11 Jul 2026
Planning your holiday to Egypt?
One of the first questions travelers ask is:
"Do I need a visa for Egypt, or can I enter with the free Sinai Only Stamp?"
The answer depends on where you're staying and which places you plan to visit.
This guide explains the difference between the Egypt Tourist Visa and the Sinai Only Stamp, who can use each option, how much the visa costs, and which destinations you can visit—so you can arrive in Egypt fully prepared.
The Egypt Tourist Visa allows visitors to travel throughout most of Egypt.
With a standard tourist visa, you can visit destinations including:
For most nationalities, the single-entry tourist visa costs around 30 USD when purchased on arrival or through the official eVisa system (subject to government updates).
The Sinai Only Stamp is a free entry permit available to many visitors arriving directly at Sharm El Sheikh International Airport.
It is designed for tourists who plan to stay within the South Sinai tourist area.
The stamp is generally valid for up to 15 days.
The Sinai Only Stamp is usually suitable if your holiday includes destinations such as:
✅ Sharm El Sheikh
✅ Naama Bay
✅ Sharks Bay
✅ Nabq
✅ Ras Mohammed National Park
✅ Dahab
✅ St. Catherine Monastery
These are among the most popular tourist destinations in South Sinai.
You should obtain the standard Egypt Tourist Visa if you plan to visit destinations outside the South Sinai area, such as:
For example, if you're planning one of our Cairo Day Trips or Luxor by Plane excursions, the standard tourist visa is required.
👉 Explore Egypt Excursions
Whether you're entering Egypt with a Tourist Visa or the Sinai Only Stamp, you can save time at the airport with our VIP Airport Services.
Our services include:
👉 Book VIP Airport Services Here:
Sharm El Sheikh Airport Fast Track & Meet Assist
Once you've arrived, discover the best of the Red Sea with our most popular tours:
🌊 Ras Mohammed & White Island Yacht Trip
Yes. For eligible travelers arriving directly in Sharm El Sheikh, the Sinai Only Stamp is generally issued free of charge.
No. If you plan to travel to Cairo or other areas outside the South Sinai zone, you should obtain a standard Egypt Tourist Visa.
Yes. Ras Mohammed National Park is within the South Sinai tourist area.
Yes. Dahab is generally included within the South Sinai area covered by the Sinai Only Stamp.
For many travelers, the standard single-entry tourist visa costs approximately 30 USD, but always check the latest official requirements before traveling, as visa policies and fees may change.
Understanding the difference between the Egypt Tourist Visa and the Sinai Only Stamp can save you time, money and unnecessary stress before your holiday.
If you're planning to stay in Sharm El Sheikh and explore South Sinai, the free Sinai Only Stamp may be all you need.
However, if your itinerary includes Cairo, Luxor, Aswan or other regions of Egypt, obtaining the standard Egypt Tourist Visa is the right choice.
Before you travel, don't forget to book your excursions and airport services in advance to make your Egyptian holiday even more enjoyable.
🌴 Explore the best Egypt tours with Remal Sinai
