Hotspots Sharm El Sheikh: Old Market & Al-Sahaba Mosque

A Journey Into Culture, Spices, and Breathtaking Arabian Architecture

The Old Market—often called Old Sharm—is the true cultural heart of the city. Surrounded by massive desert mountains, this lively marketplace is filled with local scents, colorful shops, and incredible history.

The History: When was Al-Sahaba Mosque built?

The construction of this architectural masterpiece officially began in 2011. It took several years of hard work by Egyptian engineers and craftsmen to complete. The mosque finally opened its doors to the public in March 2017, instantly becoming the most famous landmark in the city.

Are religious services still held inside?

Yes, Al-Sahaba is a fully active place of worship. Every day, the beautiful call to prayer echoes from its towering minarets, and hundreds of local Muslims gather inside for the five daily Islamic prayer services. Tourists are very welcome to visit outside of prayer times to admire the beautiful architecture.

Shopping, Spices, and Magical Evenings

The best time to explore the Old Market is after sunset. As the temperatures drop, the entire square lights up with thousands of glowing lamps. It is a true paradise for shopping, buying spices, and trying traditional food at the local restaurants.