Dahab is a small town — you can walk from one end to the other in about 30 minutes. Understanding how it's laid out helps you choose where to stay, where to eat, and how to reach the main attractions.
The Google Map
Here's an embedded map of Dahab showing the key areas, beaches and attractions:
The Three Main Areas
Mashraba — The Tourist Heart
Mashraba is the main tourist strip — a waterfront promenade with restaurants, cafes, dive centers and hotels running along the Red Sea. This is where you'll eat, drink and socialise. The waterfront is beautiful and the setting sun here is world-class. Most mid-range and upscale hotels are in or near Mashraba.
Assalah — The Backpacker Area
Assalah is the area just south of Mashraba. More local, more budget-friendly. Most hostels are here. The market (souq) is in Assalah. Slightly less polished than Mashraba but more authentic. A 5–10 minute walk to the main restaurants.
Lighthouse Area (El Fanar) — The Diver's Corner
North of the town centre, the Lighthouse area is where serious divers stay. Direct access to the best shore-diving reef in Dahab (Lighthouse/El Fanar). Quieter than Mashraba. Fewer restaurants — but an easy walk or tuk-tuk into town for food.
Key Distances
| From Mashraba To | Distance | Walk Time | Tuk-tuk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Assalah | 600m | 8 min | 20 EGP |
| Lighthouse Area | 1.5km | 20 min | 30 EGP |
| Blue Lagoon | 3km | 40 min | 50–80 EGP |
| Blue Hole | 10km | ~2hr walk (don't) | 100–150 EGP |
| Sharm El Sheikh | 90km | N/A | Taxi ~$25 |
Getting Around Dahab
On foot: The main tourist area (Mashraba + Assalah) is completely walkable. Most visitors walk everywhere within town.
Tuk-tuk: Three-wheeled electric tuk-tuks are everywhere and cheap. 20–80 EGP for most in-town journeys. Agree the price before you get in. Fun way to get around.
Taxi: For trips outside town (Blue Hole, Blue Lagoon, Sharm airport). Negotiate the fare before departure.
Bicycle: Rentable for 50–100 EGP/day. Good for exploring the coast road north of town. Not recommended in summer (too hot).