Car Rental in Sharm El Sheikh

Where to drive

• Drive to Dahab for a day trip (approx. 100 km, 1.5 hours drive) to experience its relaxed atmosphere, dive sites like the Blue Hole, and beachfront cafes.
• Visit St. Catherine's Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site at the foot of Mount Sinai (approx. 220 km, 3 hours drive), one of the oldest working Christian monasteries in the world.
• Explore the colorful canyons near Nuweiba (approx. 160 km, 2.5 hours drive), offering breathtaking natural rock formations perfect for hiking and photography.
• Discover Ras Mohammed National Park (approx. 25 km, 30 minutes drive), a protected marine and terrestrial reserve known for its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and mangrove forests. You can drive to various viewpoints and snorkeling spots.
• Take a scenic drive along the coast to Taba (approx. 230 km, 3 hours drive), enjoying views of the Red Sea and potentially visiting Pharaoh's Island.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Egypt, you will typically need a valid passport, a national driving license from your home country, and an International Driving Permit (IDP). Some rental agencies may accept a foreign license if it's in English and clearly legible, but an IDP is highly recommended and often required. The minimum age for renting a car is generally 21, with some companies requiring drivers to be 25 or older for certain vehicle categories or imposing a young driver surcharge. A minimum of one year of driving experience is also commonly required.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Sharm El Sheikh vary significantly by vehicle class and season. Economy cars might start from around $25-$35 per day during the low season, while SUVs or premium vehicles can range from $50 to $100 or more daily. Prices tend to be higher during peak tourist seasons like winter and major holidays, and lower in the summer months.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Egypt, traffic drives on the right-hand side of the road. Speed limits are approximately 60 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on open roads, and up to 100 km/h on some highways. The legal blood alcohol limit for drivers is effectively zero (0.05%). Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and children under a certain age or height must use appropriate child seats. Headlights should be used in low visibility conditions and at night.

Parking

Parking in Sharm El Sheikh is generally available. In tourist areas like Naama Bay, you'll find designated paid parking lots. Many hotels and resorts offer free parking for their guests. In less commercial areas, street parking might be available, often without a fee, but always ensure you're not obstructing traffic or parking illegally. Always look for official parking signs.

Fuel stations

Fuel is widely available in Sharm El Sheikh and throughout the main routes of the Sinai Peninsula. There are numerous petrol stations, especially along the major roads connecting cities. Fuel prices are relatively low compared to many Western countries, though they can fluctuate. Payment is typically made in Egyptian Pounds, often cash, though some larger stations may accept credit cards.

Which car to choose

For most travel around Sharm El Sheikh and to nearby tourist spots, an economy or compact car is sufficient due to good road conditions. If you plan to venture into more remote desert areas or prefer extra comfort for longer drives, an SUV or a vehicle with higher ground clearance would be more suitable. Manual transmission cars are common, but automatic options are usually available, especially in larger rental fleets.

Frequently asked questions