Located on the Gulf of Aqaba near the Red Sea lies Dahab, one of Egypt’s best-kept secrets! The city of Dahab is better referred to as a quaint, coastal village. Here, you’ll find a laid-back hippy charm, mixed in with traditional Bedouin culture and plenty of opportunities for adventure!
Beyond the kite surfing and scuba diving crowd, Dahab is often overlooked in favor of more famous Red Sea holiday destinations like Hurghada or Sharm el-Sheikh. From hiking the world’s holiest mountain (Mount Sinai) to diving in one of Earth’s most famous dive sites (The Blue Hole), there are so many epic activities and places to see in Dahab that you should definitely add to your Egypt itinerary!
I spent a few weeks exploring this epic coastal town and I’m here to help you find the best attractions and hidden gems!
1. The Mount Sinai Sunrise Hike
Hiking Mount Sinai is my most recommended activity in Dahab.
This mountain, located in the Saint Catherine region of the Sinai Desert is almost universally accepted as being the biblical Mount Sinai. This is the place where Moses was said to have received the Ten Commandments from god.
If this has been on your bucket list and you find yourself in Dahab, then you're in luck! This is the closest tourist town to Mount Sinai (also called Jabel Mousa/Mount Moussa or Moses Mountain), making it an ideal base for an overnight sunrise hike.
The journey usually takes a few hours by bus, and getting here by yourself is tricky due to strict security measures. Luckily, hiking tours from Dahab are very cheap. Read my guide or take a pick from the tours below.
Book: Mount Sinai Climb
2. Saint Catherine's Monastery
Mount Sinai isn't the only religiously significant landmark in this region. Just below the base of these Sinai Mountains, you'll find the St. Catherine's Monastery, considered to be the oldest continuously worked Christian Monastery on earth.
This Greek Orthodox monastery holds a world-famous library with ancient manuscripts and a scenic garden to explore.
Usually, the organized trips to hike Mount Sinai include a guided tour of the monastery. Therefore, you'll get to tick off two birds with one stone with a trip out to this rugged and undeniably spiritual part of Egypt.
Location: Saint Catherine, 130 km (80 mi) from Dahab
3. The Famous Dahab Blue Hole
The famous Blue Hole is widely considered to be one of the most renowned dive sites in the world. And, since it's located on the edge of the Gulf of Aqaba, just 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) north of Dahab, it's very accessible from town by taxi.
This natural submarine sinkhole drops to an outrageous depth of over 120 meters (390 feet), just a few steps from the shore! Its steep, vertical walls are lined with amazing coral reefs, making it an idyllic site for recreational divers, free divers, and snorkelers.
However, the Dahab Blue Hole is also quite an infamous dive site carrying the burden of being the world's deadliest! Though in reality, regular, recreational diving is very safe, as the most dangerous element is the 55-meter (180-foot) deep arch, which is best left for qualified, technical divers!
Travel tip: the Egyptian Government charges a $10 USD entry fee, payable upon entry to the Blue Hole area. I was able to rent a mask and snorkel at the dive shops for $15 USD.
4. The Colored Canyon in the Sinai Desert
Looking for something adventurous to do in Dahab? Make sure you dedicate a day to exploring all of the epic Sinai Desert canyons located right near Dahab.
The most famous canyon is the Colored Canyon (Salama Canyon), which is an eroded sandstone canyon with amazing geological patterns. This was one of my favorite natural wonders I discovered in Dahab and I highly recommend making the journey out there if you have time.
Below I've linked the best trip in the area, which also includes some of the other must-see destinations in Dahab's desert including the White Canyon, Ain Khudra Oasis, and Mushroom Rock.
5. Scuba Diving or Free Diving
Did you know that the Red Sea is one of the best dive destinations on earth? This unique region is well known for its healthy coral reefs, abundant marine life, and insane visibility!
Therefore, you're correct to assume that one of the best things to do in Dahab is to go scuba diving or snorkeling! The Dahab promenade is lined with dive centers where qualified scuba divers can dive at famous shore dives the Blue Hole, Ras Abu Galum, the Canyon, 3 Pools, and the Caves.
