Dahab, a Simple City That Tourists Cannot Resist

 

 Introduction

 

Dahab is a small town on the southeast coast of Egypt's Sinai Peninsula that has become a popular destination for travelers seeking a quiet and relaxing beach vacation. With its laidback atmosphere, beautiful coral reefs, and desert mountain backdrop, it's easy to see why so many visitors fall in love with Dahab and keep coming back year after year.

 

 Table of Contents

 

- Simplicity and Charm

- Activities and Attractions

- Beaches and Reefs 

- Accommodations

- Dining 

- Shopping

- Nightlife

- Getting There 

- When to Visit 

- Safety

- Costs

- People and Culture

- History

- Development and Tourism

- Environmental Issues

- The Future of Dahab

 

 Simplicity and Charm

 

 A Sleepy Fishing Village Turned Bohemian Beach Town

Dahab started in the 1970s as a tiny fishing village with just a few dozen residents living in simple huts along the shore. Over time it attracted Israeli tourists and by the 1990s had developed into a relaxed hippie haven and divers destination.

 

Today Dahab retains much of this bohemian, barefoot charm. There are no big hotels or high rises - just low-key guest houses, beachfront cafes, and laidback bars built right onto the sand.

 

 Open-Air Lifestyle

The lack of large buildings gives Dahab an open, breezy feeling. Life centers around the beach, with many businesses having palm-thatched roofs and open sides facing the water. It's the kind of place where you'll see diners eating hookah while watching the sunset and divers emerging from the sea and ambling over to a beachfront bar, gear in tow.

 

 Small Town Community

Despite growth in tourism over the years, Dahab remains a tight-knit community at heart. Many foreign residents first came years ago as backpackers and ended up staying. There's a strong sense of camaraderie and everyone seems to know everyone.

 

 Activities and Attractions

 

 World-Class Windsurfing and Kitesurfing 

With strong winds blowing across the Gulf of Aqaba nearly year-round, Dahab has become renowned as one of the best windsurfing and kitesurfing destinations on Earth. The combination of soft desert sand, warm waters, and constant gusts creates the perfect playground. 

 

 Snorkeling and Diving

Dahab's coral reefs are among the most beautiful in the Sinai. Snorkelers can easily access these colorful reefs right from the shore, while scuba divers have the opportunity to explore walls, canyons, and offshore reefs teeming with tropical fish on guided boat dives.

 

 Desert Adventures

Just behind Dahab lies an expansive desert dotted with dramatic mountains. Many outfitters offer jeep, camel, and hiking tours to springs, wadis, and Mount Sinai, allowing you to explore this majestic landscape.

 

 Beaches and Reefs

 

 The Strand

Dahab's main drag along the waterfront is known as the Strand. This sandy pedestrian zone lined with restaurants and bars runs north from the bridge over the mouth of Wadi Moghareb for several kilometers parallel to the shore.

 

 Relaxed Vibes

It's the social heart of town - a place to go for a stroll, post up on a beach chair with a drink, or dance the night away. Local Bedouin children play soccer and sell homemade jewelry as the sun goes down in a relaxed celebration of Dahab's signature laidback lifestyle.

 

 Mashraba Beach

Just south of the bridge lies Mashraba Beach, also known as the "Lighthouse Reef" for the small green lighthouse offshore. The reef here slopes gently from the rocky point down into turquoise waters, making it an excellent spot for both snorkelers and divers.

 

 Eel Garden

 North of Dahab, the brilliantly named Eel Garden consists of several small sheltered bays nestled among offshore coral reefs. It earned its moniker for the harmless garden eels that pop their heads out of the sand when approached.

 

 Underwater Haven

In addition to eels, Eel Garden offers fantastic shallow reef snorkeling and diving among sea fans, soft corals, sea turtles, and countless fish.

 

 Accommodations

 

From budget hostels to upscale resorts, Dahab offers a wide range of beachside lodging to suit different interests and travel styles.

