dahab travel and tourism llc

Dahab Travel & Tourism

We are a comprehensive travel agency that covers all services for individuals and companies. We provide airline tickets, hotel reservations, travel insurance services, visas, and offers in cooperation with Ethiopian Airlines.

Abidjan, Abuja, Accra, Addis Ababa, Antananarivo, Asmara, Bahir Dar, Bamako, Blantyre, Brazzaville, Bujumbura, Cairo, Cape Town, Comoros, Conakry, Cotonou, Dakar, Dar es Salaam, Dire Dawa, Djibouti, Douala, Entebbe, Enugu, Gaborone, Garowe, Goma, Harare, Hargeisa, Johannesburg, Juba, Kaduna, Kano, Khartoum, Kigali, Kilimanjaro, Kinshasa, Kisangani, Lagos, Libreville, Lilongwe, Lome, Luanda, Lubumbashi, Lusaka, Malabo, Maputo, Mbuji-Mayi Mekele, Mombasa, Mogadishu, N'Djamena, Nairobi, Ndola, Niamey, Nosy Be, Ouagadougou, Pointe-Noire, Seychelles, Victoria Falls, Windhoek, Yaounde, Zanzibar.

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About Dahab

We offer our professional tourism services to everyone who is passionate about discovering natural places in Africa, as we are accredited by GSA Ethiopian Airlines, and pioneers in the field of tourism services and destination management from Jordan to Addis Ababa and to more than 120 countries around the world. Dahab Travel and Tourism offers the best and top-rated travel packages to customers who choose our destinations from Jordan to Addis Ababa and all over the world. We strive to be your holiday partners until the end!

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In Dahab, we offer you the best possible deal and save you more money by suggesting alternative routes that may be cheaper and more convenient for you. We also cover other aspects of your trip such as airport transfers, hotel and restaurant reservations, and planning a great itinerary. Committed to providing the highest level of service at an affordable price!!

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Our travel policies govern a set of rules and procedures that determine how employees book travel and determine its costs, and through these policies we are keen to apply them to include domestic and international travel, so that they also contain related to the flight category and covered travel period.

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Wherever you or your staff are, whether you need to make a new reservation, make a change to your existing reservation, or need emergency support, rest assured that our 24/7 team is at your service.

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All our customers are important to us, and therefore we value them and consider their needs with great care and personal involvement.

The Best Things to do in Dahab, Egypt: A Bohemian Diver’s Paradise

When it comes to travel in Egypt we tend to think of the ancient history. The pyramids and the temples. Mummies and Nile cruises . Among the enchanting ruins is a splattering of chaos, especially when it comes to Cairo. Bazaars and souks will have vendors calling after you for your business as other locals promise to take you on a special guided tour. Egypt’s main attractions are awe-inspiring and magical and I loved my time exploring them. But I also found travel in Egypt to be exhausting. Until I went to Dahab.

I heard about Dahab from a diver friend who told me to add it to my Egypt itineray when I visited in 2017. I followed his advice and spent a few quiet days in this sleepy seaside town that used to be a fishing village but had made a name for itself while diving. Dahab was quiet. It was chill and unassuming. It was the perfect way to end my Egypt trip and relax a bit before coming back to Canada.

Fast forward 5 years and I found myself in Dahab again. While living in Tel Aviv a friend and I headed down south to Eilat and hopped over to Egypt at the Taba border crossing for a few days of diving and ocean adventures. So much had changed and yet everything that I loved about Dahab had stayed the same. It was a perfect few days of sunshine and ocean and I can’t wait to go back. So, for anyone else planning a trip to Egypt or Sinai, here is my Dahab itinerary and suggestions for the best things to do in Dahab.

Is Dahab Safe?

Dahab is located in the Sinai Peninsula which, for those familiar with world geography and world politics, is considered to be a hotspot for ISIS. Unfortunately, the Sinai Peninsula is listed on a lot of government travel websites as a no-go thanks to the threat posed by these terror groups. Now, nowhere in the world is ever safe and yes, Sinai has seen a number of attacks over the last number of years, but having been twice, I can only speak to my experiences and I have never felt unsafe in Dahab.

From the perspective of a female traveller, I really enjoyed Dahab. It’s not quite as strict or traditional as the rest of Egypt and while I am still very mindful that this is, in fact, a Muslim country I don’t feel out of place or awkward wearing shorts and t-shirt or tank top walking around or a bikini sitting on a sunbed at one of the beach restaurants. I have personally never been harassed or catcalled in Dahab either.

How to Get To Dahab

Most people who come to Dahab arrive via Sharm el-Sheikh which is the closest airport. From Sharm, it’s about a 1 hour drive. The best thing to do is arrange a taxi ahead of time, your accommodation can help you with this.

If you happen to be coming from Israel, as I did on my second visit, you can cross at the Taba border crossing. Note that depending on your passport, you may or may not need a visa if you are only travelling to the Sinai Peninsula. Be mindful that the border crossing can be very long and chaotic on long weekends and holidays as many Israelis like to go to Sinai as well. The best time to cross is midweek.

Please make sure to keep your passport accessible and handy at all times when driving through Sinai. There are a number of checkpoints and they may stop you and ask to see your ID and entry stamp.

*Note you will also likely need a Visa. You can get it online a couple weeks before your arrival. 

Getting around Dahab

Dahab is really small so you can easily just use your feet and walk around. If you like, some places will rent bikes that you can use to get around faster. Alternatively, if for some reason you can’t walk or cycle you can use a taxi. You won’t have any trouble finding one, everyone is taxi driver in Dahab and you will be asked over and over again if you need a driver. If you do choose to use a taxi agree on a rate beforehand. Also, many taxi drivers claim they know where it is where you are going when it comes to hotels, but that’s not always the case. Try to have a screenshot of a map handy or the phone number of where you want to go in case they get lost.

Where to Stay in Dahab

Dahab is quite small but that being said, there are still some places that are better to stay than others. The boardwalk area is the most popular but places a little further in generally aren’t too far of a walk either. The busiest and most central areas tend to be in the little Bay where the Liquid Dive Adventures pin is in the photo above.

As for budget, Dahab is quite cheap. Keep in mind Dahab doesn’t really do ‘luxury’ but there are still some nice hotels with pools at very affordable rates. Try  Red Sea and Relax, Casa d’Or Dahab , or Club Red Dahab

The Best Things to do in Dahab

So, what is there to see and do in Dahab? Quite a bit! Here are some of my favourite things to do in Dahab.

Dahab is a diving paradise. No matter your experience, there are dive site options for you. Even if you have never tried it, Dahab is a great place to give scuba diving a shot. The dives here are all shore dives and the visibility is usually fantastic with very little current. You won’t see many big things but the corals are pretty and there are lots of schools of brightly coloured fish. The water temperature hovers around 20-26C so you’ll likely want a wetsuit but conditions are great. My favourite dive sites are Canyon and Blue Hole.

