Dahab is a small town located between Sinai Desert and the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea—a hidden gem that has preserved its essence despite being one of the most unique and attractive spot in Egypt. Unlike busier tourist places in Egypt like Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, or Marsa Alam, Dahab offers an authentic experience, perfect for travelers seeking nature and a deeper connection with culture. This little paradise of Sinai has a special charm that leaves a print on those who visit it. Here’s everything you need to know about the most bohemian destination on the Red Sea.
Dahab, a hidden paradise
Dahab means “gold” in Arabic, a name inspired by the golden sand particles scattered along its coastline. For centuries, Dahab was home to nomadic Bedouin tribes who used the region as a temporary settlement—especially in summer, when they gathered dates, fished and escaped desert’s extreme heat.
During the Israeli occupation of the Sinai (1967–1982), Dahab became a strategic point of interest and began developing modern infrastructures. When the regions was returned to Egypt in 1982, Dahab started becoming a tourist destination—keeping its relaxed, bohemian spirit, unlike its more developed neighbours such Sharm El Sheikh.
Today, Dahab is a meeting point for ocean lovers, kite surfers, yoga enthusiasts, and traveler’s looking for a deeper connection with nature. Meanwhile, local Bedouin community continues playing a fundamental role in the region’s cultural life.
What to do in Dahab
While Dahab is best known for its water-based activities, it also has several historical and cultural attractions. Here are 6 experiences you shouldn’t miss:
1. Hike mount Sinai & visit St. Catherine’s monastery
Just a short trip from Dahab, you’ll find St. Catherine’s monastery, a 6th-century orthodox monastery at the base of mount Sinai. It houses ancient manuscripts and priceless artworks.
A hike up mount Sinai is also a must-do, offering breathtaking views at sunrise or sunset. If the name sounds familiar to you, it’s because this is the biblical site where Moses received the ten commandments. The view from the summit is simply spectacular.
2. Explore the Khudra oasis & the Colored Canyon
Not far from Dahab, you can sing up on a 4×4 desert adventure to explore the Khudra Oasis and various canyons. Khudra is a lush green refuge in the middle of the arid Sinai Desert. This day trip usually runs from around 8 AM to 3 PM.
3. Blue Lagoon & Ras Abu Galoum national park
One of Dahab’s top attractions is Blue Lagoon, a stunning sandy beach with crystal-clear waters, famous among kitesurfers. The lagoon is within Ras Abu Galoum National Park, another must-visit spot.
Along the shores of Ras Abu Galoum and Blue Lagoon, you’ll find small beduin huts where you can enjoy local meals and even stay overnight. It’s a perfect escape—just you, the sea, the mountains, and the stars.
4. Diving or snorkeling at the famous Blue Hole
The Blue Hole is one of the world’s most famous dive sites and an essential stop in your trip to Dahab. Whether you’re a scuba diver, freediver, or snorkeler, this place is for you.
This massive underwater sinkhole is 150 meters wide and 110 meters deep, surrounded by vibrant coral reefs. The Blue Hole is located within Ras Abu Galoum National Park, and the daily entrance fee is €10, payable in cash (either in euros or the local currency). You can find more info about Blue Hole here.
5. Stroll through Dahab’s streets & seafront promenade
Unlike other tourist hotspots in Egypt, Dahab offers a relaxed and walkable town atmosphere. At sunset, the streets, small shops, and cozy beachfront restaurants come are full of life.
The promenade and town center are filled with local craft shops where you can find handmade ceramics, oils, incense and souvenirs to take a piece of Sinai home with you.
6. Get in the water!
Whether you’re a seasoned diver or just getting started, Dahab is the perfect place for scuba diving and freediving. The Red Sea is known for its outstanding visibility, lack of strong currents, and easy shore dives, meaning you don’t need a boat to access most dive sites. The rich marine life and coral reefs will leave you speechless.
Other water sports: Kitesurfing & Windsurfing. With steady desert winds, Dahab is one of Egypt’s top kitesurfing and windsurfing spots. Lagoona Beach and Blue Lagoon are the best locations to ride the waves in perfect conditions.
How to get to Dahab
The nearest airport is Sharm El Sheikh international airport. From Sharm El Sheikh, you can reach Dahab by:
- Public bus (does not operate at night)
- Private transfer (let us know, and we’ll be happy to pick you up!)
Another option is to fly directly to Cairo and take a domestic flight to Sharm El Sheikh (less than an hour and usually affordable). You can also take a bus from Cairo to Dahab, which is slower but budget-friendly (up tp 9- 12 hours ride). Bus companies operating this route include GoBus, BlueBus, and WeBus.
Where to stay in Dahab
While there are plenty of resorts around Dahab, we highly recommend staying in the town itself—specifically in the Lighthouse, Eel Garden, or Asalah areas. What makes Dahab special is its laid-back atmosphere and local lifestyle beyond the resorts.
Here are some of our favorite accommodations:
- Tranquilo Hostel Boutique: you can choose whether to share a room or stay in a room of your own. You can write directly to Mo, our Egyptian friend – he’ll assist you in perfect Spanish! (Ask us and we’ll give you his contact details)
- Dahab Lodge: it’s just a stone’s throw from our dive centre, and you can choose from single, double and triple rooms. Very close to the beach. (Ask us and we’ll give you their contact details)
- The Gate: the complete option, maximum comfort and with a pool. (Ask us and we’ll give you their contact information)
Frequently asked questions about Dahab
Is Dahab safe?
Yes, Dahab is very safe. While the Sinai Peninsula has a history of conflict, the area is now completely secure. We’ve been living in Dahab for over five years, and in our experience, it’s one of the safest places we’ve ever been. Of course, we always recommend traveling with insurance.
How many days should I spend in Dahab?
We recommend staying at least 4 days, ideally at the end of your trip. The rest of Egypt can be hectic, so Dahab is the perfect place to unwind before heading home.
What should I wear?
Dahab is a laid-back and open-minded place, so you can dress as you like. We go into more detail about this in another post!