DAHAB & THE SINAI INTERIOR
Dahab is the tranquil heart of the Sinai Peninsula, famed for its relaxed atmosphere and world-class diving in the Red Sea. It is a harmonious blend of Bedouin culture and stunning desert and marine landscapes.
This region offers a unique spiritual and natural adventure, from the vibrant coral reefs of the Gulf of Aqaba to the majestic, silent mountains of the surrounding interior, including Mount Sinai.
Most Popular Attractions
Dahab Coastal & City Core:
Blue Hole: The world-famous sinkhole, a premier but challenging diving and snorkeling site known for its vertical drop-off and stunning visibility.
The Canyon: Another top diving spot, featuring a deep crack in the reef wall that divers can navigate, famous for its ‘fish bowl’ exit.
Three Pools: A series of three natural pools leading into the open sea, offering an accessible and beautiful snorkeling and diving experience.
Dahab Lagoon (Assalah): The main town beach and bay, ideal for windsurfing and kitesurfing due to consistent offshore winds.
Mashraba Street (Promenade): The main pedestrian seaside strip lined with Bedouin-style restaurants, cafés, and dive shops.
Lighthouse Reef: A popular and easily accessible dive site right off the main bay, known for its friendly marine life and training area.
Assalah (The Bedouin Quarter): The more local and residential part of Dahab, offering a glimpse into the traditional Bedouin way of life.
Eel Garden: A shallow dive site named for its colony of garden eels swaying in the sandy bottom, best enjoyed in the morning.
The Islands (Coral Reef): A shallow, maze-like reef area perfect for beginner divers and snorkelers, known for its vibrant hard corals.
Dahab Art & Craft Shops: Small boutiques offering handmade Bedouin jewelry, carpets, spices, and other local souvenirs.
Sinai Interior (Desert & Mountains):
Mount Sinai (Jabal Musa): The traditional biblical mountain where Moses received the Ten Commandments, a popular site for a sunrise hike.
Saint Catherine’s Monastery: One of the oldest working Christian monasteries in the world, located at the foot of Mount Sinai and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Colored Canyon: A stunning natural rock formation near Nuweiba, featuring narrow passages and rock walls streaked with vibrant colors like red, yellow, and purple.
White Canyon: A smaller canyon known for its soft, white sandstone walls, often combined with a visit to the nearby Ain Khudra Oasis.
Ain Khudra Oasis: A beautiful, palm-filled oasis nestled in the desert, often reached by camel trek and offering traditional Bedouin hospitality.
Wadi Qunai: A scenic wadi (valley) close to Dahab, popular for rock climbing, hiking, and exploring ancient Nabataean inscriptions.
Desert Safaris & Star Gazing: Organized trips into the desert to experience the dramatic mountain scenery and view the incredibly clear night sky.
Nawamis Tombs: Ancient circular stone structures dating back to the Chalcolithic period, found scattered throughout the Sinai desert.
Road to Ras Abu Galum: A picturesque coastal path often trekked or travelled by camel to reach the remote Ras Abu Galum protectorate.
Ras Abu Galum Protectorate: A remote national park north of the Blue Hole, offering pristine reefs, basic Bedouin camps, and a quiet, untouched environment.
Serabit el-Khadim: The site of an ancient Egyptian temple dedicated to Hathor, and important turquoise mines, accessible via a desert trek.
Activities & Experiences
Dive or Snorkel the Blue Hole: Experience one of the world’s most famous and dramatic dive sites, the Blue Hole, a natural sinkhole located just north of Dahab. Snorkeling here is also superb.
Hike Mount Sinai (Jabal Musa): Ascend the legendary mountain where Moses is said to have received the Ten Commandments. Start the trek before dawn to witness the spectacular sunrise from the summit.
Visit St. Catherine’s Monastery: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site at the foot of Mount Sinai, one of the oldest working Christian monasteries in the world, home to invaluable religious manuscripts and icons.
Take a Desert Safari by Jeep or Quad Bike: Venture into the Sinai interior’s stunning valleys (wadis) and canyons for a thrilling ride, often including stops for Bedouin tea.
Go Freediving at the Canyon: Dahab is a globally renowned location for freediving. Take a course or try a depth dive at the Canyon, another impressive underwater site near the Blue Hole.
Learn to Windsurf or Kitesurf: The steady, warm winds and shallow bay near Dahab’s center make it an ideal place for beginners and intermediates to take lessons in windsurfing or kitesurfing.