If freediving sounds more like your type of adventure, you'll be stoked to hear there are plenty of good schools in Dahab as well! My favorite is Octopus Dive and I highly recommend it after great experiences in Dahab with them.
6. Sinai Desert Jeep or Camel Ride
Ever wanted to go on a quad bike, 4WD, or jeep safari through the sand dunes? What about a camel ride with local Bedouins?
The South Sinai Desert surrounding Dahab is a great place to do both! While I didn't get a chance to do this activity, it's one of the most popular you can book online!
7. The Blue Lagoon
When visiting Dahab, I highly recommend allocafting enough time for a day trip to the Blue Lagoon!
This is a crystal clear sheltered lagoon located just a short distance north of Dahab. The water color here is one of the most tranquil shades of blue I've ever witnessed, making it a great place to swim and enjoy the serenity. Also, it's a great spot to watch professional kite surfers right from the shore!
However, getting here requires a bit of an adventure. Read my guide (linked above) for more information on how to get here.
8. Day Trip to Petra (Jordan) from Dahab
Did you know that you can visit the amazing archaeological site of Petra from Dahab on a day trip?
There's one company I found (linked below) running complete, organized day trips to Petra in Jordan by air-conditioned bus. This is a full 18-hour tour and includes lunch, all entrance fees, and a local guide.
Getting to Jordan by yourself on an overland journey can be a little difficult due to the logistics and border measures in Tala Bay. However, this trip organizes it all for you at a price that you can't beat with a flight and transport booked independently.
Book: Full Day Petra Adventure
9. Kite Surfing
Due to the high mountains of Sinai and neighboring Saudi Arabia, combined with the narrow Gulf of Aqaba, Dahab is notoriously windy.
As a result, Dahab is one of the world's most popular kite surfing locations in Egypt, if not the world. In the weeks I spent in Dahab there was a constant breeze the entire time, and I was told that this is very common all year.
So, if you've always wanted to give this awesome sport a try, then you've come to the right place. There are many kit surf schools in Dahab offering lessons to beginners and advanced surfers!
10. Lagoona Beach and Dahab Lagoon
The Laguna Area has the main beach in the Egyptian city of Dahab. This is a far-stretching sand spit on the southern end of town, forming a naturally protected lagoon.
You'll find this beach just a short walk or bike ride from the main town. And, it's a great place to swim, relax, or go kite surfing!
Furthermore, the Lagoona beach also makes for an awesome sunset spot where you can relax and watch the sunset behind the Sinai Mountains.
11. The Dahab Salt Lake (Magic Lake)
Located immediately next to the big Dahab Lagoon is one of the most underrated attractions in Dahab!
Locals call it the Magic Lake or the Dahab Salt Lake. Chances are that you'll pass right by it, but I highly recommend going for a swim. I found this little lake while exploring Dahab on my rented scooter and we went for a salty swim and met a local who explained that this is a popular local spot to cover themselves in the salty, white mud. This is a natural mud mask that many claim removes impurities and dead skin from the body.
The percentage of salt is extremely high in this lake, which gives you crazy buoyancy just like the famous Dead Sea!
Location: 28°28'22.1"N 34°30'28.9"E
Did you know? Dahab was once a former Bedouin fishing village. This quaint town attracted its first tourists when divers discovered the Blue Hole.
12. Ras Abu Galum to Blue Hole Hike
Looking for an amazing coastal hike in Dahab? Look no further than the epic trail running leading from the Blue Hole to the popular snorkeling and diving spot known as Ras Abu Galum (Abu Galoum).
This is quite an easy hike (although very hot) following a level path along the Gulf of Aqaba. On the way, we got dramatic views of the soaring Sinai Mountains dropping into the deep blue abyss.
Since this is a protected area, many sections along this coastal walk harbor rich coral reefs, which looked perfect for swimming in.
13. Explore the Outskirts of Dahab by Scooter
One of the funnest things I did in Dahab was renting our own set of two wheels and exploring the region without much of a plan!
