One of my favorite places in the world took me completely by surprise! I had no idea how stunning the beaches in Egypt were, how beautiful the Blue Hole was, or just how magical the Sinai mountains could be. Seriously, you must check out Dahab on the Sinai Peninsula for your next beach vacation!
I’ve spent quite a bit of time in Dahab, and let me tell you, it’s definitely a hidden gem in Egypt that more people need to know about. The laid-back vibe, breathtaking nature, and the warm hospitality of the locals make it one of the coolest spots for a holiday. And hey, if you’re a digital nomad, you’ll love living in Dahab.
Before you pack your bags, check out my Dahab Travel Guide. It’s packed with every essential travel tip you’ll need for your trip to Dahab, Egypt in 2024.
- Our Dahab Travel Guide for 2024
- Dahab Travel Guide: Quick Facts
- Dahab Travel Guide: Not so Quick Facts
- How to get to Dahab & How to get around Dahab
- Where to stay in Dahab
- Where to Eat in Dahab
- Coworking Spaces in Dahab
- Things to do in Dahab
- Nightlife in Dahab
Our Dahab Travel Guide for 2024
Dahab, Egypt, is a bit of a mixed bag, and I know it sounds cliché, but it really does offer something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an action-packed getaway, Dahab is great for both.
This Egyptian city has plenty of restaurants and bars, many of which I really enjoyed, as well as beautiful scenery to explore with your camera—from stunning canyons to amazing beaches. For those who love outdoor activities, this city is also home to some of the best snorkeling, scuba diving, freediving, and windsurfing in the world.
The word “Dahab” means “gold” in Arabic, and this city definitely earns its name. With its golden beaches and sparkling waters, Dahab is a traveler’s (or at least my) dream come true.
Dahab Travel Guide: Quick Facts
Ok peeps, let’s get this Dahab travel guide started with some quick facts about Dahab that you need to know before planning your trip.
- Language: The official language of Egypt is Arabic, but don’t worry if you don’t speak it. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, including Dahab. I spent over a month in Egypt and got by just fine speaking only English, so no worries at all!
- Currency: The currency used in Egypt is the Egyptian pound (EGP). You can easily withdraw money from ATMs or exchange your currency at banks and hotels. Just make sure to have cash on hand for smaller purchases at local markets and shops. I had some pretty rough experiences with ATMs in Dahab—one even swallowed my card! If you’re heading there, I’d stick with NBE (National Bank of Egypt) ATMs. They seemed way more reliable.
- Weather & Climate: Dahab has that classic desert heat, with daytime temperatures averaging around 32°C (90°F) and cooling off to about 18°C (65°F) with cold nights. The best time to visit is from October to April when the weather is more chill. Just a heads-up, these are average temperatures. When I was there, it was scorching hot, so be prepared for temperatures ranging from 30°C to upwards of 40°C, depending on the time of year.
- Safety: Just like with any travel spot, it’s super important to keep an eye on your surroundings and take some precautions when you’re in Dahab. But honestly, Dahab is one of the safest and most laid-back places you can find in Egypt. It totally has that laid-back beach town vibe, which is such a cool surprise in a country like Egypt. I felt way safer here compared to the hustle and bustle of Cairo.
- Culture: Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country, so it’s important to respect the local culture and customs. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, and avoid public displays of affection. However, Dahab is a bit more relaxed compared to other cities in Egypt, so you can easily wear shorts and tank tops, or swim in your bikini without drawing too much attention.
Dahab Travel Guide: Not so Quick Facts
Alright, now we’re diving into some not-so-quick facts in this Dahab travel guide! These might be a bit longer than my quick facts list, but I felt like these points needed a bit more explanation. I hope you find them useful and interesting!
How to get to Dahab & How to get around Dahab
Dahab is easily accessible from Cairo. You have several options to reach this city:
- Bus: A bus ride from Cairo to Dahab takes around 6 hours. Although the ride can be a bit uncomfortable, it offers a wonderful way to see the Egyptian countryside.
- Train: Taking the train will take approximately 10 hours. This option is more comfortable than the bus, but it doesn’t provide as many scenic views.
- Plane: Flying is the quickest and most comfortable way to reach Dahab, taking about 1 hour. However, it is also the most expensive option. Flights land at Sharm el Sheikh, the closest airport to Dahab. From Sharm el Sheikh, you can take a taxi, bus, or shared van to reach Dahab, which is about an hour’s drive.
