Dahab means gold in Arabic. It is said that this name was given by the Bedouins, who likened the shimmering sands to gold dust.

Dahab, located approximately 100km northwest of Sharm El-Sheikh, is still considered to be one of South Sinai's most treasured diving spots.

It is famous for its golden beaches and deceptively deep diving sites, such as the Blue Hole, the Canyon and the Lighthouse.

The area is divided into two areas; the tourist centre where the major hotels are found and the Bedouin village of Assalah, which a lot of budget travellers find attractive because of its numerous restaurants and cheap accommodation.