You're looking at a map of Egypt and wondering if the desert still packs a punch once the calendar flips to November. Most people assume that because it’s "winter" in the northern hemisphere, the Red Sea must be cooling down or getting gray. That is a massive misconception. In fact, if you ask any local dive instructor or long-term expat in the Sinai, they'll tell you that November is actually the sweet spot. It is the month when the oppressive, skin-melting heat of August finally retreats, leaving behind something that feels suspiciously like a perfect Mediterranean summer.
Sharm El Sheikh basically lives in its own bubble. While London or Berlin are reaching for the heavy wool coats, this coastal strip is still basking in 27°C (81°F) sunshine. But it isn't just about the heat; it's about the water. The Red Sea is a giant thermal battery. It spends all summer soaking up the sun, and it doesn't just "turn off" because it's November.
Why November Sharm El Sheikh Weather is the Real Peak Season
If you've ever stood in Sharm during July, you know the feeling of the air actually hurting your lungs. November is the polar opposite. The average daytime highs hover around 26°C to 28°C. It’s warm enough to sweat if you’re hiking up Mount Sinai, but comfortable enough to sit on a beach lounger for six hours without feeling like a rotisserie chicken.
One thing you've gotta realize: the sun sets early. By 4:45 PM, the sun is dipping behind the mountains. This is the "desert effect." The moment that sun vanishes, the temperature drops. You’ll go from wearing a bikini at 2:00 PM to wanting a light hoodie or a denim jacket by 6:00 PM when you're heading out to Naama Bay for dinner. The nights average around 16°C to 18°C. It’s crisp. It’s refreshing. It’s also the reason why some people get caught out—they pack only summer gear and end up shivering over their sea bass.
The Water Situation (It’s Better Than You Think)
For divers and snorkelers, this is the golden window. The sea temperature in November stays remarkably high, usually around 25°C or 26°C (77°F to 79°F).
Why does this matter?
In the spring, the air is warm but the water is still "waking up" from winter and can be surprisingly chilly. In November, the water is often warmer than the air in the early morning. You can jump into the Straits of Tiran or Ras Mohammed National Park with a thin 3mm wetsuit—or even just a rash guard if you're hardy—and stay in for an hour without your teeth chattering. Plus, the visibility is world-class right now because the plankton blooms of the hotter months have settled down.
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Breaking Down the "Rain" Myth
Let's talk about rain. Or the lack of it.
If you look at weather charts, you might see "3mm of rainfall" for November. Honestly, that's almost a rounding error. It basically doesn't rain here. If it does, it's usually a five-minute drizzle that evaporates before it even hits the pavement. You have about a 1% chance of seeing a wet day. If you’re planning your wedding or a big outdoor event, November is about as safe as a bet gets.
- Sunlight hours: You're looking at about 9 hours of solid, bright sunshine.
- Humidity: It sits around 42% to 50%. It’s "dry heat," which is way easier on the body than the humid soup you find in the Caribbean.
- Wind: November is actually one of the calmest months. The average wind speed is around 12 mph (19 kph). This is great for boat trips because the sea stays relatively flat, though kitesurfers might find it a bit "meh" compared to the breezier spring months.
What to Pack Without Looking Like a Rookie
Packing for November Sharm El Sheikh weather is an exercise in layering. You need to be a chameleon.
During the day, it's standard beach holiday attire. Think linen shirts, shorts, and high-SPF sunscreen because the Egyptian sun doesn't care that it’s November—it will still burn you. But the evenings require a strategy.
Men should bring at least one pair of long trousers and a sweater. For women, pashminas are a godsend. Not only do they keep the evening chill off, but they’re handy if you decide to visit a more conservative area or a mosque. Also, don't forget polarized sunglasses. The glare off the white sand and the turquoise water is intense.
The Reality of the Crowds
Because the weather is so good, November is busy. It’s not "low season." Prices for flights from London or Milan often spike during the half-term break or as Europeans flee the first signs of frost. If you want the best of Sharm without the crowds, try to aim for the second or third week of the month.
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The vibe in Soho Square or the Old Market is buzzing this time of year. Since the heat isn't deadly, people actually spend time walking around rather than sprinting from one air-conditioned lobby to the next. You can actually enjoy a coffee outside at Farsha Mountain Lounge without feeling like you're sitting in an oven.
Actionable Tips for Your November Trip
- Book your boat trips for the morning: Since the sun sets early (around 4:50 PM), most boat excursions wrap up by 3:30 PM. To maximize your "warm" water time, get on the earliest boat possible.
- Heated pools are a "must-have": Even though the sea is warm, unheated hotel pools can start to feel brisk in November. When booking your resort, specifically check if they heat their main pool.
- The "Desert Night" rule: If you're booking a stargazing trip or a Bedouin dinner in the desert, double your layers. The desert floor loses heat instantly. A light jacket that worked in Naama Bay won't be enough once you're out in the dunes.
- Watch the UV index: It stays moderate to high even in late autumn. Don't let the cool breeze fool you into skipping the sunscreen; you'll realize your mistake once you're back in your room looking like a lobster.
- Mosquitoes: They can be a bit more active in the autumn "shoulder" season than in the dead of summer. Bring a decent repellent for the sunset hours.
If you are looking for that perfect balance of "hot enough for a tan" but "cool enough to breathe," November is the winner. Just remember that the day ends early, and the night has a bite. Pack that extra hoodie and you'll be the smartest person on the plane.