Dahab

{{warningbox|Because of the threat of attacks by militants associated with the Dash and the UK Foreign Office recommends against non-crucial travel to southern Sinai (other than Sharm el-Sheikh). Dahab (دهب) is based in Egypt, 85 km (53 miles) north of Sharm el-Sheikh on the Gulf of Aqaba, near the southern tip of Sinai. It is a place that many have fallen in love with over the years, and return to time and time again.

Dahab Halal Travel Guide

Dahab Beach - Easy living on the beach Dahab was once an isolated coastal village inhabited only by the local Bedouin. As little as 30 years ago and there were fewer than 30 Bedouin families in Dahab. Like the Bedouin inland and they had a self-sustaining lifestyle but in Dahab this was based on fishing as well as traditional goat herds. During the summer, many inland Bedouin came to Dahab for fishing and to collect dates, and to enjoy life by the sea. To this day, favorite presents from Dahab (for the inland Bedouin) are dried fish and dates. Dahab's isolated location, idyllic setting and laid-back Bedouin hospitality made it a favorite destination for all who stumbled upon it. In the beginning (1970s), this was mainly Israeli settler soldiers or people from the kibbutz during their leave. During the 1980s it turned into a hippie hangout, and in the 1990s adventure enthusiasts from around the world began to discover Dahab's natural wonders. The combination of Red Sea and Sinai desert make Dahab perfect for world class windsurfing, scuba diving, freediving, rock climbing and of course desert trekking with the Bedouin. Add to this affordable lodging on or near the beach, affordable food and a relaxed atmosphere, and you have a heady enticement for the young and young at heart. Today's Dahab has evolved into an "alternative resort" - the home of independent and adventurous travellers, but also with some more upmarket resorts and hotels. Most of the latter are in the Laguna area or outlying. For some people, this mix is part of Dahab's charm ("everyone welcome"), others regard the mix up as a problem: Prices in Assalah are artificially increased which makes it less and less interesting for backpackers, though some locally-run camps still keep affordable. In contrast to that, many package tourists and families won't feel comfortable with the lacking conveniences and the all-handmade-look among the hippies. Note the grotesque, forever unfinished concrete structures as a sign of this mismanagement. Still, for everyone with an open mind, Dahab is definitely worth a visit and a place to fall in love with. Particularly in the old part of Dahab (Masbat and Mashraba), you will rarely find a visitor who comes only once to Dahab. To many Muslim this has become a second home.

How is the Climate in Dahab

The climate is sunny and very dry with almost no rainfall. Summers are very hot at days and warm at nights, but winters are warm with mild nights.

Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
22 °C (72 °F)	21 °C (70 °F)	21 °C (70 °F)	23 °C (73 °F)	25 °C (77 °F)	26 °C (79 °F)	28 °C (82 °F)	28 °C (82 °F)	28 °C (82 °F)	27 °C (81 °F)	25 °C (77 °F)	23 °C (73 °F) How to travel to Dahab By bus or taxi The bus station GPS 28.48597,34.49682 is located in the medina, which is several kilometers from the tourist areas Mashraba, Masbat bay etc. Arriving at the bus station you will be literally attacked by a mob of taxi drivers willing to push you into their car. You'll end up paying a ridiculous amount of money if you don't resist. A fair price is LE5 inside the medina/Laguna area, or LE10 into Masbat/Mashraba. If you pay more you reinforce their hostile behaviour. You can walk, too - be that only as a bargain move or to dissociate from the hostile situation - if a 20-25 min walk doesn't scare you off. Standing in front of the bus station (buses arrive in the back) facing the entrance, looking at the "East Delta Travel" sign: turn right, go a few metres, turn left into "Dr. Ahmed Zwel St.", walk about 200 meters. Turn right into "El Nasr Road". After about 300 m turn left at the pharao statue into "El Mashraba St.". Follow the road. After 400 m you'll pass a two dolphin statue, go straight on, you're almost done. Soon the road makes a 90 degree left turn, you will see some construction sites and the beach. Turn left, following the road and walk into Mashraba. Dahab Bus Station - Dahab Bus Station By bus from Cairo (9 hours): At least six times daily from Cairo's Turgoman station (central), Abbasseya station (30 min from centre), Heliopolis (near airport). Not all buses go from/to all stations. Best to buy tickets in advance, especially for the night buses. When arriving with a Go Bus and the bus will not stop at the bus station in the medina, but in front of the Go Bus office GPS 28.49541,34.51502 near Masbat bay. By bus from Sharm El Sheikh airport: The hardest part is to get from the airport to the Sharm bus station. Taxis tend to charge LE80-100 for this 10 km ride. Try heading towards the airport site exit and say you'll pick up a taxi (or microbus) outside. They'll tell you it's imfeasible and that there is no bus to Dahab anymore - just go on. The blue microbus costs only one pound per ride, but you'll have to switch buses once to get to the bus station. Many taxis don't get an airport permission. If you can talk them down to LE30 for the ride to the bus station you're good! Bus schedule Sharm to Dahab is 6:00, 7:00, 8:00, 9:00, 14:30, 17:00, 20:30 Bus schedule Dahab to Sharm is 8:00, 9:00, 10:00, 11:30, 12:30, 