What to Expect When You Arrive at Sharm El Sheikh International Airport

Standfirst: The Sharm el-Sheikh International Airport is built to accommodate a lot of passengers. For most travellers, the arrival process is simple. If you know what to expect, you can get your trip off to a good start.

Landing in Sharm El Sheikh is the exciting part. It means your Red Sea holiday is finally beginning. Whether you are heading for a luxury resort in Sharks Bay, Naama Bay, Nabq, or Ras Um Sid, knowing what happens after your plane touches down can make your arrival much smoother. Here is what you can expect when you arrive at Sharm El Sheikh International Airport.

Immigration and Visa Checks

Once you are off the plane, you'll follow signs to immigration. Queues may be a few minutes during non-holiday periods up to more than half an hour during peak holiday times, depending on the number of international flights arriving at the same time.

It's worthwhile to look at the latest visa requirements in Egypt before traveling. They differ depending on your nationality. Certain visitors may be able to get a visa at the airport. Some may require a pre-arranged one. Bring the necessary documents for travel, including a passport, to the Immigration desk. This will help to keep the line moving and help you get through the airport quicker.

Collecting Your Luggage

Once you have passed passport control, you will head to the baggage reclaim area. Most bags arrive reasonably quickly, although waiting times can increase during peak tourist seasons. If your luggage does not appear, airport staff can direct you to your airline's baggage service desk to report the issue before you leave the terminal. Before heading outside, it is always worth double-checking that you have collected everything.

Getting to Your Hotel

Once you have exited the terminal, you will find several transport options waiting outside. Here are some of the common options:

Pre-booked Sharm el Sheikh airport transfer;
Hotel shuttle services;
Licensed airport taxis;
Shared shuttle buses;
Rental cars.

If you have already arranged a transfer with the GetTransfer service, your driver will be waiting in the arrivals area or at a designated meeting point with your booking details. Pre-booking often makes the arrival process simpler, especially if you are travelling late at night, with children, or carrying lots of luggage. Instead of negotiating transport after a long flight, you can head straight to your vehicle and begin your holiday.

Currency Exchange and Cash

Egypt's local currency is the Egyptian Pound. If you need cash straight away, look for currency exchange counters and ATMs within the airport. Although a lot of hotels and restaurants and some larger businesses accept foreign credit cards, it is still useful to have some local currency to make small purchases, tips, or to enter into local shops. It isn't always a requirement to change a significant amount of cash at the airport. Many travelers like to get cash from an ATM or to exchange other cash at a later time if exchange rates are better.

Buying a Local SIM Card

The airport is one of the most convenient places to purchase a local SIM card for mobile data to accompany your holiday. There are a number of Egyptian mobile operators with kiosks in the arrivals hall with tourist packages that include local calls, data and sometimes international minutes. Staff will typically be glad to do the installation and ensure the SIM is functioning prior to leaving. Mobile internet is very convenient to use maps, contact hotels or communicate with family while touring the area.

Start Your Holiday the Easy Way

The Sharm El Sheikh International Airport is built to accommodate millions of passengers annually. For most travellers, the arrival process is simple. If you know what to expect, you can avoid unnecessary delays and get your trip off to a good start. By planning ahead of your trip, you can save time at the airport and enjoy all the Red Sea has to offer.