While travelers won't require a scooter to get to the main attractions in Dahab town, it is worthwhile if you would like to tour the surrounding area.
We rented a scooter and drove up to the large hill overlooking Dahab. From here, we captured some awesome photos of the lagoon and the many Dahab resorts and luxury hotels dotting the coast.
14. Rock Climbing
Many of the jagged peaks and canyons behind Dahab offer epic rock climbing opportunities! Although this isn't something I was able to fit into my Dahab itinerary, I stumbled upon this epic 3-day expedition into the South Sinai Desert which has a Tripadvisor Badge of Excellence!
If you end up doing this activity in Dahab, make sure to let me know how it was!
15. Day Trip to Cairo (Giza Pyramids) from Dahab
Visiting Sinai but still want to squeeze in a trip to the famous Egyptian Pyramids?
While it's certainly a big day, visiting some of Egypt's famous landmarks like the Great Pyramids, the Sphinx, the Saqqara Necropolis, and the Egyptian Museum can be done on a long, 21-hour day trip from Sharm el-Sheikh (only an hour's drive from Dahab).
Charming Egypt Tours is the only company running this tour, and they have an excellent reputation!
16. Promenade and the Dahab Community Market
The main strip in Dahab is called the promenade. This is a beachside, concrete boardwalk with several dive shops, ocean-view restaurants, trendy cafes, and small bazaars. This is the strip comprising the Eel Garden and Lighthouse area.
When visiting Dahab, you'll likely walk this strip daily, since it's where most things are happening.
However, if you're lucky enough to visit on a Friday, make sure to head down here for the Dahab Community Market. This is a weekly affair where many vendors come to sell their wares, including hand-made jewelry, Egyptian cotton clothes, and fresh food.
Everything here is offered at affordable prices. But, you'll need to put your haggling shoes on!
17. The Why Not Bazaar
The famous Why Not Bazar is a popular place for tourists to snap an iconic Instagram photo beneath a chalkboard sign surrounded by all sorts of trinkets.
However, if you step into this quirky shop, you'll find that it's one of the most unique in Dahab. These guys sell everything from jewelry to organic natural medicines.
While I didn't buy anything, browsing this store was one of the most interesting things to do in Dahab, and a great place to snap some photos.
Location: Why Not
18. Beachfront Restaurants & Cafes Near Eel Garden & Lighthouse
After a long day of scuba diving, kite surfing, or heading out to explore all of Dahab's epic attractions, one of the best things to do is just to relax and unwind at one of the many beachfront restaurants and cafes.
The entire coastal strip from Eel Garden to Lighthouse is occupied by great restaurants serving up delicious food for affordable prices.
One of my favorite afternoons in Dahab was spent drinking beer and smoking shisha with my good friends at Eel Garden View Restaurant while watching the sunset light up the mountains of Saudi Arabia in the distance.
19. Ralph's German Bakery
Who would expect to find a top-notch German Bakery in this remote coastal town of Egypt?
Dahab has two awesome spots to grab a delicious croissant or a loaf of freshly baked bread. Both of these are run by Ralph, and he's named his bakery Ralph's German Bakery.
This is one of the best places in Dahab to have breakfast, as they serve up a great coffee too!
20. Make Friends at My Hostel in Dahab
While Dahab does cater for luxury travel, it is still very much a backpacker town. Budget travelers looking for the absolute best hostel vibe in Dahab (perhaps even in Egypt) should not look past My Hostel. No, I don't own this hostel, that's just the name!
At My Hostel, you'll find an awesome rooftop terrace and a chill co-working area offering some of the fastest wifi speeds in Dahab. Every night, this rooftop is full of travelers from all over the world, and a great place to meet people.
So, as the hostel owner and now my good friend, Medhat told me,
It's Dahab man, the best thing to do here is... nothing!
Book: My Hostel
Tip: My Hostel is also connected to the popular Octopus Divers dive center. This is one of the best and most cost-effective dive shops in Dahab.
21. Dahab Cliffs Viewpoint
For a breathtaking sunset in Dahab, head to the secluded northern cliffs, marked on Google Maps as “Footpath to Viewpoint.”
