Dahab: The Golden Gem of the Red Sea

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wada'an]
• Yesنعم
  [na'am]
• Noلا
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك/على الرحب والسعة
  [min fadlak/ala al-rahb was-sa'ah]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  ['udhran]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayfa halak?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bi-khayr. wa-ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al-ingliziyya?]
• I don't understandأنا لا أفهم
  [ana la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأود أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [awad an ara al-qaimah, min fadlak]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا أأكل اللحم
  [ana la aakul al-lahm]
• Cheers!صحتين!
  [sahhtayn]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [urid an adfa', min fadlak]

• Help!النجدة!
  [al-najdah!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [ansarif!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [itasil bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [itasil bitalib!]
• I'm lostأنا ضائع
  [ana dayi']
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mariyd]

• I'd like to buy...أود أن أشتري...
  [awad an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [ana faqat atfarij]
• How much is it?كم سعره؟
  [kam siroh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk khaif al-siroh?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam al-sa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [al-sa'at al-wahidah]
• Half past (10)العاشرة والنصف
  [al-'ashirah wal-nisf]
• Morningصباح
  [sabah]
• Afternoonبعد الظهر
  [ba'd al-dhuhur]
• Eveningمساء
  [masa']
• Yesterdayأمس
  ['ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [al-yawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنين
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalathah]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'ah]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [sittah]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'ah]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamaniyah]
• 9تسعة
  [tis'ah]
• 10عشرة
  ['asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين هو/هي...؟
  [ayn huwa/hiya...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma huwa al-unnwan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk an tarini (ala al-kharitah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى الحافلة التالية؟
  [mata al-hafilah al-taliyah?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [tazkirah (ila ...)]

Dahab, nestled along the southeastern coast of the Sinai Peninsula, has roots that trace back to ancient times. The region was inhabited by the Nabataeans, a nomadic Arab tribe, who utilized the area as a waypoint on their trade routes. The evidence of their presence is still visible in the form of petroglyphs and ancient inscriptions found in the surrounding mountains.

During the Byzantine era, Dahab's significance grew as it became a hub for Christian monastic communities. Monks established monasteries and hermitages, seeking solitude in the arid landscape. With the advent of Islam in the 7th century, the region saw the establishment of small Islamic settlements, contributing to its cultural tapestry.

In the 16th century, the Ottoman Empire extended its reach into the Sinai Peninsula, including Dahab. The Ottomans fortified the area, building watchtowers and small forts to safeguard their interests along the Red Sea. These structures played a crucial role in maintaining the security of the region during this period.

Dahab has long been home to the Bedouins, nomadic tribes known for their rich cultural traditions and deep connection to the desert. The Bedouins have preserved their way of life for centuries, relying on their knowledge of the land for survival. Visitors to Dahab can experience Bedouin culture through traditional music, dance, and cuisine.

In the latter half of the 20th century, Dahab transformed from a quiet fishing village into a renowned tourist destination. The 1980s and 1990s saw an influx of travelers drawn by the area's stunning coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere. Today, Dahab is a vibrant hub for diving enthusiasts, adventurers, and those seeking a blend of relaxation and cultural exploration.

With its growing popularity, Dahab has also seen efforts to preserve its unique natural environment. Both local and international organizations have been working to protect the coral reefs and marine life that make the area so special. Conservation initiatives focus on sustainable tourism practices, ensuring that Dahab's natural beauty remains for future generations to enjoy.

Dahab is located on the southeastern coast of the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt. The nearest international airport is Sharm El Sheikh International Airport (SSH), approximately 90 kilometers away. From Sharm El Sheikh, you can take a taxi or a private transfer to Dahab, which typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Alternatively, you can catch a bus from Sharm El Sheikh, which is a more budget-friendly option but may take longer.

Dahab is a small town, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, local taxis and tuk-tuks (three-wheeled vehicles) are available and relatively inexpensive. Public minibuses operate within the town and connect to nearby areas. Renting a bicycle or scooter is also a popular and convenient option for exploring Dahab at your own pace.

The official currency in Egypt is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Credit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available in Dahab, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash in Sharm El Sheikh or another major city to ensure you have enough funds.

Dahab is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 122 for police assistance, 123 for an ambulance, and 180 for the fire department. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Dahab. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes and cover your head when entering mosques. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a friendly nod. Avoid using your left hand for greetings or handing over items. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Dahab like a local, visit the local markets (souks) where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Egyptian goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don’t miss visiting the Blue Hole, a famous diving spot. For a unique experience, take a camel ride through the desert or enjoy a Bedouin dinner under the stars.