Dahab holidays and hotels

Dahab is one of our favorite resorts. The name means "gold" in Arabic, and it's not hard to see why it got this name: the coastline is ringed by pristine golden beaches washed gently by the turquoise sea. Originally a Bedouin fishing village, it was "discovered" by backpackers drawn by the beautiful location, and the excellent diving and windsurfing conditions.

It is only 60 miles from Sharm el Sheikh, but it has a much mellower character. The resort offers modern hotels and all the facilities you could ask for, but retains its laid back atmosphere and bohemian cafe culture. Once you've dined Bedouin style by the beach, sprawled across comfortable cushions at a low slung table, you may never go back to traditional restaurants!

Warm, calm waters and reliable offshore breeze make this a haven for wind- and kite surfing. Dahab is also excellent for snorkeling and diving, with reef sites extending close in shore, including the "Blue Hole", a circular sink hole surrounded by coral walls that teem with anemones, brightly coloured fish and even barracuda.

While you're here...

Go kite surfing - this is one of the best places in the world to show off your skills or learn new ones.
Learn to dive - Dahab has some of the very best reefs on its doorstep.
Visit St Catherine's monastery, the remote home of the earliest known copy of the Bible.
Explore the desert up close on a jeep safari or even a Bedouin-led trek.