When I was in Dahab, one of my favorite experiences was the 30-minute walk to the northern cliffs for sunset.
My friends and I found that walking along the beach was the best way to get there—the peaceful sea views and cool breeze made the journey so much more enjoyable. To get here yourself walk to the Bedouin Moon Hotel, then take a left onto a dirt road just before the hotel entrance.
After about five minutes, we noticed a narrow trail on the right that led up into the hills. It looked a bit steep at first, but it was surprisingly easy to hike—even in flip flops! Along the way, we stumbled upon a small Bedouin tea spot with cushions laid out, where we stopped for a quick break and some refreshing mint tea.
Continuing up the trail, we eventually spotted a white flag waving in the breeze, marking the perfect viewpoint. The view from there was incredible—the Red Sea shimmered under the setting sun, and the Sinai Mountains cast long, dramatic shadows.
22. Explore Old Town Dahab
For a more authentic experience in Dahab, head to the Old Town, located just south of the main promenade near the Lighthouse area. This quieter part of Dahab is full of narrow streets, traditional stone houses, and small local shops that reflect the town’s Bedouin roots.
We loved stopping by a small teahouse near Asalah Square to sip mint tea and chat with the owner about Dahab’s history. The markets here are perfect for finding handmade jewelry, crafts, and local spices at affordable prices. You can easily reach Old Town by walking or taking a short taxi ride from the main tourist areas. It’s a peaceful escape from the busier parts of town and a great place to experience local life. If you want to see the true side of Dahab, Old Town is definitely worth exploring.
23. Explore Dahab With a Local Guide
One of the best ways to experience Dahab is by joining a local guided tour, and I found a highly-rated option on GetYourGuide with over 5,000 five-star reviews.
This affordable and jam-packed tour covers some of Dahab’s top attractions and hidden gems. You’ll explore local markets, walk through traditional neighborhoods, and visit historical sites.
Highlights include stops at Al Seef for a guided walk, Al Fahidi for sightseeing, and Al Bastakiya to experience the area’s rich culture. The tour also includes a visit to Al Fahidi Fort and a relaxing boat ride along Dubai Creek (if the optional stop is selected). You’ll get time to browse the bustling Spice Souk and Gold Souk, perfect for picking up unique souvenirs. With a variety of stops, this tour is definitely a great way to explore the town with a local guide!
24. Try Fresh Pomegranate Juice
Fresh pomegranate juice is a must-try in Dahab, especially during the pomegranate season from September to February when the fruit is at its sweetest. This refreshing drink is popular among locals for its rich flavor and health benefits. I found street vendors and small juice stalls along the promenade and in Old Town, especially near Asalah Square.
Many serve it chilled and freshly squeezed, and I recommend trying it with a hint of lemon for extra zest. This was my go-to glass after a long day of exploring—it’s the perfect way to cool off in the heat.
Tip: For an authentic experience, visit one of the local juice carts rather than the touristy cafés.
25. Visit Wishwashi Canyon
I didn’t get the chance to visit Wishwashi Canyon on my last trip to Dahab, but after hearing great things from my good friend Medhat, I had to add it to this year’s update to this guide.
Medhat, who owns My Hostel and Octopus Dive in Dahab, highly recommends this spot for adventure seekers. Wishwashi Canyon is located about an hour south of Dahab near Wadi Gnai and is famous for its emerald-green natural pool surrounded by rugged cliffs.
The hike through the desert is moderately challenging, but the reward of swimming in the cool, hidden pool makes it worth it. For the best experience, I recommend reaching out to Medhat at +20 106 8755155—he’s a great guy and can help you arrange a guide or transport to the canyon. Visiting between October and April is ideal to avoid the desert heat.
Where to Stay in Dahab
Dahab is much smaller and more laid back than its more luxurious neighbor Sharm el-Sheikh. However, there is still a wide range of accommodation options, from epic rooftop hostels to luxurious beach-side resorts. Below are my recommended accommodation options for all budgets
Read: Where to Stay in Egypt
1. Swiss Inn Resort Dahab Luxury
The best luxury resort in Dahab offers its guests a gym facility, a private beach, a children's play area, multiple pools, restaurants, a shuttle service, and its very own dive center.
