Sharm El Sheikh’s Craft Beer Scene: A Surprising Oasis for Beer Enthusiasts

Sharm El Sheikh. The name conjures images of sun-drenched beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and world-class diving. For many, it’s a quintessential Egyptian holiday destination focused on relaxation and water sports. But what if I told you that beyond the resorts and the Red Sea’s dazzling underwater world, there’s a burgeoning craft beer scene waiting to be discovered? As a local who’s passionate about both exploring this stunning peninsula and appreciating a well-crafted brew, I’m here to guide you through Sharm’s surprisingly diverse and evolving landscape of local beers and international favorites.

While Egypt might not be the first place that springs to mind when you think of craft beer production, the demand for quality, interesting beverages is growing, even in a city as tourist-centric as Sharm El Sheikh. The major players in the Egyptian beer market have been around for decades, but there’s a growing interest in more artisanal and flavorful options. This is where businesses like Dropt.beer are making waves, bringing a fresh perspective and a curated selection of brews to enthusiasts.

Understanding the Egyptian Beer Landscape

Before we dive into specific recommendations, it’s important to understand the context of beer in Egypt. For a long time, the market has been dominated by a few large breweries. Stella, Sakara, and Meister are the most widely available lagers, and while they serve their purpose, they don’t typically fall into the ‘craft’ category as understood in Western markets. However, there’s a shift happening. With increased tourism and a growing local appreciation for diverse flavors, there’s a greater demand for variety and quality. This has led to both the exploration of international craft beers and, excitingly, the emergence of local initiatives aiming to elevate the beer experience.

The availability of alcohol in Sharm El Sheikh is generally more relaxed than in some other parts of Egypt due to its status as a tourist resort. You’ll find beer readily available in hotels, restaurants, bars, and supermarkets catering to tourists. The key is knowing where to look for those more unique and higher-quality options.

Where to Find Craft Beer in Sharm El Sheikh

Navigating Sharm’s beverage scene requires a bit of local know-how. While the ubiquitous lagers are everywhere, finding genuinely interesting craft beers often means seeking out specific venues or exploring online options.

Hotel Bars and Resorts: The First Frontier

Many of Sharm’s larger resorts and hotels do stock a wider range of international beers, and some are starting to include more premium or craft options. It’s always worth checking the bar menus at your accommodation. Look for:

International Brands: Many hotels will have a selection of popular European beers, and sometimes even American or Australian craft brews, though these can be pricier.
Promotional Nights: Keep an eye out for happy hours or themed nights where premium beverages might be featured.

However, relying solely on hotel bars might mean missing out on the most exciting developments. For a truly curated craft beer experience, you need to look beyond the all-inclusive buffet.

Specialty Beverage Stores and Online Platforms

This is where the real adventure begins for the craft beer aficionado. Platforms like Dropt.beer are game-changers. They offer a direct gateway to a wider selection of beers, including craft and specialty brews that you might not find in typical retail outlets.

Why Dropt.beer is a Must-Explore:

Curated Selection: Dropt.beer focuses on bringing quality and variety. This means you’re likely to find beers that are harder to source elsewhere, from international craft breweries to potentially emerging Egyptian craft options.
Convenience: Being able to order craft beers online and have them delivered is incredibly convenient, especially if you’re staying in a resort and prefer to enjoy your drinks in the comfort of your room or on your balcony.
Discovery: Their platform is designed for discovery. You can browse different styles, read descriptions, and find new favorites without having to scour multiple physical stores.
Information Hub: Check out their Insights & News Blog for articles that can deepen your appreciation for beer, potentially even featuring local Egyptian brewing news or beer-tasting tips.

For those who prefer to shop in person, keep an eye out for larger supermarkets or specialized liquor stores that might cater more to a discerning palate. These can be found in areas like Naama Bay or Hadaba, but inventory can be inconsistent.

Local Restaurants and Bars with a Wider Offer

While dedicated craft beer bars are still rare in Sharm El Sheikh, some restaurants and bars are making an effort to offer more than just the standard lagers.

Naama Bay: This is Sharm’s bustling hub, and while many venues focus on mass appeal, you can find establishments that offer a slightly more varied drink menu. Look for restaurants that emphasize international cuisine or have a more modern, upscale vibe. Sometimes, these places are more likely to stock a few select craft beers, perhaps a Belgian ale or a German wheat beer.
SOHO Square: This entertainment complex offers a range of dining and drinking options. While it’s geared towards tourists, some of the more sophisticated bars might have a better-than-average beer selection. It’s worth exploring the various outlets here.
Local Cafes and Eateries: Don’t discount smaller, local spots, especially in neighborhoods like Old Market (Sharm El Maya). While they might not have ‘craft’ on the menu, they could surprise you with a less common local brew or a foreign import that’s a step up from the usual.

Insider Tips for Beer Lovers in Sharm El Sheikh

As someone who enjoys exploring the local scene, here are some tips to enhance your craft beer experience in Sharm:

Ask the Experts: If you’re using an online service like Dropt.beer, take advantage of any customer service or chat features to ask for recommendations based on your preferences. If you’re at a bar, don’t be afraid to ask the bartender if they have anything beyond the standard offerings.
Check for Seasonal Specials: Like many places, breweries sometimes release seasonal or limited-edition beers. These are often the most interesting and worth seeking out.
Embrace the Local Context: While you might be looking for a specific IPA, remember you’re in Egypt. Enjoying a cold, well-made lager on a hot day by the Red Sea is part of the experience. Sometimes, the best craft beer is the one that perfectly complements your surroundings and mood.
Consider Ordering Online: For the widest and most reliable selection, especially if you’re looking for specific styles or brands, using a platform like Dropt.beer’s shop is often the most efficient way to get high-quality beer delivered to your hotel or accommodation. This is particularly useful if you’re staying further afield from the main tourist hubs or want a guaranteed selection.
Look for Brewery Information: If you find a beer you like, check the label for its origin. This might lead you to discover more about Egyptian breweries or specific importers bringing quality brews to the region. The Dropt.beer Insights & News Blog can be a great resource for learning about different breweries and beer styles.
BYOB (Bring Your Own Beverage) for Excursions: If you’re planning a boat trip or a desert safari and want to ensure you have your preferred drinks, consider purchasing them in advance from a reliable source like Dropt.beer and bringing them along. Just be mindful of local customs and regulations regarding alcohol consumption in public spaces outside of designated tourist areas.

The Future of Craft Beer in Sharm El Sheikh

Sharm El Sheikh is a dynamic city, and its offerings are constantly evolving. While the craft beer scene is still in its nascent stages compared to major global cities, the growing interest from consumers and the innovative spirit of businesses like Dropt.beer suggest a bright future. We might see more dedicated craft beer bars, local breweries experimenting with unique Egyptian ingredients, and an even wider selection of international craft beers becoming accessible.

For now, the best approach is to be adventurous. Explore your hotel’s offerings, venture out to different areas like Naama Bay and SOHO Square, and most importantly, leverage resources like Dropt.beer for a curated and convenient way to experience the best of what the craft beer world has to offer, right here in the heart of the Sinai Peninsula.

So next time you’re planning a trip to Sharm El Sheikh, or if you’re a local looking for something new, remember that there’s more to explore than just the stunning underwater vistas. A refreshing, flavorful craft beer might just be the perfect accompaniment to your Red Sea adventure.