Sleep Under the Stars at a Bedouin Camp: Take a guided overnight trip into the desert to experience authentic Bedouin hospitality, share traditional food, and sleep out in the silent, star-filled wilderness.
Explore the Colored Canyon: Hike through the stunning, narrow sandstone passageways near Nuweiba, marveling at the rich hues and geological formations of the rocks.
Relax and Dine along the Dahab Promenade: Spend an evening enjoying the ‘Masbat’ (Dahab’s central bay area). Lounge on floor cushions at a seaside restaurant, enjoy fresh seafood, and watch the world go by.
Go Camel Riding to the Three Pools: Take a scenic camel ride north of Dahab to the Three Pools diving/snorkeling site, a tranquil beach perfect for an afternoon swim and meal.
Wander the Dahab Lighthouse Reef: Rent gear and dive or snorkel directly from the shore at the easy-access Lighthouse area, popular for night dives and spotting marine life like octopus and lionfish.
Local Tips & Transport
Microbuses (Minibuses): This is the primary mode of local public transport. They are cheap, run frequently, and connect areas like Dahab’s Masbat (center) with the further-flung diving spots like the Blue Hole and the Three Pools. Agree on the fare before getting in.
Taxis (Pick-up Trucks): Informal pickup trucks are often used as taxis. They are inexpensive and can be hired for shorter distances within the town or for day trips. Always negotiate the price before starting the journey.
Intercity Buses: The Upper Egypt Bus Company and Go Bus operate comfortable, air-conditioned coaches connecting Dahab to major cities like Cairo, Sharm El Sheikh, and Luxor. Book tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
Bedouin-Guided Trips: For exploring the Sinai interior (Mount Sinai, St. Catherine’s, desert safaris), travel must be arranged through accredited tour operators or with local Bedouin guides. This is mandatory for safety and cultural respect.
Walking is Central: Dahab’s main strip (the Masbat promenade) is entirely pedestrianized and best enjoyed on foot. Most hotels and dive centers are within easy walking distance of each other.
The Pace of Dahab: Dahab is known for its incredibly relaxed, bohemian, and sometimes slow pace. Embrace the “Insh’Allah” (God willing) attitude, and don’t expect things to move with big-city efficiency. This is part of the charm!
Bedouin Culture & Hospitality: The Sinai region is the traditional home of the Bedouin people. They are exceptionally hospitable. When taking a desert tour, always accept the offer of tea (sweet, often served with herbs) and be respectful of their traditions and conservative dress standards.
Dress Code: While Dahab is more relaxed than other parts of Egypt, it is important to be respectful. On the beach or by the pool, swimwear is fine. However, when walking through the town center, especially outside the Masbat area, and when visiting religious sites like St. Catherine’s Monastery, it is appropriate for both men and women to cover shoulders and knees.
Tipping (Baksheesh): Tipping is expected for almost all services (restaurants, drivers, guides, hotel staff). Small amounts go a long way. Carry small denominations of Egyptian Pounds (EGP).
Water and Food Safety: Stick to bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth. The seafood is excellent; try fresh grilled fish or the traditional Sayadeya (a spiced fish and rice dish).
Hidden Gems:
- The Oasis (Wadi Gnai): Located a short drive south of Dahab, this beautiful, small palm-filled valley offers excellent hiking, rock-climbing, and a cool natural escape from the heat.
- Assalah: The northern part of Dahab, Assalah, is the original Bedouin village. It’s more local, less touristy, and a great place to find traditional bakeries, local shops, and authentic Egyptian street food.
- The High Garden Restaurant: A wonderful, elevated spot in the desert, often visited as part of a safari. It offers traditional Bedouin food with magnificent panoramic views of the entire Dahab bay.
Top Restaurants
El Shawary [$3-$7] – Located in the Sina Market area of Asala, this local gem is renowned for excellent and cheap Egyptian food like rice, tahina, salad, and BBQ chicken, often enjoyed alongside seafood from the neighboring Abu Hass’an.
Abu Hass’an [$5-$15] – Situated next to El Shawary in Sina Market, this fish market spot allows you to choose your fresh fish or seafood by weight, which they will cook to perfection and serve with sides from the neighboring El Shawary.
King Chicken [$5-$12] – A local culinary institution famous for its traditional, rich Egyptian dishes, especially grilled and fried chicken, rice-stuffed pigeon, molokhia, and delicious soups.
Yum Yum – يم يم [$3-$7] – A popular, busy, no-frills local spot, especially in the mornings, famous for authentic Egyptian breakfast staples like ful (fava beans), ta’ameya (falafel), and koshary.
