An absolute capacitive micro pressure sensor including a pressure sensor element with a mechanically fixed electrode and a deflectable pressure sensor membrane separated from the fixed electrode by a predetermined distance. A packaging defining a chamber is formed by a cover assembled to a base plate with an opening defined therein. The chamber is filed with a fluid and/or a gas at substantially constant pressure. Within the chamber, the pressure sensor element is mounted to the base plate to define an open cavity therebetween substantially aligned with the opening defined in the base plate. A gel is disposed in the open cavity in contact with an exposed surface of the deflectable membrane.