk and cookies.

Christmas Markets by the Red Sea

One of the most enchanting aspects of Christmas in Sharm El Sheikh is the beachfront Christmas market. Picture this: dining al fresco by the water, kissed by Red Sea breezes, surrounded by twinkling lights and live holiday music. It's a festive experience that captures the unique spirit of Christmas in Sharm.

The market offers holiday handicrafts, keepsakes, and delicious seasonal treats—from gently warmed mulled wine to roasted chestnuts fresh from the oven. It's a festive experience that combines the magic of a traditional Christmas market with the unique setting of the Red Sea coast. For anyone visiting Sharm at Christmas, this market is an absolute must-see.

Family-Friendly Festivities for Christmas in Sharm

Christmas in Sharm El Sheikh is exceptionally family-friendly. Most resorts operate Kids' Clubs with special holiday-themed experiences for children ages 4 to 12. Young guests enjoy caroling, ornament making, food decorating, and family-friendly games and treats. Santa Claus makes appearances to help make Christmas wishes come true. This is what makes Christmas in Sharm so popular with families.

Holiday programming is available daily throughout the festive period, ensuring children are entertained while parents relax. It's a low-effort, high-sun Christmas that families return to year after year.

Exploring Sharm at Christmas – Beyond the Resort

Naama Bay and the Old Market During Christmas in Sharm

If you want to experience the local side of Christmas in Sharm El Sheikh, venture beyond the resort gates. Naama Bay is the city's vibrant hub—a natural bay lined with restaurants, hotels, and bazaars. On Christmas, the promenade buzzes with festive energy, and many venues offer special holiday menus and entertainment. Exploring Naama Bay is an essential part of Sharm at Christmas.

The Old Market offers a different experience. Wander through streets filled with local treasures, handcrafted souvenirs, and rich aromas. Admire the beautifully lit Al Sahaba Mosque, blending Ottoman and Mamluk styles, and visit the Heavenly Cathedral, famed for its striking murals.

Diving and Snorkeling on Christmas Day in Sharm El Sheikh

For many visitors, the highlight of Christmas in Sharm El Sheikh isn't the dinner—it's the diving. The Red Sea's reefs are world-class, and December's clear, calm water makes for superb visibility. This is what makes Christmas in Sharm so unique compared to traditional winter holidays.

The average water temperature hovers around 24°C, providing comfortable conditions for divers to explore the underwater treasures. Just a few meters from the shore, corals and fish are abundant—you can reach the drop-off where you see big fish like Napoleon wrasses. Diving on Christmas Day is a tradition for many returning to Sharm at Christmas.

Popular excursions include Tiran Island cruises with diving and snorkeling, and Ras Mohammed Park tours. Whether you're a first-timer trying a discovery dive or a certified diver chasing wrecks and walls, Christmas in Sharm El Sheikh offers some of the best underwater conditions of the year.

Ras Mohammed National Park – A Must-See for Sharm at Christmas

Ras Mohammed National Park, at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, is a must-visit for nature lovers. The park features dramatic coastal landscapes, mangrove forests, and some of the most spectacular coral reefs in the world. On a clear December day, the visibility is extraordinary, and the marine life is abundant. It's an essential excursion for anyone experiencing Sharm at Christmas.

Guided tours from Sharm El Sheikh are widely available and can be combined with diving, snorkeling, or simply enjoying the stunning scenery.

Practical Tips for Christmas in Sharm El Sheikh

Book Early for Christmas in Sharm El Sheikh

The Christmas–New Year fortnight is absolute peak season in Sharm El Sheikh. Tourism occupancy exceeds 90%. Book your flights and accommodation by September or October at the latest. Resorts fill up, prices rise, and the best rooms—especially those with sea views—disappear fast. Early booking is essential for Christmas in Sharm.

If you're flexible, consider arriving a few days before Christmas and staying through the first week of January. The weather stays warm, and prices often drop slightly after January 1.

What to Pack for Christmas in Sharm

Packing for Christmas in Sharm El Sheikh requires a dual strategy. Daytime temperatures reach 23–25°C, so swimwear, shorts, and t-shirts are essential. Evenings drop to around 15–18°C, so bring a light jacket or sweater for outdoor dinners and Christmas markets.

For the gala dinner or Christmas Eve celebration, smart casual is appropriate. Men typically wear trousers and a collared shirt; women wear dresses or elegant separates. Bring a jacket or wrap for outdoor events—the sea breeze can be cool after sunset.

Don't forget sunscreen—the sun is strong even in winter. And if you plan to dive or snorkel, consider packing a wetsuit or rash guard. The water is swimmable but cooler than in summer.

Budget Expectations for Sharm at Christmas

Christmas in Sharm El Sheikh comes with a premium price tag. Gala dinners typically cost extra, even at all-inclusive properties. Expect to pay $75 or more per adult for the Christmas Eve dinner. Some luxury resorts charge significantly more. Budgeting properly for Sharm at Christmas ensures you can enjoy everything the destination offers.

The Christmas market is included with resort stays. Additional excursions like diving trips, quad bike tours, and boat cruises range from $50 to $150 per person.

But here's the thing: this isn't just a hotel stay. It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The memories of watching the sunset over the Red Sea on Christmas Day, or diving among coral reefs on December 25, will outlast any price tag.

Combining Christmas in Sharm El Sheikh with Egypt's Ancient Wonders

Sharm El Sheikh is spectacular on its own, but it also serves as a perfect base for exploring Egypt's ancient treasures. Day trips from Sharm can take you to Mount Sinai and St. Catherine's Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Adding this to your Christmas in Sharm El Sheikh itinerary creates a truly memorable holiday.