Dive shop recommendations: Red Sea Tribe or Liquid Dive Adventures . As always, read reviews first!

Scuba diving isn’t the only type of diving done in Dahab, it’s also a big community for freedivers. During my second visit, I decided to get my AIDA 2 certification and I absolutely loved it. I used Dahab Freedivers with Mo as my instructor and had a fantastic experience. If you are an experienced freediver you can also come here for training sessions.

Wander the Boardwalk

The boardwalk of Dahab is where you will find most of the action during the day and in the evening. The waterfront is lined with restaurants all vying for your business with the promise of fresh fish, cold drinks, and day beds perfect for sun tanning. There are also a bunch of dive shops and little quirky boutiques and shops full of all your typical artsy souvenirs from postcards and magnets to funky pants and bags.

Take a Photo in Front of Why Not

Speaking of shops on the boardwalk, Why Not? Is a must-see. This iconic storefront is all over Instagram and while I do suggest taking a shot outside (even if it is a little overdone), you should go in as well. The owner creates all kinds of weird and wonderful décor using old junk. His creativity is unreal and I had a lot of fun browsing his wares.

The Blue Hole

One of the most famous spots in Dahab is the Blue Hole. Located just a few kilometres from the town, the Blue Hole is a favourite spot for freediving, scuba diving, and snorkeling. It’s located just off the shoreline and drops down into a deep abyss of over 100m making it a cool site to see. For the most part, if you behave responsibly, this is a safe place to enjoy and visit. Divers, please do be careful, respect your limits, and go with a guide. The Blue Hole is nicknamed “diver’s cemetery” and while there is no official count, it’s expected that over 130 people have died here in the last 15 or so years. Proofs of some of these deaths are commemorated in the grim markers on the shoreline with the names of those who have lost their lives here. Note there is a 10USD fee to enter the Blue Lagoon (if you are diving here, your shop will normally include it in your rates)

  The Blue Lagoon

The blue lagoon is a natural lagoon located in the desert with pretty aqua-coloured water. It’s become a popular day trip destination for swimmers and kite surfers. It’s a bit of a journey to get there so make sure you have plenty of time, but if you are looking for a chill beach day with great views, this is the spot to go.

Castle Zaman

Another great spot for a day trip is Castle Zaman. Located about an hour’s drive from Dahab this castle-like facility is built on top of a hill overlooking the Red Sea and across to Saudi Arabia. Reservations must be made in advance (45 euro per person as of 2023) and include a meal (you can choose when its served). Drinks such as water, juice, soft drinks, cocktails are all extra. There are changing rooms with freshwater showers and a beautiful turquoise pool area. The ground is natural, there are no chairs or tables, so make sure to bring a towel or sarong to lay on.

Desert Camping

If you are up for an adventurous thing to do in Dahab you can also head into the desert and go camping for a day or two. These desert camps are rustic but cool experiences with the local Bedouins and have fun desert jeep tours with incredible desert and mountain scenery. If you have ever wanted to sleep under the stars, this is the place to do it.

Some of these tours can be booked in advance online but can also be booked on arrival. Your accommodation can help you arrange tours and taxis or you can walk around the town area and ask at the shops along the boardwalk area.  

Where to Eat in Dahab

I was very surprised at the food and drink options in Dahab my second time around. My friend I was travelling with had some food intolerances but we had an easy time finding vegetarian and gluten-free options in several places. Some stand out places that we tried (or came highly recommended) include the following.

Zanooba Slow Cooked

This was our favourite spot. You need to reserve your table and choose your meal several hours early as the dishes here are slow-cooked for hours. You can pick from a variety of meat (or veggie options) and different sauces. We had squid in spicy tomato sauce and vegetables in lemon garlic sauce. We also tried the pink lemonade, which they make themselves, and it’s to die for. I highly recommend this restaurant in Dahab.

The Vegan Lab

Vegan and Vegetarians will like the Vegan Lab- a very instagrammable chic café known for the all-day breakfast and vegan spin on dishes. I’m not a vegan but did enjoy a few things here. My favourite was their mixed berry smoothie bowl and caramel popcorn latte (which has no coffee in it!). It’s worth noting that service here is incredibly slow so give yourself plenty of time.

Another good spot is the Russian Café called Red Cat. They have a bit of everything from meat dishes to salads and pizzas. Food quality is good and service is quick and friendly.

The German Bakery

If you are looking to grab a quick snack (or pastry) head to the German Bakery which has tons of options for all things sweet and carbs. Your best bet is to come early in the morning when they have the best selection.

Roots Kushary OR Kushary Station

If you have been to Egypt before you no doubt have had Kushary. It’s an Egyptian street food made up of rice, lentils, pasta, and a spicy tomato sauce. It’s a must-try if you haven’t had it. We were told that the best place to have it is Kushary Station for the classic version. If you are gluten-free then head to Roots Kushary (which is where we went). While it’s not ‘classic’ because it’s gluten-free it’s still a good and cheap meal.

Dai Pescatori

Last but not least is Dai Pescatori. It’s an Italian restaurant and known to be one of the best restaurants in Dahab with cute tables along the beach. There are some vegetarian and gluten free options as well. 

Final Tips for Dahab

Dahab is a great destination and should absolutely be visited as part of your Egypt vacation or on its own for a short break, especially if you love diving. It’s gaining popularity as a hub for digital nomads although, in my experience, the internet can be very hit or miss (especially at cafes).

It is worth noting that water is not drinkable here, you need to buy it (a large bottle will cost about 5 lira, which is less than 30 cents USD). You can find alcohol in some places, but not everywhere.

Bring cash. Very few places accept credit cards. There are plenty of ATMs around but they charge 13% -15% fee which is ridiculous. Try to get Egyptian pounds before you come or bring USD or Euros that you can exchange at a decent rate.

Egypt is a Muslim country and while Dahab is more laid back and chill please respect that this culture covers up more than others. If you are looking for ideas on how to dress in Egypt read this post.

Again, I felt very safe as a female traveller there and would highly recommend Dahab based on my experiences. There are plenty of great things to do in Dahab to easily keep you busy for a few days.  

Ready to Book Your Trip?

Don’t forget travel insurance!

Please do not travel without travel insurance! I’ve had to use it multiple times throughout my travels and it has saved me thousands of dollars. You can learn more about travel insurance  here . If you are looking for a provider I love and recommend  SafetyWing . For Canadian readers, take a look at  SoNomad.

Book your accommodation

I love and recommend  booking.com  for accommodation. They have a range of hostels, guesthouses, hotels, and resorts. Plus, the platform has a great loyalty program that means the more you book, the more you can save. 

