Best time to dive Dahab, month by month
Short answer: any month. Dahab has warm, clear water all year. What changes is the water temperature, the wind and the crowds.
Water and air temperature by month
Typical averages. Individual days vary by a degree or two.
| Month | Water | Air (day) | Wetsuit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | ~22 °C | ~21 °C | 5 mm |
| Feb | ~21 °C | ~22 °C | 5 mm |
| Mar | ~22 °C | ~25 °C | 5 mm |
| Apr | ~23 °C | ~28 °C | 5 mm |
| May | ~25 °C | ~32 °C | 3 mm |
| Jun | ~26 °C | ~35 °C | 3 mm |
| Jul | ~28 °C | ~36 °C | 3 mm / shortie |
| Aug | ~29 °C | ~36 °C | 3 mm / shortie |
| Sep | ~28 °C | ~33 °C | 3 mm / shortie |
| Oct | ~27 °C | ~30 °C | 3 mm |
| Nov | ~25 °C | ~26 °C | 3 mm |
| Dec | ~24 °C | ~22 °C | 3 mm |
Which wetsuit to bring
From December to April most divers wear a 5 mm suit, or 3 mm with a hood or vest. From May to November a 3 mm suit is plenty, and in July and August some divers wear a shortie.
Diving in Dahab in winter
December to February is the coolest time, with water around 21–24 °C and some windy days. It is also quieter, the visibility is often excellent, and it is a great escape from a European winter.
💬 Coming in winter? Ask me about conditions
Spring and autumn: the sweet spots
March to May and September to November combine warm water with comfortable air temperatures. October and November are especially popular, with water still around 25–27 °C.
Summer diving
June to August brings the warmest water, up to around 29 °C, and very hot days on land. Dive early in the morning or late in the afternoon and enjoy long, comfortable dives.
Wind and which sites work on windy days
Dahab is famous for its wind, which is why kitesurfers love it. On windy days the sheltered sites like Lighthouse, Eel Garden and the southern reefs usually stay diveable. A local guide picks the site each day around the wind and the tide.
Crowds and holidays
Christmas, New Year, Easter and Egyptian holidays are the busiest times. Book a few days ahead and dive the famous sites early in the morning, before the day trips arrive.
Questions
When is the best time to dive in Dahab?
Any month works. For warm water and pleasant air temperatures, March–May and September–November are ideal.
What is the water temperature in Dahab in December?
Around 24 °C at the start of the month, cooling towards 22 °C by the end.
What is the water temperature in Dahab in January and February?
About 21–23 °C, the coolest of the year. A 5 mm wetsuit is recommended.
Is Dahab windy?
Often, especially in the afternoon. Mornings are usually calmer, and there are sheltered sites for windy days.
What wetsuit do I need in Dahab?
5 mm from December to April, 3 mm from May to November.