 

 Camps and Bungalows

Many accommodations take the form of Bedouin-style camps comprised of thatched-roof wooden huts surrounding an open-air communal area. Others feature palm-roofed concrete bungalows. Both provide a traditional ambiance in keeping with Dahab's relaxed vibe.

 

 Hotels and Resorts

There are also several mid-range hotels and high-end resorts lining Dahab's beaches, many with swimming pools, bars, restaurants, and even dive centers of their own. These offer additional amenities for travelers seeking more luxury during their Sinai getaway.

 

 Dining

 

 Fresh Seafood

As a fishing town, Dahab is full of beachfront restaurants serving up freshly caught fish and seafood. Local specialties like sayadia (fish baked with rice and spices) and stuffed calamari appear on menus across town.

 

 International Cuisine 

Years of foreign influence have given Dahab's dining scene an incredibly international flair. Alongside Egyptian staples like koshari and kofta, you can find Italian pasta, Indian curries, Mexican tacos, German schnitzels, and more.

 

 Fusion Food

Many restaurants fuse Asian, European, and Middle Eastern ingredients and cooking techniques into uniquely Dahab creations. Be sure to try some fusion dishes combining Arab and Asian flavors!

 

 Shopping

 

Dahab's laidback shopping scene mixes bohemian clothing boutiques with Bedouin handicraft stalls lining the sandy streets of the town's pedestrian zone.

 

 Locally Made Jewelry

Colorful necklaces, bracelets, and rings crafted by local Bedouin tribespeople using traditional techniques make for great inexpensive souvenirs. semiprecious stones like lapis lazuli and red coral feature prominently.

 

 Clothing and Textiles

Breezy cotton tops and harem pants in vibrant patterns echo Dahab's relaxed, cosmopolitan vibe. You can also find handmade Bedouin textiles like tablecloths, pillowcases, and poufs woven in bold geometric Palestinian embroidery patterns.

 

 Nightlife

 

Like everything else in Dahab, the nightlife scene maintains a charmingly laissez-faire attitude. Beach bars serve cold beer, play reggae music, and host impromptu jam sessions as patrons lounge on pillows under glowing lanterns.

 

 Barbecues and Bonfires 

Many oceanfront establishments light up grills and bonfires on the beach at night, giving off a fun, festival atmosphere. Enjoy some grilled meat or fish as the stars come out and illuminated divers float offshore.

 

 Getting There

 

 By Air

There are no airports in Dahab itself, but many travelers fly into Sharm El Sheikh International Airport just an hour's drive to the north, and arrange ground transport from there.

 

 By Bus

Air-conditioned coaches run daily between Dahab and popular Egyptian destinations like Cairo, Luxor, Hurghada, and Sharm El Sheikh. The East Delta bus station in Dahab is located just off Asalah Road in Mashraba.

 

 When to Visit

 

With sunny weather nearly year-round, Dahab remains popular throughout the seasons. But its character changes from the busy high season in winter to the quiet, wind-swept summer months favored by kitesurfers.

 

 Winter: December to April

The busiest tourist season. Expect lovely sunny days with some rain possible and more crowds. Good for snorkeling.

 

 Spring: March to May

Weather gets hotter and windier. Fewer tourists, lower prices.Peak kitesurfing conditions from March on.

 

 Summer: June to August

Very hot temperatures but also very empty. Many businesses closed. Prime windsurfing and kitesurfing weather.

 

 Fall: September to November

Warm weather and sunny days return. Tourism picks up again but remains relaxed before the winter influx. Excellent diving visibility.

 

 Safety

 

Egypt's 2011 Revolution and subsequent political turmoil had negative impacts on tourism across the country. However, Dahab has remained very calm and avoided most unrest - a testament to the warm, welcoming nature of the local Bedouin population.

 

 Police Presence

There is a highly visible tourist police presence along the beach areas to ensure visitor safety. As long as you avoid involvement in political or religious issues, Dahab remains a very secure destination.

 

 Costs

 

Despite Dahab's idyllic seaside location, costs remain very budget-friendly compared to similar beach destinations elsewhere. Simple beachside huts can be had from between $5 to $10 per night, while nice hotels with pools generally start around $30. Even high-end resorts top out at around $100.