15:00, 16:00, 17:30, 19:30, 20:30, 21:30, 22:00, 22:20 Dahab Bus Office:+20-69-3641-808 By bus to St. Catherine: as of the end of October 2011 and there is a regular, twice weekly, shuttle van service to and from St. Catherine. The Bedouin Bus runs on Tuesday and Friday and costs are LE50 each way. Check the website for details on pick-up and drop-off points in Dahab and St. Catherine. By taxi from SSH: An experienced Dahab traveller would never pay more than LE170 for the whole cab to Dahab (bargaining generally starts at LE300-400, sometimes higher). Decide for yourself, but don't exceed a LE250 limit. Agree on a price "including all taxes, tips and tickets". Exchange money before you pass the airport customs. If you're stuck drivers will take Euro or US dollars, but you might end up paying a bit more. A tip on bargaining: enter it in good nature. It's normal to bargain for everything here. If you want to avoid the bargaining game, arrange an airport pick up through your hotel or camp. Check at least one week in advance via E-Mail, responding times may vary. LE170 should be the limit for that service. By ferry Aqaba in Jordan is connected by ferry. Nuweiba ferry terminal is best by taxi. The 10:30AM bus to Nuweiba arrives there early enough to be able to get onto the 3PM fast boat to Aqaba. In busy times, you can be sure the fast boat will go. In slower times, it's best to be at the ferry terminal 11AM to book tickets. Sometimes the fast ferry runs, sometimes just the slow ferry. If you're on the slow ferry, board immediately and go; if you're on the fast ferry, head off to small duna or Terabin to relax for a couple of hours before boarding. Keep your driver with you until you know which ferry you're on - it's a long walk to the nice bits of Nuweiba away from the port. How to get around in Dahab Orientation Dahab has 3 distinct parts. 1. At the centre is Masbat Bay, almost evenly divided by a floodway (the funny bridge over dry sand - except during a rare but impressive flash flood). The tourist area of Masbat effectively stretches north to Eel Garden (or Meleil as the Bedouin call it), and South through Mashraba. A corniche runs along this entire stretch of beach. This can be considered central Dahab, and you will find everything you need here. 2. A short taxi ride south is the Laguna (El Goze). Thit is where the Corniche ends in the South. Here you find Dahab's first resort hotels (Hilton, etc.) You also find all municipal services: bus station, hospital, city council, etc. 3. Assalah: the residential area, mainly Bedouin but also with some foreign expats and Egyptians now also living amongst the Bedouin. Plus outlying hotels: Stretching north towards the Blue Hole, and South to Wadi Gnai and there are around 15 outlying resort hotels - mainly booked as package holidays. Plus Protected Areas: Dahab is bordered by 2 protected areas: in the south, Nabq Protected Area starts at Wadi Gnai, as in the North Ras Abu Galoum Protected Area starts at the Blue Hole. 52% of the Gulf of Aqaba coastline is protected area, which is very important for managing growth and for preserving the reef and eco system. No building is allowed in protected areas, except traditional Bedouin structures. Best way to travel in Dahab by a Taxi Shared taxis, in essence mini-buses, are a affordable way to travel locally. Shared taxis tend to conform to a timetable, so they become useful if you have missed the day's bus to the nearby spots like Sharm el-Sheikh, or if you need to get into Dahab when arriving from the Aqaba ferry. To get to Dahab from Eilat, if you don't have a car, take a taxi to the border, walk across, and grab a shared taxi on the other side. Walk in Dahab Getting around Dahab on foot is quite simple and the promenade runs right along the seafront and all the usual amenities are located along it. By bike Bicycles are a convenient way to both get around Dahab itself, as well as to get to surrounding sites such as Blue Hole and Three Pools. There is little traffic, and bikes are common so cars take them somewhat into account (as compared to anywhere else in Egypt). There are dedicated bicycle rental stores, but lodging such as hotels may also have some available. One bike rental shop GPS 28.49667,34.51649 is located next to Peace Bridge, which quotes LE100 for one day. Note that for some parts (such as the last part to the Blue Hole), an off-road bike is preferred. On the other hand, most rental places already seem to be mostly offering mountain bikes. What to see in Dahab Top Muslim Travel Tips for Dahab The most "traditional" thing to do in Dahab is not to do anything. It's one of the best places in the world to indulge this most exquisite passion and a lot of Dahab's reputation among travellers is based on that. Anyway, if "doing" something to you means "activity" or "sites" there's also a great variety of options: Windsurfing Kite surfing Scuba diving Freediving Desert excursions Desert trekking Rock climbing Sandboarding Yoga, Reiki, Chi Gong, etc. Horse-back riding (& camel riding of course!) Quad bikes Arabic Windsurfing and kite-surfing Windsurfing: Dahab has about 270 days a year of wind. Experts with their own equipment can also surf from Masbat Bay, but must take great care not to hit the snorkellers and freedivers on Lighthouse Reef. Kite surfing can be done around the lagoona area, at Eel Garden or at other local spots. Some kiters head out to the Laguna at Ras Abu Galoum - stunning location and you will be just 1 or 2 kites rather than 10 or 20! There are