Sharm El Sheikh Weather at Christmas | Is Christmas a good time to go to Sharm El Sheikh?

Sharm El Sheikh weather at Christmas delivers warm sunshine, swimmable seas, and zero rain—everything you need for a perfect winter getaway. From daytime highs of 23°C to comfortable evenings, here's what to expect from Sharm El Sheikh Christmas weather.

Sharm El Sheikh Weather at Christmas | Your Complete Guide to a Winter Sun Escape

The plane descends over the Sinai Peninsula. You glance out the window and see it—turquoise water stretching to the horizon, desert mountains catching the late afternoon sun, and not a single cloud in the sky. You step off the aircraft, and the air hits you. Not the bitter chill of a European December. Not the grey dampness you left behind. But a gentle, dry warmth that wraps around you like a welcome embrace.

This is Sharm El Sheikh at Christmas. And the weather is the main reason people come.

If you're researching Sharm El Sheikh weather at Christmas, you already know the basics—warm, sunny, dry. But the details matter. How warm is "warm"? Can you actually swim? What do you need to pack? This guide answers all of that and more. No fluff. Just the facts you need to plan your Sharm El Sheikh Christmas weather escape.

What to Expect from Sharm El Sheikh Weather at Christmas

Daytime Temperatures – Warm Sunshine All Day

December is winter in Sharm El Sheikh in name only. The weather in Sharm El Sheikh at Christmas delivers daytime highs that consistently reach 23–25°C (73–77°F). Some days push slightly higher, occasionally touching 26°C or even 28°C during the warmest afternoons.

For context: that's warmer than most Mediterranean summers. It's t-shirt and shorts weather. It's sit-by-the-pool-and-read-a-book weather. It's walk-along-the-beach-without-breaking-a-sweat weather.

The sun rises around 6:30 AM and sets around 5:00 PM, giving you roughly ten and a half hours of daylight to enjoy. That's plenty of time for beach time, diving excursions, or exploring the local markets.

Evening Temperatures – Cool but Comfortable

The one thing that surprises most visitors about Sharm El Sheikh Christmas weather is the evening drop. When the sun goes down, temperatures fall to around 15–18°C (59–64°F). On cooler nights, they can dip to 13–14°C.

That's not cold by any standard—but it's noticeably cooler than the daytime heat. You'll want a light jacket or sweater for outdoor dinners, evening strolls, or sitting on the balcony after sunset.

The key word here is "light." You don't need a heavy winter coat, thermal underwear, or wool hats. A fleece, a denim jacket, or a stylish cardigan will do the job perfectly.

Sea Temperature – Swimmable All Winter

Here's the question everyone asks: can you swim in Sharm El Sheikh at Christmas?

The answer is yes.

The Red Sea stays warm through December, with water temperatures hovering around 23–24°C (73–75°F). That's cooler than the summer peak of 28–30°C, but it's still comfortably swimmable.

For divers, the conditions are even better. The water is clear, calm, and perfect for exploring the reefs. Most divers wear a 5mm wetsuit, which keeps you comfortable during longer dives. Snorkelers can get by with a rash guard or shorty wetsuit—or just swim in a regular swimsuit if you're used to cooler water.

The bottom line: the Sharm El Sheikh weather at Christmas makes swimming, snorkeling, and diving not just possible but genuinely enjoyable.

Why Sharm El Sheikh Christmas Weather Is Perfect for Travelers

Almost Zero Rain – No Backup Plans Needed

December is one of the driest months of the year in Sharm El Sheikh. Rain is virtually absent—less than 1% of days see any precipitation. The annual rainfall for the entire region averages just 10–15mm—less than many cities receive in a single typical day.

What does this mean for you? No indoor backup plans. No rain delays. No cancelled excursions. You can book that boat trip, that desert safari, that beachfront dinner with absolute confidence.

Endless Sunshine – Over 360 Days a Year

Sharm El Sheikh enjoys more than 360 days of sunshine per year. December is no exception. You can expect clear blue skies from dawn to dusk, with sunshine duration averaging around 8–9 hours per day.

The UV index sits at a moderate 4 during December, meaning you'll want sunscreen but won't get burned in minutes. It's the kind of sun that feels good on your skin without being punishing.

Low Humidity – Comfortable Even in Winter

The Red Sea coast has low humidity year-round, and December is particularly comfortable. The air is dry, which means the warmth feels pleasant rather than oppressive. You won't step off the plane and feel like you're walking into a sauna.

Low humidity also means you stay cooler in the shade and warmer in the sun. It's the best of both worlds.

What to Pack for Sharm El Sheikh Christmas Weather

Daytime Essentials

Pack for summer days. You'll need:

• Swimwear (at least two pairs—you'll be in and out of the water)
• T-shirts and tank tops
• Shorts and lightweight trousers
• Sundresses or casual summer outfits
• Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher—the sun is strong even in winter)
• Sunglasses and a sun hat
• Flip-flops or sandals

Evening Layers

The Sharm El Sheikh weather at Christmas cools down after sunset, so pack:

• A light jacket, fleece, or cardigan
• Long trousers or jeans
• Closed-toe shoes for walking around in the evening
• A light scarf or wrap (useful for breezy evenings)

Water Activities Gear

If you plan to dive or snorkel:

• A 5mm wetsuit for diving (or rent one locally)
• A rash guard or shorty wetsuit for snorkeling
• Waterproof sunscreen
• Underwater camera or GoPro

The good news: you don't need heavy winter gear. The Sharm El Sheikh Christmas weather is forgiving, and you can pack light.