For a deeper experience, consider combining your Christmas in Sharm El Sheikh with a visit to Cairo and the Pyramids. The Christmas and New Year Egypt Tour Packages offered by Bastet Travel let you experience both the Red Sea coast and the ancient wonders of Giza in a single trip.

If you're interested in exploring beyond Sharm, check out the Egypt Tour Packages for a range of options. For those who prefer to stay on the water, Nile River Cruises offer a luxurious way to experience Egypt's temples and tombs.

Prefer to explore at your own pace? Egypt Day Tours let you customize your itinerary, while Egypt Shore Excursions are perfect for cruise passengers looking to maximize their time on land.

If you're visiting Cairo during the holidays, our guides to Cairo at Christmas and New Year's Eve events in Cairo offer plenty of inspiration. For those heading to Hurghada instead, check out Christmas in Hurghada for a different Red Sea experience.

And if you're considering other Sharm El Sheikh activities, our guides to New Year in Sharm El Sheikh and Sharm El Sheikh weather at Christmas will help you plan.

Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas in Sharm El Sheikh

Q: What is the weather like at Christmas in Sharm El Sheikh?

Daytime temperatures average 23–25°C with plenty of sunshine. Evenings cool to 15–18°C. The Red Sea water temperature is around 24–26°C, perfect for swimming and diving, making Christmas in Sharm El Sheikh a true winter escape.

Q: Do hotels in Sharm El Sheikh host Christmas Eve dinners?

Yes. Most resorts host elaborate Christmas Eve galas with multi-course dinners, live entertainment, and festive decorations. Many offer a choice of dining options, from buffets to four-course feasts. These galas are the highlight of Christmas in Sharm.

Q: Is Christmas in Sharm El Sheikh family-friendly?

Absolutely. Resorts offer Kids' Clubs with special holiday activities, including caroling, ornament making, and visits from Santa Claus. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming for families celebrating Christmas in Sharm.

Q: What is there to do on Christmas Day in Sharm El Sheikh?

Beyond the resort galas, you can go diving or snorkeling in the Red Sea, visit Ras Mohammed National Park, explore Naama Bay and the Old Market, or simply relax on the beach. The water is warm and the visibility is excellent, making Sharm at Christmas a paradise for water sports.

Q: How far in advance should I book for Christmas in Sharm El Sheikh?

Book by September or October at the latest. The Christmas–New Year fortnight is peak season, and resorts fill up quickly. Tourism occupancy often exceeds 90%, so early booking for Christmas in Sharm is essential.

Q: What should I wear to a Christmas Eve gala in Sharm El Sheikh?

Smart casual is standard. Men typically wear trousers and a collared shirt; women wear dresses or elegant separates. Bring a light jacket for outdoor events during Christmas in Sharm.

Q: Can I combine Sharm El Sheikh with Cairo or Luxor for Christmas?

Yes. Many tour operators offer packages that combine Sharm El Sheikh with Cairo and the Pyramids, or with Nile cruises between Luxor and Aswan. This lets you experience both the Red Sea coast and Egypt's ancient wonders during Christmas in Sharm El Sheikh.

Make This Christmas in Sharm El Sheikh Unforgettable

Picture this: It's Christmas morning. You wake up to the sound of waves gently lapping against the shore. You step onto your balcony, and the Red Sea stretches before you—crystal clear, impossibly blue, bathed in warm December sunlight. The air is soft, the sky is cloudless, and the palm trees sway in the breeze. This is the reality of Christmas in Sharm El Sheikh.

You head down to breakfast, and the dining room is alive with festive energy. A towering Christmas tree sparkles in the lobby. Children are laughing, families are chatting, and the smell of fresh pastries fills the air. This is what Christmas in Sharm feels like—warm, welcoming, and wonderfully different.

Later, you pull on your swimsuit and walk down to the beach. The water is warm—not the shock of cold you'd expect in December, but a gentle embrace. You float on your back, staring up at the clear blue sky, and you think: This is Christmas. This is what I've been missing.

In the evening, you dress up for the Christmas Eve gala. The tables are draped in white linen, fairy lights twinkle overhead, and the food is extraordinary—course after course of beautifully presented dishes, accompanied by live music and festive cheer. As midnight approaches, you raise a glass with strangers who feel like friends, and you toast to the year ahead.

This could be your Christmas in Sharm El Sheikh. But here's the thing: Sharm El Sheikh isn't a one-size-fits-all destination. Some people want the luxury of a five-star resort, the gala dinner, the champagne. Others want the adventure of diving among coral reefs on Christmas morning. Still others want the quiet of a beach at sunset, watching the colors change over the Red Sea. Whatever version of Sharm at Christmas you're imagining, it's possible.

Sharm El Sheikh delivers all of it.

The only question is: what kind of Christmas do you want?

If you want someone to help you figure that out—to craft a Christmas in Sharm El Sheikh that fits your style, your budget, and your dreams—reach out. Bastet Travel specializes in creating personalized Egyptian experiences. Whether you want a luxury resort stay, a private diving excursion, or a Tailor-Made Egypt Trip, we'll build it around you.

Have questions? Want to check availability for Christmas in Sharm El Sheikh? WhatsApp us and we'll get back to you within hours. No pressure. No hard sell. Just honest advice from people who know Sharm El Sheikh inside out.

Because your Christmas in Sharm El Sheikh should be yours—not a copy of someone else's. And we're here to make sure it is.

Merry Christmas. See you on the beach.