Book your tours

My go-to tour provider that I love to recommend is  GetYourGuide . They have options all over the world and partner with local companies for everything from day trips to food experiences and even airport transfers. 

Get connected

If you want to have data while travelling for online maps or any other needs, an esim is one of the easiest solutions. I’m a big fan of Airalo and have used their sim cards around the world from Brazil to Uzbekistan, Greece to the USA. It’s really easy- you download the app, pick what country you want an esim for, and after you purchase it follow the installation instructions. You can use promo code HANNAH3326 to save $3USD on your next esim purchase. 

Not sure what to pack?

I have destination-specific guides for some countries but you can also check my  travel essentials  and  camera gear  if you are looking for some ideas. 

Looking for a travel buddy?

Check out my group trips!

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Low-key, laid-back and low-rise, Dahab is the Middle East’s prime beach resort for independent travellers.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Carved into a reef, 8km north of Dahab, is Egypt’s most infamous dive site. The Blue Hole is a gaping sinkhole that drops straight down – some say…

Bells is a narrow breach in the reef table that forms a pool close to shore. From here, divers can descend through a chimney, exiting onto a ledge at 27m…

Gabr El Bint

This dive 25km south of Dahab features a dramatic seascape highlighted by a 60m wall cut by numerous chasms, faults and sandy ravines. If you access the…

An impressive entrance through a wide corridor carved into a steeply sloping reef is a highlight of this dive site 15km south of Dahab. Further down you…

Eel Garden takes its name from the countless garden eels that carpet the sea floor. Other highlights include huge coral boulders and dense congregations…

One of the area’s most popular dives, the Canyon is a long, narrow trench that runs perpendicular to the reef shelf, and is home to prolific hard and soft…

Lighthouse Reef

This sloping reef is home to a bounty of fish life and is Dahab’s main night-diving site. More experienced divers can descend to the sandy bottom, where…

This underwater Alice in Wonderland–esque site south of Dahab offers an outstanding topography of coral alleyways, amphitheatres, valleys and gulleys…

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Egyptian Streets

Independent Media

Dahab: A Thriving Golden Coastal Town with Untapped Tourism Potential

By Mary Aravanis

Situated between the turquoise blue waters of the wondrous Red Sea and the rocky red cliffs of South Sinai, lies the charming little town of Dahab.  

Although Dahab is a rather well-known tourist destination, most especially with locals and divers from all over the world, it still has so much untapped potential to become one of Egypt’s top tourist destinations.  

Dahab has all the ingredients to make it a top choice for anyone wanting a vacation, offering both tranquility as well as exciting experiences – from beauty and relaxingly calm waters to adventures both on land and in the sea.  

Land & Sea: Dahab’s Various Offerings

A rather small town, Dahab was once a simple bedouin fishing village. Bedouins still largely inhabit the area, however there is also quite a large expat community (mostly made up of divers), in addition to having acquired inhabitants from all over Egypt over the years.  

Dahab is most especially known for its diving, being home to some of the best and most well-known diving spots in the world, such as the infamous Blue Hole.  

In addition to taking scuba diving and free diving courses, there are plenty of activities to be done in and around Dahab. The town itself is divided into three main areas: the Mashraba , Masbat and Assalah .  

The Mashraba is where the Mamsha (boardwalk) is located and it is by far the most tourist-packed area of Dahab. Dahab’s boardwalk is akin to that of Sharm El Skeikh’s, lined with a number of seafront cafes, restaurants and shops.  

It’s an enjoyable walk, and has a few must-visit spots such as Everyday Cafe – which boasts the best cheesecake in town – and Italian gems Ramez & Paula and Dai Pescatori – both of which are found on opposite sides of the boardwalk.  

In addition to this, the Lighthouse area of the boardwalk is also a great diving, snorkeling and swimming spot. Although the boardwalk is generally a nice experience, it does have a few downsides to it. It can get to be a bit too much during high-seasons when crowds make it difficult to manoeuvre around the somewhat tight space. The boardwalk itself could also be better maintained, as there are various random potholes every few steps and the odd out of place brick or tile here and there.

The Masbat area is where one will find the peaceful residential area of Eel Garden. It is a beautiful and quiet spot that is closed off from the touristy hustle and bustle of the boardwalk. There are many places to rent that can be found in the area, which boats a wonderful central location, close to various nearby markets, many beach areas, as well as quite a short walk away from the boardwalk.  

Assalah is another wonderful residential area and is also home to a few boutique hotels such as Dar Dahab and Villa Kan Kiko. The beach at Assalah is where most of the locals go for a swim, as well as the local bedouin children.  

When it comes to swimming, snorkeling and diving areas – the possibilities are endless. Almost any area of the beach alongside Dahab us swimmable, although some areas are rockier than others. If one wants to enjoy a relaxing and soothing day on sandy beach, as well as maybe do a bit of snorkeling or even windsurfing, then the Lagoona would be the way to go.  

Dahab’s Lagoona is a large lagoon area with crystal clear waters and sandy beaches. It is a gorgeous place for relaxing with friends and enjoying the warm sun whilst feeling the refreshingly cool water against one’s skin. The beach however has no shaded areas, so it would be best to keep that in mind when going. It is also a divine place to experience the sunsetting behind Sinai’s magical mountainscape.  

Another must-visit beach _and diving spot) is the Blue Lagoon. This mesmerizing spot is unlike anything one could ever experience, being a wonderful awe-inspiring place for those who joy snorkeling and diving alike.  

If one is up for a little more adventure, then grabbing a boat to go to nearby Abu Galloum and The Blue Lagoon would be an undeniably marvelous option.  

Other than the treasures of the Red Sea however, one could also Sinai’s desert charm through hikes on nearby cliffs, as well as off-roading to experience authentic bedouin nights in the depths of the mountains, underneath a blanket of twinkling stars.  

Would Dahab Fair Well as a Commercialized Tourist Spot?

Although admittedly having a ton of untapped potential as a top tourist destination, perhaps part of Dahab’s charm is the fact that it has yet to be commercialized into a ‘top tourist destination’.  

Recently, Dahab has been open for tourism – along with other coastal areas such as Hurghada and Marsa Matrouh – despite the ongoing pandemic. Some hotels have opened, admitting a 5o percent capacity; these hotels however must undergo inspection and receive a ‘Health Safety Certificate’.

In addition to this, zero new cases of coronavirus have been recorded in the South Sinai and Red Sea governorates as of Tuesday.

The simplicity and rawness of the place, its authenticity, its atmosphere and its ‘what you see is what you get’ matter of factness all make up the peacefulness and magic that Dahab holds.  

