About this spot
Sha'ab Samadai, known locally as Dolphin House, sits off Marsa Alam on Egypt's Red Sea coast. This shallow reef system runs 5–25 metres deep, making it accessible to newly certified divers and snorkelers alike. The site earns its nickname from regular visits by spinner dolphins, which rest and hunt in the protected waters. Morning boat rides from Marsa Alam typically reach the site in under two hours. The reef structure supports healthy coral gardens and schools of reef fish. Expect encounters with fusiliers, snappers, emperors, and occasional rays gliding over sandy patches. The shallower sections (5–12m) provide ample light for photography and suit skill-building. Deeper coral heads and walls reach toward 25 metres for divers wanting to extend bottom time and explore varied terrain. Dive operators throughout Marsa Alam run daily trips to Sha'ab Samadai. The site operates year-round, though sea conditions and dolphin sightings vary by season. Entry is straightforward—most descents begin from the boat over sand or rubble, sloping gradually to reef walls. Surge can pick up in winter months, so check with local operators before booking. This dive suits beginners building confidence in open water and intermediate divers seeking relaxed reef exploration. The combination of dolphins, accessible depths, and stable marine life makes Sha'ab Samadai a popular choice for families and groups new to Red Sea diving.
📖 Guide: Diving in Egypt: 258 Sites From Wrecks to Hammerheads
Best months
Marine life
Dive types
Trip essentials
Everything you need before you pack — checklist, sun, logistics.
Trip checklist
- 🛂 Visa-free or visa-on-arrival
- 🤿 Pack: 3/2 mm shorty
- 📜 C-card + dive insurance (DAN)
- 📔 Dive logbook
- 🧴 Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50+
- 🔌 Plug type C/F · 220V adapter
- 💊 Seasickness meds + ear drops
- 📱 Offline maps + emergency contact
Quick facts
- 🌓 Moon First quarter · 47%
- 🤿 Wetsuit 3/2 mm shorty
- GPS
› Sustainability disclosures
From your departure country
- Visa: Visa on arrival · 30 days max
- Flight: 8h · direct
- Jet-lag: 7h east · 5 days recovery
FAQ
›When is the best time to dive Sha'ab Samadai?
The site operates year-round. Calmer sea conditions and clearer water typically favour spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). Winter can bring stronger winds and surge. Check local operator forecasts before booking.
›What depth and difficulty suits this dive?
Depths range 5–25 metres, making it beginner-friendly. Most of the reef lies in the 10–20m band, ideal for newly certified and intermediate divers. Shallow sections above 12m are perfect for building skills.
›What marine life will we see?
Spinner dolphins are the star attraction, often resting in the area. Reef fish include fusiliers, snappers, emperors, and groupers. Rays and small sharks frequent sandy zones. Coral gardens support nudibranchs and smaller invertebrates.
›How do I access Sha'ab Samadai and do I need permits?
Daily dive boats depart from Marsa Alam, a major Red Sea resort town. Journey time is usually 1.5–2 hours. Book through local dive operators; they handle logistics and any local requirements. No special permits are needed for recreational diving.