2. Jaz Dahabeya Mid-Range
Overlooking the Red Sea and Sinai Mountains this 4-star resort offers its own reviving and reinvigorating treatments in its spa facility, pool, children's play area, and gym. Breakfast and dinner are included.
3. My Hostel Budget
My favorite hostel in Egypt– and I've stayed in a lot! Complete with a roof-top terrace and chill co- work area. Fun vibe and the owner Medhat also arranging tours and diving for you at the best price in Dahab.
How to Get to Dahab
Dahab is located on the edge of the Gulf of Aqaba, in Egypt's far eastern Sinai Peninsula. Below are the best ways to get here.
By plane
The closest airport is the Sharm El-Sheik International Airport, located approximately 1-hour's drive from Dahab. Travelers flying in from international destinations can often find direct flights, which avoids a layover in Cairo.
Tip: The best airline to fly with is Egypt Air since they offer food and 23 kg of baggage for free. I always use SkyScanner and CheapOAir to find the best deals on flights.
By car
From Sharm el-Sheikh airport, you can pay a driver or taxi to drive you to Dahab. This should not cost you more than 600 Egyptian pounds. You can book this online in advance cheaply.
Furthermore, Dahab is a popular destination for Israelis as well as other residents of the Middle East. As a result, many people drive to Dahab by crossing the Egyptian border town of Taba.
By bus
One of the cheapest ways to get to Dahab is to take advantage of Egypt's cost-effective bus network.
There are direct buses from Sharm el-Sheikh and Cairo. I had great experiences with GoBus, which has its own bus station in Dahab.
Where to Eat in Dahab
Looking for some great places to eat in the Egyptian coastal city of Dahab? Below are my favorite places which are always good place to start. But honestly, just walk through the old town and try some street food and check in at one of the restaurants on the boardwalk, you can't go wrong!
- Ralph's Bakery - great fresh bed and delicious cakes
- Namaste Indian - the best Indian food in Egypt
- Eltanur - awesome pizza and milkshakes
- Epic local restaurant near My Hostel- copy and paste "كوارع هاوس" into Google Maps (next to Kings of the Liver). Here you can eat delicious local street food like koshiri for under 30 Egyptian Pounds ($1.70) a meal.
Dahab Travel Tips and FAQs
Is Dahab safe to visit?
Dahab is one of the safest cities I traveled to in Egypt. There haven't been any issues with attacks since the 2006 bombings. There's also very little crime– nobody even locks up their bikes!
What is the cost of travel in Dahab?
The cost of living in Dahab is very affordable. Hostel dorms are usually less than USD 15 per night and you can eat delicious Egyptian food for under $4 a meal. Expect to pay more (around $7-10 a meal) and the beachside restaurants.
Can you get to Dahab from Hurghada?
Of course. However, I wouldn't suggest taking the overland option. Instead, simply fly from Hurghada airport to Sharm el-Sheikh, and get a taxi or bus to Dahab.
When is the best time to visit Dahab?
Dahab is a year-round holiday destination. However, most people recommend visiting during Spring/Fall (March to May and September to November). The hottest months are during the summer months of June to August when the Red Sea area of Egypt, including Dahab, gets notoriously hot.
How long should I spend in Dahab?
Almost everybody visits Dahab planning to spend 2-3 days there, but end up staying much longer. I would recommend at least 5-7 days to get the most out of this amazing destination.
And that's a wrap on this epic guide to what to do in in Dahab, Egypt. I hope you enjoy this tiny slice of Red Sea backpacker paradise and make some life-long memories as I have.
While you're here, below you'll find a few more articles from Egypt that I'm sure will come in useful for your travels.
- Landmarks in Egypt - my massive guide to Egypt's best natural & historical attractions
- Aswan Travel Guide - my travel guide to Aswan featuring the best sites & things to do
Egypt Accommodation Guides
Before you go, read some of my useful travel guides to help you plan your accommodation across different regions of Egypt.