Handy Hints

TEMPERATURES

Temperatures vary throughout the year; it is very hot in summer, but it can be windy in Dahab, and temperatures at night in winter can drop. It is generally sunny all year round, but peak tourist seasons tend to be spring and autumn. It is cheaper to get here in winter, but it is still warm during the day, making Dahab a great destination any time of year.

Temperature charts

Land Temperature Sea Temperature

CLOTHING

Although the locals here are used to tourists, Egypt is still culturally very different to the ‘West’. Please respect these differences and do not walk around town in a bikini even if temperatures are scorching; to avoid unwanted attention it is best to cover up. Topless sunbathing is forbidden, but bikinis on the beach and at hotels are fine. Dahab is very casual, shorts and t-shirts are standard wear, and many of the side roads are still dirt tracks so high heels are really not appropriate!

SHOPPING

Inevitably you will be hassled to look in the shops as you walk along the broadwalk around the ‘Lighthouse’ bay, but a polite ‘no thanks’ or ‘la shokran’ will usually work. Haggling is still expected at the ‘market’ style shops, but more and more shops now have fixed displayed prices to allay any confusion. Expect the usual tat in the tourist shops, but look around and there are still bargains to be had. You can expect to pay more for hand-sewn cushion covers and woollen rugs but compared to UK prices you’ll still be getting a good deal.