About this spot
Shaab Umm Gamar sits in Egypt's Red Sea, a reef system accessible to divers throughout the year. The site hosts healthy coral with no recorded bleaching stress, making it a stable choice for repeat visits. With 12 species observations documented and 3 community videos available, the site has modest but genuine local diving activity. The reef structure supports diverse marine life typical of Red Sea conditions. Divers visiting the site contribute observations that help track the health and species composition of the reef over time. Community video documentation provides real conditions and fish behavior for planning your dive. Access and logistics depend on your base—most Red Sea dive operations run trips to popular shaabs (reefs) from coastal towns. Conditions remain diveable year-round in the Red Sea, though winter months (November–March) typically offer cooler water and calmer seas. Summer months bring warmer water but occasionally stronger winds and currents. This is a site for divers who value healthy coral and a less-crowded alternative to major Red Sea hotspots. Bring a camera or join the community by sharing your observations and video.
📖 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 · 48%
- 🤿 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 Shaab Umm Gamar?
Year-round diving is possible. Winter (November–March) offers cooler water and calmer conditions; summer brings warmer water but occasional strong wind and current.
›What depth and difficulty should I expect?
Specific depth and difficulty ratings are not documented for this site. Check with local operators before booking to confirm conditions and required experience level.
›What marine life will I see?
The site supports 12 recorded species observations. Expect typical Red Sea reef fish and coral fauna. Watch community videos to see real sightings before your visit.
›Do I need permits or special access?
Shaab Umm Gamar is not inside a Marine Protected Area. Dive it through licensed Red Sea operators in nearby coastal towns. Check current regulations with local authorities before traveling.
