Marsa Alam dive site
Abu Dabbab Diving
Abu Dabbab is a wide, shallow bay about 30 minutes north of Marsa Alam, with seagrass meadows, sandy patches, and two small reefs framing the entrance. It is one of the calmest, most beginner-friendly sites on the coast, and the seagrass is grazing ground for resident green turtles.
Fast reply on WhatsApp. Hotel pickup available. Beginner and certified options, small groups when possible.
What the dive is like
Most of the bay sits between 5 and 15 m, so dives are long, shallow, and relaxed. You follow the seagrass and sandy lanes between the two reefs, looking for turtles grazing, the occasional guitar shark resting on the sand, and the macro life along the coral edges. It works as both a shore dive and a boat stop.
What you might see
Green turtles are the headline and are seen often, though never guaranteed - they come and go with the grazing. The bay is also good for guitar sharks, blue-spotted rays, pipefish, and, with luck and the right season, a dugong passing through. Sightings depend on conditions and timing.
Why it suits beginners
Shallow, sheltered, and easy to enter, Abu Dabbab is a natural choice for a first dive, a Discover Scuba session, or open-water training. It is equally good for nervous returners rebuilding confidence and for photographers who want a long, calm dive.
Who it suits
- First-time and beginner divers
- Discover Scuba and Open Water students
- Snorkelers and families
- Photographers wanting long, shallow dives
What is included
- Guided dive with a local guide
- Tanks, weights, and air
- Shore or boat logistics for the bay
- Hotel pickup within the standard zone
Not included
- Equipment rental
- Nitrox
- Snacks on half-day shore trips
Hotel pickup and transfers
Abu Dabbab is a short coastal transfer and pickup is included from most Marsa Alam, Coraya Bay, and Port Ghalib hotels. Tell us your hotel and we will confirm the pickup time.
Safety and sea conditions
The bay is sheltered and shallow, but turtles and dugongs are wild animals - we keep a respectful distance, never touch or chase, and follow Red Sea Marine Park rules. Plans can change with wind and visibility.
Frequently asked questions
Is Abu Dabbab good for beginner divers?
Yes. It is shallow, calm, and easy to enter, which makes it one of the best beginner and training sites in Marsa Alam.
Will I see turtles at Abu Dabbab?
Green turtles are seen on many dives, but they are wild and never guaranteed. Going early and diving slowly over the seagrass improves your chances.
Can I snorkel at Abu Dabbab instead of diving?
Yes. The shallow seagrass makes it an excellent snorkeling site too, and snorkelers often share the same turtles.
Do I need to be certified to dive Abu Dabbab?
No. You can dive it on a Discover Scuba session without certification, or as part of an Open Water course.