several windsurfing schools around Laguna area offering all levels of courses: Harry Nass Winsurf & Kite Centres Dahab Happy Kite Diving and freediving Diving and freediving are extremely popular in Dahab and need a bit more explanation. The reefs here are still in relatively good shape in town, and excellent shape in the Protected Areas like Ras Abu Galoum. Known dive sites include Abu Helal, Blue Hole, The Bells, Canyon, Coral Garden, Eel Garden, Lighthouse, Moray Garden, Islands, Three Pools, Gabr El Bint, Ras Abu Gallum. Dahab's most infamous dive site is the Blue Hole, 107 m deep with an arch opening onto the reef face at 58 meters. This site is considered to be the most dangerous scuba diving site on earth, regularly killing inexperienced and experienced divers foolish enough to risk it. A high number of instructors and divemasters have met their fate in the Blue Hole, as well, including many who had passed the arch dozens of times. Should you be interested in descending to the arch you must go through technical dive training and visit the Blue Hole on the correct gases. Diving this site on air alone is near suicidal, so even if a very experienced person offers to take you through, do not at any price do this unless you have technical training and are using it. You can dive the Blue Hole GPS 28.57231,34.53738 within safe recreational depths (that is without descending to the arch) - it is one of the top ten diving spots in the world. Bells/Blue Hole is extremely popular and beautiful. But be aware that it's crowded because lots of buses from Sharm come here. A normal dive in the Bells, a chimney which goes down to 30 m perpendicular (very exciting experience!), needs you to possess advanced open water skills. Otherwise you are not allowed to go to 30 m! Freediving is the new kid on the block in Dahab thanks to the very convenient Blue Hole site and an ever increasing range of world top freedivers training here. Bedouin Divers - Familiar dive center on the coast of the Red Sea in the Mashraba area of Dahab. Bedouin Divers is in the Bedouin Lodge Hotel, which can arrange daily diving, PADI courses, camel dive safaris and boat dives. Big Blue Dahab - A fully equipped 5-Star Gold Palm Padi resort meters from the reef, a relaxed and welcoming environment ideal for both snorkeling and diving. Emphasis on safety and fun with an environmental awareness. Small dive groups with highly qualified instructors and divemasters to enjoy a full range of Padi courses and guided dives at affordable prices. Blue Realm - Great native-run diving center (English, Dutch, (German), French and Arabic available: the owner's wife is Dutch). They charge for two dives €45 (plus extra for gear rental). Package discounts are available. A 5-day PADI Open Water course here is €260, including equipment. BlueSkunk Freedivers - Offers a complete and progressive range of courses: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced, Deep. It is not the goal of the course to push towards a new personal best, as they emphasize technique development and depth adaptation before increasing depth. Safety first. Dahab Divers - PADI 5-star Golden Palm Resort and Diving School at the Lighthouse in Masbat. Friendly staff, nice atmosphere, good equipment. The Technical Diving facilities in Dahab Divers is operated by Team Blue Immersion who offer both TDI, TecRec and GUE Programs up to Instructor Level. Deep Blue Divers, +20 121134668, is a fully-equipped, 5-Star Gold Palm Padi resort close to the reef. Small dive groups with highly qualified instructors and divemasters to enjoy a full range of Padi courses and guided dives at affordable prices. Desert Divers - Dive, climb, trek and freedive. The owner, Said, was Dahab's first Bedouin to learn to dive nearly 20 years ago. On the beach in the main bay (Masbat Bay, between the bridge and Lighthouse Reef). Excellent for diving and freediving (PADI 5-Star Gold Palm Resort, Home of the Camel Diving Safari and AIDA Freediving Centre). Given their Bedouin roots and they have also led the way in developing professional trekking and rock climbing. Their efforts to integrate adventure sports and tourism with the Bedouin community are very popular - they have been awarded an EU grant for developing and promoting sustainable tourism in the Sinai. Dive In Dahab - Founded by Andreas (Andy) Tischer in 1999. In 2006 Hans Lange joined Dive In as a partner to Andy. Hans left the Dive In 2011 to built iDive Dahab. Dive The Gap - A gap year and career development scuba diving company that operates out of a PADI 5-Star Instructor Development Resort and National Geographic Centre. Dive The Gap is a UK company that mainly operates in Dahab, and has a range of scuba diving programms. Almost every PADI course is available from Open Water to Instructor and PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer with a full range of PADI specialities, diving safaris and recreational diving. Also packages are offered and a team on site. Dive Pro Dahab Divers Down Under (DDU) - Attached to a 70-room hotel and hostel lodge, it offers a wide range of entry-level PADI courses in different languages, divemaster internships, speciality courses, and technical diving experiences (INTD and PADI-Dsat). Freedive Dahab - Founded by Lotta Ericson (former world record holder) and Linda Paganelli (Italian champion). Freedive Dahab is an instructor training center and SSI and AIDA school, providing all level courses and individual training. Freedive Dahab has a freediving shop where you