Abu Dabbab

Overview

center: Solymar Reef Marsa
center: Iberotel Costa Mares
center: Lagoon View hotel

Abu Dabbab: Marsa Alam’s Iconic Dive Site

Abu Dabbab, located near Marsa Alam, is one of the most famous dive sites in the Red Sea. Known for its clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and unique opportunities to encounter rare marine species like the dugong and green sea turtles, this site is a must-visit for divers of all levels. Abu Dabbab is a protected bay with rich biodiversity, offering both shallow sandy areas and deeper reef sections, making it an ideal location for snorkeling, beginner dives, and more advanced underwater explorations.

Why Dive at Abu Dabbab?
Abu Dabbab is renowned for its easy shore access and calm, crystal-clear waters. The sandy seabed gradually slopes down to deeper areas, providing excellent visibility and an abundance of marine life. The unique combination of seagrass meadows and coral gardens makes this dive site a diverse underwater ecosystem where you can encounter everything from reef fish to the elusive dugong, which is often spotted grazing on the seagrass.

The site is also home to large green sea turtles, which are a highlight for many divers and snorkelers. Abu Dabbab’s shallow areas, rich in soft and hard corals, provide habitat for species like octopuses, moray eels, and schools of colorful fish. As you venture into the deeper sections, you’ll find stunning coral walls and pinnacles bustling with marine life.

Marine Life at Abu Dabbab
Diving at Abu Dabbab gives you the chance to encounter some of the Red Sea’s most iconic marine species. The bay is famous for its sightings of the endangered dugong, also known as the “sea cow,” and large populations of green sea turtles. These gentle creatures can often be found grazing on the seagrass meadows that cover the bay’s sandy bottom.

In addition to these rare sightings, Abu Dabbab is home to a variety of reef fish, stingrays, and lionfish. The coral reefs here host butterflyfish, parrotfish, and bannerfish, while the sandy seabed is the perfect habitat for blue-spotted stingrays. You may even spot eagle rays gliding through the deeper waters or guitar sharks resting on the sand.

Perfect for All Levels of Divers
Abu Dabbab offers a unique experience for divers of all skill levels. Beginners can explore the shallow sandy areas and seagrass beds, while advanced divers can dive deeper into the coral gardens and explore the reef walls. The calm conditions and excellent visibility make it a favorite for underwater photography as well.

For those who prefer to stay closer to the surface, snorkeling at Abu Dabbab is equally rewarding, offering a chance to encounter turtles and other marine life in the shallow areas.

Why Abu Dabbab is a Must-Dive Site
Abu Dabbab is one of Marsa Alam’s most beloved dive sites, offering an extraordinary chance to see rare marine life in a protected and vibrant environment. Whether you're a seasoned diver or a beginner, this dive site promises an unforgettable underwater adventure, with the opportunity to encounter dugongs, turtles, and a stunning array of coral species.