Nestled between the Sinai desert and the Red Sea, Dahab’s dramatic seascapes have drawn divers and snorkelers for decades. Diving the Blue Hole, a 460-foot (130-meter) sinkhole, is one of the top things to do in Dahab—but there’s more to the laid-back, low-rise resort town than what’s beneath the surface. Desert oases, canyons, and Bedouin settlements are ripe for exploration by all-terrain vehicle, 4WD, horseback riding, and hiking. And Dahab is also a popular jumping-off point for St. Catherine’s Monastery and Mt. Sinai, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Dahab is blessed with clear skies and sunshine almost all year round, but summers can be scorching and winter nights in the desert surprisingly cold. Fall (September through November) is a popular time to visit for European tourists, as the Red Sea is still warm from the summer and the outside air temperatures are mellow. Despite cooler seas, spring (March through May) comes in a close second.
Dahab is compact compared to other sprawling Red Sea resorts, but you’ll need wheels to travel between the different areas: There’s no local public transit. Some travelers rent bicycles, while others rely on taxis, tours, and private drivers. Taxis aren’t metered, so be sure to agree on your price (in Egyptian pounds) and have cash on hand before setting off. Be aware that ride-hailing apps are not available in Dahab.
To fully appreciate the silence and the brilliant night skies of the Sinai Peninsula, opt for a multi-day safari with one or more nights in desert camps. At camp, Bedouin guides typically prepare bread and barbecue over the campfire. For an authentic taste of Egyptian cuisine, head to King Chicken, which serves delicious kebabs, kofta, and molokhia, Egypt’s silky green vegetable.
