"...during the Israeli occupation it wasn't uncommon to see soldiers patrolling the same beaches as dreadlocked vagabonds..."

Dahab is the Arabic word for gold, and it is almost certain that this locale in eastern Sinai derived its name from the fine yellow sand that colors its beaches. Though it has not yet achieved the popularity of Sharm el-Sheik to the south, Dahab has a growing following, and the name may soon refer to the wealth that tourism is bringing to the small Bedouin village of Assalah. The combination of soft sand, gorgeous blue water, and a luxuriant strip of palm trees is pulling in the world.

Assalah is the most developed part of Dahab, a sprawling conglomeration of palm trees, shops, campgrounds, hotels, bars, and restaurants that lie along the shore of Ghazala Bay. Assalah has a distinctly bohemian feel, and during the Israeli occupation it wasn't uncommon to see soldiers patrolling the same beaches as dreadlocked vagabonds from Europe and America. Less laid back, but still relaxed, is the area just south lying along El-Qura Bay.

Within just a few miles of Dahab are some great adventure spots. Excellent dive sites lie both to the north and south, including Blue Hole, one of Sinai's best. Just south are the wadis of Qnai el-Rayan and Qnai el-Atschan.