can buy or rent any piece of freediving equipment you can possibly need. Freedive Dahab organizes national and world record attempts and competitions like the Triple Depth competition. H2O Divers Dahab - Professional, experienced and knowledgeable instructors that have been diving in Dahab for over 10 years. A friendly bunch of native English, French, (German), Dutch and Arabic speakers that offer a full range of PADI courses. In Dahab's main bay – Masbat Bay. Three dive sites right on their door step: Lighthouse Reef, Mashraba and Bannerfish Bay. Bannerfish Bay’s easy entry is on their doorstep, with Lighthouse and Mashraba being a close two minutes walk away. iDive Dahab - Beautiful designed dive center at the Jowhara Hotel. iDive offers all range of courses of PADI, SSI and CMAS next to daily dive trips. Safaris and overnight trips are done as well. A Marine Research center is part of the iDive center which offers a great opportunity to get an inner look into marine sciences. iDive and its Open Ocean Center are initiating several activities to protect the sea. They are hosting frequently international universities who conduct field trips or having research projects here. Mirage Divers - Owned and run by very professional Bedouins. They offer social diving holidays which combine safety and fun whilst experiencing a whole different culture in a truly unique atmosphere. Their groups are always small and there is a very high personal attention to all the divers. Nesima Diving Center - French-run diving center generally judged to be the best in town. They charge a premium pricewise though, as two dives will cost you €47 (plus €20/day for gear rental). Package discounts available. A 5-day PADI Open Water course here is €302. Poseidon Divers. Get into technical diving or simply do fun dive or courses in a safe and professional way. It is the only PADI Career Development Centre in town, and is a PSA and TDI Instructor facility (the only one in Egypt). You will get no shortage of divers if you do your PADI DiveMaster or Instructor course here which is a definite plus for the quality of your course. Red Sea Relax PADI 5 Star National Geographic Instructor Development Resort - British-run diving operation enjoying a prime beach side location in central Dahab, meters from the teeming reefs but also convenient for Dahab's center and modern amenities. On site lodging is available with a choice of suite rooms, or a bed in the dormitory complex offered totally free for divers. PADI diving courses range from beginner through to professional Open Water Instructor, or for those already qualified daily diving takes place to any of the 20 local reefs. Boat excursions and Camel Dive Safaris are also arranged. Reef 2000 Diving - By Bedouin Moon Hotel, is a PADI 5* Gold Palm Resort and an IANTD technical facility. It offers a wide range of courses, from beginner- to technical diving courses. Sea Dancer Dive Center - Small professionally run outfit on the sea front. Offers the full range of courses as well as guided dives. Staff are knowledgeable, experienced, enthusiastic and friendly and the equipment is a good standard and well maintained. Sea Pioneer Dive Club - Our Dive Centre is directly opposite the central Lighthouse diving area in Dahab. Close to the beach for confined and open water dives. PADI courses include Open Water, Advanced, Rescue, Dive Master and many specialities. They can also arrange lodging and airport transfers on request. World of freediving - International AIDA freediving School, World of Freediving is a freediving school located in Dahab, South Sinai, Egypt. They offer a wide range of freediving courses and training options for every level of ability,including AIDA Instructor Courses. All the courses are AIDA courses and the staff are all experienced AIDA trained instructors. Zen Sea - Offers fun dives, PADI courses and yoga diving. Desert excursions and trekking These need to be divided into 2 categories: Daily excursions to popular sites: These are organized by loads of small safari shops all along Dahab's Masbat Bay and inside hotels. 'King Safari Dahab' - On the beach front is an official licensed tour agency. They arrange a large variety of tours and personalised trips, such as camel safaris. They offer set and custom-made trips throughout Egypt, and Jordan.. Offering excursions to many destiantions ranging from one-hour trips to one-month treks. A friendly independent tour operator is 'Dahab Safari Tours' who are very popular with all kinds of tourists - individuals, couples, groups and families. Longer Desert Safaris and Treks: Although many of the small safari shops will offer these, if you really want to enjoy a deep desert experience you need to go directly to the Bedouin. For 2 or more people (and ideally 3 or more people to keep prices affordable), you can speak directly to your guide. A real Bedouin guide will take into account season and weather, your fitness and your ideas, and recommend a nice route. Most importantly, he will take you on a route he loves and knows well (not just a tourist trail). All safari businesses will have Bedouin guides and/or drivers on their desert trips. It is not feasible to go into the desert without the knowledge and permission of these people of the desert. So, whichever company you chose, you will always have the opportunity to experience Bedouin culture in the desert. Popular sites: The Old Port: Walk by the ruins of an old Nabatean Port. It shows there was a community here dating back about 1600 years. Along the corniche at the beginning of Mashraba. The lagoona: at the south end of the Corniche, rent a bike to get here. Long sandy stretch for windsurfing, kite surfing or to admire the view. On the inside of the laguna, sandy shallow swimming great for small children. On the outside, deeper water (take care for strong current, don't head to far off shore). Take drinks and Snacks with you as there are no cafes on the lagoona point. Thit is a great spot to spend a day away from the town centre. Three pools the beach area of Wadi Gnai with lazy Bedouin cares. 