Oftentimes, when beautiful places are commercialized, they lose their soul in a way. It would be a truly majestic balance to perhaps slightly elevate Dahab as a tourist spot, while still maintaining its essence and what people who visit and live there love so much about it.  

It wouldn’t feel right to visit Dahab and find a high-end five star internationally acclaimed hotel right smack in the middle of everything, with shopping promenades and beach bars that offer over-priced drinks and snacks. It wouldn’t feel right to visit Dahab and not find bedouin children laughing and playing all around you on the beach. It wouldn’t feel right to visit Dahab and get lost in another everyday consumerist reality, rather than take the time to unplug and get lost in the surrounding nature.  

That being said, perhaps Dahab is perfectly fine as is – south Sinai’s golden little haven.  

*Featured image by Mary Aravanis

*The opinions and ideas expressed in this article do not reflect the views of Egyptian Streets’ editorial team. To submit an opinion article, please email  [email protected] .

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[…] of the best and most well-known diving spots in the world are located in Egypt, at areas such as Dahab’s Blue Hole or Sharm el Sheikh’s Ras […]

[…] the finest and most well-known diving spots on the earth are situated in Egypt, at areas similar to Dahab’s Blue Gap or Sharm el Sheikh’s Ras […]

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Dahab Tourism

Trip location, trip description.

This former Bedouin fishing village is now a popular tourist destination—especially for serious windsurfers, who’ll find some of the best conditions in the world off Dahab’s beaches. Long known as a laid-back, backpacker-friendly town, Dahab is becoming more developed, yet retains a casual vibe. Finally, Dahab is also home to the Blue Hole, the world’s most dangerous dive site. Only very experienced technical divers should attempt passage through “The Arch” here; if you’re a novice diver, stay close to the surface.

Experience the wonders of Dahab, a breathtaking golden paradise on earth, on this full-day adventure featuring snorkeling, camel riding, and canyon exploration. Discover the world-renowned Blue Hole, the third-best snorkeling and diving location in the world, with its vast coral reef and abundant marine life. Savor a delicious barbecue lunch by the sea and escape the stresses of daily life. In addition to a shopping experience, take a leisurely walking tour of Dahab and immerse yourself in the local culture, meeting with Bedouin people who have made the region their home. This will be an unforgettable experience that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime

Visit to Mount Sinai Sunrise and St. Catherine’s Monastery Trip from Dahab The UNESCO World Heritage Site of St. Catherine’s is the oldest Christian monastery in the world. Visiting it is a must-do when in the Sinai region but it is tricky to get to. Skip the hassle on this tour from Dahab. Choose a tour timed to either sunrise or sunset and experience the changing colors from the summit of Mount Moses.

• Visit to Dahab, Dahab, South Sinai, Red Sea and Sinai

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Colored Canyon and the unique ecosystems of Three Pools on a snorkeling trip from Sharm El Sheikh. Following hotel pickup, head to the east coast of South Sinai to explore the protected area of Three Pools before enjoying a delicious lunch and city exploration in Dahab. Afterwards, venture into the desert to discover the stunning beauty of Colored Canyon on a guided walking tour. Explore the vibrant colors and unique shapes of the canyon’s rocks before being driven back to your hotel in Sharm El Sheikh.

• Visit to Canyon And Blue Hole in dahab From Sharm El Sheikh

See where the desert meets the sea on this full-day tour from Sharm El Sheikh to Dahab’s Blue Hole and Canyon. Depart from the resort city with a small group and see the colorful rock formations of the Dahab Canyon. After a leisurely walk through the canyon, snorkel in the famous Blue Hole and observe the local marine life.

• Visit to Mount Sinai Sunrise and St. Catherine’s Monastery Trip from Dahab

Visa Processing Terms and Procedure: Consult with us, make payment and book flights to process 3 weeks before stomates arrival date) Include a disclaimer highlighting that the visa on arrival is only available for specific nationalities and this will be discussed during the consultation session

• Consultation:  Our experienced team guides you through visa requirements and application procedures tailored to your destination.
• Documentation:  Provide necessary documents, including passport, photos, forms, and supporting papers for accurate application.
• Application Submission : We submit your application to the respective embassy/consulate, ensuring compliance with regulations.
• Tracking : Stay updated on your application status through our tracking system, offering peace of mind during the process.
• Updates and Assistance : Receive timely notifications on approval, interview dates, and any additional steps required.
• Interview Preparation : Prepare confidently for embassy/consulate interviews with our guidance and insights.
• Visa Collection : Once approved, collect your visa promptly, ready to embark on your journey.

Count on us for a smooth and successful visa processing experience. Your travel dreams, our priority.”

Consult with us, make payment and book flights to process 3 weeks before stomates arrival date) Include a disclaimer highlighting that the visa on arrival is only available for specific nationalities and this will be discussed during the consultation session

DIGITAL NOMAD VISA: HOW TO APPLY, REQUIREMENTS AND COUNTRIES OFFERING

Looking to work remotely from anywhere in the world with a digital nomad visa to strike the ideal work-life balance but feeling overwhelmed by the amount of information available? Read this article.

Dahab: The Bohemian Paradise of the Red Sea

Bohemian paradise unraveled: the historical tapestry of dahab.

Dahab , a jewel in the Sinai Peninsula, is not just a stunning destination; it’s a bohemian paradise with a history as captivating as its landscapes. From its humble beginnings as a Bedouin village, Dahab has grown into more than just a home to its 15,000 souls—it has transformed into a haven for global travelers. This bohemian paradise beautifully marries resilience, transformation, and multicultural coexistence, making it an unparalleled choice for those seeking an escape with a blend of culture and tranquility.

The Early Days and the Hippie Haven

In its early days, Dahab was an unassuming Bedouin settlement, its tranquility and pristine waters drawing the free-spirited hippies of the 1960s. This era of peace and burgeoning popularity was abruptly halted by the outbreak of the war between Egypt and Israel, casting a shadow over Dahab’s potential growth.

A New Chapter Post-1982

The city’s fortune took a turn for the better in 1982, following its return to Egyptian sovereignty. This period marked the beginning of a new chapter in Dahab’s history, one that would see it slowly blossom into a sought-after tourist destination.

The 1990s: A Melting Pot of Cultures 

By the 1990s, Dahab had started to unfurl its wings. Hotels sprung up, and the city once again opened its arms to vacationers and tourists. What made Dahab unique was its peaceful atmosphere, fostering a harmonious coexistence among people of diverse nationalities – from native Egyptians to expatriates from Sudan, Britain, the Netherlands, Russia, and beyond.

Shadows Amidst the Sunlight: Challenges and Resilience

Despite its idyllic description, Dahab has not been immune to the challenges facing the region. In 2006, the city experienced a tragic moment when a bomb explosion claimed the lives of about 23 people, casting a shadow over its peaceful image.

