This dive site, Shaab Alaya, is a captivating wall dive typically explored in a northerly direction. The reef structure features a beautiful drop-off that descends from a shallow 2 meters down to 17 meters, providing diverse topography for exploration. The stone wall is adorned with countless vibrant hard and soft corals, creating a rich and intricate underwater landscape. Navigation primarily involves following the reef wall, allowing divers to appreciate the abundant life thriving within its crevices and along its face.
Shaab Alaya boasts a rich diversity of marine life. Within the intricate structure of the reef, divers can discover a plethora of small marine creatures, making it an excellent spot for macro photography. In the expansive blue water just off the reef, there is a high possibility of encountering larger pelagic species. Regular sightings include graceful dolphins, majestic whale sharks (seasonally), and various species of turtles that frequently pass by the area. The coral gardens themselves host numerous reef fish species.
The site is generally suitable for diving year-round, with the best time to visit for potential whale shark sightings typically varying with seasons (e.g., spring/early summer or autumn for the Red Sea). Its accessible depth profile, starting shallow, makes it ideal for both scuba divers and freedivers looking to explore the vibrant drop-off and reef top. Snorkelers will also find the shallow parts of the reef highly rewarding. Divers should be prepared for potential drift due to the northerly diving direction and keep an eye out into the blue for passing pelagics.
