Dahab: The Golden Soul of the Sinai
If Sharm El Sheikh is a glittering resort, Dahab is its barefoot, adventurous younger sibling. Once a quiet Bedouin fishing village, Dahab (which means “Gold” in Arabic) has become a world-renowned hub for travelers seeking a slower pace of life. In 2026, it remains the “Goa of Egypt”—a place where the mountains meet the sea, and the only thing faster than the wind is the local hospitality.
🧘 The Vibe: Bohemian & Connected
Dahab is unique because of its walkable promenade filled with colorful floor-cushion cafes, art galleries, and co-working spaces. It’s a city where you don’t need a taxi; you just need a pair of sandals.
- The Lighthouse Area: The heart of the action. Perfect for sunset dinners, local crafts, and shore-side snorkeling.
- Friday Market: If you’re here on a weekend, head to the community market to try home-cooked international food and buy handmade Bedouin jewelry.
🤿 The Deep Blue: Diving & Freediving
Dahab is world-famous for its shore diving—meaning you can walk right off the beach and into a coral wonderland.
- The Blue Hole: Perhaps the most famous (and infamous) dive site on earth. A 110-meter deep sinkhole surrounded by a vibrant coral “saddle.” In 2026, it is the global capital for Freediving.
- The Canyon: A stunning natural fissure in the reef that creates a neon-blue light show for divers as they swim through its depths.
- The Eel Garden: A shallow, sandy slope where hundreds of garden eels “dance” in the current—a must-see for snorkelers.
🏜️ Sinai Adventures
Dahab is the perfect “Base Camp” for exploring the rugged interior of the Sinai Peninsula.
- Mount Sinai Sunrise: Most tours depart Dahab at 11:00 PM to hike the “Mountain of Moses” in time for a life-changing sunrise, followed by a visit to the UNESCO-listed St. Catherine’s Monastery.
- Blue Lagoon & Abu Galum: Accessible only by boat or camel from the Blue Hole, this is the ultimate “off-the-grid” escape. Think turquoise lagoons and simple Bedouin huts under a billion stars.
- Wadi Gnai: A desert oasis hidden in the mountains, perfect for rock climbing or a quiet afternoon hike.
🌬️ Wind & Water
Thanks to its unique geography, Dahab is one of the top spots in the world for Windsurfing and Kitesurfing.
- The Lagoon: Flat, shallow water perfect for beginners learning to catch the wind.
- The Baby Bay: Where the pros go to show off their speed and jumps.
🍽️ A Taste of Dahab
Forget the hotel buffets. Dahab is about fresh, local flavors.
- Fresh Catch: Pick your fish from the ice display at a promenade restaurant and have it grilled Bedouin-style with tahini and fresh bread.
- Bedouin Tea: Never say no to a glass of “Habak” (desert mint) tea offered by the locals—it’s the true taste of the Sinai.