Furthermore, the economic disparities were evident, as some local residents felt marginalized by the tourism boom. Poverty remained a stark reality for some, raising concerns about their exclusion from the benefits of Dahab’s growing popularity.

The Role of Social Media and the Arab Spring

The advent of modern information dissemination, particularly through social media, played a pivotal role in Dahab’s resurgence. Images and videos shared by tourists showcased Dahab’s beauty to a global audience, sparking renewed interest in the city.

Additionally, the 2011 unrests and the fall of Hosni Mubarak’s regime had an unexpected silver lining for Dahab. As economic instability reduced international travel, Egyptians began exploring their own country for vacation destinations. Dahab emerged as a prime choice, its allure undiminished, offering a serene escape within the nation’s borders.

Dahab’s history is a rich tapestry, woven with the threads of cultural diversity, resilience in the face of adversity, and an enduring appeal that transcends time. This small Bedouin village, transformed into a global destination, continues to enchant with its golden sands, clear waters, and the promise of peace and multicultural harmony.

Where To Stay

Getting Around

Things To Do

The Colored Canyon

Abu Galum Protectorate

No other nation in the world utters ‘Welcome’ as often as the Egyptians, and each time, they truly mean it. While Egypt’s ancient civilization continues to astonish, the contemporary Egyptians are equally remarkable.

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Dahab Travel Essentials

Ideal duration: 1 - 2 days

Best Time: Apr-May, Sep-Oct Read More

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Splendid egypt tour package - coastal escape to dahab, egypt oasis and beach retreat: cairo and dahab, dahab tour package - coral reefs and bedouin adventure, dahab tour packages for couple, "the alternative resort town", dahab tourism.

The quaint coastal village of Dahab is located on the southeastern coast of the Sinai Peninsula, 80 kms from Sharm el-Sheikh. This Egyptian town enjoys solitude in the form of isolated beaches and laid-back Bedouin hospitality, making it an ideal holiday destination for those who like simple-yet-luxurious vacations.

Home to golden sand beaches, Dahab spreads across 1,130 square kilometers on Aqaba bay. The perfect blend of the Red sea and Sinai make Dahab the ideal backdrop for adventure sports like surfing, scuba diving, freediving, rock climbing or desert trekking. Dahab is rightly regarded as the Red Sea's top diving location and its most popular diving locations include the Blue Hole and Ras Abu Galuom, a protected area. However, the Blue Hole is often regarded as the most dangerous diving location in the world and must not be explored by beginners.

Dahab is divided into three distinct zones. Masbat features the Bedouin village of Asalah, which has traditional charm, while Mashraba, in the north and south, boasts many hotels catering to tourists. In the southwest lies Medina, home to the Laguna area, a hotspot for shallow-water windsurfing enthusiasts. There are also some upmarket resorts in the Laguna area. Dahab is now known as an alternative resort, owing to the sudden popularity the city has assumed in its tourism. Therefore, it is a great place to visit, especially for beach lovers! It has also become popular with digital nomads worldwide because of its laid-back and chill vibe.

Must Know Before You Travel to Dahab

• Accomodation: The best areas to stay include the lighthouse area, Assala, and Eel Garden neighborhood. They are away from Mashraba's loud atmosphere but still close to the beach, affordable and has plenty restaurants, cafes, shops, and diving or water sports services.. 
• Getting Around:  Dahab is fairly small, and it is possible to walk around and rent a bike for 350 EGP per week. If staying for more than a month, buying a bicycle will be cheaper than renting one. Almost all the bikes available for rent are in bad shape.
• Wifi Connectivity: Digital nomads or backpackers with wifi needs can buy a local sim as wifi facilities in most stays and cafes are unreliable.
• ID Proof Copy on Blue Hole Entry: While traveling to Blue Hole, carry copies of your passport as the officers at checkpoints may demand it.

Things To Do In Dahab

Blue Hole of Dahab

Kitesurfing in Dahab

Blue Lagoon

Ras Abu Galum to Blue Hole Hike

Scuba Diving in Dahab

Laguna Beach

More on Dahab Travel

Shopping in dahab, nightlife in dahab, history of dahab, daily budget expenditure in dahab, suggested itinerary for dahab, best time to visit dahab, nearby places.

How to Reach Dahab

How to reach overview, how to reach dahab by flight, how to reach dahab by road.

Most of the tourist arrive Dahab either from Cairo or from Sharm El Sheikh. Private transfers from Cairo to Dahab include long travel hours. However it shows about 7-8 hours on maps, it generally takes upto 10-12 hours to reach Dahab because of the checkpoints along way. 

From Sharm El Sheikh, private transfers from self driven car or by taxi takes about 1-2 hours. The taxis from airport ranges around 900-1000 EGP depending upon the time of day. 

How to reach Dahab by bus

Cairo to Dahab: There are plenty of buses that run between Cairo and Dahab. However it shows about 7-8 hours on maps, it generally takes upto 10-12 hours to reach Dahab because of the checkpoints along way. The bus companies operating along this route include Gobus, Otobesy, Blue Bus and WeBus. WeBus is a petfriendly option for traveling to Dahab. Nightbuses are usually preffered by tourists from Cairo to Dahab.

Sharm El Sheikh to Dahab : Buses from Sharm el Sheikh to Dahab are the cheapest mode of transportation between the two cities. It takes anout 1 hour or less from the bus station at the Sharm El Sheikh city center. The cost of bus ride to Dahab costs around 65 EGP, one way.

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21 Exciting Things to Do in Dahab Egypt

Things to do in Dahab Reading time: 27 minutes

You’re here because you’re looking for things to do in Dahab, no? Well good news, you’ve come to the right post. I spent one week in Dahab Egypt in January 2024. While this may be a small fishing village, it has slowly become a haven for like-minded people looking for a chill life along the Red Sea in Egypt.

Dahab attracts remote workers, digital nomads, adventurers, yogis, and divers- both international and Egyptian. It has a wonderful mix of people from all over the world, cohabitating in the same, very chilled out space. I’ve heard countless stories of people who went to Dahab to stay for one week and ended up living in Dahab for months or years. Maybe that will be you?

In this travel guide, I’ll discuss the places to visit in Dahab, nightlife in Dahab, getting to Dahab, etc.

NickiPostsTravelStuff.com contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon.com links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. Read the disclaimer for more information. I only recommend products that I believe in.

Read more: Everything you Need to Know Before going to Egypt.

Where is Dahab Located in Egypt?

Dahab is located on the east coast of the South Sinai Peninsula in Egypt. The Sinai Peninsula is in the northeastern corner of Egypt, bordering with occupied Gaza and Israel. Dahab is located one hour north of Sharm El Sheikh along the Gulf of Aqaba coast (which feeds into the Red Sea).

