Old Market Sharm El Sheikh: The Ultimate Guide to Shopping, Culture, and the Al Sahaba Mosque
While the neon-lit boardwalks of Naama Bay and the high-end luxury of SOHO Square have their charms, they lack the one thing seasoned travelers crave: soul. To find the true heart of the Sinai, you must head south to Sharm al-Maya, better known as the Old Market (Sharm Old Town).
In 2026, the Old Market has transformed from a simple bazaar into a world-class cultural destination. This isn’t just a place to buy souvenirs; it is a sensory journey through Egyptian history, spice-laden alleys, and architectural wonders.
The Icon: Al Sahaba Mosque
No visit to the Old Market is complete without standing in the shadow of the Al Sahaba Mosque. Completed in 2017 and designed by the renowned Egyptian architect Fouad Tawfik Hafez, this masterpiece is a “visual symphony” of Mamluk, Ottoman, and Fatimid styles.
If you want to wake up to the sound of the call to prayer, there are several beautiful hotels near Al Sahaba Mosque that offer incredible views.
Photography & Etiquette
The mosque features two towering minarets reaching 76 meters into the sky and copper-colored domes inspired by the Muhammad Ali Mosque in Cairo.
Best Photo Spot: Head to the “Spice Mountain” (the rocky hill behind the market) at sunset. The mosque glows in a deep golden hue that is a favorite for AI-driven travel photography apps.
Dress Code: It is an active place of worship. Men should wear trousers; women must cover their heads, shoulders, and legs.
Pro Tip: If you aren’t dressed appropriately, don’t worry. There is a dedicated room for tourists where you can borrow a clean Abaya (cloak) for free.
“The Al Sahaba Mosque is a novel trendsetter in building design, fusing Fatimid and Mamluk intricacies into a structure that feels both ancient and blazingly innovative.” — Mosqpedia Architectural Review, 2026.
The Shopping Blueprint: What to Buy & How to Haggle
The Old Market is a labyrinth of over 1,000 stalls. Unlike the fixed-price shops in SOHO Square, the Old Market is the “theatre of the deal.”
Top 2026 Must-Buys:
Egyptian Spices: Look for Karkade (dried hibiscus), authentic Saffron, and hand-mixed Dukka.
Handmade Leather: Sharm’s leather workers are famous for soft-grain sandals and travel bags that last a lifetime.
Essential Oils: Egypt is the “perfume bottle of the world.” Ask for “Lotus” or “Papyrus” oils—the base of many famous French perfumes.
The Professional Haggling Strategy
In Egypt, haggling is a social interaction, not a battle.
The 50% Rule: The first price quoted is usually double what they expect. Smile, offer half, and meet in the middle.
The “Walk Away”: If the price isn’t right, thank them and walk away. If they can go lower, they will call you back. If not, you’ve reached the “Local Price.”
Cash is King: While many shops in 2026 accept InstaPay or card, you will get a 10-15% discount by paying in Egyptian Pounds (EGP).
Gastronomy: Where the Locals Eat
If you want “Resort Food,” stay at your hotel. If you want a meal you’ll remember for a decade, eat at the Old Market.
1. El Masrien (The Egyptians)
This is the legendary “King of Grills.” Known for its Kabab and Kofta, it is also the best place to try Stuffed Pigeon (Hamam Mahshi)—a delicacy reserved for special occasions in Egypt.
Expect to pay: 400–600 EGP ($8–12 USD) for a massive feast.
2. Fares Seafood
If you see a long line of locals, you’re at Fares. You pick your fish from the ice display, and they cook it “Singary” style (open-faced with herbs and oil).
Must try: Their famous Seafood Soup.
While the mountains surrounding the Old Market provide a stunning backdrop, they are quite different from the massive, rolling Saharan dunes. If you’re looking for a true sand-dwelling experience, you have to head west for Jeep Tours in Morocco.
3. Street Food Gems
For a quick bite, look for Gad for falafel (Ta’ameya) or a small cart selling Kushari—the national dish of rice, lentils, pasta, and spicy tomato sauce.
