Jeddah
Jeddah is one of the most popular dive destinations in Saudi Arabia and you will be able to see something new every day.
© Shutterstock/Osama Ahmed Mansour
The Makkah Region offers a unique diving experience along the stunning Red Sea coastline, with its rich marine biodiversity and intriguing underwater landscapes. Diving here reveals vibrant coral reefs teeming with a kaleidoscope of marine life, from playful dolphins to schools of colorful fish and graceful sea turtles. The region is dotted with exceptional dive sites, particularly in Jeddah, where both beginners and experienced divers can explore a range of environments, including mesmerizing reefs, intriguing shipwrecks, and even the remains of a 17th-century Portuguese fleet. Jeddah, often regarded as the diving capital of Saudi Arabia, is an ideal base for exploring the underwater wonders of the Makkah Region. The city's dive spots offer a mix of shore and boat dives, catering to various skill levels. Rabigh is another must-visit location, known for the almost untouched Five Sisters Reef, which promises breathtaking underwater vistas. The region's warm waters, ranging from 23°C–30°C/73°F–86°F year-round, ensure a comfortable diving experience, making it a prime destination for divers seeking both adventure and tranquility beneath the waves.
The Makkah Region offers diverse diving experiences that attract both novice and seasoned divers. Notable dive sites include the Boiler Wreck, an intriguing site teeming with marine life, which provides a fascinating glimpse into history for wreck enthusiasts. For those interested in shore dives, Al Lith is a popular choice, known for its vibrant coral reefs and rich biodiversity. The region also boasts unique underwater experiences like night dives, where divers can witness nocturnal marine life behaviors. Options are well-balanced between shore and liveaboard diving, allowing divers to tailor their adventures to personal preferences. The blend of historical wrecks and thriving marine ecosystems makes the Makkah Region a must-visit for dive travelers seeking diverse underwater exploration.
The Makkah Region offers year-round diving opportunities, with its coastal proximity to the Red Sea. Water temperatures range from 24°C–30°C/75°F–86°F, providing comfortable conditions for divers. Visibility is typically excellent, often exceeding 20 meters/66 feet, allowing for clear views of the vibrant marine life and coral reefs.
While diving is possible throughout the year, the best conditions are found between October and May, when water temperatures are cooler and humidity is lower. During the summer months, higher temperatures and occasional strong winds may affect surface conditions and visibility. However, currents remain generally mild, making it suitable for divers of varying experience levels.
The Makkah Region, located along the Red Sea coast, offers vibrant marine life, featuring coral reefs teeming with diverse species. Common reef fish include butterflyfish, angelfish, and parrotfish, which are frequently spotted by divers throughout the year. These colorful species contribute to the dynamic underwater ecosystem, providing an enjoyable experience for those exploring the reefs.
Seasonal highlights include sightings of larger marine creatures such as sharks, turtles, and rays. Hammerhead sharks are occasionally spotted during cooler months, while green sea turtles are more commonly seen in warmer waters. Stingrays, including the blue-spotted ribbontail ray, are often encountered near sandy bottoms. The likelihood of encountering these species varies with the season and specific dive locations, with certain areas known for more frequent sightings during peak times.
Wildlife Sightings are Based on User Generated Content
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 200
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 27
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 300
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 28
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 12
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 90
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 100
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 130
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 80
Curated by Interest
Mares
Aqualung
Shutterstock-Zi Magine
Mares-Predrag Vuckovic
Scubapro
Shutterstock-Ethan Daniels
Mares-Predrag Vuckovic
Mares-Bjoern Dorstewit
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