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, so no expensive boat trips are 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, with a grilled fish dinner with salad and drinks costing 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. It runs throughout the day, so 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.