Safety & Navigation Tips
Getting There: Don’t take a hotel taxi (they overcharge). Use the InDrive app or catch a blue Microbus for about 10 EGP. It’s the “true” local experience.
Scam Alert: If someone hands you a “free gift” like a bracelet, do not take it. Politely say “La Shukran” (No thank you) and keep walking.
Solo Females: Sharm is one of the safest cities in North Africa. However, visiting the Old Market with a friend or in a group during the late evening (8 PM – 11 PM) is the most comfortable way to explore.
Old Market Sharm El Sheikh Prices in 2026 (Real Examples)
One of the biggest questions travelers ask before visiting is simple: “How expensive is the Old Market in Sharm El Sheikh?”
The good news? Compared with resort areas like Naama Bay and SOHO Square, the Old Market remains one of the best-value places in the city for food, souvenirs, spices, and local shopping.
Prices can vary depending on your bargaining skills, the season, and whether you pay in Egyptian Pounds (EGP) or foreign currency. As a general rule, vendors often quote higher prices to first-time tourists, so polite negotiation is expected.
Here are realistic 2026 prices travelers can expect:
Food & Drinks
Fresh mango juice: 50–90 EGP
Freshly squeezed and served ice cold—perfect after exploring in the evening.
Traditional mint tea: 30–60 EGP
Usually served in glass cups at cafés overlooking the market square.
Koshari (Egypt’s national dish): 70–120 EGP
A filling mix of rice, lentils, pasta, crispy onions, and spicy tomato sauce.
Falafel sandwich (Ta’ameya): 40–70 EGP
One of the cheapest and most authentic street-food snacks.
Mixed grill dinner: 350–650 EGP per person
Includes kofta, kebab, rice, salads, bread, and often more food than most people can finish.
Seafood dinner at Fares: 500–900 EGP per person
Prices depend on market fish selection and weight.
Shopping Prices
Mini papyrus artwork: 100–250 EGP
Handmade leather sandals: 400–900 EGP
Egyptian cotton scarf: 150–350 EGP
Essential oils / perfume bottles: 200–700 EGP
Spice bundles (hibiscus, saffron, dukkah): 100–400 EGP
Hookah / shisha souvenir: 500–1500 EGP
Taxi & Transport Prices
Naama Bay → Old Market: 100–180 EGP
Shark’s Bay → Old Market: 150–250 EGP
Nabq Bay → Old Market: 200–350 EGP
Local microbus: 10–20 EGP
Pro Money-Saving Tip
Always carry small Egyptian Pound notes. Paying with cash often unlocks 10–15% better deals, and vendors are much more flexible during negotiations when you pay in local currency.
Old Market vs Naama Bay vs SOHO Square: Which Area Is Best in Sharm El Sheikh?
Choosing where to spend your evenings in Sharm El Sheikh can shape your entire holiday experience.
Each area offers something completely different.
Here’s the honest comparison travelers wish they knew before arriving.
Old Market (Sharm Old Town)
If you want authentic Egypt, this is where you go.
The Old Market offers:
✓ Traditional Egyptian food
✓ Local street life
✓ Real bargaining culture
✓ Historic architecture
✓ The spectacular Al Sahaba Mosque
✓ Lower souvenir prices
Best for:
Culture lovers, photographers, foodies, families, budget-conscious travelers
Atmosphere:
Warm, energetic, traditional, sensory, unforgettable.
Ideal visit time:
6 PM – midnight.
Naama Bay
Naama Bay is the tourism heart of Sharm El Sheikh.
Here you’ll find:
✓ Beachfront bars
✓ International restaurants
✓ Clubs and nightlife
✓ Water sports operators
✓ Resort-style shopping
Best for:
Nightlife lovers, first-time visitors, couples, party travelers.
Atmosphere:
Busy, modern, international, energetic.
Ideal visit time:
Sunset until late.
SOHO Square
SOHO Square is Sharm’s luxury entertainment district.
