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How to Get to Dahab

How to Get to Dahab

Dahab Sinai, Egypt Travel Guide

Air Travel to Dahab

Major Airports & Airlines

Sharm El Sheikh International Airport (SSH) is the main gateway, approximately 90 kilometers south of Dahab, handling numerous international flights, especially from Europe.

Airlines & Hubs

  • To SSH: easyJet, TUI, Wizz Air, Pegasus Airlines, EgyptAir, Turkish Airlines.
  • Cairo International Airport (CAI) is Egypt's largest international hub.
  • To CAI: Most major international carriers (EgyptAir, British Airways, Lufthansa, Emirates).

Flight Availability & Airport Facilities

Flight prices to SSH often increase during European school holidays and Egypt's peak tourist season (October-November, March-April). Charter flights might operate on more limited schedules during the low season.

SSH Airport Services

  • ATMs and Currency Exchange in arrivals hall.
  • Duty-Free Shops for last-minute purchases.
  • Cafes and Restaurants.

Private Taxi Transfer

Fastest and most comfortable from SSH (1-1.5 hrs). Approx. 500-800 EGP ($10-$16). Pre-book via hotel or transfer service.

Shared Taxi/Minibus

Budget-friendly from SSH. Approx. 100-200 EGP ($2-$4) per person. Time: 1.5-2 hrs. Find outside terminal.

Go Bus Intercity

Scheduled service from SSH to Dahab. Reliable. Book via Go-bus.com. Many hotels offer airport pick-up services.

Land Transportation

Border Crossings & Train

  • Taba Border Crossing: From Eilat, Israel. 24/7. Sinai Only stamp available.
  • Nuweiba Port: For arrivals by ferry from Aqaba, Jordan. Dahab is 1 hour drive away.
  • Dahab and Sinai Peninsula have no train services.
  • Nearest train stations are on mainland Egypt (Cairo, Luxor).

Long-Distance Buses

  • Go Bus: Reputable and comfortable. Regular services Dahab to Cairo, Alexandria, Luxor, SSH.
  • Book tickets online via Go-bus.com or at their Dahab office.
  • Cairo to Dahab: Approx. 8-10 hours. SSH to Dahab: Approx. 1-1.5 hours.
  • East Delta Bus: Less comfortable, might offer cheaper fares.

Self-Driving & Road Safety

Driving Requirements

An International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your valid national driving license. Credit cards typically needed for deposits. Find car rentals on DiscoverCars.com.

Road Conditions

Main coastal roads are generally paved and in good condition. Off-road driving in the desert needs a 4x4 vehicle and experience. Consider Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for flight bookings to plan your arrival.

Safety & Checkpoints

Local driving styles can be aggressive. Security checkpoints are common in Sinai; prepare to stop and show your passport. Avoid driving at night on unlit roads.

Sea Travel & Departure

Sea Arrivals Nuweiba Port

Nuweiba Port, about 70 kilometers north of Dahab, is the main hub for ferry connections to Aqaba, Jordan. AB Maritime operates both fast and slower ferries.

Ferry Services

  • Schedules can vary and may be unreliable.
  • Check official website or inquire locally for current schedules and bookings.
  • Immigration procedures at seaports are similar to airports.

Departure Information

Plan your departure smoothly by understanding exit procedures and airport/station timings.

Departure Pointers

  • No specific exit fees or taxes beyond what is included in your ticket.
  • For international flights from SSH, arrive 2-3 hours before departure.
  • For bus departures from Dahab, arrive at least 30 minutes before.

SSH Airport Facilities

Duty-free shops, cafes, restaurants, and lounges are available for departing travelers.

Nuweiba Port Connections

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

Dahab Bus Station

Basic facilities, including small shops for snacks and drinks for your journey.

General Travel Information

Travel Tips for Sinai

Driving in Egypt can be challenging. Traffic laws are often disregarded, and security checkpoints are common in Sinai. Renting a car is not generally recommended for short visits within Dahab, as the town is walkable and local transport is readily available.

Driving Guidelines

  • Road signs might not always be in English.
  • Local driving styles can be aggressive and unpredictable.
  • Be prepared to show your passport at checkpoints.

Sustainable Travel

When exploring Dahab's natural beauty, consider ways to minimize your environmental footprint. Support local businesses and respect the delicate marine and desert ecosystems.

Eco-Conscious Practices

  • Reduce single-use plastics (bring a reusable water bottle).
  • Do not touch or stand on coral when snorkeling or diving.
  • Dispose of waste properly; pack out what you pack in.

Connectivity While Traveling

Local SIM Cards

Purchase affordable data packages at the airport or local provider stores (Etisalat, Orange, Vodafone, WE).

ESIM Options

Consider Airalo for convenient eSIM services, avoiding physical SIM card changes.

Wi-Fi Availability

Most hotels, cafes, and dive centers in Dahab offer Wi-Fi, though speeds vary.

Final Departure Check

Check your flight or bus schedule for any last-minute changes. Allow ample time for transfers to the airport or bus station.