Overview
Dahab, on the Gulf of Aqaba in South Sinai, began as a Bedouin fishing village and is now a laid-back resort town beloved by divers, windsurfers and backpackers. A seafront promenade of cafes, dive centres and small hotels runs along the bay, with the red-brown mountains of Sinai rising behind. The water is clear, and the reefs are just off the beach.
Dahab is known for the Blue Hole, a deep sinkhole near the shore, which is one of the most famous and most dangerous dive sites in the world, and for the Canyon dive site. Non-divers can snorkel, windsurf and kitesurf in the Lagoon, ride camels, take a jeep tour to Ras Abu Gallum Protectorate, or head to the Coloured Canyon. In the evenings, restaurants and bars along the bay are relaxed and friendly.
Highlights
- Diving and snorkelling on the reefs
- The Blue Hole and its safety warnings
- Windsurfing and kitesurfing in the Lagoon
- Desert trips to the Coloured Canyon and Ras Abu Gallum
Best time to visit
October to April is the best time, with warm days and cool evenings. Summers are very hot, though the sea is warm. Winds are strong in spring and autumn, good for windsurfing. Water temperatures stay pleasant most of the year.
- JanJanuary: Best
- FebFebruary: Best
- MarMarch: Best
- AprApril: Good
- MayMay: Not ideal
- JunJune: Not ideal
- JulJuly: Not ideal
- AugAugust: Not ideal
- SepSeptember: Good
- OctOctober: Best
- NovNovember: Best
- DecDecember: Best
● Best · ○ Good · blank: not ideal. Conditions vary by year, so check local forecasts and access before you go.
Getting there
Fly to Sharm El Sheikh (SSH), about 1 to 1.5 hours by road from Dahab. Taxis, buses and shuttle services run to the town. Check security advice for the region.
What to expect
Dahab is small and easy to walk. Dive centres offer courses and trips, and prices are lower than in Sharm. The Blue Hole is dangerous, and many divers have died, so it is a place only for properly trained divers with a guide. Dress modestly in town.
Practical tips
- Use a licensed dive centre, and follow depth and safety limits.
- Do not dive the Blue Hole without proper training.
- Bring reef-safe sun cream, and do not touch the coral.
- Check the current security advice and permit rules for South Sinai.
Frequently asked questions
Is Dahab good for non-divers?
Yes, you can snorkel, windsurf, ride camels and take desert trips.
Is the Blue Hole dangerous?
Yes, it has caused many deaths among divers. Follow the advice of a qualified guide.
How far is it from Sharm El Sheikh?
About 90 km, 1 to 1.5 hours by road.
Official sources
Rules, fees, permits and conditions change. Check the official pages below before you travel.
Photos
Last reviewed October 2026. Details are for planning only and can change; confirm access, permits and conditions with official sources before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us. Photography: Petar Milošević (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons, Mc Paskal (CC0) via Wikimedia Commons, Grand Parc - Bordeaux (CC BY 2.0) via Wikimedia Commons.
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