TUI set to launch direct flights to bargain beach destination where it's sunny all year round
TUI has announced that it is set to relaunch direct flights from East Midlands Airport to a leading African beach destination.
The carrier will offer flights to Sharm El Sheikh on Mondays and Thursdays from March 2026.
The direct route to Egypt from the East Midlands was last offered in 2023 but will be brought back due to 'strong customer demand'.
TUI's UK and Ireland commercial director Chris Logan, said: 'Due to strong customer demand, we are thrilled to once again connect the East Midlands with the stunning Red Sea resort of Sharm El Sheikh.
'With hundreds of amazing hotels to choose from and guaranteed sunshine, Sharm El Sheikh is the perfect destination for a summer holiday.
'We have plenty of amazing all-inclusive deals with flexible flying options, and some of the best splash parks to entertain the kids.'
Sharm El Sheikh is one of Egypt's best-loved holiday destinations, famed for its expansive sandy beaches.
With 35km of Red Sea shoreline, tourists are sure to find a favourite beach along the coast.
The direct route to Egypt from the East Midlands was last offered in 2023 but will be brought back due to 'strong customer demand'
It's also one of the world's leading destinations for scuba diving with more than 250 coral reefs to explore.
Scuba divers will be in with a chance of spotting parrotfish, tuna, hammerhead sharks and dolphins.
Away from the beach, tourists can head on a Sinai desert safari by jeep, quad bike or camel to explore some of the area's unique landscapes.
It's also a haven for shopping with the Old Market the ideal place to pick up spices, perfume or clothes.
After dark, Sharm El Sheikh has a busy nightlife scene with live music, clubs and cocktail bars.
The Egyptian resort is a year-round destination with temperatures averaging 37 degrees in June and remaining at 22 degrees in January.
It's considered an affordable destination with the price of a domestic beer just £2.23 while a meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs under £6 according to Numbeo.
Due to its coastal location, seafood is particularly tasty in Sharm El Sheikh but the region also has a reputation for grilled meats.
Steve Griffiths, the managing director of East Midlands Airport, said: 'We're always pleased to be able to offer our customers a greater choice of destinations, so we're delighted that TUI is resuming flights to Sharm El Sheikh which is growing in popularity.
'Customers can expect an effortless and enjoyable start to their trip in Egypt at East Midlands Airport.'
The news comes as TUI also launched new flights from Southampton Airport to Palma in Majorca.
The first of the company's flights took off on May 27 with the service set to operate through the summer until September.
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