Getting Around Dahab. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transport in Dahab

Dahab has no metro, tram, or formal city bus system. The town's small size and layout make such systems unnecessary. The main mode of public-like transport within Dahab consists of shared pick-up taxis, and private taxis.

Shared pick-up taxis do not follow official routes or have published maps. They operate along the main road connecting various areas. The "Lighthouse" area and the "Mashraba" promenade are points where you can easily find these shared taxis. You can also flag them down anywhere along the main road. They travel from the Laguna area in the south, through Mashraba and Lighthouse, and up towards the Assalah village and the bus station. They continue north towards popular dive/snorkel sites like the Blue Hole and Three Pools.

Shared Taxi Details

Flag them down: Simply wave your hand to stop an approaching pick-up truck.
State your destination clearly: Say where you want to go.
Confirm the price: Always confirm the price before getting in.
Be prepared to share: You will likely share the back of the truck with other passengers.

Ticketing & Fares

Pay the driver directly in cash (EGP). Fares for common routes within Dahab are generally fixed (30-50 EGP per person).

Hours & Frequency

Shared taxis operate from early morning until late evening (often past midnight), especially along the main promenade.

Accessibility Note

Shared pick-up trucks are not wheelchair accessible. Private taxis may be arranged.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Hailing & Fares

Shared pick-up trucks function as informal taxis.
Short ride within Dahab: 30-50 EGP. Blue Hole/Three Pools: 50-100 EGP per person (shared).
Negotiate fare for private rides before starting the journey.

Safety & Apps

Generally safe. Agree on price beforehand.
Solo female travelers may prefer arranging private transport through accommodation for late nights.
Ride-sharing apps like Careem are very limited or non-existent in Dahab.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Requires IDP. Not widely available in Dahab; usually from SSH. Not generally recommended due to local driving styles.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Available locally. IDP necessary. Higher accident risk due to road conditions.

Bicycle Rentals

Available from local shops (50-100 EGP/day) for casual rides. No dedicated lanes.

Quad Bikes/ATVs

For desert safaris, usually part of organized tours; not for independent travel.

Walking & Cycling

Walking and cycling offer excellent ways to experience Dahab's atmosphere. The main promenade (Mashraba and Lighthouse areas) is highly pedestrian-friendly for leisurely walks.

Pedestrian Areas

Dahab's central attractions, dive centers, and restaurants are walkable.
Mashraba and Lighthouse areas offer sea views and shops.
Assalah Village for walking through local streets.
Avoid unlit desert areas at night. Stick to well-trafficked and lit areas.

Cycling & Tours

No dedicated bicycle lanes; cycling on shared roads.
Exercise caution due to traffic, uneven surfaces, and sand.
No formal guided walking tours within Dahab.
Many desert excursions involve walking or hiking as part of the experience.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses: For longer excursions (St. Catherine's, Colored Canyon).
Local Boats: For short trips to nearby snorkeling/diving sites not accessible from shore.
Dive Boats: Larger boats for offshore dive sites, usually included in dive packages.

No Cable Cars, Funiculars, or unique local transport like those in other regions.
Accessibility Services: Limited public infrastructure for mobility needs.
Newer resorts might offer better accessible facilities compared to older guesthouses.

Airport/Station Transfers

From SSH Airport

Taxis are readily available. Pre-booking is recommended for convenience.

From Dahab Bus Station

Pick-up taxis wait to take you to your accommodation. Agree on the fare before you leave.

From Nuweiba Port

Taxis and shared minibuses are available for transfer to Dahab. Negotiate the fare.

Driving & Road Conditions

Self-driving in Sinai is an option, but it comes with specific considerations. Main coastal roads are generally paved and in good condition. Off-road driving in the desert requires a 4x4 vehicle and experience.

Driving Laws & Challenges

Speed limits exist but are frequently ignored.
Local driving styles can be aggressive and unpredictable.
Avoid driving at night, especially on unlit roads outside of town.
Animals (camels, goats) can wander onto roads at night.

Road Safety & Checkpoints

A strong security presence exists across Sinai on major roads.
Security checkpoints are common; be prepared to stop and show your passport.
Unpaved tracks lead into the desert; a local Bedouin guide is recommended.
Consider safety concerns related to driving motorcycles/scooters.

Intercity Bus Travel

Main Operator

Go Bus is the most reputable and comfortable long-distance bus company in Egypt.

Book tickets online or at the Dahab office.

Major Routes

Go Bus connects Dahab to Cairo, Alexandria, Luxor, and Sharm El Sheikh.

Various classes of service available.

Travel Time Examples

Cairo to Dahab takes approximately 8-10 hours. Sharm El Sheikh to Dahab is about 1-1.5 hours.

East Delta Bus also operates routes.

Airport/Bus Station Transfers

Sharm El Sheikh Airport SSH

Private taxis are fastest (1-1.5 hours). Pre-booking recommended.
Shared taxis/minibuses are budget-friendly.
Go Bus offers scheduled services directly from SSH to Dahab.

Nuweiba Port & Dahab Bus Station

Taxis and shared minibuses from Nuweiba Port to Dahab.
Pick-up taxis are waiting at Dahab bus station for onward travel.
Always agree on the fare before starting your journey.

Important Security Reminder

Security checks on main roads are common.
Avoid traveling alone in very remote desert areas without a local guide.
Follow local government travel advisories for your safety.
Renting a car for independent driving might not be ideal for all travelers.

Be patient and cooperative at all security checkpoints.
Always stick to well-lit and populated areas during evening walks.
Exercise caution when taking photos of official buildings or military personnel.
Ensure your dive operator is reputable and follows safety standards.

General Transportation Tips

Embrace the local shared pick-up taxis for an authentic and budget-friendly way to get around.

Tips for Local Taxis

Carry small Egyptian Pound notes for easy payment.
Use offline maps to track your journey.
Do not hesitate to politely decline a ride if the price is not agreed upon.
A few Arabic phrases for directions can be helpful.

Cycling & Walking Advice

Cycle during daylight hours, especially on unlit side roads.
Wear a helmet if renting a bicycle or scooter, even if not strictly enforced.
Wear comfortable footwear for extensive walking.
Protect yourself from the sun during daytime walks.

Long-Distance Travel Preparation

Bus Comfort

For long bus rides, bring snacks, water, and entertainment.

Security on Buses

Keep valuables on your person, not in overhead compartments or luggage storage.

Money belt
Small padlock for luggage.
Stay aware of your surroundings.

Border Crossings

Have all visa and passport documents readily accessible for inspections.

Printed e-visa if applicable.
Copy of onward travel tickets.
Remain patient during procedures.

Driving Dangers

High Risk Behaviors

Drivers frequently ignore traffic laws.
Unmarked speed bumps and road hazards.
Heavy trucks and large vehicles on narrow roads.

Mitigation Strategies

Use reputable licensed taxi services.
Join organized tours with professional drivers.
Rely on local guides for desert excursions.

Final Transit Note

Patience is a virtue when traveling in Egypt. Unexpected delays can occur, but usually resolve with time.

Embrace the journey as part of the adventure!

Getting Around Dahab