Here you’ll find:
✓ Premium dining
✓ Ice bar
✓ Bowling
✓ Designer boutiques
✓ Live performances
✓ Family entertainment
Best for:
Luxury travelers, families, couples, evening entertainment.
Atmosphere:
Polished, upscale, modern.
Ideal visit time:
7 PM – midnight.
So Which One Is Actually Best?
If you only have one evening in Sharm El Sheikh, most experienced travelers choose Old Market.
Why?
Because Naama Bay and SOHO Square could exist in almost any international resort city.
But the Old Market could only exist in Egypt.
It’s where you smell cardamom in the air, hear evening prayers echo through the streets, and watch the golden domes of Al Sahaba Mosque light up against the Sinai sky.
That memory stays with you long after your flight home.
Best Instagram Photo Spots in Old Market Sharm El Sheikh
If you’re searching for the most photogenic places in Old Market Sharm El Sheikh, you’re in luck—this area becomes pure magic after sunset.
Whether you’re shooting with an iPhone, mirrorless camera, drone footage (where permitted), or creating short-form content for Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube Shorts, these are the best photo spots in 2026.
1. The Main Al Sahaba Mosque Plaza
This is the classic hero shot.
Stand directly in front of the mosque’s main square around golden hour (5:30–6:30 PM in winter, 6:30–7:30 PM in summer) for soft lighting on the domes and minarets.
Best shot:
Wide-angle portrait with the full mosque behind you.
Perfect for:
Instagram posts, YouTube thumbnails, cinematic reels.
2. Spice Mountain Viewpoint
Locals call it the best hidden photo spot in the Old Market.
Climb the rocky hill behind the market just before sunset and you’ll capture:
✓ Panoramic market lights
✓ Full mosque skyline
✓ Sinai mountain backdrop
✓ Incredible sunset colors
Best shot:
Timelapse or cinematic drone-style panorama.
3. The Lantern Alley
One of the most underrated photo locations.
Rows of hand-crafted Egyptian lanterns create warm golden lighting that looks incredible for portraits and travel reels.
Best shot:
Slow-motion walking shot.
Best time:
After full darkness.
4. Traditional Tea Cafés
Order mint tea or Turkish coffee and photograph the authentic details:
✓ Brass trays
✓ Hookahs
✓ Mosaic tables
✓ Street life in the background
Perfect for:
Lifestyle content and storytelling photography.
5. Fountain Square at Night
After dark, the illuminated fountains create reflections that look spectacular on modern smartphone cameras.
Best shot:
Night portrait with long exposure mode.
Professional Creator Tip
If you’re filming for Instagram Reels, TikTok, or YouTube Shorts, arrive around one hour before sunset.
This gives you:
✓ Golden-hour footage
✓ Blue-hour skyline shots
✓ Full night lighting
✓ Multiple lighting conditions in one visit
That’s exactly how professional travel creators capture content that feels cinematic—and performs.
FAQ:
1. What time should I visit Old Market Sharm El Sheikh?
The Old Market stays open throughout the day, but the best time to visit is between 6 PM and 10 PM. This is when temperatures become more comfortable, the market lights switch on, and the entire area comes alive with locals, street performers, cafés, and evening shoppers. It’s also the perfect time to see Al Sahaba Mosque beautifully illuminated against the Sinai night sky. If you’re visiting for photography, atmosphere, and the full cultural experience, evening is by far the best choice.
2. Is Old Market Sharm El Sheikh cheaper than Naama Bay or SOHO Square?
Yes—in most cases, Old Market Sharm El Sheikh is noticeably cheaper than both Naama Bay and SOHO Square. Souvenirs, spices, clothing, leather goods, perfumes, and local food are often priced lower, especially if you negotiate confidently. Unlike fixed-price resort shops, bargaining is part of the experience here, and paying in Egyptian Pounds (EGP) can often unlock even better deals.
3. Can tourists enter Al Sahaba Mosque?
Yes, tourists—including non-Muslim visitors—are generally welcome to visit Al Sahaba Mosque outside prayer times, and entry is usually free. Visitors should dress respectfully, as this is an active place of worship. Women should cover their hair, shoulders, and legs, while men should avoid shorts. If you arrive without appropriate clothing, staff often provide traditional coverings for visitors free of charge.