20 min drive, lovely area for snorkeling, diving or just relaxing. Wadi Gnai, inland: Thit is a beautiful granite wadi (valley) with an oasis and several Bedouin gardens, 20-min drive. Great for day hike, dinner in the mountains and rock climbing. St Catherine mnastery and Mount Sinai: Very popular trip by day or overnight, organised by almost everyone (LE80-200). Alternatively, gather a group of people, charter a taxi. In winter, beat the crowds by climbing during the day and seeing the sunset instead. It gets cold at the summit, so bring a jacket! Bring flashlight, preferably worn on your head. There are some shops and teahouses along the way, so don't worry about the provisions. Ein Khudra: Bedouin palm-tree oasis. Can be busy in the day. To see it at its best, include in a longer desert safari and stay for dinner and overnight. Coloured Canyon: mainly day trip. If you would like to combine as part of a longer desert safari, be sure to have a full Egyptian visa as it's often needed for the best route. Some of the safari shops also do day and overnight trips to Jordan. for these, try Bedouina at Mirage Village or Dahab Safari day tours along the beach-front. They also organise one-day trips to Cairo and Luxor. Petra (Jordan) - Is easily organised from Dahab Rock climbing The Sinai Desert has excellent rock climbing in the granite mountains and wadis. October–April only (i.e. not the hot summer months). The main area near to Dahab is Wadi Gnai: Vast amounts of perfect bouldering on granite boulders in shaded, sand-floored valleys Single and multi-pitch equipped sport routes for all levels of climbers in Waterfalls, Camel Canyon and Wadi Connection Top roping area especially for beginners and children in Middle Gnai Plus new routing possibilities for sport climbs in many easily accessible areas. Desert Divers have led the way in developing rock climbing in the Sinai. They can arrange for permits to Wadi Gnai, equipment hire, drivers, guides and anything else you might need. They recently published the Sinai Rock Climbing Guide complete with topos and route descriptions. Their instructors are happy to share/offer advice to experienced climbers who can 'self-guide', or they can help you improve your climbing with beginner and Advanced technique courses. St. Catherine also has incredible tradclimbing and bouldering. Base yourself in the village at Fox Camp or Sheikh Mousa Bedouin Camp with easy access (5 min to 2 hours) to more than 60 routes. All long multipitch (7+ pitch), but wide range of grades. If you're a group, it is great fun to head deep into the desert by camel where you will find unclimbed lines almost everywhere you look! Absolutely no bolting allowed in Street Catherine, and please respect the holy mountains of Mt Sinai and Street Katherine by walking the traditional pilgrimage paths rather than climbing. Sandboarding Sandboarding is said to have originated in Egypt in the time of the Pharaohs where they slid down dunes on pieces of wood. Yet, it only began to capture the center stage as one of the most exciting outdoor adventure sports within the past couple years. Today the sport has evolved in many countries with idyllic settings like Namibia, Peru in Latin America, Australia and the Western USA and Dubai in the United Arab Emirates with ever-increasing followers throughout the world. Sandana Sandboarding | Sandboarding trips are organized out of Dahab and Sharm El Sheikh, using professional equipment. Yoga, Reiki, and Chi Gong Whether ashtanga, hatha or kundalini, yoga is increasingly popular in Dahab. Yoga on nearby Mount Sinai is a regular draw, as are full-moon retreats into the nearby wadis (desert), taking advantage of the silence and space of the Sinai desert. More and more people are coming to Dahab on holiday and yoga for Christmas has become a top travel destination. The El Salam Camp and Yoga Shala holds daily classes throughout the year, and run regular retreats in high season. Classes are available in English and Russian. Coral Coast and Blue Beach Hotel offer daily yoga drop-in classes with various teachers of different yoga styles. Both yoga rooms are purpose built, with stunning view, situated on the roof, not accessible to public view and provide yoga-mats and props. Other Shisha: try Egypt's favorite pastime, smoking a shisha water pipe with flavored tobacco whilst watching the world go by. Kayaking: a great way to explore the reef. Sea Kayaks are available for hire from Sheikh Salem House From LE50 per hour, or try a guided night kayak - great for hot summer nights. Quad bikes trips into the desert. Horse and camel riding Relax: enjoying sun, sea and juices in the restaurants with plank beds, which you can use free of charge. Shopping Great buys are the usual Egyptian suspects: water pipes, rugs, oriental lamps, shirts in different lengths with embroidery, backgammon games, silver jewelery, etc. Prices are geared for tourists, so haggling is a must, pay max. 50-60% of