 

 Affordable Dining and Activities

Meals at local restaurants often cost $5 or less. And there are plenty of inexpensive desert and sea adventure tours available from local outfitters as well - perfect for the budget-minded traveler looking to explore the area without breaking the bank!

 

 People and Culture

 

Dahab's laidback multiculturalism sets it apart from much of Egypt. Outside influences - from backpackers to Egyptian vacation homeowners to foreign dive instructors who came for a season 20 years ago and never left - have all left their mark.

 

 Friendly Local Bedouin

Historically nomadic tribespeople, the local Bedouins are known for their warmth and hospitality even to strangers in keeping with their traditional culture. Many specialize in artisanal crafts sold in the tourist market.

 

 Cosmopolitan Mix

Walk down the beach on any given evening and you may hear bits of conversation in half a dozen languages - remnants of Dahab's history as a destination for globetrotting wanderers and aquatic adventurers drawn by its mellow vibe.

 

 History

 

Dahab's development from an isolated fishing outpost to a bohemian tourist destination is directly tied to the growth of recreational scuba diving and watersports - spurred by Jacques Cousteau's underwater expeditions in the Red Sea during the 1950s that first revealed the magnificent coral reefs lying just offshore.

 

 1980s Backpacker Haven

By the 1980s, intrepid backpackers had discovered Dahab, kicking off its emergence as a laidback haven filled with simple beachfront guesthouses. Scuba divers followed shortly thereafter as news spread of the stunning reefs in the waters offshore.

 

 Growing Popularity

Steadily increasing numbers of independent travelers, windsurfers, and kitesurfers cemented Dahab's reputation throughout the 1990s as an ideal spot for adventure and relaxation against a quintessential beach paradise backdrop.

 

 Development and Tourism

 

Dahab has avoided many of the problems faced by similar tourist destinations around the world. Rules prohibit building large resort complexes. No building can exceed three stories high, preserving views and a small-town feel despite increasing numbers of visitors.

 

 Maintaining Character

There are no plans to build major chain hotels or develop large-scale luxury tourism projects. This commitment to remaining small-scale has allowed Dahab's quirky personality - the very thing that attracts people - to stay largely intact even as it continues to develop.

 

 Environmental Issues

 

Dahab's coral reefs face threats from climate change causing coral bleaching as well as local stresses like pollution and construction. Maintaining the health of these delicate ecosystems is crucial for the town's tourism-based economy.

 

 Conservation Efforts

Numerous projects seek to protect Dahab's marine environments through public education, installing offshore mooring buoys to reduce coral damage from boat anchors, growing coral nurseries, and promoting sustainable tourism principles focused on minimizing environmental impact.

 

 The Future of Dahab

 

Moving forward, the major challenge for Dahab will be balancing increasing tourism and development pressures while preserving the small-town spirit and natural landscapes that draw so many people to the area.

 

 Cautious Optimism

If planned carefully, there's reason for cautious optimism that Dahab can retain its sleepy charm even as it continues to expand. "Keep Dahab Small" has practically become the town motto. And most local businesses seem committed to sustainable growth that won't sacrifice what makes this place so beloved.

 

 Conclusion

 

With palm-fringed desert mountains rising behind and the breathtaking underwater wonderland of the Red Sea lying just offshore, Dahab offers adventurous travelers a taste of paradise infused with a uniquely quirky personality. The future is unclear, but for now, those seeking a laidback escape where wheeling dive gear up to a beachfront bar for a cold beer after an afternoon diving colorful coral reefs is perfectly acceptable to look no further than this little bohemian town on the Sinai.

 

 Frequently Asked Questions

 

 What is there to do in Dahab?

