Abu Dabbab is a shallow, horseshoe-shaped bay about 30 km north of Marsa Alam on Egypt's Red Sea coast. Fringing reefs on either side block the wind and swell, keeping the surface calm and visibility around 20 m (up to 30 m in autumn), so snorkelers can drift over vast seagrass meadows alongside the bay's resident giant green sea turtles — one of the most reliable turtle encounters in the Red Sea. The endangered dugong (sea cow) occasionally grazes here (sightings are rare and never guaranteed), and you may also spot giant guitarfish, rays and squid. As of 2026 the bay is a protected marine park with an entrance fee and strict no-touch wildlife rules; it is beginner-friendly by beach entry, but crowds and boat traffic call for care.
Resident giant green sea turtles grazing the seagrass — among the Red Sea's most dependable turtle encounters
A rare chance to see the endangered dugong (sightings are uncommon and not guaranteed)
Giant guitarfish, bluespotted rays and squid among varied marine life
A calm, wind-sheltered shallow bay you can wade into straight from the beach
Reefs at both ends of the bay leading to a drop-off outside (steep from about 18–20 m)
Peak clarity in autumn (roughly September–October), with visibility up to 30 m
Good to know
SafetyThe inner bay is shallow and calm, but beyond the reef a steep drop-off and deeper water with currents begin around 18–20 m. Beginners should stay inside the bay, carry a float/buoy, and never snorkel alone. Conditions change fast in wind, rain or rough sea.
SafetyCamouflaged tasseled scorpionfish (stonefish family) and lionfish, electric (torpedo) rays, moray eels and sea urchins live on the bottom. Do not stand on or touch the sand or seagrass, and wear fins — stings and shocks can be serious.
SafetyDive boats and dugong-spotting speedboats operate inside the bay and can't easily see a snorkeler at the surface — wear bright colors and stay clear of boat lanes. Watch for mask fogging and panic, and for chilling or sunburn on long swims.
RulesAbu Dabbab is a protected marine park (national park) with an entrance fee (roughly USD 5–20 / EUR 20 per person; confirm current rates). Never step on or stand on coral or seagrass, and use reef-safe sunscreen.
MannersKeep at least 4 m from turtles and dugongs and never touch, ride, chase or feed them ('No Touch, No Chase'). Don't block their path — leave them a clear route to surface and breathe.
SeasonSnorkeling is possible year-round, but visibility is best in late spring (around May–June) and autumn (September–October); water is about 23–29°C. Coral sits shallow at low tide, and you should stay out in strong wind or rough sea.
CautionBe wary of 'guaranteed dugong' sales pitches and unlicensed guides. Park fees, gear rental and tour prices can be marked up, so confirm current rates before booking.
Practical info
Abu Dabbab is a 30–40 minute drive from Marsa Alam town and Marsa Alam International Airport (RMF), reached on a full-day tour (transfers, park fee, gear and guide) or by beach entry at nearby resorts. Visibility peaks in late spring and autumn, a marine-park entrance fee applies, and you should verify fees, tour terms and access before you go.
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