Om Mahmoud [$3-$8] – Another excellent and very easy-on-the-pocket option in the Asala area, offering authentic local Egyptian meals that are a treat away from the main tourist strip.
ZANOOBA Slow Cooking [$8-$15] – Known for its truly outstanding, slow-cooked dishes, often served in pots, with specialties like Moroccan chicken and lemon tagines, offering deceptive, generous portions.
Isfahan Slow-cooked Tagines [$8-$15] – A Middle Eastern restaurant specializing in slow-cooked tagines, offering both vegetarian options and meaty delights like chicken tagine with honey pomegranate sauce.
Blue House Restaurant and cafee [$6-$12] – Offering authentic Egyptian cuisine with a vibrant atmosphere and often stunning sea views, a great spot for local flavors right by the coast.
Bab Elbahr restaurant (مطعم باب البحر) [$5-$12] – A great place to experience authentic Egyptian cuisine, providing a delightful journey through local flavors in a pleasant setting.
Darwish Fishmarket [$10-$25] – Though known for fresh seafood, this is also a local favorite for its fish market style, where you choose your catch to be prepared, offering a true taste of local coastal dining.
The Vegan Lab [$5-$12] – One of the few fully vegan restaurants in Dahab, this spot offers a diverse menu of salads, smoothies, and main courses crafted from fresh, local ingredients.
Alpha Hummus House [$4-$9] – A vegetarian kitchen serving specialties like manakeesh, falafel wraps, hummus, and baba ghanoush, with many dishes being vegan or easily made vegan upon request.
Beirut Restaurant [$5-$12] – While serving meat, this Lebanese restaurant is highly recommended for its excellent Middle Eastern vegetarian options like hummus, falafel, moutabel, and a veggie platter.
Shanti Café & Bistro [$4-$10] – A cozy hive in the Asala area, perfect for a relaxing breakfast or brunch with nutritious and balanced options, including a traditional Egyptian breakfast.
Tim’s Munch [$5-$12] – Perched atop a diving center with a beautiful sea view, this spot has an extensive menu featuring both hearty American breakfasts and traditional Egyptian fare, with great vegan options too.
Shark Restaurant [$15-$30] – A renowned dining spot right on the waterfront, known for its exquisite fresh seafood, traditional Egyptian dishes, and beautiful seaside-inspired design and ambiance.
Nemo Dahab [$15-$30] – A premier seafood restaurant located with stunning views over the Red Sea, offering the freshest catches of the day in a picturesque Dahab setting.
Aladdin Restaurant [$15-$30] – Experience fresh seafood delights with stunning views and warm hospitality, a long-time favorite for quality fish.
Mariam Fish Resturant [$15-$28] – Authentic Mediterranean seafood is the specialty here, where freshness meets flavor in a stunning waterfront setting.
Shader El Samak [$10-$20] – Located in Mashraba, this hidden gem is famous for its delicious and unique seafood preparations, particularly the butterfly shrimp in a memorable secret sauce.
Alcapone [$15-$28] – Offers exquisite seafood dining with fresh ingredients and stunning sea views, making for an unforgettable experience.
Shrimpo [$4-$10] – A simple but popular fish sandwich shop, specializing in tasty and affordable wraps with prawns/shrimp and calamari—a perfect cheap eat.
By the sea [$12-$25] – Experience exquisite dining right by the Red Sea, where the breathtaking views perfectly complement the delicious local cuisine.
Shells [$12-$25] – A great spot where local flavors beautifully blend with international cuisine amidst breathtaking coastal views, with a focus on fresh seafood.
Dai Pescatori [$15-$25] – An excellent Italian restaurant nestled right on the beach, famous for fresh seafood pasta dishes and especially the pumpkin ravioli.
Ramez & Paola – Lakhbatita [$12-$25] – Charming restaurant in the Mashraba area that beautifully marries the essence of Italian cuisine with fresh, laid-back Red Sea influences, often featuring seafood pasta.
Eel Garden View Restaurant [$10-$20] – A delightful gem located near the famous dive site in North Dahab, offering great food with a perfect view for a relaxed meal.
Athanor Pizzeria [$8-$15] – Located in the Lighthouse area, this must-visit spot serves thin, crispy-based pizzas with a delicious, specially seasoned tomato sauce.
