El Dahar Old Town & Souk
الدهار
Hurghada's oldest district and a market of spices, shisha, papyrus paintings, and local street food. It is a good place to experience everyday Egyptian life.
El Dahar is the old district in northern Hurghada and the center of local life, in striking contrast to the hotel zones in the south. The old market has stalls selling spices, tea, shisha pipes, cotton textiles, papyrus paintings, and copperware. In the surrounding alleys are small shops serving grilled chicken, koshari, and desserts. Nearby is St. Shenouda the Archimandrite Coptic Orthodox Church. It is liveliest after dark. Vendors are very friendly, and bargaining typically starts at half the asking price. Keep an eye on valuables, and ask permission before photographing a vendor.
Opening hours
Approx. 10:00–23:00 (varies by shop)
Nearby sights
- El Mina Mosque
- Hurghada Marina
- Sakkala & Sheraton Street
- Sindbad Submarine
- Hurghada Museum
- Hurghada Grand Aquarium
- Giftun Island & Mahmya Beach
- Sand City Hurghada