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Province · Sinai
North Sinai
The North Sinai, on the Mediterranean coast: Al-Arish and its palm-fringed beaches, Lake Bardawil and the dune desert of the peninsula.
In the photo: Dunes and coastal waters of the Zaranik area, in North Sinai.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
The province
Get to know North Sinai
North Sinai occupies the northern half of the Sinai Peninsula, between the Suez Canal and Egypt’s eastern border, with the Mediterranean coast to the north. The capital is Al-Arish, a seaside city with white-sand beaches and palm trees.
Along the coast stretches Lake Bardawil, a shallow, salty lagoon separated from the sea by a narrow sandbar. It is an area of fishing, salt pans and migratory birds, which usually pass through in spring and autumn.
The interior consists of dunes and gravel plains that rise toward the mountains in the peninsula’s center. In antiquity, the route that linked Egypt to Palestine and Syria ran along the northern coast, used by armies, traders and pilgrims.
The province has a tradition of Bedouin embroidery and of growing dates and olives. If you are thinking of visiting, prepare the trip in advance.
When to go
On the coast, days are mild from October to May. Summer is hot and humid. Migratory birds typically pass through Lake Bardawil in spring and autumn.
Your questions
Frequently asked questions about North Sinai
What is the capital of North Sinai?
Al-Arish, a city on the Mediterranean coast, with sandy beaches and palm trees.
What is Lake Bardawil?
It is a shallow, salty lagoon on the northern coast of Sinai, separated from the Mediterranean by a sandbar. It has fishing, salt pans and is a passage point for migratory birds.
Is North Sinai in Asia?
Yes. the entire Sinai Peninsula lies on the Asian side of the Suez Canal.
What is the difference between North Sinai and South Sinai?
North Sinai has the Mediterranean coast, dunes and Lake Bardawil. South Sinai has the peninsula’s central mountains, Mount Sinai and the Red Sea coasts, including Sharm el-Sheikh and Dahab.