Photo: Masser, CC BY 2.0
Photo: Masser, CC BY 2.0
Dahab is a small town on the Gulf of Aqaba in Egypt's Sinai Peninsula, known for world-class shore diving, a relaxed Bedouin-influenced atmosphere, and the infamous Blue Hole—a 100-metre-deep sinkhole that draws freedivers and technical divers from around the world. Unlike the large resort complexes of Sharm el-Sheikh, Dahab retains a backpacker and independent traveller character with beachfront camps, cafes, and dive centres.
Fly into Sharm el-Sheikh International Airport (SSH), then taxi or bus to Dahab (approximately 1 hour north). Some travellers enter via Taba border crossing from Israel/Jordan. The town is compact and walkable; taxis and pickups connect dive sites.
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Beauty | High |
| Uniqueness | Exceptional |
| Access | Easy |
| Preservation | Moderate |
The Blue Hole is a submarine sinkhole approximately 8 km north of Dahab, dropping to 100+ metres. It's a pilgrimage site for freedivers and has a notorious reputation among scuba divers due to a challenging archway at 55 metres depth. Snorkelling around the rim is safe and spectacular. Experienced technical divers and freedivers should use local guides familiar with conditions.
“A 100-metre-deep submarine sinkhole that draws freedivers and technical divers from around the world—set against the red mountains of Sinai and Bedouin hospitality.”
Dahab is a small coastal town on the southeast coast of the Sinai Peninsula, Egypt, on the Gulf of Aqaba (Red Sea). It is approximately 85 km north of Sharm el-Sheikh and directly across the gulf from Saudi Arabia.
The Blue Hole is a 130-metre deep marine sinkhole just north of Dahab, famous worldwide for both recreational diving and freediving. It features a natural arch at 56 metres connecting to the open sea. It is one of the most iconic dive sites in the world, though the deep sections require advanced certification.
Fly into Sharm el-Sheikh International Airport (SSH) and transfer by road (approximately 1.5 hours). Alternatively, fly to Cairo and take a domestic flight or overnight bus. Some travellers arrive by ferry from Aqaba, Jordan.
Yes, Dahab is excellent for beginner divers and snorkelers. The Lighthouse reef and many shore-entry dive sites offer calm, shallow waters with incredible marine life. PADI courses are widely available at competitive prices. The Blue Hole has shallow areas safe for snorkelers.
Dahab is a year-round destination. Water temperatures range from 21°C (winter) to 28°C (summer). March to May and September to November offer the best balance of warm weather, calm conditions, and fewer crowds. Summer can be extremely hot (40°C+).
Dahab offers world-class windsurfing and kitesurfing (especially at the Lagoon), snorkeling, rock climbing in the surrounding desert, Bedouin desert safaris, camel trekking, and visits to coloured canyons. The town has a relaxed atmosphere with beachfront restaurants and a strong yoga/wellness scene.
