Essential information for Marsa Alam
Cheap Egypt holidays are popular throughout the year because of the country’s hot year-round climate. Although its a desert country, Marsa Alam‘s seaside location can feel tropical from time to time. Summer is incredibly hot, so many people choose to visit Marsa Alam between September and March, when the weather in the UK is at its coldest. Expect the temperature in Marsa Alam to stay above 30°C pretty much all year round.
Health and safety
Water in Marsa Alam is safe to drink. In fact, the whole Red Sea area has worked hard to ensure that it has enough water for both local residents and growing tourists.
As far as vaccinations go, you’re advised to top up your tetanus jabs if you’ve not done so for a while. Hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid vaccinations should also be considered.
As with any holiday, you should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover yourself and family on your trip. If you’re visiting Marsa Alam specifically to take part in sports or watersports, make sure your insurance covers this. See our holiday extras page for more information, and for the latest health and safety information visit gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/egypt/health.
Passports and Visas
British citizens will need a passport valid for at least six months from the day of travel. You will also need a visa to enter Marsa Alam for visits of up to 30 days. This will cost £20 for a single adult visa, which can be obtained at the airport when you arrive.
By law, you must carry your passport with you and may need to show it when paying by credit card. For the most up-to-date passport and visa info, visit gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/egypt/entry-requirements.
Advice for travellers with children
Many of Marsa Alam’s sleek resorts cater for families, so they will be plenty to keep your little ones occupied while you relax in the sun. Nearby cultural sites like the mines where Cleopatra was said to have obtained her emeralds, make for some historic adventure. The area is also home to some of country’s best hotels, perfect for All Inclusive holidays to Egypt.
Little ones will also enjoy the beaches, which come with inviting, shallow waters, not to mention its frequent guests in the form of turtles.
Electricity
Connector type: Type C/F – much like Europe. You will need adaptors for your appliances.
Voltage Info: 220V. This is the same as the UK so you won’t need a converter.
Emergency information
Unlike the UK, where we use one number for all our emergency services, Egypt uses a different number for each service.
Local police number: 122
Tourist police phone number: 126
Ambulance: 123
Fire: 180
British Consulate
If you’re a victim of crime, affected by a crisis overseas, or if something happens to a relative or partner, contact the British Consulate in Cairo.
Address: British Embassy, 7 Ahmed Ragheb Street, Garden City, Cairo
Email: consular.cairo@fco.gov.uk
Phone (from within Marsa Alam): 2 2791 6000
Phone (from the UK): + 20 2 2791 6000
Hospital
Modern hospital facilities can be found to the north at Port Ghalib Hospital in Port Ghalib.
Address: Port Ghalib Hospital, El Nasr Road, Hurghada, Red Sea
Phone: +2 (065) 354 48 50