The Sinai desert splits the two continents of Africa and Asia.
Nestled on the shores of the Red Sea in the Gulf of Aqaba, Dahab, named after the Arabic word for gold, borders the Gulf of Aqaba, and is an hour’s drive through spectacular desert from the airport in the more commercial resort of Sharm el-Sheikh.
But the vibe in Dahab is very different. The village is a small, vibrant mix of cultures populated with white-robed Bedouin and their brightly adorned camels, the women swathed in black and the children, multicoloured and mischievous, are always ready to strike up a deal for a bracelet or two.Egyptian traders and shopkeepers sell their crafts, food and wares to the growing number of holiday makers who are enjoying Dahab’s friendly, personal vibe.
The bars and cafes almost hover over the water of the bay, where there are plenty of places to eat and relax after a day at play round the pool or in the sea. If you feel like a party, there are a few lively bars in town worth a visit that can keep you up all night.
Dahab is famous for its abundance of marine life and cooling summer winds. It is one of the Red Sea´s oldest scuba diving resorts and hosts some of the most spectacular and challenging dive sites in Egypt. It is now just as popular as a budget holiday resort location for those who simply want to relax and get some sun, however with camel safaris, snorkelling trips, and desert excursions to name a few days out, there’s plenty to keep you occupied too. All in all, Dahab is the perfect place for a Red Sea beach, water sports or diving holiday.
Its charm revolves around a blend of local and western cultures and has a way of making everyone feel at home. Bedouin culture. The rugged landscape is home to the Bedu who for generations have thrived here. The local tribe are called ‘Muzeina’ and are still very much a part of Dahab. They contribute greatly to the laid back vibe and style that makes Dahab a unique resort, very different to the larger, more crowded destinations of Sharm and Hurgada.
Bedouin culture is still very much in evidence in Dahab. Here you walk side by side with them, the men white robed, the women swathed in black and the children, multicoloured and mischievous, are always ready to strike up a good deal for a bracelet or two. Their culture is very different to the dominant Arab Muslim religion. Traditionally the Bedouin (whose name means ‘Owner of Herds’), identify themselves with the biblical Ishmael.
As a minority, the Bedouin tribes manage their land and existence in a relatively self-controlled and independent way, holding on with tenacity to their ancient customs and colourful dress, the galibia. For countless years they have been proud people with their own strict codes of conduct and hospitality. Whilst in Dahab you should take part in a traditional dinner in the Sinai Mountains. A Bedouin meal under the stars, with music and song, is an unforgettable trip.
Dahab offers the chance to experience real culture that only the Sinai can offer. Relax and experience the unique tranquillity of the desert and the welcoming hospitality of the native Bedouin as well as the abundant and vibrant aquatic world of the Red Sea.
location
Temperature
Dahab temperature varies from 21°C in winter to 39°C in summer, which means that even in winter you can dive, snorkel and swim. The water temperature is varying from 20°C in winterto around 28°C in summer and there is hardly ever any rain, as the Sinai has a desert climate.
The summer is hot and dry and you will hardly see any clouds, but the low humidity and the gentle Dahab breeze make the heat bearable. During the summer it is important to drink lots of water to avoid dehydration.
The winter months between December & March have a very comfortable climate, but the temperature at night can drop quite a bit and it might be windy, so it is essential to bring some warmer clothes to layer even if you might not need them during the day.
WATER HIGH TEMP DAY LOW TEMP NIGHT BLUE SKY
20°C 22°C 13°C 87%
21°C 23°C 14°C 89%
22°C 25°C 16°C 90%
23°C 30°C 20°C 90%
24°C 34°C 24°C 91%
25°C 37°C 26°C 99%
26°C 38°C 27°C 99%
27°C 37°C 28°C 99%
27°C 36°C 26°C 99%
26°C 31°C 23°C 95%
24°C 27°C 19°C 90%
23°C 23°C 15°C 83%
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