Dahab offers a wide range of outdoor adventure activities to keep you busy during your visit. World-class windsurfing and kitesurfing draw watersports enthusiasts from around the globe. The protected coral reefs just offshore provide awesome snorkeling and scuba diving. Many local outfitters also offer desert adventures - whether riding camels to a Bedouin village in the mountains or 4x4 jeep tours to landmarks like the Mount Sinai summit where Moses received the 10 Commandments according to biblical accounts. If you're looking for relaxation, there are plenty of beachfront cafes and bars where you can post up with a good book or chat with locals and travelers alike while admiring views of the sea.

 

 Where should I stay in Dahab? 

Most accommodation options in Dahab run along the waterfront pedestrian zone known as the Strand, or the adjacent beach area called Mashraba to the south. Here you'll find camps, bungalows, small hotels, and resorts with easy access to restaurants, bars, activities, and the sea. Some popular options include Nesima Resort, Sunrise Lodge, the Ibex Hotel, and Seven Heaven Hotel. Advanced travelers also have the option to join a dive center for an all-inclusive diving vacation package. Wherever you stay, beautiful sunsets over the water are guaranteed!

 

 What should I eat in Dahab?

Thanks to freshly caught seafood and years of international influence, you'll find all kinds of mouthwatering culinary options in Dahab ranging from classic Egyptian dishes to Asian and European fusion cuisine. Local specialties to try include sayadia (fish baked with rice and spices), stuffed calamari, and sea bream served grilled or baked. Many restaurants offer huge mezze spreads with dips like baba ghanoush and tzatziki alongside fresh seafood. And nothing goes better with a beach vacation than an ice-cold beer or fruit cocktail while you watch the moonlight reflect off the water!

 

 When is the best time to visit Dahab?

Winter (December to April) brings lovely sunny weather and more tourists, especially over Christmas and New Year's when prices also rise slightly. In the spring (March to May) the winds pick up and it gets hotter - perfect if you want to focus on kitesurfing and windsurfing. Summer (June to August) means fewer crowds but very high heat, though stalwart windsurfers and kiteboarders still flock to the area and many businesses close for the season. By early fall (September to November) the weather has cooled down a bit and winds relax as tourism picks up again ahead of winter. The sea and sunshine are plenty year round!

 

 Is Dahab safe for tourists?

Despite some turbulent stretches in Egypt's recent political history, Dahab itself has remained remarkably calm and avoided most unrest due to the warm hospitality of the local Bedouin population. There is also a highly visible tourist police presence in the main beach areas. So visitors are highly unlikely to experience any issues - Egypt's Sinai Peninsula has long been considered very safe for tourists and expats provided you avoid involvement in political or religious issues in the region.

 

 How much does a trip to Dahab cost?

One reason why Dahab has historically attracted backpackers and budget-minded travelers is its affordability once you arrive. You can find basic beachfront huts and guesthouses with shared bathrooms for $5-10 USD per night in the low season, while comfortable hotels with pools start around $30 per night. Even luxury hotels and all-inclusive resorts rarely exceed $100 per night. Meals at local restaurants are equally wallet-friendly, often just a few dollars even right on the waterfront. There are plenty of inexpensive desert tours, diving trips, and watersport rentals on offer from local activity operators as well to keep you entertained without breaking the bank!

 

 How do I get to Dahab?

While Dahab lacks an airport of its own, many visitors fly into Sharm El Sheikh International Airport about an hour's drive north along the coast of the Gulf of Aqaba, and arrange ground transport from there. Buses also run daily to Dahab from popular Egyptian tourist destinations like Cairo, Luxor, and Hurghada. Once in town, everything runs along the beach so it's very walkable, though bicycles, scooters, and camel rides can also be rented if you want to venture further afield or down the coast.

 

 Can I see Mount Sinai from Dahab?

Yes! Rising from desert mountains just inland, Mount Sinai sits around 25km from Dahab by road and is visible looming high over the coastline on especially clear days. At 2,285 meters elevation with spectacular views, Mount Sinai is venerated by Christians, Muslims, and Jews alike as the site where Moses received the 10 Commandments in the biblical Book of Exodus. Many tour operators run day trips from Dahab to Mount Sinai culminating with watching the sunrise over the surrounding peaks and valleys - a breathtaking experience!