The waters around the UAE are rich in a variety of marine and coral life as well as several submerged wrecks (some deliberately sunk to form offshore reefs). It is possible to dive all year round in the warm seas. In addition to exotic fish, such as clownfish and seahorses, you can see barracuda, spotted eagle rays, moray eels, small sharks, stingrays, sea turtles, and more.
There are plenty of local dive companies offering all levels of courses, from introductory dives to more advanced diving techniques. All of the companies are certified by one of the international training organisations, such as CMAS, PADI or NAUI.
Many good dive sites are easily accessible from Abu Dhabi, including wreck or deep-water dives and reef dives. The Old Cement Barge is an interesting shallow dive, while the most popular deep dive sites are at Hannan, MS Jazim and MS Lion City. If you want to explore further around the UAE, the east coast is especially popular and is home to some stunning marine life. Most dive companies also organise trips to Musandam, the spectacular Omani enclave north of the UAE. For further information on diving in the UAE and Musandam, refer to the UAE Underwater Explorer, available at bookshops.
Snorkelling equipment is available for hire at most hotels or dive centres. The Blue Dolphin Company in the Raha Beach Hotel runs organised half-day excursions for Dhs.350 per person (02 666 9392). Alternatively you can hire a car and take a trip to Snoopy Island near the Sandy Beach Hotel in Dibba (where you can hire snorkelling gear). Located on the UAE’s east coast it is one of the best locations for snorkelling and diving.
