El Dahar Fish Market: Fresh Fish and Harbour Restaurants

Updated on October 18, 2026

Hurghada's fish market is where you choose your fish on the ice before having it cooked: fishermen sell the Red Sea's catch, and the small stalls nearby grill or fry your choice for a few extra pounds. Guides place it on the waterfront, near the old harbour, the marina and the El Mina Mosque; descriptions vary between sources, so ask your taxi driver for the "souk el samak". It is a raw, authentic visit, not a market tidied up for tourists.

Highlights

The fishing port

The fishing boats moored at the quay, with their nets, crates and crews, set the tone: this is a working harbour. If you arrive in the morning you will see the catch coming in and the fishermen preparing their gear. Ask before photographing people.

Choosing your fish

On the stalls you will find reef fish, squid and prawns, depending on the catch. The customer picks a piece, has it weighed and says how to prepare it: grilled or fried; several guides say cooking is free or charged at a modest price, to be confirmed before ordering.

The El Dahar market

The neighbouring food market in the old district also sells vegetables, fruit, meat and poultry. The photo shows a butcher's at the El Dahar market, typical of the atmosphere of the district's stalls.

Practical info

Tips

Ask the price per kilo before choosing and have it weighed in front of you; prices vary by species and freshness. Choose a fish with clear eyes, firm flesh and no strong smell, and check there is enough ice. Opinions on cleanliness are mixed: prefer well-stocked stalls and restaurants where you see the fish cooked in front of you. Do not pay in advance. Carry cash in Egyptian pounds. To go further, see the restaurants and old district, the El Dahar souk and the El Mina Mosque. Hours and prices were taken from travel guides and traveller reviews, without official confirmation: check on the spot.

How to get there

The market is on the waterfront, in the old El Dahar district, near the port and the marina. Take a taxi from your hotel, agreeing the price before getting in, or a ride-hailing app; ask for the "souk el samak" or the El Mina Mosque as a landmark.