Ras Al Akhdar

·Beginner·Abu Dhabi, Arabian Gulf, United Arab Emirates

Illustrative image, not this exact site

Ras Al Akhdar

Beginner·Abu Dhabi, Arabian Gulf, United Arab Emirates

Illustrative image, not this exact site

Best for beginner divers, 5-30m, shore entry, strong current.

About This Site

Ras Al Akhdar is a shore-entry reef dive located off the Abu Dhabi coastline. The site features depths ranging from 5 to 30 metres, with an average depth of 25 metres. Divers should be prepared for strong currents and variable visibility, which typically fluctuates between 10 and 25 metres. Due to active boat traffic, the use of a surface marker buoy is essential before ascending. Facilities at the site include parking, toilets, showers, changing rooms, and a cafe. While rated for beginners, the site requires an Open Water certification. Water temperatures vary significantly throughout the year, ranging from 21C in February to 33C in July and September.

Open in Google Maps

24.46638, 54.30278

Local Tips

Boat traffic is an active hazard at this site, so deploy a surface marker buoy before ascending and stay aware throughout your safety stop. The site has parking, toilets, showers, changing rooms, and a cafe on hand, making it a comfortable day trip without needing to bring everything from home.

Access

You can park reasonably close to the side of the water.

Hazards

Boat Traffic
Low Visibility
Mild Current

Wildlife Sightings

Recorded at this site

Groupers

Green Sea Turtle

Loggerhead Sea Turtle

Blacktip Reef Shark

Common Blacktip Shark

Great Barracuda

Gorgonian

Smalltooth Sawfish

Redtooth Triggerfish

Get to know this site

Depth

5-30m

Visibility

10-25m

Skill Level

Beginner

Entry

Shore

Water Temp

21-33°C

Current

Strong

Best Time

Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct

Dive sites nearby

Abu Dhabi Breakwater

Abu Dhabi Breakwater is a shallow reef dive site located in the United Arab Emirates, offering a consistent depth of 7 metres. This site is suitable for beginner divers seeking calm conditions, as the current is typically mild. Visibility at the site ranges from 5 to 10 metres, allowing for close inspection of the reef structure. Water temperatures fluctuate between 22C and 34C throughout the year, generally requiring only a thin wetsuit or shorty. Access to the site is by boat. Divers should wear protective footwear on the boat and avoid contact with the seabed, as the reef contains sharp coral and rocks.

EA Artificial Reef

EA Artificial Reef is a man-made underwater structure located in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Designed for environmental conservation and marine ecosystem restoration, the site provides shelter and habitat for marine life. The reef is accessible by boat and is suitable for beginner divers. Depths at the site reach up to 10 metres. Divers should be aware that conditions can vary, with potential hazards including low visibility and strong currents. Water temperatures fluctuate throughout the year, ranging from 21C in February to 34C during the summer months from July to September.

Old Cement Barge

(3.0)

Old Cement Barge is a 25-metre long artificial reef located approximately 2000 metres from the shore in Abu Dhabi. The wreck sits at an average depth of 11 metres, with a total depth range of 10 to 14 metres. The structure consists of an open barge containing cement bags, measuring 4 metres in beam and 4 metres in depth. Access to this site is by boat only. Divers should be aware of moderate currents and potential boat traffic in the area. Visibility at the site typically ranges between 5 and 15 metres, making it suitable for intermediate divers.

Hairat Yas

Hairat Yas is a shallow shore-entry reef site located in Abu Dhabi. The site is suitable for newly certified divers looking to build comfort and practice buoyancy in a low-pressure environment. Water temperatures fluctuate significantly throughout the year, ranging from 22C in winter to 34C in summer, requiring appropriate thermal protection. Visibility and currents are variable, so it is recommended to check local conditions before visiting. As a shallow reef, it provides a straightforward experience for those seeking to develop their skills in a coastal setting.

Frequently asked questions

The site has depths ranging from 5 to 30 metres, with an average depth of 25 metres.

Yes, the site is rated for beginners, though it requires an Open Water certification and divers must be prepared for strong currents.

Ras Al Akhdar is a shore-entry dive site.

The main hazards include strong currents, variable visibility, and active boat traffic. Divers should deploy a surface marker buoy before ascending.

The site provides parking, toilets, showers, changing rooms, and an on-site cafe.

Diving at Ras Al Akhdar in Abu Dhabi requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.

The best months to visit Ras Al Akhdar in Abu Dhabi are April, May, June, July, August, September, and October. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.

Ras Al Akhdar in Abu Dhabi can have strong currents. Advanced experience with drift diving and current navigation is recommended.

Visibility at Ras Al Akhdar in Abu Dhabi typically ranges from 10 metres to 25 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.