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Sharm el-Sheikh

South Sinai · Egypt
Restricted
Last updated: 2026-06-23  ·  Last verified: 2026-06-23  ·  Region: International

At a Glance — Sharm el-Sheikh Airbnb & STR Rules

RuleDetails
Regulatory StatusRestricted — rules apply
Permit / License RequiredYes — national Holiday Home Certificate (for eligible owners)
Night / Day CapNone nationally
PenaltiesPer national framework
Primary Residence RequiredNo
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Sharm el-Sheikh Airbnb & Vacation Rental Regulation Overview

Sharm el-Sheikh Short-Term Rental Regulations Overview

Short-term rentals in Sharm el-Sheikh, South Sinai are allowed but subject to significant restrictions under local regulations as of 2026. Hosts operating on Airbnb, VRBO, or other vacation rental platforms must obtain proper licensing: Yes — national Holiday Home Certificate (for eligible owners).

Hosting Rules and Restrictions in Sharm el-Sheikh

Key operational rules for vacation rental hosts in Sharm el-Sheikh include: Primary residence requirement: No. Rental day cap: None nationally.

Zoning and Location Requirements in Sharm el-Sheikh

Zoning considerations for short-term rentals in Sharm el-Sheikh: Sinai/Sharm subject to special status; foreign property ownership prohibited (only usufruct/long-lease structures). Insurance: No explicit requirement.

Penalties for Non-Compliance in Sharm el-Sheikh

Hosts who fail to comply with Sharm el-Sheikh's short-term rental regulations may face enforcement action. Per national framework.

Platform Obligations in Sharm el-Sheikh

Platform obligations for services like Airbnb, VRBO, and Booking.com operating in Sharm el-Sheikh: Per national rules.

Full Regulatory Details

Regulatory Status
Restricted
License / Registration
Yes — national Holiday Home Certificate (for eligible owners)
Tax Registration
Yes
Primary Residence Rule
No
Night / Day Cap
None nationally
Zoning Restrictions
Sinai/Sharm subject to special status; foreign property ownership prohibited (only usufruct/long-lease structures)
Minimum Stay
None specified
Insurance Required
No explicit requirement
Platform Obligations
Per national rules
Compliance Notes
Foreign investors cannot own property outright; affects who can register/operate STRs
Effective Date
2022 (Presidential Decree No. 128/2022 on foreign ownership); 2025 (national STR decree)
Key Notes
Major Red Sea resort hub for STRs but with foreign-ownership constraints unique to Sinai
Penalties
Per national framework
Additional Context
Decree 128/2022 bans foreign ownership in Sharm el-Sheikh, Dahab and the Gulf of Aqaba; Law 14/2012 generally bans foreign ownership in Sinai
Sources
https://www.mota.gov.eg
bylawme.com (Decree 128/2022)
adsero.me (national STR framework)
📋 Apply / Register with the Official Authority

Apply for your STR permit or registration directly through the official government portal.

Official Source ↗

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Airbnb legal in Sharm el-Sheikh?

Airbnb and short-term rentals are legal in Sharm el-Sheikh but subject to restrictions. Hosts must comply with local permit requirements and zoning rules. Foreign investors cannot own property outright; affects who can register/operate STRs

Do you need a permit for Airbnb in Sharm el-Sheikh?

Yes. Sharm el-Sheikh requires the following for short-term rental operation: Yes — national Holiday Home Certificate (for eligible owners).

What are the penalties for illegal Airbnb hosting in Sharm el-Sheikh?

Hosts who operate without proper permits in Sharm el-Sheikh may face enforcement. Per national framework.

What are the key STR compliance requirements in Sharm el-Sheikh?

Major Red Sea resort hub for STRs but with foreign-ownership constraints unique to Sinai

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