Marsa Alam Red Sea Coast, Egypt Travel Guide
Local SIM cards are available from Vodafone, Orange, and Etisalat. Purchase at the airport or official stores.
Most resorts offer Wi-Fi. It is often free in public areas, but some charge for in-room access or faster speeds.
Arabic is the official language. English is common in tourist areas. German, Italian, and Russian also feature.
A few Arabic phrases can go a long way in showing respect and making interactions smoother.
A local SIM card often provides the most reliable internet access throughout your stay in Marsa Alam, especially outside resort Wi-Fi zones.
Typically open Sunday to Thursday, 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM. Some tourist area branches may have extended hours.
Generally open 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Smaller local shops might close for an afternoon break. Resort shops stay open late.
Hours vary. Resorts serve meals on schedule. Local restaurants open for lunch and dinner, often late into the evening.
ATMs are widely available at the airport, major resorts, and in Marsa Alam town and Port Ghalib.
Religious and national holidays can affect business hours, especially for banks and government offices.
Check local holiday calendars before your trip to anticipate potential closures and adjust your plans accordingly. Most resorts operate on normal schedules.
Cultural norms and accessibility considerations are important for a respectful and comfortable visit.
A handshake between men is common. Women may shake hands with other women. Wait for a woman to offer her hand first.
Modest dress outside resorts. Shoulders and knees covered for women; long shorts or trousers for men.
Tipping is customary. Use your right hand for eating. Accepting offered tea is a gesture of hospitality.
Always ask permission before photographing individuals. Avoid sensitive topics and public displays of affection.
Embrace local customs and dress modestly when outside your resort. This fosters positive interactions and shows respect for Egyptian culture.
Practical tips for managing finances, staying secure, and navigating local refinements.
Egyptian Pound (EGP) is the local currency. Major credit cards accepted in resorts.
Widely available at the airport, resorts, and towns for cash withdrawals.
Monitor rates before exchanging currency.
Marsa Alam is generally safe for tourists. Exercise common sense.
Strong sun needs sunscreen, hats, and hydration.
Follow dive center guidelines. Avoid swimming alone in remote areas.
