🌍 Overview
Sharm El Sheikh, a coastal city in Egypt, has become a hotspot for digital nomads in recent years. As a seasoned digital nomad, I can attest that Sharm El Sheikh offers a unique blend of stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and modern amenities that cater to the needs of remote workers. The city’s warm climate, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife make it an attractive destination for those looking to escape the monotony of city life. With a Nomad Score of 71/100 and a Safety Index of 74/100, Sharm El Sheikh is an excellent choice for digital nomads seeking a balance between work and play.
As a digital nomad, I was drawn to Sharm El Sheikh’s laid-back atmosphere, which allows for a seamless transition between work and leisure. The city’s stunning natural scenery, including the Red Sea and the Sinai Mountains, provides endless opportunities for outdoor activities, such as diving, snorkeling, and hiking. Moreover, Sharm El Sheikh’s cultural scene is rich and diverse, with a mix of traditional Egyptian and modern influences. From trying local cuisine to exploring the city’s vibrant markets, there’s always something new to discover.
🏘️ Best Neighborhoods for Digital Nomads
When it comes to choosing a neighborhood in Sharm El Sheikh, digital nomads have several options to consider. Here are three areas that stand out for their unique character and amenities:
- Naama Bay: This bustling neighborhood is the heart of Sharm El Sheikh’s tourist area, with a wide range of restaurants, bars, and shops. Naama Bay is ideal for digital nomads who want to be in the midst of the action, with easy access to coworking spaces, cafes, and nightlife. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Naama Bay can range from EGP 8,000 to EGP 12,000 (approximately $500-$750 USD) per month.
- Hadaba: Located on the outskirts of Sharm El Sheikh, Hadaba is a more laid-back neighborhood that offers a mix of residential and commercial areas. This neighborhood is perfect for digital nomads who want to experience the local culture and lifestyle, with a range of affordable apartments and villas available for rent. A one-bedroom apartment in Hadaba can cost between EGP 5,000 to EGP 8,000 (approximately $300-$500 USD) per month.
- Ras Nasrani: This picturesque neighborhood is situated on the coast, offering stunning views of the Red Sea. Ras Nasrani is a popular area for digital nomads who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, with a range of luxury apartments and villas available for rent. A one-bedroom apartment in Ras Nasrani can range from EGP 10,000 to EGP 15,000 (approximately $650-$1,000 USD) per month.
Cost of Living Breakdown
The cost of living in Sharm El Sheikh is relatively affordable, making it an attractive destination for digital nomads. Here’s a breakdown of typical expenses:
- Rent: As mentioned earlier, the monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment can range from EGP 5,000 to EGP 15,000 (approximately $300-$1,000 USD), depending on the neighborhood and amenities.
- Food: Eating out in Sharm El Sheikh can be affordable, with a meal at a mid-range restaurant costing around EGP 50-100 (approximately $3-$6 USD) per person. Groceries can also be purchased at a relatively low cost, with a basket of basic items costing around EGP 200-300 (approximately $12-$18 USD) per week.
- Transportation: Taxis and microbuses are widely available in Sharm El Sheikh, with a typical fare ranging from EGP 10-50 (approximately $0.60-$3 USD) per ride. Renting a car or scooter can also be a cost-effective option, with prices starting from around EGP 500-1,000 (approximately $30-$60 USD) per month.
- Coworking: Coworking spaces in Sharm El Sheikh typically charge around EGP 500-1,000 (approximately $30-$60 USD) per month for a hot desk, with private offices and meeting rooms available at a higher cost.
Internet & Coworking
Sharm El Sheikh has a relatively fast internet speed, with an average download speed of 47 Mbps. As a digital nomad, I found the internet connectivity to be reliable and suitable for remote work. Here are some popular coworking spaces and cafes in Sharm El Sheikh:
- The Hub: Located in Naama Bay, The Hub is a modern coworking space that offers hot desks, private offices, and meeting rooms. Prices start from around EGP 500 (approximately $30 USD) per month for a hot desk.
- Sharm El Sheikh Coworking: This coworking space is situated in the heart of Hadaba and offers a range of membership options, including hot desks and private offices. Prices start from around EGP 800 (approximately $50 USD) per month for a hot desk.
- Cafe Royale: This popular cafe in Naama Bay offers fast and reliable internet, making it a great spot for remote workers. Coffee and snacks are also available at a reasonable price, with a cup of coffee costing around EGP 20-30 (approximately $1-$2 USD).
Sharm El Sheikh has a growing digital nomad community, with a range of meetups and events available for remote workers. Here are some popular groups and events:
- Sharm El Sheikh Digital Nomads: This Facebook group is a great resource for digital nomads, with regular meetups and events organized for members.
- Nomad Sharm: This group is dedicated to connecting digital nomads in Sharm El Sheikh, with a range of activities and events planned throughout the year.
- Sharm El Sheikh Expats: This group is geared towards expats and digital nomads, with a range of social events and activities organized for members.
Culture & Lifestyle
Sharm El Sheikh has a unique cultural scene, with a mix of traditional Egyptian and modern influences. As a digital nomad, I found the local culture to be warm and welcoming, with a range of activities and events available to experience. Here are some insider tips:
- Try local cuisine: Sharm El Sheikh is famous for its seafood, with a range of delicious dishes available at local restaurants. Be sure to try the traditional Egyptian dish, koshari, which costs around EGP 50-100 (approximately $3-$6 USD) per serving.
- Explore the markets: The markets in Sharm El Sheikh are a great place to find unique souvenirs and try local street food. The Old Market in Naama Bay is a must-visit, with a range of stalls selling everything from spices to handicrafts.
- Learn some Arabic: While many locals in Sharm El Sheikh speak English, learning some basic Arabic phrases can go a long way in enhancing your experience. Try learning phrases like “marhaba” (hello) and “shukraan” (thank you).
As a digital nomad, you’ll need to obtain a tourist visa to enter Egypt. The tourist visa is valid for 30 days and can be obtained at the airport or at an Egyptian embassy or consulate. The cost of a tourist visa is around $25 USD, and it can be extended for an additional 30 days for a fee of around $15 USD. There is no specific digital nomad visa available in Egypt, but the tourist visa is a suitable option for remote workers who plan to stay in the country for a short period.
💡 Practical Tips
Here are some practical tips for digital nomads planning to visit Sharm El Sheikh:
- SIM cards: You can purchase a SIM card at the airport or at a local shop, with prices starting from around EGP 100 (approximately $6 USD) for a prepaid plan.
- Transportation: Taxis and microbuses are widely available in Sharm El Sheikh, but be sure to agree on the fare before you start your journey.
- Safety: Sharm El Sheikh is generally a safe city, but be sure to take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
- Weather: Sharm El Sheikh has a hot desert climate, with temperatures often reaching 40°C (104°F) in the summer. Be sure to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