the first price offered, anything else is a rip-off. If you are not sure about the price, go to the next shop and they all offer more or less the same things, and start bargaining again there. Look out for Bedouin handicrafts, some beautiful pieces are available. Hand embroidered and made in Dahab, Street Catherines and El Arish by Bedouin women. Sheikh Salem House has a good selection of items as does some of the other Bedouin establishments in Dahab. If your stay extends with or without intention your shopping behaviour will focus on the Ghazala Market where you can find anything you need to uptate your on-the-road-equipment from functional to convenient. For local fare and much cheaper fruit and veg, go to Assalah shopping area (5 min taxi, or walk to Eel Garden then head into town). It is almost imfeasible to get rolling tobacco in Dahab, be prepared if you are not keen on factory made ones. Dahab Community Market Dahab Community Market is a weekly event for everyone, that is held every Friday afternoon at Sheikh Salem House, Eel Garden Area, Dahab. The market starts at 3PM and finishes between 7 - 8PM. There are different sellers every week and regular sellers including hand made Bedouin and Egyptian crafts, jewelry, clothes, second hand bargains, foods from around the world including homemade Egyptian Halal food, delicious cakes and deserts. Halal Restaurants The trick to eating cheaply in Dahab is to avoid seafront establishments and use restaurants inland, along and beyond the pedestrian zone, where identical meals are regularly on offer for half the seafront price. Budget places. In the side streets, you can eat at very fair prices (LE4-24) such as falafel, koshari, Chicken at the "King Chicken", though King Chicken has different prices for Egyptians and foreigners. Fish Market has fish meals for LE30 - the prices shown for fish are per kilo (not per fish), haggle for a better price. There is a falafel, foul, etc., stall on the primary street (Peace Road), at LE2 per sandwiches. The koshari place on Peace Road has good koshari. In Assalah (the Egyptian side) a fish meal cooked for you will be LE15-25. Agree on a price at the start. Ali Baba Restaurant | Ali Baba Restaurant is a very high-standard restaurant, serving local seafood, grill, local and international dishes. It has certificates for cleanliness. Ali Baba was among the top 5 Dahab restaurants on Tripadvisor for 5 years. The Kitchen Restaurant | The Kitchen Restaurant offers authentic and modern (Thai), Chinese, Indian and sushi in a delicate dining environment. The restaurant is certified for international food and health safety and highly rated among travellers on Tripadvisor. Also for take-out and delivery. Blue Beach Restaurant at the Blue Beach Hotel on the beach front. It provides comfortable eating with an extensive and interesting menu. The food is well cooked and the Steak in particular are renowned in Dahab. The restaurant is inside and provides warm shelter in the winter and a cool environment in the hot summer months. Can also cater for large groups. Dai Pescatori - Owned and managed by Egyptians. At Sheikh Salem House at the very northern end of the promenade, good Italian food, especially the mixed appetizers, and the semi-fredo desert. Eel Garden. At the northern end of the promenade, sitting on nice bedouin coussins, friendly staff, good food European and Egyptian you won't find everywhere, e.g. mashi, couscous, sahlab. Weekly BBQ. Sunbeds and private beach. El Dorado - Also at the northern end of the promenade, with its own beach. Owned by Italians, who serve excellent Italian fare, and Pizzas.Especially popular with the local residents. Be careful when receiving the check, as the owner of the place has his own ideas about what to charge, should you have any special request. Friends Restaurant - One of many effectively identical beachfront restaurants offering the same Arabic fare at the same prices. Jumas Wadi Bidar Bedouin Dinner Traditional Bedouin dinner cooked in the desert on an open fire. Juma a Bedouin from the Muziena tribe makes excellent food in his wadi close to Dahab with views of Dahab town and Saudi Arabia. Prices start from LE80 per person for a tasty feast including transport. Booking via Desert Divers, Sheikh Salem House or Blue Beach. There is also the option to go to dinner on a camel, by jeep, by horse, hike (30 mins from Dahab town centre or even by quad bike!) The Lazy Camel Cafe Assalah Beach at the end of the beach footpath just north of the Eel Garden Dive Site. Serves a great mix of Bedouin, Middle Eastern, and European food including home made beef burgers, Bedouin wrap sandwiches and daily chefs specials. Free wireless internet for clients and one of the nicest views in Dahab. Leila's Bakery. (German) bakery, tasty breads, sandwiches, salads and cakes. Lobster Seafood Restaurant. A few minutes beyond "King Chicken," offers free soup, bread and salad with a main course, and may offer a complimentary cup of tea, too. Nemo Restaurant - Restaurant on the boulevard. Offers nice food and even has some (German) 'speciaties' on the menu. Complimentary appetizers, desserts and sheshas. Nirvana. Real Indian food with real flavor. Excellent curries, Snacks, Vegetarian dishes and excellent Indian Tea (Chai). Portions are really huge - probably don't need a starter. Proper Indian food. Quickly Restaurant. On Mashraba Street. Local and international food. Cheap food, but huge portions and much tastier than the tourist places along the beachfront. Upstairs