Dahab is one of the best places in the world for freediving — warm water year-round, stunning dive sites, and an amazing community. If you're planning your first trip, here's everything you need to know.
Visa
Most nationalities can get a visa on arrival at the airport for $30. It's valid for 30 days. If you're only staying in the Sinai Peninsula (which includes Dahab), you can get a free Sinai-only permit for 15 days — just tell the immigration officer you're going to Dahab.
Check your country's specific requirements before traveling, as some nationalities need to arrange a visa in advance.
Getting to Dahab
There are two main routes to get to Dahab:
Via Sharm El Sheikh (recommended)
The easiest option. Fly into Sharm El Sheikh International Airport (SSH). From there, Dahab is about a 1.5-hour drive. Use the inDrive app to order a taxi — it will cost around €20 from the airport.
Via Cairo
If you can't find a direct flight to Sharm, fly into Cairo (CAI). From Cairo, you can take a domestic flight to Sharm (~1 hour), or take a bus to Dahab directly (~10 hours). Check GoBus and BlueBus for schedules and tickets.
Accommodation
Dahab has options for every budget. A monthly rental starts from $450, or you can find daily rates from $20/night. Most freedivers stay in the Lighthouse or Mashraba areas — close to the main dive sites and restaurants.
Check out the Dahab Forum on Telegram for accommodation listings and local tips.
Food & Costs
Eating out is very affordable. A simple meal with a drink at a restaurant costs from €5. Fruits and vegetables are incredibly cheap and fresh — if you cook at home, groceries start from €25/week.
What to Pack
If you're coming in winter (November–March), evenings and mornings can be chilly. Bring pants and a windbreaker or vest with a hoodie/sweater. During the day, shorts and a t-shirt are enough.
In summer, it's hot — light clothes, sunscreen, and a hat are essentials. The water temperature ranges from 22°C in winter to 30°C in summer.
Blue Hole Trip
The famous Blue Hole is about a 25-minute drive from Dahab. Here's what to budget:
- Entrance ticket: 1,000 EGP per person
- Taxi: 600 EGP (round trip)
- Car entrance permission: 600 EGP per car
Total per person comes to around 2,200 EGP if going alone. Taxi and car entrance costs can be shared with other participants, bringing the price down.