I took a plane to Sharm el Sheikh and then grabbed a taxi to Dahab, and honestly, that’s what I’d recommend to everyone! Public transport in Egypt can be a bit chaotic sometimes, and unless you’re a super-budget backpacker, I’d definitely go for the plane!
If you have time, consider spending a few days in Sharm el Sheikh. This city is also a beautiful place to visit with plenty of attractions and activities.
Getting around Dahab is best done by foot or bicycle, as the streets are narrow and everything is within walking distance. For adventures requiring a car, you can grab a cab or use my recommended taxi driver for the best prices. Message me for his information, and I’ll be happy to put you in contact!
Where to stay in Dahab
Dahab has so many awesome places to stay, and I’ve tried quite a few of them. Here are just a few options to get you started: a resort for those craving a luxurious vacation, a cozy boutique hotel, and a budget-friendly hostel.
Want the full scoop on where to stay in Dahab? Check out our complete guide!
($$$) Retac Qunay Dahab Resort & SPA
Definitely one of the best places to stay in Dahab if you’re looking for luxury and pampering is the Retac Qunay. This resort has a private beach, spa, fitness center, multiple restaurants, and beautifully designed rooms. It’s perfect for couples or families who want a relaxing vacation with all the amenities.
Click here for bookings & more information
($$) Sea Horse Hotel Dahab
A great little boutique hotel that I really enjoyed staying at is the Sea Horse Hotel. It’s located right in the middle of Dahab’s main street, close to all the restaurants and shops. The rooms are clean and comfortable, and the staff is friendly and helpful. Plus, they have a really nice and clean pool area where you can relax and soak up some sun.
Click here for bookings & more information
($)Rafiki Hostels – Dahab
Of course, I’m a backpacker at heart, so I’ve got to mention a great budget-friendly hostel in Dahab – Rafiki Hostels. It’s located close to the beach and has dorm-style rooms as well as private rooms available. The staff is super friendly, and they organize group activities such as diving and desert safaris. Plus, it’s a great place to meet other travelers and exchange stories over a cup of traditional Egyptian tea.
Click here for bookings & more information
Tip: If you are looking to stay in Dahab a little longer, I recommend grabbing an Airbnb in Asalah. It is about a 10-minute walk from downtown but will give you a lot more space and make Dahab feel like home!
Where to Eat in Dahab
Even though Dahab is pretty small, it has a variety of amazing restaurants to choose from. Here are a few of my top picks:
Breakfast
Ralph’s German Bakery: A must-visit for bread and pastry lovers! Enjoy a variety of freshly baked breads and pastries, paired with coffee or tea. Their cold brew is among the best in town, and there’s a charming little terrace to relax on.
Tim’s Munch: This small rooftop cafe is perfect for a traditional breakfast, featuring some of the best French toast I’ve ever tasted! They offer a range of vegetarian and vegan options, along with fresh juices and smoothies.
King Falafel: For an authentic Egyptian breakfast, King Falafel is the place to be. Located in the heart of Dahab, this cozy spot serves the best fuul (a fava bean stew) and tahina (sesame paste) I’ve ever had. They also offer fresh bread, salad, and pickled vegetables.
Lunch & Dinner
Head to the lighthouse district for lunch or dinner—there are so many incredible cuisines and delicious foods to try! Here are some of my favorites.
Box Meal: A small Asian restaurant with some amazing pad thai! I ate here so many times while in Dahab.
Athanor: If you’re looking for an Italian spot with a stunning outdoor seating area, this place is perfect. It’s ideal for a romantic dinner or a special occasion. Just grab a bottle of wine from across the street and enjoy some delicious pasta with friends. Trust me, you’ll love it!
Shark Restaurant: This is hands down my favorite seafood spot in Dahab! The outdoor seating area overlooks the water, and it’s just perfect. They offer a wide variety of seafood dishes, plus some great vegetarian options. My top tip? Pick out your fresh fish and go for the grilled option—you won’t regret it.
Abu el Weel: For dessert, you have to visit Abu el Weel. This ice cream shop, located in the Lighthouse District, offers the most unique and delicious flavors I’ve ever tasted. They have everything from avocado to salt and pepper ice cream!
Coworking Spaces in Dahab
During the cooler months, Dahab has a super cool digital nomad scene. Imagine cafes buzzing with young adults tapping away on their laptops – it’s so much fun being part of it! If you’re on the hunt for a spot to get some work done or meet fellow digital nomads, you’re in luck. There are a few coworking spaces in Dahab, though I have to mention, that COVID did put a bit of a dent in the scene, and some of my favorite spots had to shut down. But don’t worry, there are still some gems around that are definitely worth checking out if you’re planning to work remotely in Dahab.
