Abu Ramada

Image credit: Wikimedia Commons

Overview

Abu Ramada is a prominent, oval-shaped reef structure located south of the main Hurghada coastline in the Egyptian Red Sea. Within the local diving community, the site is widely referred to as “The Aquarium.” This moniker is entirely justified by the sheer density and staggering variety of reef fish that swarm around the site’s dramatic coral formations.

The reef system is divided into two primary diving zones: Abu Ramada North and Abu Ramada South, each offering a slightly different topographical profile. The site features shallow plateaus, steep drop-offs, and several large coral pinnacles (ergs) detached from the main reef wall. Because the southern side offers a sheltered, shallow plateau, it is highly regarded as one of the best places to learn basic underwater photography and buoyancy control. Dive operators frequently use the calmer sections of the reef for students completing their open water course.

The Dive Experience

Diving at Abu Ramada is conducted from the large, comfortable daily boats that operate out of the Hurghada marinas. The transit time is typically 60 to 90 minutes, providing divers with a relaxing cruise before arriving at the site.

The dive profile is highly versatile, depending on the specific drop point. Dives on the southern plateau generally follow a relaxed, multi-level profile, exploring the coral gardens at a leisurely pace with minimal current. Conversely, diving the northern wall or the outer eastern edge often involves a mild to moderate drift dive, where divers descend into the current and allow it to carry them past the steep drop-offs. Water temperatures vary significantly with the seasons. Divers must check a travel and packing guide for the Red Sea; a 5mm wetsuit and hood are highly recommended between January and March, while a 3mm shorty is adequate in August and September.

What You’ll See

The defining characteristic of Abu Ramada is the extraordinary concentration of marine life. The towering coral pinnacles and sections of the main wall are completely smothered in vibrant pink, purple, and orange soft corals (Dendronephthya). The visual impact is magnified by the thousands of bright orange sea goldies (Anthias) that dance nervously in the gentle currents just above the coral heads.

The site provides excellent opportunities for observing classic Red Sea species. Giant moray eels (Gymnothorax javanicus) are frequently seen peering out from deep crevices in the hard coral. Blue-spotted ribbontail rays are common on the sandy patches between the pinnacles.

The area is also highly populated by various species of butterflyfish, bannerfish, and the ever-present lionfish (Pterois volitans), which often hover motionless under coral overhangs during the day. For macro enthusiasts with a keen eye, the coral blocks hide various species of nudibranchs, flatworms, and occasionally well-camouflaged stonefish or crocodilefish resting on the bottom.

Planning Your Dive

Because of its spectacular visuals and varying profiles, Abu Ramada is one of the most frequently visited sites by Hurghada day boats. It can become crowded, particularly during the peak European holiday seasons in autumn and spring. All diving activities are subject to the environmental regulations promoted by HEPCA, a local NGO dedicated to preserving the Red Sea. Divers are required to practice excellent buoyancy control to avoid damaging the delicate soft corals and must never touch or harass the marine life.