One of the top beach resorts in the Middle East, Dahab is known for its sun-drenched beaches and world-class dive sites like the legendary Blue Hole. When you're not soaking up the sun, you can unwind at Dahab's mellow beach cafes, juice bars and seafood restaurants.

Things to do

Most sunseekers have their sights set on Dahab's colourful underwater ecosystem. It boasts some of Egypt's best dive sites, including Blue Hole. While the depths are reserved for technical divers, beginners will find rainbow-hued coral and tropical fish on the outer lip. The narrow sea trench at Canyons and the towering underwater wall at Gabr El Bint are also popular dive sites.

Stretching for almost 800 metres, the Coloured Canyon dazzles you with its swirling sediment patterns. You can explore the canyon on 4WD tours and spot desert wildlife, such as Nubian ibex, red foxes and striped hyenas.

Just out of town is St. Catherine's Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's one of the world's oldest Christian monasteries and is set at the foot of Mount Moses. The most popular tours run at sunrise and sunset when both the mountain and the monastery acquire a golden glow.

Dahab also boasts some of the world's best windsurfing conditions. Local operators like Harry Nass Dahab are happy to arrange lessons, guided trips and professional windsurfing courses for all skill levels.

Getting around

Shared taxis are the most convenient way to get to Dahab. You can also choose to hire scooters, motorbikes or bicycles. Sharm El Sheikh International is the closest airport, located around one hour from Dahab.