Dahab & Sinai

and Lanzarote

 

The Location

Dahab is one of the Red Sea´s oldest diving resorts and hosts some of the most spectacular and challenging dive sites in Egypt. Named after the Arabic word for gold, Dahab, located in the south of the Sinai, 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.

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. Egyptian traders and shop keepers 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 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 winter to 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 comfortbale climate, but the Dahab temperature at night can drop quite a bit and it might be windy, so it is essential to bring some warmer clothes even if you might not need them during the day.

Culture

Bedouin culture is still very much in evidence in Dahab. Here you walk side by side with the local Muzeina tribe.
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. Camels are in abundance and morning rush hour to the Blue Hole can be quite a spectacle. Dahab’s charm revolves around this blend of local and western cultures and has a way of making everyone feel at home.

The Bedouin 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 the Bedouin have been proud people with their own strict codes of conduct and hospitality. They contribute greatly to the laid back vibe and style that makes Dahab a unique resort, very different to the larger, more crowded dive destinations of Sharm and Hurgada.

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.

Reef 2000´s main aim is to ensure you dive, eat and sleep well and enjoy a superb holiday, whilst experiencing real culture that only the Sinai can offer. Dahab offers the chance to 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.