SOHO Square is the large entertainment and dining complex in the Shark's Bay area of Sharm el-Sheikh, built around an open plaza of restaurants, cafes, shops and entertainment venues. It is a different evening from Naama Bay: more planned and spacious, with a mix of international chains and Egyptian cafes, family attractions and nightlife in one place. It is popular with guests from the nearby Shark's Bay and Nabq resorts, and many visitors from other areas make an evening trip by taxi or on a private tour. The simplest way to see it with a driver is a short city tour that includes SOHO Square, or you can go on your own by taxi and arrange the return. Come after sunset, when the lights are on and the temperature has dropped, and stay for dinner and an hour or two of wandering and people-watching.
What to do
Walk the main plaza, pick a restaurant or cafe with a view of the crowds and browse the shops for souvenirs, clothing and sweets. The complex has hosted family attractions and live entertainment, including shows and rides, and venues change over time, so check what is open on the night of your visit rather than planning around a particular attraction. Many evenings are lively with music and families strolling, and the atmosphere is relaxed even at busy times.
Getting there
SOHO Square is a taxi ride from Naama Bay and a short drive from the airport and the Shark's Bay and Nabq hotels. If you stay nearby, you may be able to walk or use a hotel shuttle. If you prefer a driver, a private tour that includes SOHO Square can be combined with the Old Market or the Al Sahaba Mosque, which makes a convenient half day or evening. If you take a taxi, agree the fare in advance and arrange a return ride.
Eating and spending
You will find a wide choice, from quick snacks to sit-down dinners, and prices are generally higher than in the Old Market but comparable to Naama Bay. Check menus and bills carefully and carry a mix of cash and a card. Dress is casual but tidy, and in the evening in winter a light jacket helps.
Is it worth it? If you like lively, well-organised evenings with plenty of choice, especially with children, SOHO Square is a good alternative to Naama Bay. If you prefer something more local and low-key, spend the evening in the Old Market instead. Pair it with the Alf Leila Wa Leila show for a full night out.
Making an evening of it
Arrive around sunset, take a first walk to see what is on, then choose your restaurant and leave time afterwards for dessert, shisha or a stroll. If you have children, look for the family attractions and play areas and check their opening times early in your visit. Keep valuables in a front pocket in the crowds, carry small notes for tips and for any entry fees, and agree your return taxi with the driver or ask the venue to call one.
Evenings are busiest at weekends and in the high season from October to April, so book a table in advance if you have a particular restaurant in mind.
What to expect
The experience
An open-air evening in a large plaza of restaurants, cafes, shops and entertainment venues, on your own or with a private driver.
Best time
After sunset, when it is cooler and the plaza is lit and lively.
How long
About three hours for a walk, dinner and some browsing.
Tips
Agree taxi fares and the return ride in advance, check which venues are open that night and check menus and bills.
Quick picks
- Best for
- An easy evening of dinner, shopping and people-watching with lots of choice.
- Families
- Spacious and busy with families, so it suits children, with plenty of places to eat.
- Couples
- A pleasant dinner and stroll, though Naama Bay has a more intimate seafront feel.
- Pair with
- The Alf Leila Wa Leila show, or the Old Market and Al Sahaba Mosque earlier in the day.
- Time needed
- An evening, about three hours.
Good questions
What is SOHO Square?+
It is a large entertainment and dining complex in the Shark's Bay area of Sharm el-Sheikh, with restaurants, cafes, shops and entertainment venues around an open plaza.
Is SOHO Square free to enter?+
Walking around the square is free, though individual attractions, shows and restaurants charge their own prices.
When is the best time to visit?+
In the evening, after sunset. It is cooler and the plaza is livelier and more atmospheric.
How do I get there from Naama Bay?+
By taxi, which is the easiest option. Agree the fare before you start and arrange the return ride. A private driver tour is another option.
Is it suitable for children?+
Yes, it is spacious and family-friendly, with many places to eat. Check which attractions are open on the night.
