TUI relaunches UK flights to forgotten year-round sunshine destination
Fancy sunbathing and snorkelling at a once-forgotten holiday resort? It's just become easier than ever for travellers to return to Sharm El Sheikh in Egypt.
TUI has announced it will reintroduce direct flights from East Midlands Airport from March 2026.
Sharm El Sheikh was a popular holiday spot for British travellers in the early 2000s, with an estimated 600,000 British tourists visiting at its peak.
The Red Sea resort became known for golden sandy beaches, guaranteed sunshine and budget-friendly hotels.
But its popularity took a big hit in 2015 when a terror attack on a Russian passenger plane killed all 224 people onboard.
Flights from the UK were suspended for four years, only resuming in 2019 after airport security was significantly overhauled and the UK Foreign Office deemed it safe to visit. But, just as tourism looked hopeful, the pandemic struck and grounded holidays again.
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Sharm El Sheikh is slowly making its way onto the radar of British Holidaymakers – and the new TUI route could help place it back on the map. But what can travellers expect?
The Egyptian city stretches along a scenic coastal strip on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, overlooking the Red Sea.
It's known for its sunset-coloured sands, crystal clear waters and dramatic desert landscapes.
It's a popular snorkelling and diving destination thanks to vibrant coral reefs like those in Ras Mohammed National Park and the Straits of Tiran. Travellers can expect to spot tropical fish, turtles and the occasional reef shark or two.
Of course, if you just want to relax, there are plenty of beach options to do so. Naama Bay is a favourite for tourists, with shops and cafes to explore, while Shark's Bay is a quieter alternative and a perfect snorkelling destination if you get bored.
Away from the coast, there's still lots to explore, from quad biking and jeep safaris through the desert to traditional camel rides and trips to Mount Sinai – a popular tourist spot believed to be the site where Moses received the Ten Commandments.
You'll also have to factor in a trip to Old Market (Sharm El-Maya), where you can wander its eclectic streets, haggle for souvenirs, and buy yourself traditional spices and tea.
Ras Mohammed National Park – a marine and coastal national park located off the southernmost point of the Sinai Peninsula. Travellers have said it is 'better than the Great Barrier reef'. Shark's Bay Beach – popular snorkelling beach with golden sand and warm waters. Naama Bay Beach – a beachside neighbourhood known for its nightlife and choice of shops. Old Market – a must-visit traditional market with eclectic shops in narrow alleyways. El Fanar – a coral-laden reef ideal for snorkellers.
There's not a bad time to visit Sharm El Sheikh, thanks to its desert climate and year-round sunshine.
Temperatures are currently hitting 36C, though during the summer, it can push into the 40s, so you'll want to pack that factor 50.
Bear in mind that this is also peak tourist season, so if sweaty crowds aren't for you, perhaps consider visiting in autumn (October-November) or spring (March-April), when the weather is slightly more bearable.
Even in winter, daytime temperatures rarely drop below 20-22C, so it's a perfect destination for those wanting a bit of sun during January.
As well as the new direct flights from East Midlands Airport, TUI offers several holiday packages for travellers looking to rediscover Sharm El Sheikh. More Trending
One popular option is a seven-night stay at the 5-star TUI BLUE Sensatori Coral Sea. The all-inclusive package starts from £1,349 per person, which works out to around £192.70 per night.
Both prices are based on two adults sharing a room, with flights included, departing next summer.
For travellers flying from Gatwick, there's the Coral Sea Aqua Club. A seven-night all-inclusive holiday departing on Monday, June 9, 2025, costs £1,188 per person, based on two adults sharing.
Most hotels in Sharm el Sheikh offer all-inclusive board options. TUI recommends both the Sensatori Resort Sharm El Sheikh for a luxury vibe and the Hotel Sol Y Mar Sharks Bay as a great budget-friendly option for travellers.
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