Things to do in Dahab

This may be a small town, but there are plenty of activities to keep you busy. Several of the activities involve tour groups or private transport out of the city, but many of them can easily be done on foot without leaving the borders of town.

Walk the Dahab Boardwalk

One of the first things you should do when arriving in this coastal town is take a stroll along the boardwalk. This is the best way to get acquainted with the place. You’ll notice that there are very distinct vibes in each section of the walk, which is exactly parallel to the sea.

The more north you go, the quieter the walk becomes. It’s very peaceful and calm. There are restaurants and cafes on the north end, but they tend to be less crowded. If you keep going north, even those cafes will end, and you’ll arrive at a very chill beach.

The center of the walkway is full of restaurants, cafes, massage and nail salons, diving companies, tour companies, shops, etc. It is very crowded and full of people and movement.

If you keep going south, you’ll cross a bridge. On the other side of the bridge, the vibe changes again. It’s quieter over, there are several jewelry and soap shops, but no real beaches. Once you reach Yum Yum (I’ll talk about this below), things start to get very local. You will rarely see a tourist on the road beyond Yum Yum. It is full of locals going about their daily business.

Buy Handmade Jewelry

Once you cross the bridge on the south end of the boardwalk, you’ll start to notice many jewelry shops. They have very reasonable prices for high-quality work. My favorite shop was Abo Karem (pictured below). The jewelry is beautiful and all handmade by the man in the red in the photo below. He is teaching his son the trade as well. The duo was adorable and made the buying experience even more fun. The young boy spoke English and did all the translations for his father. I bought the ring below for 800 EGP (25 USD), which I found to be a great price. It is all silver, but more importantly, I love it!

Make friends and join activities

Dahab is one of the easiest places to make friends. There is one long main strip that goes through town, and you’ll start to see the same people every day. On our bus from Cairo to Dahab, we met a local guy, Mo. Without planning, we ran into Mo every single day. Mo introduced us to new people and before we knew it, we had friends.

Even if you don’t find yourself a Mo, you can still make friends easily in Dahab. There are multiple Whatsapp groups with posts every single day, inviting you to do yoga on the beach, come to the market, do this event or that. Several bars hold weekly events.

For example, we found a place called Tota to be a great center for nightlife in Dahab (chalkboard above). If you plan to spend some time in Dahab, throw yourself into these social events and you’re sure to make friends quickly and easily. This is a place where everyone is open to new people and new experiences. Side note, you can find beer at Tota.

Dahab Nightlife: Join open mic

One of the best social events in town is the open mic. It was started a few years ago by a German guy out of his apartment. From there it kept growing every week and now it is a huge weekly event, held at Tota’s (mentioned above).

The open mic event is held every Tuesday at 7:30 pm. However, I suggest you arrive early. When we went, we arrived around 7:45 and the place was already packed with at least 100 people sitting on cushions facing the ‘stage.’ We were lucky to get a spot. People sang (including my friend), told stories, and read poetry. The crowd was very supportive, and it had an overall good energy. Even if you don’t plan to perform, just existing there is a great time.

Have a beer by the sea

There is truly no purer heaven than enjoying a beer under the sun next to the sea. If I had my choice, it would be a craft hazy IPA, but alas, things aren’t always perfect. So the next best thing is a local 10% Egyptian lager called Sakara, which is surprisingly rich and easily drinkable.

Several bars or restaurants in the center of the boardwalk have seaside tables and beach chairs where you can spend a relaxing afternoon. It is okay to wear a swimsuit at these places. A few of my favorites were the Yalla Bar and Nirvana .

Try local cuisine

Dahab is full of fantastic international cuisine from Chinese to Thai to Mexican, etc. However, prices for the majority of restaurants in this town loved by foreigners tend to be more expensive than in other parts of the country. But if you want to try the local food, you’ll be treated to both amazing food and fair prices.

My two favorite local spots in Dahab are Abo Ahmed and Yum Yum . They are both standard Egyptian foods such as falafal, fuul (fava beans), shakshuka, baba ganoush, etc. A falafal sandwich at Abo Ahmed was 50 EGP (1.60 USD), and a full meal for 2 people at Yum Yum was between 60-100 EGP (2-3.25 USD).

Looking at the photos above, the two on the left are of Abo Ahmed (in the center of town), and Yum Yum (photo on the right) is at the end of the southern part of the main street.

Have an Egyptian breakfast with a sea view

In my opinion, the best part of Dahab is in the northern section of the main street. Here some beautiful restaurants and cafes offer free wifi. Most of the restaurants in the center do not have wifi. These restaurants are also quiet, peaceful, less visited, and have an amazing view of the sea.

Some of the best meals I had in Dahab were in this area. My two favorite restaurants in this area were L’Beach (photos above) and Mirage Restaurant (photos below). Delicious food, great views, and perfect ambiance. Spending time eating, reading, and enjoying these places were some of my best moments in Dahab.

Enjoy a quiet beach day

The center of Dahab can quickly start to feel monotonous or overwhelming. More people, more movement, more shops, etc. If you want a quiet beach to enjoy, just head north. Follow the main street north until the seaside restaurants and cafes end. Then you’ll arrive to a beach that looks like a postcard.

The red rocky mountains extend in the distance. The palm trees jut out of the ground and run parallel to the coastline. The water is calm. Small boats oscillate back and forth on top of the waves. This is the perfect spot to get up early and watch the sun rising in the east over the water. It’s also the perfect spot to enjoy a warm day under the sun or a relaxing time as the sun goes down behind you. It’s also a great place to come to meditate or do yoga, as it is so peaceful and calm.

Watch the Sunset on the Dahab Cliffs

One of the best places to visit in Dahab is the northern cliffs to watch the sunset. You can find this on Google Maps as “ Footpath to viewpoint. ” It takes about 30 minutes to walk to this point from the center of town. You can walk along the beach for a more beautiful journey to get there.

Once you pass an open field to your left, and the beach to your right, you’ll reach the Bedouin Moon Hotel. Just before the hotel, you should turn left onto a dirt road. Walk about 5 minutes up the dirt road, and you’ll see a small path on the right leading up into the hills. It looks more intimidating than it is in reality. I did this “hike” in sandals.

As you walk up the path, you’ll see a few a small makeshift tea shop with pillows. You can keep going up until you see a white flag on a flagpole. From there you can enjoy the sunset. However, if you arrive a bit before the sun goes down, you can keep following the path and enjoy a little hike. The views are amazing from up here. You can see both the city, the sea, and into the distance on the red cliffs.

I use AllTrails Plus when I go hiking. I highly recommend it as you can download offline maps, and send out “lifelines” to friends and family to let them know exactly where you are. You can rate trails, and get inspired to try new ones. The membership is $35/year, but with this discount, it is just $25 for the year. That’s barely $2/month.