chilled out lounge with good tunes. Free wireless. Favourite amongst local divers, backpackers. Rush. Located up a small alley between the bridge and Tota. In a palmtree garden with a small swimming pool, this restaurant serves excellent food and the style is creative "fusion". There's also a bar with local and imported alcohol. In and outdoor seating. Every Friday night there's a party with DJs. Same Same but different | Good food and the strawberry shake is a must try, it reminds of you childhood. good service and the staff speak excellent English, not creepy or pushy at all. fresh seafood Catch of the day, good Steaks and batbecue lamb Halal Kebab special Vegetarian menu free starter with a main course. You can bring your own alcohol drinks. Free Wifi. Star of Dahab. In the seaside of Mashraba. A good place to eat some fresh fish. tel +20 69 3640130, mobile +20 10 111 3481. Three Fishes. At the southern end of the promenade. Good Italian restaurant, run by Paola, an Italian. El Fanar - Delicious food in a Bedouin environment. Great service from friendly staff. Order the Chicken Halal Kebab or kofte off the menu and starter (pita and dips) and watermelon and Tea are included. eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Dahab Dahab - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Dahab, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Dahab. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Dahab and its surrounding regions. With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Dahab. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values. The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Dahab. Key components include: Halal-Friendly Accommodations in Dahab: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Dahab. Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Dahab: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Dahab, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Dahab. Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Dahab, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations. Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Dahab, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values. Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Dahab and beyond. Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Dahab, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Dahab, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Dahab without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients." The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Dahab is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Dahab. About eHalal Travel Group: eHalal Travel Group Dahab is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values. For Halal business inquiries in Dahab, please contact: eHalal Travel Group Dahab Media: info@ehalal.io Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Dahab eHalal Group Dahab is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Dahab. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Dahab. At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Dahab ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property. For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Dahab. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living. If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Dahab, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values. For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Dahab are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io Muslim Friendly Hotels Dahab has a plethora of https://els.ehalal.io/hotels?destination=Dahab&locationId=6659&checkIn=2023-09-16&checkOut=2023-09-17&children=&adults=2&&with_request=true affordable lodging. All are rather the same, generally offering https://els.ehalal.io/hotels?destination=Dahab&locationId=6659&checkIn=2023-09-16&checkOut=2023-09-17&children=&adults=2&&with_request=true bungalow/chalet type lodging at very reasonable prices. [https://+Hotel+Dahab&hotelId=275622&&.Zz9c0974e902e1444e86 b12dc-206204 4S Hotel - Offering a new style of lodging with contemporary design, with an excellent quality and a special calculated rate. The hotel consists of 21 spacious studios and suites (2 or 3 rooms) suitable for 2 to 6 persons, swimmingpool and restaurant. Each unit is equipped by hotel standard plus a Kitchenette. All studios or suites with balcony or terrace. (Coordinates: 28.489 N, 34.511 E). io//2023-09-16&checkOut=2023-09-17&6659&&Alf+Leila+Boutique+Hotel&hotelId=275608&&.Zz157a3d796 be34fc48ecda2d-206204 Alf Leila Boutique Hotel - In the center of Dahab just a short distance from the beach. Alf Leila hotel has a different theme for each room - all in Arabian style. The courtyard features a dip swimmingpool and a cozy lounge. All rooms have new air-conditioners, a Minibar with alcohol removed and private bathrooms. All suites include an extra dinning area, balcony and mosquito net; while the Royal Suite additionally comes with an LCD screen, DVD player and a movie library. (Prices from US$12 for a bed in a co-ed dormitory room.) io//2023-09-16&checkOut=2023-09-17&6659&&Ali+Baba+Hotel&hotelId=275620&&.Zzcf46a51c17874dea81b26 b6-206204 Ali Baba Hotel - Egyptian-run hotel in a mixed European/Oriental style. Minibar, sea view, balcony, and air-con for around €40/room/night and there is also a "suite" (double size with bathtub) for €55. io//2023-09-16&checkOut=2023-09-17&6659&&Bedouin+Lodge+Hotel&hotelId=275638&&.Zz7d6 bfe4606104f38bf881f7-206204 Bedouin Lodge Hotel - Bedouin-owned