Yanbu
Diving the Yanbu region offers untouched reefs, crystal-clear water and vast fish diversity.
Explore Al Madinah Region
Diving in the Al Madinah Region of Saudi Arabia offers a unique experience that combines the splendor of the Red Sea's vibrant marine life with the rich cultural tapestry of the surrounding land. Renowned locations like Yanbu and Alrayes Beach are nestled towards the northern portion of the country, where spectacular natural formations and stunning coral reefs await exploration. The dive environments here are diverse, featuring enchanting reefs and fascinating wall dives that provide a glimpse into the intricate underwater ecosystems supported by the Red Sea's warm waters, which range from 25°C–30°C/77°F–86°F throughout the year.
The marine life in this area is abundant and varied, attracting divers with the promise of encountering colorful coral gardens teeming with life. The salinity and temperature of the Red Sea create an ideal environment for coral growth, enhancing the habitat for more complex species. Whether diving from the shore or embarking on a liveaboard adventure, divers can expect to encounter a rich tapestry of marine life, from vibrant schools of fish to the occasional sighting of a larger pelagic visitor.
Beyond the underwater allure, the Al Madinah Region is steeped in history and culture. Visitors can marvel at significant Islamic sites such as Maddain Saleh and the Lion Tombs of Dedan, alongside the grandeur of Al-Masjid An-Nabawi in Madinah City. This harmonious blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage makes the region not only a diving haven but also a fascinating destination for those eager to explore the wonders above and below the sea.
Places to explore
Dive Activity
Diving in Al Madinah Region
The Al Madinah Region in Saudi Arabia, bordering the Red Sea, offers an array of captivating dive sites cherished by underwater enthusiasts. Among the notable wreck dives, the Abu Madafi Wreck stands out, presenting a historical vessel encrusted with vibrant corals and teeming with marine life, offering a haunting yet beautiful exploration experience.
For shore diving, Yanbu’s coast is popular, providing easy access to colorful coral reefs and diverse marine species. Unique underwater experiences include night dives where divers can witness nocturnal marine behaviors, adding an element of mystery and thrill. The region offers a balanced mix of shore and liveaboard diving, catering to both casual divers and those seeking extended adventures at sea.
Top Wildlife Sightings in Al Madinah Region
The Al Madinah Region boasts a rich variety of marine life, making it a popular destination for divers. Among the vibrant coral reefs, divers can commonly encounter species such as angelfish, butterflyfish, and parrotfish, creating a colorful underwater tapestry. The reefs thrive with life, offering divers a chance to observe these species throughout the year.
Seasonal highlights include sightings of sharks, turtles, and rays. Shark species like the whitetip reef shark and occasionally the hammerhead shark can be spotted, particularly during the cooler months. Green and hawksbill turtles are frequently seen gliding through the waters year-round, while eagle rays make seasonal appearances, adding to the region's allure. The likelihood of encountering these majestic creatures varies but is generally favorable in known diving spots, especially during peak seasons.
Wildlife Sightings are Based on User Generated Content
Shutterstock-Shane Myers Photography
Green Turtle
92 Sightings
J
3
F
1
M
0
A
0
M
0
J
16
J
18
A
34
S
18
O
1
N
0
D
1
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 200
Alamy-WaterFrame
Moray Eel
46 Sightings
J
0
F
2
M
4
A
0
M
3
J
2
J
7
A
0
S
14
O
12
N
0
D
2
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 27
iStock-Global_Pics
Barracuda
40 Sightings
J
0
F
0
M
4
A
5
M
10
J
0
J
12
A
0
S
0
O
9
N
0
D
0
iStock-crisod
Reef Manta Ray
10 Sightings
J
0
F
0
M
0
A
0
M
1
J
7
J
0
A
0
S
2
O
0
N
0
D
0
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 12
iStock/cinoby
Lionfish
153 Sightings
J
0
F
0
M
4
A
0
M
21
J
26
J
33
A
22
S
26
O
9
N
11
D
1
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 28
Udo Kefrig
Clownfish
120 Sightings
J
0
F
0
M
0
A
11
M
14
J
19
J
12
A
18
S
28
O
16
N
0
D
2
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 130
Shutterstock_Krzysztof Odziomek
Butterfly Fish
64 Sightings
J
0
F
0
M
0
A
0
M
0
J
13
J
22
A
0
S
20
O
8
N
0
D
1
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 90
Shutterstock-Rich Carey
Angelfish
54 Sightings
J
0
F
0
M
0
A
0
M
0
J
11
J
12
A
10
S
13
O
8
N
0
D
0
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 100
iStock-burnsboxco
Parrotfish
38 Sightings
J
0
F
0
M
0
A
0
M
0
J
1
J
0
A
10
S
11
O
16
N
0
D
0
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 80
iStock/Extreme-Photographer
Stingrays
35 Sightings
J
0
F
9
M
0
A
0
M
6
J
7
J
0
A
0
S
9
O
3
N
0
D
1
The best Months to Dive in Al Madinah Region
Al Madinah Region offers diverse diving conditions throughout the year, with its Red Sea coastline providing a rich underwater experience. Water temperatures range from 23°C–29°C/73°F–84°F, making diving possible year-round. Visibility can often reach up to 30 meters/98 feet, offering clear views of the vibrant marine life.
During the winter months, divers may experience cooler temperatures and occasional winds, which can affect surface conditions. However, these winds are typically not strong enough to heavily impact underwater visibility. The most favorable diving conditions are from late spring to early autumn, when water temperatures are warmer, and winds are generally calmer.
