Diving into Dahab: Your Travel Guide to Egypt's Red Sea Paradise

Diving into Dahab: Your Travel Guide to Egypt's Red Sea Paradise

Welcome to Dahab, where the azure waters of the Red Sea meet the golden sands of the desert. Whether you love diving, food, or relaxing, Dahab has something for you. This guide includes all the important information, top sites, the best restaurants, fun activities, and a 5-day plan.
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Tucked away on Egypt's Sinai Peninsula...

There is Dahab, a place where life slows down and nature's beauty shines. Situated between the turquoise waters of the Red Sea and the imposing mountains of the Sinai Peninsula, this coastal paradise offers a peaceful getaway from the busyness of everyday life.

Dahab is a hidden gem on the southeastern coast of the Sinai Peninsula. Known for its stunning coral reefs, laid-back atmosphere, and vibrant local culture, Dahab offers a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and authentic Egyptian charm.

Dahab
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A laid-back coastal town on the Sinai Peninsula, Dahab is known for its relaxed atmosphere, pristine beaches, and excellent diving sites such as the Blue Hole and the Canyon. It's also a popular spot for windsurfing, kiteboarding, and camel trekking in the desert.
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Best Times to Visit

Overall:

Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November) are ideal due to mild temperatures and fewer tourists.

For divers:

Summer (June to August) can be hot but is perfect for diving.

Low season:

Winter (December to February) offers cooler temperatures and quieter beaches.

Local Tips

๐Ÿ‘˜ Dress modestly when away from the beach.

๐Ÿ›๏ธ Bargain at markets and with taxi drivers.

๐ŸŒ™ Respect local customs, especially during Ramadan.

Eating

Ali Baba Restaurant Dahab
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Famous for its seafood and traditional Egyptian dishes.
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Famous for its seafood and traditional Egyptian dishes.

Shark Restaurant
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Offers a wide variety of fresh seafood with stunning sea views.
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Offers a wide variety of fresh seafood with stunning sea views.

Yalla Bar Dahab
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A great spot for a mix of Egyptian and international cuisine with a lively atmosphere.
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A great spot for a mix of Egyptian and international cuisine with a lively atmosphere.

Red Cat
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Perfect for vegan and vegetarian options.
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๐ŸŒฑ Perfect for vegan and vegetarian options.

King Chicken
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Renowned for its budget-friendly and tasty grilled chicken dishes.

Accommodation

Dahab Paradise

Hightlights:ย Outdoor pool, lush gardens, and an on-site restaurant.

Dahab Paradise
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A charming boutique hotel offering a serene atmosphere and stunning views of the Gulf of Aqaba.
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Acacia Dahab Hotel

Highlights: Pool, proximity to the beach, and delicious breakfast.

Acacia Dahab Hotel
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A small, family-run hotel known for its friendly service and cozy ambiance.
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Red Sea Relax Resort

Highlights: Dive center, rooftop terrace, and restaurant.

Red Sea Relax Resort
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A popular choice among divers, offering easy access to diving sites and comfortable accommodations.
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Blue Beach Club

Highlights: Beach access, dive school, and yoga classes.

Blue Beach Club
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A relaxed hotel located right on the beach, ideal for budget travelers.
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Sea Soul Hotel

Highlights: Central location, rooftop terrace, and friendly staff.

Sea Soul Hotel
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A budget-friendly option with clean rooms and a welcoming atmosphere.
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Nour Boutique Hotel

Highlights: Moroccan-inspired, aesthetics, centric.

Nour Boutique Hotel
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Beit Theresa

Hightlights: organic, beach-front, minimal.

Beit Theresa
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Swiss Inn Resort Dahab

Highlights: Private beach, kidsโ€™ club, and multiple dining options.

Swiss Inn Resort Dahab
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A beachfront resort perfect for families and couples, with excellent diving facilities.
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Landmarks & Activities

Mount Sinai

A must-visit for its historical and religious significance, with breathtaking views from the summit.

Jabal Mousa
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Saint Catherine Monastery

One of the oldest functioning Christian monasteries, located at the foot of Mount Sinai.

Saint Catherine
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Saint Catherine Monastery & Mount Sinai Sunrise Tour

Book your slot through Viator:

Abu Galoum

Abu Galoum
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Snorkelling & overnight stay

Cross the arid landscape of the Blue Hole and Ras Abu Gallum Protected Reserve on a full day and overnight. Snorkel and swim among hard and soft coral and see angelfish, batfish, unicorns and parrotfish.

Book your slot through Viator:

Blue Hole

A world-famous diving and snorkeling site with rich marine life.

Blue Hole of Dahab
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Lagoona Beach

Perfect for windsurfing and kitesurfing, with its shallow, crystal-clear waters.

Laguna Beach Dahab
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Eel Garden View

Eel Garden View
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Great spot to lay your towel, read under the sun, and swim or snorkel your problems away.

Wadi Gnai

Wadi Gnai
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A beautiful valley offering hiking, rock climbing, and Bedouin tea experiences.

Getting there

By Air

Fly into Sharm El Sheikh International Airport (SSH), then take a 1.5-hour taxi or bus ride to Dahab.

Sharm El Sheikh International Airport
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By Road

Regular buses and taxis from Sharm El Sheikh and other major cities.

Bus booking online platforms:

1. Go Bus

2. Blue Bus

5-day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Relaxation

โ— Arrive in Dahab and check into your hotel.

โ— Stroll along the Dahab Promenade and enjoy a welcome dinner at Ali Baba Restaurant.

Day 2: Diving & Snorkeling Adventure

โ— Morning dive or snorkel at Blue Hole.

โ—ย Lunch at Shark Restaurant.

โ—ย Afternoon dive at Lighthouse Reef.

โ—ย Relax with an evening yoga session.

Day 3: Desert and Cultural Exploration

โ—ย Sunrise early morning hike up Mount Sinai for sunrise.

โ—ย Visit St. Catherineโ€™s Monastery.

โ— Lunch/ Dinner at a local Bedouin camp.

โ— Or, return to Dahab and dinner at Eel Garden Stars Restaurant.

Day 4: Water Sports and Beach Day

Windsurfing or kitesurfing at Laguna Beach.

Lunch at Yalla Bar.

Relax on the beach or explore Wadi Gnai.

Dinner at Lakhbatita Gourmet Cafรฉ.

Day 5: Local Experiences and Departure

Shopping at Dahab markets for souvenirs.

Take a camel safari in the Sinai Desert.

Lunch at Red Cat.

Relax before your departure, enjoying your final meal at King Chicken.

Thank you for following me to Dahab ๐Ÿ’™

By following this guide, you'll experience the best of what this beautiful town has to offer, just like a local. Whether you're diving into the depths of the Blue Hole, hiking up Mount Sinai, or savouring the local cuisine, Dahab promises an unforgettable experience. Plan your trip today and discover the magic of Dahab!

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
๐ŸŒ Born in Ecuador, raised between Spain and China, and trained to scuba dive in Egypt, I have lived and breathed different cultures my entire life. Now residing in Berlin, I am eager to share my knowledge and experiences with you. Let me be your guide to truly immerse yourself in local culture & creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime. ๐ŸŽ
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