Al-Arish

Introducing Al-Arish

Much of the north coast of Sinai between Port Fuad and Al-Arish is dominated by the swampy lagoon of Lake Bardawil, separated from the Mediterranean by a limestone ridge. As a result of this inhospitable geography, Al-Arish is the only major city in the region, and by default the capital of North Sinai Governorate. Unsurprisingly, Al-Arish resembles a ghost town for much of the year, aside from the bustling central market that draws in thousands of Bedouin traders from around the peninsula.

In summer, however, the long, palm-fringed coastline of Al-Arish comes alive when holidaying Cairenes arrive en masse. With a modest smattering of holiday villages and beachfront hotels, Al-Arish is a popular alternative to the more upscale (and unashamedly brash) southerly neighbour of Sharm el-Sheikh.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009