Marsa Alam International Airport (RMF) → Abu Dabbab transfer
Abu Dabbab lies 39 km south of Marsa Alam International Airport, a private drive of typically 45–57 minutes, with a car for up to 3 passengers usually around €25–35. The bay sits on the way to Marsa Alam town, roughly halfway, which makes it one of the mid-length transfers on this coast.
- From
- Marsa Alam International Airport (RMF)
- To
- Abu Dabbab
- Distance
- 39 km
- Typical drive
- 45–57 min
Most people choose Abu Dabbab for one reason: the chance to swim above green turtles feeding in shallow water a few steps from the beach.
What you see on the way to Abu Dabbab
The car leaves the airport, passes the turn-off for Port Ghalib and continues south on the coast highway. For most of the 39 km there is little but gravel desert, the odd resort wall and, on your left, the sea.
Traffic on this straight two-lane road is light. At police checkpoints you may be asked to show your passport. After about three quarters of an hour the hotels around the bay appear on the seaward side.
The bay and its turtles
- Seagrass in the shallows
- Abu Dabbab is a wide sandy bay with seagrass meadows in shallow water. Green turtles graze there, and snorkellers often see them close to shore without needing a boat.
- A rare visitor
- Dugongs live in the marine waters of the wider Wadi el Gemal area and have been seen in this bay over the years. Sightings are rare, so treat one as luck rather than a plan.
- Reefs at the edges
- Coral grows along the sides of the bay, which suits beginner snorkellers and shore dives alike.
Where the hotels are
Only a handful of resorts stand around Abu Dabbab, each with its own beach access, and a few more lie just north and south of the bay. Give your hotel’s exact name when booking so the driver stops at the right entrance.
Leaving Abu Dabbab for your flight
Plan your pickup about 3.5 hours before departure. The drive itself is 45–57 minutes; the rest covers checkpoints, check-in and security at a small airport where several holiday flights often leave close together.
If you must vacate your room early, ask reception about storing luggage and enjoy a last swim with the turtles.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Abu Dabbab from Marsa Alam Airport?
Abu Dabbab is 39 km south of RMF. The private transfer usually takes 45–57 minutes on the coast highway.
How much does a private transfer from RMF to Abu Dabbab cost?
As an indication, a car for up to 3 passengers is usually around €25–35 and a minivan for up to about 7 around €35–50. The exact price for your hotel and vehicle is shown before booking.
Is Abu Dabbab closer to the airport or to Marsa Alam town?
It lies between the two, a little nearer the airport. Guests landing at RMF are usually at their hotel in under an hour, while Marsa Alam town is further south.
Will I definitely see turtles in Abu Dabbab?
There is no guarantee, because they are wild animals. Green turtles are seen in the bay regularly, and your chances are better on calm days and outside the busiest excursion hours.
More transfers from Marsa Alam International Airport
- Marsa Alam International Airport (RMF) → Coraya Bay12 km · 24–30 min
- Marsa Alam International Airport (RMF) → Port Ghalib13 km · 29–37 min
- Marsa Alam International Airport (RMF) → Marsa Alam resorts73 km · 71–89 min
- Marsa Alam International Airport (RMF) → El Quseir80 km · 72–90 min
- Marsa Alam International Airport (RMF) → Wadi El Gemal73 km · 72–90 min
- Marsa Alam International Airport (RMF) → Hamata181 km · 159–199 min
- Marsa Alam International Airport (RMF) → Hurghada229 km · 203–254 min
Marsa Alam International Airport: arrival and transfer guide
