Panorama of Dahab

Dahab underwater

Dahab is the Arabic word for gold - have a look at the colour of the sand around here and you immediately know where the town took its name from. The combination of soft sand, gorgeous blue water, and a luxuriant strip of palm trees is pulling in visitors in growing numbers.

Masbat & Mashraba are the most developed parts of Dahab, a sprawling conglomeration of palm trees, shops, hotels, camps, bars and restaurants that lie along the shore of Masbat Bay. Masbat has a distinctly bohemian feel, and during the Israeli occupation it wasn't uncommon to see soldiers patrolling the same beaches as dreadlocked vagabonds from Europe and America. Less laid back, but still relaxed, is the area just south lying along El-Qura Bay (Laguna).

Dahab dive

Within just a few miles of Dahab are some great adventure spots. Excellent dive sites lie both to the north and south, including Blue Hole, one of Sinai's best. Just south are the wadis of Qnai el-Rayan and Qnai el-Atschan - now home to fantastic rock climbing.

Dahab is served by the Sharm el-Sheikh Airport. There are several air carriers including budget airlines that operate regular flights to Dahab from many parts of Europe. You can also travel by road. If you prefer to take the bus then there are several buses from Cairo, Sharm el-Sheikh, Suez, Eilat and Taba that are routed to Dahab. When exploring around Dahab you can either ride in a taxi or the minibuses. Another good idea is to rent a bicycle to explore the place.

Dahab Hotels

Accommodations

Dahab is divided into two major parts; the Bedouin village of Assalah and Laguna or Dahab City/Medina. If you are looking for affordable accommodations that are located along the beachfront then Assalah is the place to go. Here you can find campsites, dormitories and simple lodging like Bish Bishi, Dahab Dorms, Dolphin Camp, Bedouin Moon Hotel and Blue Beach Club. If you want luxury accommodations that are within the city and other tourist hot spots, then head over to Laguna. Here you can choose to stay at hotels like Le Meridien Dahab Resort, Iberotel Dahabeya and the Swiss Inn Resort