A diverse marine life and the world’s fourth largest barrier coral reef system magically meet under the Kingdom’s waters. And Jeddah particularly offers an extraordinary realm beneath its crystal clear offerings.
An aquatic haven teeming with biodiversity and natural beauty, the Red Sea here harbours more than 300 vibrant coral species and over 1,000 varieties of fish, creating a rainbow of colours on display.
Among Jeddah’s most famous sites is Sharm Obhur, a protected marine reserve offering stunning reef life. Going under here might see you gliding along with sea turtles, lionfish, eels, clownfish, and the elusive bull shark in deeper sections, while night dives reveal different nocturnal sea creatures. Further afield, Jabal Al Lith Island offers remote diving with excellent visibility, abundant reef fish, and even seasonal visits from whale sharks.
The series of five coral atolls offshore from Rabigh, aptly named Five Sisters Reef, will treat you to more vivid and thriving reefs. The untouched area features a range of underwater delights and marine life, from mantas to hammerheads and steep walls to anemone beds.
As well as the plentiful marine life, there are plenty of mysterious shipwrecks to discover around Jeddah. The Ann Ann wreck is now blanketed in corals and home to snappers, rays, goatfish, tuna, and white tip reef sharks.
Nearby, at the Cable Wreck at Abu Tair Reef you’ll find resident guitarfish, blue-spotted rays, white tip sharks, and colourful schools of snapper. Additionally, the Boiler Wreck and others nearby add coral covered structures for experienced divers to explore, with manta rays, bonito, and other pelagics appearing.
The nation’s impressive underwater ecosystem is no accident. Local dive operators champion reef-safe practices and national initiatives like the Protection of Underwater Cultural Heritage Center help preserve sites for future generations.
