Umluj is a scattering of more than 100 white-sand coral islands off Saudi Arabia's northwest Red Sea coast (Tabuk Province), so luminous and turquoise that it's known as the "Saudi Maldives." A fringing reef holding roughly 200-300 coral species and over 1,200 fish species runs right up to shore in just 1-3 metres of water, so even beginners can wade in from the beach to see clownfish, parrotfish and lionfish, with visibility reaching 30-40 metres on calm days. Green and hawksbill turtles are common and dugongs graze the nearby seagrass beds. As of 2026 the wider Red Sea Project is rapidly improving access and tours, though on-the-ground facilities are still growing.
Al Alhasi Beach: a beginner-friendly walk-in where the fringing reef runs parallel to shore in just 1-3 m of water
Umm Sahar Island: the classic half-day boat-tour stop, with shallow coral, resident green turtles and the occasional dugong
Jabal Hassan Island's north face and Jazirat Barda: clearer, deeper water ideal for wall topography and underwater photography
Island-hopping by boat from Umluj marina across 100-plus white-sand coral islands
A reef of ~200-300 coral and 1,200+ fish species, with seasonal chances at manta rays and dolphins
Good to know
SafetyThis is an open archipelago: currents, wind and tides can push you toward open water. Don't snorkel alone, carry a buoy or float, and constantly watch for boats and jet-skis moving between the islands. Beginners should check gear before entering to avoid mask fogging and panic, and shouldn't overreach.
SafetyContact hazards include camouflaged stonefish, lionfish, sea urchins and fire coral. Never touch or stand on coral or the bottom; wear reef shoes and a rash guard. For a sting or puncture, immerse the wound in water as hot as you can tolerate (about 42-45C) for 30-90 minutes and seek medical care if severe.
SeasonBest season is October to May, when the water is roughly 24-30C, seas are calm and visibility is good. June-September brings extreme heat, harsh UV and poorer visibility and is best avoided. Red Sea jellyfish are usually mild, but a rash guard is sensible protection.
RulesTouching or standing on coral, feeding fish, and collecting shells or coral are prohibited and enforced in protected areas. Offshore islands must be reached through a licensed local operator. Use reef-safe sunscreen or cover up with a rash guard instead of standard sunscreen.
MannersKeep a respectful distance from turtles and dugongs; never chase or feed them. Staying off the coral itself is the basic rule for protecting the reef.
MannersSaudi Arabia has conservative dress norms. On public beaches, modest swimwear such as a one-piece, rash guard or burkini is expected (some beaches have women-only sections), and you should cover up with a sarong or top once out of the water. Private resorts are more relaxed, but standards vary by property.
CautionWatch for unlicensed boat operators and inflated prices; confirm licensing and compare rates beforehand. Local gear rental is limited and quality varies, so bring a well-fitting mask or rent in Jeddah before you go.
Practical info
It's about a 4-5 hour drive from Jeddah along the coastal highway, and most islands are reached by boat tour from Umluj marina. Al Alhasi Beach can be entered on foot, though some stretches ban boats to protect the coral. Offshore islands require a licensed tour; group and charter prices, operating hours and gear availability change often, so confirm the latest details before booking.
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