Every city has a story and like all other cities, Sharm El Sheikh is a city of stories too. The history of this city is divided into various phases and eras that together make the city what it is today. Almost all Egyptian cities have a rich history and Sharm El Sheikh has a strong history as well. One of the major reasons behind the fame of this city is, of course, its history.

Phase 1: The Early History

Mount Sinai is a very famous mountain in the city which is known as the Jabal Musa. This place holds immense importance for the Muslims, Christians, and Jews as this place is where Moses is said to receive the Ten Commandments. This was in biblical times.

Phase 2: Arab Rule and Other Islamic Dynasties

The area of Sinai was conquered by the Arab rulers in 639AD. Since then a lot of Islamic dynasties prevailed in the area and in the 16th Century Sharm El Sheikh came under the Ottoman Empire. During this time, this city became the most significant part of the whole country and it became to be known as Sarm-us Seyh.

Phase 3: Era of Israeli Occupation

In the year 1956 during the Suez Crises, Israelis briefly occupied the city and then in 1967, Israeli occupied the Sinai Peninsula and this was the time when the small fishing village was converted into a tourist destination. This time was the turning point in the history of this city.

Phase 4: Sharm El Sheikh Comes under Egypt Rule

In 1982, Sharm El Sheikh came under the Egyptian rule and the Egyptians than carried out the development work that was being done by the Israelis. They worked to improve the infrastructure of the city which attracted a lot of tourists from all around the city. Due to strict laws, no high-rise buildings were constructed in the city and the tourists would enjoy hoteling, the huge mountains, and the crystal clear sea.

This city has since then attracted millions of tourists from all around the world. From a small fishing village to flourishing tourist destination this city has gone through a phenomenal historical change which is the most prominent feature of the city

The Sharm El Sheikh Culture

The Sharm El Sheikh culture is very significantly influenced by the Bedouin culture. The culture of this city differs from that of mainland Egypt and that makes this city so significant culturally. A person who understands the Sinai spirit is very much likely to understand the culture that is practiced in this city. From just being a sleepy small fishing village, it was made into the biggest Egyptian tourist destination but the ancient artifacts were found here, clearly display what the actual culture of the city is. The stroll around the old town is also a perfect cultural walk as it the oldest districts of the city.