Dai Pescatori [$15-$25] – Excellent Italian restaurant on the beach, known for its authentic Italian dishes, picturesque views, and particularly the delicious ravioli di zucca (pumpkin ravioli).
Namaste Indian Food [$8-$15] – A popular restaurant known for high-quality, authentic Indian cuisine, with must-try dishes like butter chicken and dal makhani, served in a vibrant setting.
Tacos el Mazarita [$5-$10] – A great spot run by a father/son duo, serving up mean quesadillas and burritos with freshly made chicken or meat fillings.
Lindy’s Dahab Restaurant [$8-$15] – A culinary gem specializing in Western cuisine, offering a diverse menu that includes dishes like Chicken Lindy’s and Fillet Fish Grilled.
Dragon House [$8-$15] – An Asian restaurant with an extensive selection of dishes, including beloved classics like Kung Pao Chicken, Sweet and Sour Pork, and vegetarian options like stir-fried tofu.
Red Cat [$10-$20] – A charming eatery in the vibrant Lighthouse area offering European and International cuisine, with options like pizza and pasta, and they are generally aware of vegan needs.
Jeera Restaurant [$8-$15] – Another excellent choice for authentic Indian cuisine, known for its rich flavors and warm hospitality in the Dahab setting.
Hell’s Kitchen Dahab [$10-$20] – Known for its delectable cuisine and lively ambiance, offering a variety of international dishes including highly-rated chicken wings and a proper English breakfast.
Friends [$10-$20] – Offers a delicious meal with an amazing view, serving a mix of local and international cuisine like pasta, making it a great place to chill and relax.
Everyday Cafe [$4-$10] – A popular, relaxed cafe known for serving food and drinks alongside music from around the world, with a menu that includes breakfast and lighter meals.
Bayside Eatery [$5-$12] – A lovely spot for breakfast/brunch with locally produced plant milks, fresh juices, and vegan items like smoothie bowls and pancakes.
Ralph’s German Bakery [$3-$10] – A highly-regarded spot in the Lighthouse area for freshly baked bread, pastries, and a variety of German and European-style sandwiches and treats.
Flavors All Day Dining (Safir Dahab Egypt) [$15-$30] – Located in the Safir Dahab Egypt resort, this spot offers a refined buffet and à la carte menu with a balanced mix of Oriental, Asian-inspired, and international cuisine overlooking the Red Sea.
Portofino Italian (Safir Dahab Egypt) [$15-$30] – An à la carte restaurant in the Safir Dahab Egypt resort offering a fine dining experience with traditional Italian dishes cooked with quality ingredients, complemented by enchanting views.
The Lagoon Restaurant (Swiss Inn Resort Dahab) [$15-$30] – Found within the Swiss Inn Resort, this restaurant offers a beautiful setting with views and a diverse menu, often featuring themed nights and fresh ingredients.
Blue Lagoon Restaurant (JAZ Dahabeya) [$15-$30] – Located in the JAZ Dahabeya hotel, this restaurant provides a high-quality dining experience with a focus on fresh, local, and international cuisine in a comfortable, upscale setting.
The Sea View Terrace (JAZ Dahabeya) [$15-$35] – Offering a more exclusive, semi-fine dining experience within the JAZ Dahabeya, known for excellent service and beautiful views, often featuring a tailored menu.
Eldorado Lodge & Restaurant [$10-$20] – Located slightly away from the main promenade, offering authentic Italian cuisine, often with breathtaking views, in a more tranquil setting.
Leila [$5-$10] – Known for its friendly staff and cozy environment, this is a great spot for a home-cooked breakfast, offering options like Persian scrambled eggs and special omelets.
Pure Vanilla Bistro [$8-$15] – A bistro that serves Mediterranean and Fusion cuisine with vegan options, popular for its commitment to fresh, healthy, and high-quality ingredients.
Sabah W Masa [$5-$10] – Located on the Lighthouse Road, this cafe offers a comfortable atmosphere and good, reliable food and drinks, great for a casual working space or a light meal.
Mojo CoWork Cafe [$4-$10] – A popular spot for digital nomads, offering reliable internet, good coffee, and a menu with food options in the Lighthouse area.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Yalla Bar Dahab: A vibrant and lively bar located in the heart of Dahab’s main beach area (Masbat). It’s known for its fun atmosphere, extensive drinks menu, including signature cocktails, and often hosts DJs or live music, making it a central spot for socializing.
Drift: Considered Dahab’s premier cocktail bar, situated along the Masbat/Lighthouse beach strip. It offers expertly crafted drinks in a chic, relaxed setting with stunning views of the Red Sea.
