Top Scuba Diving & Snorkeling Locations in Dubai, United Arab Emirates
1. Jebel Ali Reef
Experience vibrant marine life in the clear waters of Jebel Ali Reef, located just off the coast of Dubai. Divers and snorkelers can spot turtles, barracudas, and various coral species.
- Accessibility: Easy access from popular beaches in Dubai
- Diversity of Marine Life: Variety of fish species and occasional sightings of larger marine animals
- Water Conditions: Generally calm and clear waters, suitable for both beginners and advanced divers
2. Fujairah Dibba Rock
Discover the untouched beauty of Dibba Rock, offering a rich underwater ecosystem teeming with exotic marine life. This spot is perfect for more experienced divers.
- Marine Life: Plenty of sharks and turtles, as well as various coral formations
- Difficulty Level: Suitable for experienced divers due to strong currents and depth
- Distance from Dubai: Approximately 2 hours' drive from the city center
3. Umm Al Quwain Marine Sanctuary
Explore the protected waters of Umm Al Quwain Marine Sanctuary, home to a diverse array of marine life including dolphins, sea turtles, and various coral species. This site offers shallow waters ideal for snorkeling.
- Conservation: Protected marine sanctuary promoting the preservation of marine life
- Snorkeling Suitability: Shallow waters and clear visibility make it perfect for snorkelers
- Location: Located approximately 1 hour's drive from Dubai
4. Musandam Dibba Island
Dive into the crystal-clear waters surrounding Musandam Dibba Island, located in Oman but easily accessible from Dubai. Expect to see dolphins, turtles, and an array of colorful fish.
- Marine Life: Plenty of opportunities for dolphin sightings
- Distance from Dubai: Approximately 2-3 hours' boat ride from the city
- Experience: Overnight liveaboard trips available for a more immersive experience
5. Al Sufouh Waters
Explore the shallow coral reefs of Al Sufouh waters, a lesser-known diving spot near Jumeirah Beach. Offering diverse marine life and easy accessibility, it's perfect for beginners.
- Beginner Friendly: Shallow waters and gentle currents suitable for beginners
- Convenience: Located near popular beaches in Dubai
- Marine Life: Variety of fish species and occasional sightings of larger marine animals
6. Ras Al Khaimah Maya's Point
Dive into the clear waters surrounding Maya's Point in Ras Al Khaimah and witness an array of marine life, including sea turtles, barracudas, and various coral formations.
- Marine Life: Abundance of sea turtle sightings
- Difficulty Level: Suitable for both beginners and experienced divers
- Distance from Dubai: Approximately 1-1.5 hours' drive from the city center
7. The World Islands
Discover the unique underwater world surrounding The World Islands, a group of artificial islands shaped like a map of the world. Divers can expect to see an array of marine life and vibrant coral formations.
- Exclusivity: Accessible only through arranged tours
- Marine Life: Variety of fish species and opportunities for shark sightings
- Location: Located off the coast of Dubai
8. Palm Jumeirah Shark Tunnels
Explore the underwater shark tunnels at Atlantis The Palm, offering a close encounter with various shark species without needing to dive. Snorkelers can also enjoy the colorful coral reefs.
- Experience: Shark tunnels offer a unique underwater experience
- Beginner Friendly: Ideal for both snorkelers and divers of all skill levels
- Location: Located on Palm Jumeirah, easily accessible from Dubai
9. Dubai Creek
Discover the rich marine life in the waters of Dubai Creek. Snorkelers can spot various fish species and even sea turtles, while divers can explore shipwrecks and historical sites.
- Historical Significance: Offers opportunities to explore shipwrecks and historical sites
- Beginner Friendly: Shallow waters suitable for beginners
- Location: Centrally located in Dubai, easily accessible from various parts of the city
10. Al Saqan Island
Experience the clear waters and diverse marine life surrounding Al Saqan Island in Ras Al Khaimah. Suitable for both snorkelers and divers of all skill levels.
- Diversity of Marine Life: Variety of fish species and opportunities for turtle sightings
- Difficulty Level: Suitable for both beginners and experienced divers
- Distance from Dubai: Approximately 1-1.5 hours' drive from the city center
11. Khor Fakkan
Explore the coral reefs and marine life in Khor Fakkan's clear waters. Suitable for both snorkelers and divers of all skill levels.
- Diversity of Marine Life: Variety of fish species, including barracudas and sea turtles
- Difficulty Level: Suitable for both beginners and experienced divers
- Distance from Dubai: Approximately 1.5-2 hours' drive from the city center
12. Fujairah Al Bidya Mosque Wreck
Dive into the waters surrounding Fujairah to explore the Al Bidya Mosque wreck, one of the oldest mosques in the UAE. The site offers a unique blend of history and marine life.
- Historical Significance: Dive among the ruins of an ancient mosque
- Difficulty Level: Suitable for experienced divers due to depth and currents
- Marine Life: Opportunities to spot various fish species, turtles, and rays
13. The Deep Dive Dubai Aquarium
Experience the underwater world without getting wet at The Deep Dive Dubai Aquarium, located in Dubai Mall. Observe various shark species and colorful fish in a controlled environment.
- Convenience: Centrally located in Dubai Mall
- Experience: Unique opportunity to observe various shark species up close
- Accessibility: Open to the public without needing diving certification
14. Fujairah Al Boom Island
Discover the clear waters surrounding Al Boom Island in Fujairah, teeming with marine life. The site offers shallow waters suitable for snorkelers and deeper waters for divers.
- Diversity of Marine Life: Variety of fish species, including barracudas and sea turtles
- Snorkeling Suitability: Shallow waters suitable for snorkelers
- Distance from Dubai: Approximately 2 hours' drive from the city center
15. Ras Al Khaimah Mina Al Arab
Explore the diverse marine life in the waters surrounding Ras Al Khaimah's Mina Al Arab. This site offers both shallow and deep-water diving opportunities.
- Diversity of Marine Life: Variety of fish species, including sea turtles and sharks
- Difficulty Level: Suitable for both beginners and experienced divers
- Location: Located in Ras Al Khaimah, approximately 1-1.5 hours' drive from Dubai