Choose your vibe
"You wake up to wind tapping the balcony rail. The sea is glassy. A barefoot walk to the water takes 3 minutes."
Dahab is more than a destination; it's a state of mind. Nestled between the Sinai mountains and the Red Sea, it attracts divers, dreamers, and nomads. We built Dahab101 to help you find the real experience, away from the packages (unless they're the good kind).
Places to breathe
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The Blue Hole
Dahab’s most famous sinkhole: stunning from the surface, legendary for freediving and diving, and safest when you keep it simple and stay within your training.
Lighthouse Reef
The heart of Dahab’s diving community. Easy entry, seahorses, and sunset vibes.
Wadi Gnai
A stunning granite valley perfect for bouldering, sunset dinners, and short hikes.
Ras Abu Galum
A protected protectorate accessible by boat or camel. Silence, stars, and untouched reef.
The Lagoon (Laguna)
A sandy spit of land creating flat water for windsurfers and a turquoise swimming pool for everyone else.
Colored Canyon
A maze of sandstone rocks in hues of yellow, purple, red, and gold.
Practical, without stress
Safety & Common Sense
Yes, Dahab is generally considered very safe. South Sinai has tight security, and the community in Dahab is protective. Use common sense, but leave the stress at home.
Visa & Entry Requirements
For stays up to 15 days within the Sinai coast (Sharm to Taba), most nationalities get a free "Sinai Only" stamp. For longer stays or trips to Cairo/Luxor, you need the $25 full visa.
Getting to Dahab
Fly into Sharm el Sheikh (SSH) and take a 1-hour taxi or private transfer ($30-40). Alternatively, take a GoBus from Cairo (8-10 hours).
Money, Cash & Tipping
Dahab is a cash-first culture. ATMs are plentiful, but many local shops and restaurants prefer Egyptian Pounds (EGP). Tipping is appreciated but should be natural.
SIM Cards & Internet
Hotel Wi-Fi is often slow or unreliable. For work or peace of mind, buy a local SIM card (WE or Vodafone) at the airport or in town. 4G is generally excellent.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
October to November and April to May are the "sweet spots" with perfect temperatures. Summer is for windsurfers; winter is for hikers and those who like it quiet.
What to Pack
Reef shoes, a rashguard, one warm layer for desert nights, and reef-safe sunscreen. Keep it light; Dahab is very casual.
Health & Insurance
Yes, especially if you plan to dive, freedive, or hike. Ensure your policy specifically covers "high-risk" water activities if you plan on going deep.
Local Etiquette & Dress
Swimwear is for the beach. In town and residential areas, cover shoulders and knees to show respect. A simple smile and polite behavior go a long way.
Sunrise at the Lighthouse
Watching the town wake up before the divers arrive. A quiet moment before the tanks and tourists take over the promenade.
Read StoryBedouin Tea in Wadi Gnai
Why sweet tea tastes better when made on an open fire in the middle of a granite canyon under the stars.
Read StoryThe Silence of the Blue Hole
Going deep on one breath. Understanding the mental state required to descend into the blue.
Read Story