Saint Shenouda Coptic Cathedral in Hurghada: visit and tips

Updated on October 18, 2026

The Coptic Orthodox church of Saint Shenouda, often presented as Hurghada's Coptic cathedral, stands in El Dahar, the city's old centre. It is a reminder that Hurghada has a sizeable Coptic Christian community alongside its Muslim majority. This is a working place of worship, not a developed tourist site: go quietly, and outside services.

Highlights

The church façade

In El Dahar, the building is recognisable by its Coptic crosses and eastern-church architecture. Take it in from the street before going in.

The surroundings and Coptic crosses

The crosses and Christian decoration contrast with the nearby minarets, an image of the mix of communities in El Dahar. If the church is open, stay in the areas open to visitors.

Practical info

Tips

Dress modestly: shoulders and knees covered, for women and men alike. Services are held in Coptic and Arabic, and little English is spoken. Keep quiet and do not disturb a service; ask before taking photos, and do not photograph worshippers. A donation is possible but never required. An activity-booking site lists visiting in the morning, roughly 7am to 12pm, closed on Thursday afternoons: these hours do not come from the church, so confirm them on the spot. To round off a visit to El Dahar, see the El Mina Mosque, the El Dahar guide, the old souk and the scams to avoid.

How to get there

The church is in El Dahar, the old-centre district, a short distance from El Mina Mosque and the old souk. From a hotel in Sakkala or on Sheraton Road, take a taxi and agree the price before getting in, or use a ride-hailing app. Once there, the whole district is walkable.