El Co-working Space Dahab: The biggest and best-known coworking space in Dahab, El Co-working Space is a popular spot for digital nomads. It offers both indoor and outdoor seating options, high-speed internet, printing services, and even an onsite cafe for your caffeine fix. Plus, the staff is incredibly friendly and welcoming.
Bayside Eatery: This is where you would find me on most days when I was working remotely in Dahab. Bayside Eatery is a cozy restaurant with an amazing view of the sea, making it the perfec
t spot to get some work done while enjoying the scenery. They have high-speed internet and great food options as well.
Things to do in Dahab
There’s no shortage of things to do in Dahab when you’re not working. From desert adventures to diving in the Red Sea, this little town keeps you seriously busy—no joke! A lot of the activities in Dahab revolve around some sort of diving, and the best spot for that is the Blue Hole. The Blue Hole is a natural submarine sinkhole that’s famous for its crystal clear waters and incredible display of beautiful marine life. It’s considered one of the best diving spots in the world, attracting divers from all over. But if diving isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other options like hiking in the desert, trying out yoga at one of the many studios, or simply relaxing on the beach and watching the sunset.
Here are some of my favorite activities in this Dahab Travel Guide:
Snorkeling: The Red Sea is a snorkeler’s paradise. With tons of dive sites to choose from, you’ll see some amazing fish and coral. Don’t miss the Blue Hole—it’s super popular in Dahab, and for good reason! The great thing is that there are many shore dives and dive sites close to the beach, so even if you’re only snorkeling and not scuba diving, you’ll get to see loads of marine life and coral reefs.
Free diving: Feeling adventurous? Give freediving a shot. It’s a big deal here, and there are plenty of schools offering courses for all levels. You’ll be blown away by how deep you can go in just one breath! I tried it while I was here and absolutely loved it, taking a short boat ride to the dive site, grabbing my snorkeling gear, and just feeling completely free underwater.
Scuba Diving: Want to get scuba-certified? Dahab’s perfect for it. With loads of dive schools and dive shops in town, you can find a package that includes your certification and some great dives. It honestly doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or one of the more experienced divers, there is always more to learn and see! Even tech divers come to Dahab for the incredible drop-offs and deep dives.
Windsurfing & Kite surfing: Dahab’s a windsurfing hotspot. There are a few places in town where you can rent gear and hit the waves. The Blue Lagoon is the best spot for beginners and also one of my favorite swimming spots! Kite surfers also love Dahab for its consistent wind and warm waters.
Hiking: The Sinai desert boasts some incredible hiking trails. I suggest a guided hike—it’s the best way to explore and learn about Bedouin history and culture. My favorite hike, without a doubt, was the hike to Mount Sinai for sunrise. It’s a bit challenging but worth it for the stunning views and spiritual experience.
Yoga Dahab: With Dahab being a popular spot for digital nomads and free divers, it’s no surprise there is a strong yoga community here. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced yogi, I highly recommend checking out Shape Shifters; they have great and affordable classes every day.
If you want the full breakdown of the best things to do in Dahab, check out our complete guide!
Nightlife in Dahab
Dahab is a laid-back town that has a small party scene, but you can always find something to do and more importantly, something to drink!
Blue Beach Bar: This is a great place to start your night and where most people go. They have a huge outdoor seating area that overlooks the water. They have a wide variety of drinks and some light snacks. The beer will be pretty pricey here compared to other places but the atmosphere makes it worth it.
Most restaurants allow you to bring in drinks from the liquor stores because they don’t serve alcohol. So I would always just grab a few beers or a bottle of wine before heading out for dinner.
No matter what you’re looking for, Dahab is sure to have something for you. This little town is a great place to relax, eat some delicious food, and explore the beautiful scenery. So what are you waiting for? Start packing and head to the golden city of Dahab!
Dahab Travel Guide – Final Words
Alright, this is a wrap on our Dahab travel guide! We hope you found this information helpful and are now ready to plan your next vacation. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie looking for adventure or just want to soak up the sun and relax, Dahab has something for everyone.
Make sure to try out some of the activities mentioned in this guide and don’t forget to check out our recommended hotels and restaurants. And don’t worry about a language barrier; the locals are incredibly friendly and most speak English.
Remember to always be respectful of the local culture and customs while visiting Dahab. This beautiful town has a lot to offer, so let’s do our part in keeping it that way. Happy travels!