Click here to get 30% OFF of your own AllTrails Plus account Use code: nickiposts30

Hike to Mt Sinai at Sunrise

Taking a trip to Mt Sinai was a highlight of my time in Dahab. It’s an overnight trip, and you will be tired the next day, but you’ll also be very happy. You can do this trip on your own but you will have to arrange for permits and a driver. The easiest thing to do is pay for the tour, which includes permits, transportation, and a local Bedouin guide who leads you to the peak. For just $25, it is well worth the money. Tip : It is better to pay with USD than EGP, so make sure to bring cash with you.

With the tour, you’ll probably leave Dahab about 10-11 pm and drive to the St Catherine area. From there you’ll hike to the peak of Mt Sinai, see the sunrise, and then head back down. You can see the monastery once you reach the bottom of the mountain again the next morning. You’ll arrive back in Dahab the next day around 11 am.

Read More: Everything you Need to Know About Hiking to Mt Sinai

Visit St Catherine’s Monastery

If you are not a hiker, but you’re still interested in the historical or religious importance of St Catherine’s Monastery, you can arrange a trip for just this. Some tours provide just the tour of this Orthodox Church without all the outdoorsy stuff. This is the oldest Christian monastery in the world that has been continuously inhabited. It is also the site of the “burning bush” mentioned in that famous religious text called The Bible. You may have heard of it.

Read More: Everything you Need to Know About Hiking to Mt Sinai and St Catherine’s

See the White Canyon and Colored Canyon

These are thin red rock canyons that are reminiscent of Antelope Canyon in the US.

Because this is outside of Dahab a bit, it does require a tour, unless you prefer to arrange transport and permits on your own. This tour usually includes White Canyon, Colored Canyon, and the Mushroom Stone. Tours usually leave at 8 am, and return to Dahab at 4 pm. Transportation, a guide, and lunch are all provided. The price is about 25 USD, and you should make sure to bring cold hard cash in USD to pay this.

Go Scuba Diving and Free Diving

Dahab is the most well-known for scuba diving and free diving. People come here from all over the world just to dive. There are diving centers focused on Koreans, Russians, etc. If you are a diver or want to learn how this is the ideal place. I might be the only person on earth who doesn’t like scuba diving (yes, I’m certified and I’ve done it before), so I didn’t try it in Dahab, but from what I’ve heard, you can see some of the most incredible underwater sights here.

Visit the Blue Hole in Dahab Egypt

Dahab owes its growing diving community to the Blue Hole. This is what made Dahab famous. It is apparently also one of the most dangerous places to dive in the world because it is so deep. If you join a diving course, you will likely come here at some point.

But if you don’t want to do an entire scuba course, you still have options to come and see it. There are several tours offered for a day trip of snorkeling and admiring the surrounding area with its coral reef. It is located about 30 minutes from Dahab.

Many of the tour operators offer various versions of the same thing. You can come solely to the Blue Hole, or you can combine it with a trip to Abu Galum and the Blue Lagoon as well, for about 30 USD. Snorkeling equipment should be provided as part of the tour. It is usually a full-day tour from 9 am to 5 pm.

Swim in the Wadi El Wishwashi

When I went to Dahab in January it was warm, but a bit too cold for a big swimming day. But if you come to Dahab in the warmer months, this is a highly recommended experience. The Wadi El Wishwashi is a big swimming hole in the mountains. The hole fills up due to the rains that fall every winter.

Tours here usually start at 9 am and return to Dahab at 4 pm. Transportation, guide, snorkeling gear, and lunch are included. Some tours combine Wadi el Wishwashi with Ras Shitan. The trip is usually from 8:30 am to 5 pm and costs 25 USD.

Go Kite Surfing

Because of its location along the Gulf of Aqaba, the area around Dahab is a paradise for kite surfers. The best thing to do is arrive in Dahab and ask around where are the best spots. Everyone knows each other and someone can find you the info. They’ll probably even invite you to go along with them.

Take a Boat Trip

One of the biggest things to do in Dahab is take a boat trip. There are several versions.

You can take a glass bottom boat at Laguna Beach and go out in the water to snorkel at the Napoleon Reef. This tour usually lasts 1.5-2 hours.

You can also go on a tour with a much bigger boat that will take you out into the middle of the sea. They have both half-day and full-day tours. Both tours include transportation, snorkeling equipment, and meals. The full day should cost around 25 USD.

Share an evening with Bedouins

The Bedouins are the indigenous people in this area. There are several opportunities to spend time with them and see a bit of their customs and cultures. There are Bedouin parties, Bedouin dinners, drum lessons, etc.

You can usually arrange these evenings with a tour company or your hostel. Many of the hostels provide this activity in their weekly schedule.

For example, if you would like to spend an evening with the Bedouins, the cost is usually around 250 EGP (10 USD) for 2 hours. The price included door-to-door pick-up/drop-off transportation, tea, and a drum lesson around a campfire in the mountains.

Ride a camel in the desert

Riding a camel in the desert is a quintessential experience everyone should have if you are interested in this type of landscape. I have ridden camels through the desert in both India and Morocco and it’s amazing (though your bum will be sore by the end of the day).

The tour operators in Dahab usually offer a one or two-day overnight camel trip into the desert. You can ride a camel in the White Canyon, Ain Hodra Oasis, Arada Village, etc. Transportation, camels, lunch, and a guide are included.

If you decide to do this type of trip, I suggest inquiring into the care of the camels. Animal tourism can often be detrimental to the health of the animals that are being promoted. Therefore, I suggest doing your research to find a group that treats their camels well.

Do a Jeep Safari into the desert

If riding camels is not for you, then taking a jeep safari into the desert is another great option. There are several jeep tours offered from Dahab that last 2 days, sleeping overnight in the desert with the stars above you.

You will start at 9 am, and return to Dahab the next day around 4 pm. On the desert tour, you’ll have the chance to visit the White Canyon, Ain Hodra Oasis, Colored Canyon, Nawamis, Hedoda Sand Dunes, and Dragon Head Mountain.

The price includes transportation, food, and a guide.

Ride a Quad Runner in the Desert

Another way to see the desert in Dahab is to ride a quad runner. This trip is usually 2 hours long, from 3-5 pm. The times may change depending on when you are there, as they revolve around seeing the sunset at Twailat Mountain. The cost for a 2-hour trip is 25 USD.

How to choose your tour guide

There are so many tour companies in Dahab. You will notice this quickly as you walk along the boardwalk. The majority are in the center of town, where all the movement happens. As you walk around, you’ll see that each company offers a very similar experience for similar prices, with slight variations.