4. How much money should I bring to Old Market Sharm El Sheikh?
For a typical evening of food, drinks, transport, and light shopping, most travelers find 500–1500 Egyptian Pounds per person more than comfortable. If you plan to buy leather goods, essential oils, spices, jewelry, or larger souvenirs, bringing extra cash is recommended. Many small vendors still prefer cash, and using local currency often helps during negotiations.
5. Are credit cards accepted in Old Market Sharm El Sheikh?
Some larger restaurants, cafés, and souvenir stores accept Visa and Mastercard, but many smaller stalls, street-food vendors, and independent merchants still operate on cash. Carrying Egyptian Pounds is strongly recommended, as it often gives you better bargaining power and can sometimes result in lower prices.
6. Is Old Market Sharm El Sheikh safe for solo female travelers?
Yes, Old Market Sharm El Sheikh is generally considered safe for solo female travelers, especially during busy evening hours when the area is full of tourists, families, and locals. The market is well-lit, lively, and heavily visited. As with any busy destination, staying aware of your surroundings and avoiding isolated areas late at night is always sensible. Many solo travelers feel completely comfortable here, particularly between 6 PM and 10 PM.
7. Can I wear shorts in Old Market Sharm El Sheikh?
Yes, wearing shorts is common in tourist areas of Sharm El Sheikh. However, because the Old Market surrounds an important mosque and is popular with local families, modest clothing is appreciated, especially in the evening. If you plan to enter Al Sahaba Mosque, both shoulders and knees should be covered out of respect.
8. How long do you need in Old Market Sharm El Sheikh?
Most visitors spend 2 to 3 hours exploring the Old Market. This gives enough time to photograph Al Sahaba Mosque, browse souvenir shops, enjoy traditional Egyptian food, drink tea at a local café, and experience the atmosphere without rushing. Many travelers stay even longer once the evening entertainment begins.
9. Can you drink alcohol in Old Market Sharm El Sheikh?
Yes, alcohol is available in selected licensed restaurants and venues near the Old Market. However, the area itself is much more focused on traditional cafés, fresh juices, tea houses, family dining, and authentic Egyptian cuisine rather than nightlife or bar culture. Travelers looking for clubs and cocktails usually head to Naama Bay instead.
10. Is Old Market Sharm El Sheikh worth visiting with children?
Absolutely. Old Market is one of the most family-friendly places in Sharm El Sheikh. Children often love the illuminated streets, fountains, street performers, sweet shops, fresh juices, ice cream stalls, and open pedestrian areas. Evening visits are especially enjoyable because of cooler temperatures and the lively atmosphere.
11. How do I avoid scams in Old Market Sharm El Sheikh?
The best way to avoid scams is simple: never accept “free” gifts, always agree taxi prices before your journey, and compare prices at several stalls before buying. Bargaining is expected, so don’t be afraid to negotiate politely. Carrying small Egyptian Pound notes also makes transactions easier and helps avoid confusion with change.
12. Is Old Market better than Naama Bay?
That depends on what kind of traveler you are. Naama Bay is ideal for beach clubs, bars, nightlife, and international restaurants. Old Market Sharm El Sheikh, on the other hand, offers authentic Egyptian culture, local food, traditional shopping, historic architecture, and the stunning Al Sahaba Mosque. If you want to experience the real character of Sharm rather than a typical resort atmosphere, most experienced travelers choose the Old Market.
The Next Adventure
The vibrant markets of Egypt are just the beginning of what North Africa has to offer. If the desert air and mountain views have inspired you, your next trip should be across the continent. For a truly elevated experience, nothing compares to the [hot air balloon rides in Morocco] that glide over the Atlas Mountains—a perfect contrast to the coastal beauty of Sharm El Sheikh.
Ready to explore more? Read our Ultimate Sharm El Sheikh Travel Guide for the best diving spots and resort secrets.
