Dahab is one of the cheapest backpacker destinations in the world. Budget accommodation, affordable seafood, and shore-entry diving keep costs remarkably low.
Daily cost breakdown
Currency: EGP (Pound) (1 USD ≈ 48 EGP)
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Splurge | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | E£150–400 | E£500–1,200 | E£2,000+ | Camps/hostels → boutique hotels → resort |
| Food | E£80–150 | E£200–400 | E£600+ | Budget waterfront → seafood dinners → El Fanar |
| Transport | E£20–50 | E£100–200 | E£300+ | Walking & minibus → taxi → private transfers |
| Activities | E£200–500 | E£800–1,500 | E£3,000+ | Snorkelling → 2 dives → PADI course + excursions |
| Daily Total | E£450–1,100 | E£1,600–3,300 | E£5,900+ | $9–23 → $33–69 → $123+ |
Money-saving tips
Cheapest PADI in the world
PADI Open Water certification in Dahab costs E£7,000–10,000 ($150–210) — a fraction of prices in Thailand or Australia, and the Red Sea reefs are world-class. A 3-4 day investment that transforms your travel.
Shore diving saves money
Dahab's dive sites are all shore entry — no expensive boat trips needed. Two guided shore dives with equipment cost E£1,000–1,500 vs E£2,500+ for Sharm el-Sheikh boat dives. The sites are just as good or better.
Eat on the waterfront strip
Waterfront restaurants are surprisingly affordable — a grilled fish dinner with salad and drinks costs E£100–200. The further from the Lighthouse you go, the cheaper it gets. Everyday and Friends are budget champions.
Minibus to the Blue Hole
Taxis to the Blue Hole charge E£100–150. The shared minibus from the main road costs E£20. Runs throughout the day — just flag one down heading north.
Camp accommodation
Dahab camps offer basic bamboo huts from E£150–300/night. Penguin Village, Alaska Camp, and Bishbishi are backpacker favourites. Add E£50–100 for a room with private bathroom. Camping in Dahab is a social experience, not just a budget one.
Own snorkel gear pays for itself
Snorkel rental costs E£50–100/day. A decent mask and snorkel costs E£200–400 from Dahab dive shops. If staying 3+ days, buying is cheaper and more hygienic. Reef shoes (E£50–100) protect against sea urchins.
