Most visitors to Dahab fly into Sharm El Sheikh International Airport (SSH) — the nearest major airport. From there it's a 90km journey along the Red Sea coast road. Here's every way to make that journey.
Option 1: Shared Taxi (Microbus)
The most common option for budget travellers. Shared minibuses (microbuses or "service" taxis) run between Sharm and Dahab throughout the day. They depart from the Sharm El Sheikh bus station (not the airport — take a short local taxi from arrivals first) and drop you in Dahab's main square.
- Cost: 40–60 EGP per person (~$0.80–1.20)
- Journey time: 2–2.5 hours (stops en route)
- Frequency: Depart when full — roughly every 30–60 min in daytime
- Note: You need to get from SSH airport to Sharm bus station first (~10km, 50–80 EGP by taxi)
Option 2: Private Taxi
The most convenient option, especially arriving with luggage at night or if you have a group. A private taxi from Sharm airport direct to your hotel in Dahab.
- Cost: $20–30 USD (negotiate before getting in, agree in advance)
- Journey time: ~90 minutes direct
- How to book: Ask your hotel in Dahab to arrange it (often the easiest), or negotiate with taxis outside arrivals. Always agree total price before departure.
- Tip: Have the driver's WhatsApp — many prefer payment on arrival, which is fine.
Option 3: Pre-Booked Transfer
Hotels and many tour operators in Dahab offer airport transfer services at fixed prices.
- Cost: $25–40 USD depending on vehicle size
- Advantage: Driver waits for you with a sign, no negotiation, fixed price
- How to book: Ask your hotel when reserving, or search "Dahab airport transfer" — several reliable services operate this route
Option 4: East Delta Bus
The East Delta bus company runs scheduled services from Sharm El Sheikh bus station to Dahab. Less frequent than shared taxis but more comfortable with fixed seats.
- Cost: 50–80 EGP (~$1–1.60)
- Journey time: ~2 hours
- Frequency: A few departures per day — check current schedule at the station
- Note: Requires getting to Sharm bus station first from the airport
Which Option Should You Choose?
| Situation | Best Option |
|---|---|
| Arriving late at night | Pre-booked transfer or private taxi |
| Budget traveller, daytime arrival | Shared taxi (microbus) |
| 2+ people travelling together | Private taxi (cost-effective when split) |
| Carrying lots of luggage | Private taxi or pre-booked transfer |
| First time in Egypt, nervous | Pre-booked hotel transfer |
From Dahab Back to Sharm
The return journey works the same way in reverse. Shared taxis leave from Dahab's main square. For a return flight, allow 3 hours before departure — the airport security check in Sharm El Sheikh can be slow, and you don't want to miss your flight to save $10 on transport.