A lot of times they are just the sellers of the experiences. You’ll notice that when you actually get picked up, you’ll be combined with people who have arranged the same tour from another company. It’s like a funnel system. There are honestly so many things to do in Dahab, far more than I have listed above, including cycling trips, plane rides to Luxor, or long-distance rides to Jerusalem or Petra, etc.

Everyone who works in tourism in Dahab knows each other and they are all connected. For example, when I tried to do the Colored Canyon trip, my guide Jimmy canceled on me at the last minute. Then I contacted Mohamed from Planet Safari to see if they had any availability. They did not, but Mohammed contacted Jimmy to see if he had any room without knowing he had already canceled on me. It was a big game of tour telephone.

Because everyone is connected, and all the experiences are similar, you will probably enjoy the trip regardless of who you choose. However, you should definitely ask around at many places, and use your intuition to do the trip that feels the best to you.

Tips for taking tours in Dahab

• Ask about the trip you’re interested in at several locations to see price/experience differences.
• Pay in USD- it will be much cheaper if you pay in USD.
• Don’t pay in EGP- they will charge you the Black Market price, which nearly doubles the cost.
• Ask a ton of questions before you go- how will the weather be? What should I wear/bring? additional costs?
• Try to organize the trips you’re interested in earlier in your trip, in case there is a cancellation.
• Ask local friends. Usually, you can get cheaper prices from personal recommendations.
• Communication with tour operators will be through WhatsApp.

Dahab Tour Companies

While there are several tour operators in Dahab, I’ve listed a few here in case you want to start your research in advance. You can contact them directly to ask questions and verify prices.

Planet Safari

[email protected] Whatsapp: +20 109 616 0373 OR +20 127 301 2274

Whatsapp: +20 120 000 6003 OR +20 101 127 0981

Jimmy’s Tours

Whatsapp: +20 100 548 8708

Getting to Dahab

If you’re only going to Dahab or the South Sinai Peninsula area, you may be able to enter visa-free for two weeks. However, if you are planning to go anywhere else in Egypt, you’ll need to get a 30-day Egyptian visa. Below I’ve listed the most common ways to reach Dahab from Hurghada, Cairo, and Sharm El Sheikh.

Read more: Everything You Need to Know Before Coming to Egypt.

From Hurghada

Previously there was a ferry that went between Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh. This was our original plan. However, we were saddened to learn upon our arrival in Dahab that this ferry was no longer running. Hopefully, it will again in the future because it makes the most sense.

To take a bus to Hurghada, you would have to go back up to Cairo, and then back down to Hurghada. Hours of wasted time. Because we couldn’t take the ferry, we bought last-minute flights between Sharm El Sheikh (one hour south of Dahab) and Hurghada.

Most people in Egypt use Skyscanner for flights, or GoBus for buses. Our one-way flight from Sharm El Sheikh to Hurghada was 40 USD.

Bus from Cairo to Dahab

You can fly to Sharm El Sheikh from Cairo, and then take a taxi to Dahab. However, the most cost-effective way to reach Dahab is via bus. The website GoBus will show you all the timetables between the two cities. There are two options: bus or minivan. The bus takes about 10 hours and is not very comfortable. The minivan is a Sprinter van and takes about 7.5 hours. I recommend the latter.

We had trouble purchasing tickets online with our international credit cards and needed a local friend to help us out. If this happens to you, ask a local to help, or buy directly from the station in each city.

In Cairo, the GoBus station is near the Ramses Hotel in downtown Cairo (top left photo). In Dahab, it is a small office at the intersection of the large main road and the road that enters town (top right photo). It took us just 15 minutes to walk from the Dahab GoBus stop to our hotel.

Read More : Everything You Need to Know About Cairo

From Sharm El Sheikh to Dahab

The closest airport to Dahab is in Sharm El Sheikh. It is a small airport with very few options for eating or drinking. Don’t expect much. You’ll need to pass through many X-ray machines inside the airport. Most people in Egypt use Skyscanner to look for flights.

The driving time between Sharm El Sheikh and Dahab is about 1 hour. The easiest thing to do is get a taxi. From the airport, they may try to charge you more. However, the going rate between the two cities should be about 900 EGP (30 USD).

This is the taxi driver’s number we used: +20 106 722 1603

Where to stay in Dahab

Dahab is full of fantastic hostels, hotels, and guesthouses for all budgets.

Elite Residence

We stayed here for an entire week and loved it. We had the best internet here in all of Egypt coincidentally. The room was clean, modern, and comfortable, and included a kitchen. The owner is a great guy and will do anything to help you. The rooftop is a super cool place to hang out. It’s a 5-minute walk to the main street.

Check availability and BOOK the Elite Residences in Dahab here .

My Hostel in Dahab – Dive center

This is a very popular hostel in Dahab. It includes breakfast and arranges several activities each week. It is a great place if you want to do a dive course as well, as this hostel also moonlights as a dive center.

Check availability and BOOK the My Hostel in Dahab here .

The Dar Dahab is in the perfect location. It’s up in the northern beach area that is super calm and chill. It’s easy enough to walk to the center if you want more movement, but it’s the perfect place to sleep and exist in a quiet area. It is a beachfront property and has amazing views of the sea. You can pay a bit extra if you want breakfast.

Things to do in Dahab Final Thoughts

I wasn’t sure how I would feel about Dahab when I went. I worried it would feel like a town taken over by foreigners causing it to lose its charm, like another Tulum or San Marcos along Lake Atitlan. But by the end of the week, I was in love. Dahab has amazing people, good energy, and a very chilled-out vibe. I would absolutely return for another visit. I was surprised by how much there was to do and see in Dahab and its surrounding area. My only regret is not doing more.

If I didn’t already have accommodation booked in Luxor, I would have easily decided to stay longer in Dahab. It’s truly a magical place.

Read More: Necessary Things to Know Before Visiting Egypt

TRAVELING SOON? INSURANCE: Cover yourself with travel medical insurance by SafetyWing . FLIGHTS: Get the best flight deals with Skyscanner and set flight alerts with Hopper . STAYS : Check out hotels and apartments with Booking.com and Vrbo . RENTAL CARS: Get the best deal on rental cars with Discover Cars or RentalCars . GOING HIKING? Get a 30% discount off your yearly AllTrails+ Account (code: nickiposts30) eSIM : Get an international eSim with Airalo or eSim ple. CITY GUIDES : Save time and purchase pre-made city guides with Thatch . CITY TOURS : Book your tour with GetYourGuide and Viator LUGGAGE : Get the best carry-on suitcase here . CREDIT CARD: Start earning travel points with the best travel credit card . BUENOS AIRES GUIDE : Purchase my Buenos Aires travel companion here . CONSULTATION : Book a 1:1 travel consultation with Nicki here . SUBSCRIBE: Get the Nicki Posts Travel Stuff newsletter every month.

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