The Sharm el-Sheikh Bus Station is the main hub for travelers heading to Cairo, Dahab, or other cities in Egypt by bus. It’s an affordable and practical option for long-distance travel, although the infrastructure is more modest than that of its European counterparts.
Contents
- Where Is the Bus Station Located
- Routes and Destinations
- Services and Infrastructure
- How to Get to the Bus Station
- Useful Information
- Tips for Tourists
- FAQ
Where Is the Bus Station?
The Sharm el-Sheikh bus station is located in the Rowaysat district, east of the airport. It’s a modest facility: a few covered platforms, ticket counters, and a small waiting area. Finding your way around the bus station isn’t always easy for foreigners—be sure to allow plenty of time to locate the ticket counter for your desired bus company.
Routes and Destinations
Cairo (Eastern Bus Station / Turgoman)
The most popular destination. The distance is about 500 km, and the travel time is 7–8 hours via the highway through the Suez Tunnel. Two main operators: East Delta (state-owned) and Superjet (more comfortable, with air conditioning and sometimes Wi-Fi).
Approximate bus schedule to Cairo:
- 7:00 a.m., 7:30 a.m., 8:30 a.m.
- 11:00
- 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM
- 11:00 p.m., 11:30 p.m., 11:45 p.m., 12:00 a.m.
Night buses (11:00 PM–12:00 AM) are popular: you arrive in Cairo by morning. Fares start at ~120–200 EGP with East Delta; Superjet charges more.
Dahab
~80 km, about 1.5 hours. Shuttle minibuses run—they depart once full. There is no fixed schedule; generally, they run in the morning. Fares are low.
Nuweiba and Taba
Nuweiba—~90 km, about 2 hours; Taba (border with Israel)—~190 km, ~3 hours. Minibuses run irregularly. Check the schedule on site.
Hurghada
The route goes through the Suez Tunnel, ~6–7 hours. Less popular with tourists than Cairo; buses run. Check with the East Delta ticket offices.
Services and Infrastructure
The station has ticket counters for the main operators (East Delta, Superjet), restrooms, and small kiosks selling food and water. Comfort levels are minimal—don’t expect airport-level amenities. There are no or very few currency exchange offices at the station; it’s best to carry EGP cash with you. There is no luggage storage.
How to Get to the Station
Taxi: the main option. From Naama Bay—approximately a 15–20-minute ride. Taxis in Sharm el-Sheikh do not have meters—agree on a price before getting in.
On foot: It’s a long way from the tourist center to the station, and there’s no convenient walking route. A taxi is the only reasonable option.
Tour transfer: If you purchased your ticket through a tour operator, a transfer to the station is often included—be sure to confirm this when booking.
Useful Information
- You can buy Superjet tickets in advance online (superjet.com.eg) or at the station ticket office; East Delta tickets are available only at the ticket office.
- For night flights to Cairo, it’s best to arrive 30–40 minutes early—seats are limited, and tickets for popular flights sell out quickly.
- On the way from Sharm to Cairo, the bus passes through several military and police checkpoints—keep your passport handy.
- There are no luggage lockers—it’s inconvenient to walk around the station with large luggage.
- It’s best to exchange currency before arriving at the station—there are no or very few currency exchange booths on site.
- Arabic is spoken at the station; some Superjet ticket agents understand English, but those at East Delta don’t always.
Tips for Tourists
- For a comfortable trip to Cairo, choose Superjet: the seats are better, USB charging ports are sometimes available, and the air conditioning works more reliably.
- The overnight bus saves you time at your Cairo hotel—if you have an early flight or tour, take the 11:00 p.m. departure.
- Bring food and water with you: there are rest stops along the highway, but the selection is unpredictable.
- In Cairo, buses arrive at different stations depending on the operator—check your arrival point when buying your ticket.
FAQ
Where can I buy a bus ticket to Cairo from Sharm?
At the ticket office at the Ruwaisat Bus Terminal or online for Superjet (superjet.com.eg). For East Delta—only at the ticket office.
How much does the Sharm–Cairo bus cost?
East Delta starts at ~120 EGP; Superjet is more expensive.
How long does the trip to Cairo take?
7–8 hours via the Suez Tunnel.
Can you get to Dahab by bus?
Yes, there are minibuses that run the route—it takes about 1.5 hours—but the schedule isn’t fixed; they leave once they’re full.
Is there a bus to Hurghada?
Yes, there’s a bus that goes through the Suez Tunnel; the trip takes about 6–7 hours. It runs less frequently than the bus to Cairo—check with the East Delta ticket office for details.
Is it safe to take a night bus?
Yes, night buses to Cairo are a standard option for travelers. The road through the tunnel is well-patrolled.
