Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province is certainly not as well known as the Red Sea Coast for diving and snorkelling, but the warm waters of the Arabian Gulf abound with interesting sea life including turtles, dolphins and several species of shark, alongside extensive coral reefs. A shipping route for millennia, both the shallow and deeper waters off the coast feature numerous wrecks but, again, not nearly as many as on the Red Sea Coast.
There is a reliable diving infrastructure in Dammam, mostly concentrated around Half Moon Bay and the expatriate compounds, as well as at dive shops in Jubail. Operators offer plenty of options for everyone from beginners to seasoned divers, and several offer PADI courses.
1. Half Moon Bay
One of the most accessible and family-friendly diving locations in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province, Half Moon Bay offers calm, shallow waters ideal for snorkelling and beginner divers. It is known for its pristine beaches and is a favourite spot for locals and tourists alike – as well as coral reefs there are also sunken cars and under-water cement structures for training.
There are small coral formations here and vibrant marine life, and you can expect to see groupers, stingrays and sharks. Local operators provide equipment rental, and dive shops in Dammam offer guided boat trips to deeper parts of the bay.
2. Jubail Coral Reefs
A favourite spot for local dive enthusiasts, Jubail is an hour's drive north of Dammam and boasts extensive and healthy coral reefs which are home to a wide variety of marine species, from angelfish and parrotfish to small sharks. It is also home to one of Saudi Arabia’s nicest beaches, Al-Fanateer. There are two reefs for divers here: Fanateer Reef and Jana Reef.
Dive operators in Dammam organise trips to this site, offering both full-day and half-day packages. Snorkellers can enjoy the clear, shallow waters near the shoreline, while more advanced divers can explore deeper parts of the reef. The relative inaccessibility of Jubail compared to the dive spots in Dammam means you may well have it to yourself.
3. Jana and Karan Island
These remote islands benefit from both extremely healthy coral and abundant marine life, including sea turtles, reef sharks, and schools of tropical fish. Snorkellers can concentrate on the shallow waters close to Jana Island, where the sea is calm, while divers head into deeper water and to Karan Island, which is home to rare green turtles. Trips to the islands are offered from operators and boat hire companies in Dammam.
4. Tarout Island
Tarout Island is not only a prime diving spot but also rich in history. Its waters are shallow enough for beginner snorkelers to explore, with coral reefs and small fish abundant in the area.
For divers, the deeper regions around the island offer sightings of rays and moray eels. Many diving enthusiasts consider this location a hidden gem due to its relative obscurity compared to more well-known spots like Half Moon Bay. Local operators often offer boat trips to Tarout, complete with gear rental and guided tours, with some also taking in Uqair Beach.
5. Palm Beach Resort
Located close to Half Moon Bay, Palm Beach Resort offers a range of water sports including snorkelling and diving. The resort's private beach offers calm, shallow waters, ideal for those new to snorkelling or families with children.
While the marine life here isn’t as diverse as at other more remote locations, it’s a great option for those looking for a convenient, beginner-friendly experience. The resort also offers dive certification courses, and you can rent equipment directly on-site, making it a hassle-free option for tourists. PADI-certified operators run regular snorkelling and diving tours for guests.
6. Al Nakheel Beach
Al Nakheel Beach is a popular spot for free snorkelling, being both easy to get to and having shallow, calm waters. It is a public area, so there are no formal diving operators on-site – visitors will need to bring their own snorkelling gear. This beach is well-maintained and is a popular choice for locals and tourists on the weekend.
Practical tips for snorkelling and diving in Dammam
Best time to visit: The best time for snorkelling and diving in Dammam is between October and April, when water conditions are optimal and visibility is at its peak.
Diving operators: Top dive centres in the area include Dammam Dive Center and Bateel Diver, both of which are recommended by PADI Travel for offering comprehensive packages, including training and equipment rentals.
Costs: Diving prices in Dammam vary depending on the location and operator, ranging from SAR 200 to SAR 500 per dive. Snorkelling tours are more affordable, with prices starting at around SAR 100.
Accessibility: Many of the dive and snorkel sites mentioned can be reached by car or boat from Dammam, with local operators providing transportation to more remote spots.