Activities That Shine in Sharm El Sheikh Christmas Weather

Diving and Snorkeling

December is one of the best months for diving in Sharm El Sheikh. The water is clear, calm, and warm enough for extended dives. The reefs are as vibrant as ever, with excellent visibility and abundant marine life.

Popular dive sites include Ras Mohammed National Park, Tiran Island, and the local reefs right off the beach. Whether you're a certified diver or a first-timer trying a discovery dive, the Sharm El Sheikh weather at Christmas makes it a pleasure.

Desert Safaris

The cooler temperatures make desert safaris comfortable and enjoyable. Quad bike tours, jeep safaris, and camel rides into the Eastern Desert are all popular options. The days are warm but not oppressive, and the evenings cool down to a pleasant temperature for Bedouin dinners under the stars.

Beach and Pool Days

Sometimes the best activity is no activity at all. The Sharm El Sheikh Christmas weather is perfect for lounging by the pool or on the beach. The sun is warm, the breeze is gentle, and the water is inviting. It's the kind of weather that makes you forget it's December.

How Sharm El Sheikh Christmas Weather Compares to Other Destinations

While Cairo turns grey and Luxor's nights drop into single figures, Sharm El Sheikh holds onto mild afternoons around 23–24°C. The difference is significant:

Sharm El Sheikh sits far enough south to stay mild and sunny through the holidays. The surrounding mountains block cold northern air masses, the desert amplifies solar heat, and the Red Sea moderates overnight temperatures. The result is one of the most predictable weather patterns of any resort destination.

If you're considering other Red Sea destinations, our guide to Christmas in Hurghada offers a comparison. And for those weighing Sharm against other Egyptian options, the Christmas and New Year Egypt Tour Packages page provides a full picture of what's available.

If you're planning activities beyond the beach, the Egypt Day Tours section offers plenty of inspiration. And for those interested in other Sharm El Sheikh experiences, our guides to Christmas in Sharm El Sheikh and New Year in Sharm El Sheikh provide deeper dives into the festive season.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sharm El Sheikh Weather at Christmas

Q: What is the average temperature for Sharm El Sheikh weather at Christmas?

Daytime highs average 23–25°C with plenty of sunshine. Evenings cool to 15–18°C. The Red Sea water temperature is around 23–24°C, perfect for swimming and diving.

Q: Does it rain in Sharm El Sheikh at Christmas?

Rain is virtually absent in December—less than 1% of days see any precipitation. The annual rainfall averages just 10–15mm, making Sharm El Sheikh Christmas weather reliably dry.

Q: Can you swim in Sharm El Sheikh at Christmas?

Yes. The sea temperature stays around 23–24°C in December, which is comfortably swimmable. Divers often wear a 5mm wetsuit for longer dives.

Q: What should I pack for Sharm El Sheikh Christmas weather?

Pack summer clothes for daytime—swimwear, shorts, t-shirts. Bring a light jacket or sweater for evenings when temperatures drop to 15–18°C. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are essential year-round.

Q: Is December a good time to visit Sharm El Sheikh?

Yes. December is peak season for good reason—warm days, cool evenings, zero rain, and excellent conditions for diving, snorkeling, and beach activities.

Q: How does Sharm El Sheikh Christmas weather compare to Hurghada?

Both destinations are warm and sunny in December. Sharm El Sheikh averages 23–25°C daytime highs, while Hurghada is slightly warmer at 24–26°C. Both have swimmable sea temperatures around 23–24°C.

Q: What activities are best during Sharm El Sheikh Christmas weather?

Diving and snorkeling are exceptional in December due to clear, calm water. Desert safaris, beach days, and boat trips are also excellent. The weather is perfect for outdoor activities without the extreme summer heat.

Plan Your Christmas Escape with Confidence

You've done the research. You know the Sharm El Sheikh weather at Christmas is warm, sunny, and dry. You know the sea is swimmable, the evenings are comfortable, and the rain is virtually non-existent. You know what to pack and what to expect.

Now comes the harder part: deciding where to stay, what to book, and how to make it all happen.

Here's the thing about Sharm El Sheikh Christmas weather: it attracts crowds. The last week of December is peak season, and resorts fill up fast. The best rooms—those with sea views, those closest to the beach—disappear weeks or even months in advance. If you're serious about spending Christmas in Sharm El Sheikh, you need to book early.

But booking isn't just about securing a room. It's about finding the right experience for you. Some travelers want the luxury of a five-star resort with elaborate Christmas galas. Others want the adventure of diving among coral reefs on Christmas morning. Still others want the simplicity of a beach, a book, and a warm sun.

Bastet Travel specializes in matching travelers with the right experiences. We know which resorts have the best Christmas programs. We know which dive operators have the best safety records. We know which tours run on Christmas Day and which ones don't.

Have questions about the Sharm El Sheikh weather at Christmas or anything else? WhatsApp us and we'll respond quickly with honest, no-pressure advice. Or if you already know what you want, start building your trip with our Tailor-Made Egypt Travel service.

The weather is waiting. The Red Sea is waiting. Your Christmas escape is waiting.

Start planning today.