Mojito: Found on the seafront, adjacent to the dive centers in the Lighthouse area. This cool cocktail bar is recognizable by its colorful cushions and relaxing music, offering a nice upper deck and roof for great views and sunset watching.
The Furry Cup: A long-standing favorite post-dive evening hangout located in Assala, directly opposite Blue Beach. This cozy spot is known for a relaxed drink and occasionally hosts live events like karaoke nights.
Churchill’s Sports Bar & Grill: Easy to find, right in the center of town near the main beach road intersection, located within the Red Sea Relax Resort complex. It provides a nice bar terrace and is a good spot for sports viewing and a casual drink.
Coral Coast Beach Bar: A dynamic and friendly beach bar located a few minutes’ walk along the beach road from Blue Beach. It’s known for meeting a funky mix of international locals and has regular events like trivia nights.
Locanda Restaurant & Bar: Nestled in the coastal charm of Dahab, this spot focuses on Japanese izakaya cuisine but also operates as a bar, offering a place to relax and enjoy a drink with a Japanese flair.
The Roof Garden – Restaurant & Lounge: Offering exquisite fusion cuisine, this venue also functions as a lounge with stunning views, providing a sophisticated backdrop for drinks in Dahab.
Tota: A relatively new venue in the El Fanar St. area, near The German Bakery. It’s a very chill rooftop spot with floor seating, often hosting jamming and open mic sessions. While it may not serve alcohol, it’s a popular social hub where people can sometimes bring their own drinks.
Lenopatra: Located near the Lighthouse intersection and Athanor, this rooftop spot focuses on interesting non-alcoholic drinks like mocktails, sah’lab, and halabessa, but provides a lovely, relaxed atmosphere often with impromptu jamming sessions.
Badr’s: A well-known local bar and gathering spot in Dahab that offers a simple, authentic atmosphere for a casual evening drink.
Happy Hour Dahab: While primarily a fast-food spot, it features a lively atmosphere popular with tourists in Dahab’s coastal paradise and offers refreshing drinks, embodying the town’s vibrant dining scene.
Speed Bar: A simple and straightforward bar in Dahab, providing a no-frills location for a quick drink and a chat.
Blue Beach Beach Bar (Day Vibe): Located at the Northern end of the bay between Lighthouse and Eel Garden. During the day, it’s a popular and lively spot for divers and travelers to relax with a cold beer or cocktail on comfortable couches overlooking the water.
Blue Beach, Beach Bar (Evening Vibe): As the sun sets, this venue on the beachfront near Lighthouse often hosts a DJ, typically playing techno, with tables right on the water, transforming it into a more energetic party spot.
Shaman Dahab: Known as one of the top clubs in the area, often associated with a focus on electronic and techno music, giving it a more traditional club atmosphere for those looking to dance late into the night.
Rush Nightclub: Highlighted as a must-visit for those looking to dance, this nightclub is known for its energetic atmosphere and diverse music selection late into the night.
Borio’s Party: Cited as one of the top places to “vibe like a local,” it offers a dedicated party atmosphere for late-night entertainment in Dahab.
Blue Beach Club (Night): Set right along a stunning beach, this venue effortlessly transforms into a vibrant hub as the evening sets in, with techno DJs and a lively crowd, offering drinks and dancing under the stars.
Jackie’s Dahab: A lively dance restaurant by the Red Sea, located on the Masbat St. strip. It offers a unique experience where guests can enjoy a meal before the space heats up with live music and DJ sets for dancing until the early hours.
Pangaea Night Club: A venue mentioned among the top clubs in Dahab for those looking for a dedicated late-night dancing experience.
Shababek (Near Coral Coast): Known for hosting good parties after midnight, this spot, located near Coral Coast towards Eel Garden, is a destination for those seeking a proper clubbing late-night scene.
Black Prince: Considered Dahab’s major late-night clubbing venue in the Masbat area, it attracts a varied mix of nationalities and is particularly popular for its retro “Hits” parties.
Nesima Resort (Late Night): Although a resort, it is known to host late-night entertainment and events, making it a spot for those looking to extend their evening in the Dahab area.
Tree Bar: A spot for late-night socializing, offering a more laid-back vibe than a full-on club, perfect for enjoying a drink and mingling with fellow travelers.
Acacia Beach Party: This venue is known for its weekly psy-trance rave with talented DJs and crazy music, typically held on Friday evenings, appealing to those seeking an electronic music scene.