hotel directly at the coast of the Red Sea in the heart of Dahab (El Mashraba). Simple rooms equipped with bathroom, AC or fan. Small beach, sun roof, restaurant, dive shop. The dive centre here is excellent and offers PADI at good rates. io//2023-09-16&checkOut=2023-09-17&6659&&The+Bedouin+Moon+Hotel&hotelId=275612&&.Zz7a49a657eb014f4f848dfcc-206204 Bedouin Moon Hotel - A popular seaview hotel with beach, swimmingpool with views, swimmingpool restaurant, purpose-built yoga room and high quality dive centre (Reef 2000). A friendly place perfect for single travelers and divers. Free Wi-Fi, Bedouin dinners in the mountains, diving, yoga classes, yoga diving, private massage and wellness therapies available. Plenty trips and activities available in the surroundings too with a fusion of Bedouin, Egyptian and European culture. En-suite sea view and mountain view rooms available. From €32-63 per day. [https://+Beach+Club&hotelId=275609&&.Zz278ac5969c7f4f3cb551fe1-206204 Blue Beach Club is located between Eel Garden and Lighthouse. Clean ensuite, air-conditioned rooms at reasonable prices and a fresh water swimming swimmingpool are available. io//2023-09-16&checkOut=2023-09-17&6659&&Dahab+Paradise&hotelId=275611&&.Zz75c1813402a542d491d092c-206204 Dahab Paradise - A small, boutique hotel just outside the centre of Dahab at the beginning of the Blue Hole road. The hotel offers an easy style, a tranquil atmosphere and sea view from every room. Prices from €53 per double room per day. io//2023-09-16&checkOut=2023-09-17&6659&&Dahab+Plaza+Hotel&hotelId=260060&&.Zzd02b207f3e0b493c9c6fe2c-206204 Dahab Plaza Hotel - 150 m from the sea. Swimming pool, billiard in the garden. All rooms with A/C, fridge, TV, bathroom/toilette. io//2023-09-16&checkOut=2023-09-17&6659&&Jowhara+Hotel&hotelId=275629&&.Zz90b7aef37f9c4c3abe40510-206204 Jowhara Hotel - جوهرة دهب] - In the middle of El Mashraba street, 1 minutes from the beach. A nice place to relax and absorb the local culture. They also arrange safari and diving for affordable price. Double and triple rooms available with AC and private bathroom LE100-150 per apartment per day. Basic singles from LE50 per day. io//2023-09-16&checkOut=2023-09-17&6659&&Red+Sea+Relax+Resort&hotelId=275613&&.Zze3a723dc3a7d4168b4f0111-206204 Red Sea Relax Resort - A resort at the north end of the Dahab Bay, beachside and close to the teeming Lighthouse Reef, colourful beachside cafes and traditional bazaars. Specializing in diving, safari and therapeutic activities and the resort offers a choice of sea view rooms, a restaurant, dive school, and transfer office io//2023-09-16&checkOut=2023-09-17&6659&&Sheikh+Ali+Dahab+Resort&hotelId=275636&&.Zz86aa4ca463f84 bc1894cf6 b-206204 Sheikh Ali Resort - Dahab's first all-suite hotel, built with love by Dahab's original tourism family. Featuring 22 pool-side suites with balcony or terrace just a few minutes walk from the beach promenade. io//2023-09-16&checkOut=2023-09-17&6659&&SEA+STARS+APARTMENTS&hotelId=275661&&.Zz5447a30c0d274622b3aa62a-206204 Sea Stars Apartments - 6 stylish 2-bedroom apartments set in a beautiful planted garden in the eel garden area of Dahab, 1 minutes from the beach. First floor apartments with balcony, sea and mountain views from €55 per day, Ground floor garden apartments from €50 per day. All sleep up to 6 with a/c, welcome pack supplied. The friendly English owners also offer bespoke diving packages. Sheikh Salem House - Budget boutique hotel set in a beautiful house owned by a Bedouin Sheikh of Dahab and his family. Managed by a Bedouin team and an English lady. Set in a quiet spot at the northern end of the promenade, right on the beach with a sandy beach. Budget rooms with amazing views and shared bathrooms from 45egp, deluxe suites with air conditioning, tv and satellite, kitchen from LE150 or €23 per suite per day. Wireless internet for guests. Thit is a great place for those wanting to stay in unique lodging with a home like feel, and get to know Dahab's Bedouin community and culture. Warning: do not go here if you are a solo female traveller. The room doors do not lock from the inside. They are secured by padlocks on the outside, so you can be locked in but cannot lock people out. Very creepy place. io//2023-09-16&checkOut=2023-09-17&6659&&Star+Of+Dahab+Hotel&hotelId=275618&&.Zza8ea97e5792244d2aeb9f99-206204 Star of Dahab - A pleasant family-run guesthouse at the southern end of Assalah, offers basic lodgings at basic prices, and new, more expensive rooms with sea view. Excellent beachside location,with a seaside shade, restaurant (good food), and a dive centre as well. but it's a bit of a hike to the center of Assalah. Stay Safe Muslimas are safe in Dahab, but please be smart. Snorkeling along/past the reef can be very dangerous when very windy: strong underwater currents develop, and it is difficult to come back onto the shallow reef. Always ask a dive center nearby if it is safe to snorkel - they will be happy to help. News & References Dahab More Muslim friendly Destinations from Dahab Thit is the tough part. Many people arrive in Dahab to chill for a few days, some of them stay for weeks or months, and there are people who stay for years, become a dive instructor, run a restaurant, etc. It is easy to get stuck in Dahab. For the rest of us: Luxor Aswan Aqaba Sharm el Sheikh Taba Heights Mount Sinai Jordan Copyright 2015 - 2024. All Rights reserved by eHalal Group Co., Ltd. To Advertise or sponsor this Travel Guide, please visit our Media Kit and Advertising Rates.