Scuba Diving Saudi Arabia: Exploring the Untouched Reefs of the Farasan Banks with Sea to Sky

In April 2025, Sea to Sky Experiences set sail on an unforgettable scuba diving expedition into one of the Red Sea’s most pristine and least explored regions – the Farasan Banks, off the southern coast of Saudi Arabia.

Aboard the liveaboard vessel Almonda, our international group of divers – including guests from Europe, Egypt, the UAE, and a large contingent from France led by Sharky of Deco Divers – spent six incredible days immersed in the rich underwater world of this hidden gem. It was liveaboard diving at its absolute best: remote, rewarding, and full of surprises.

👉 Interested in joining our next trip? Explore our Saudi Arabia liveaboard dive adventures or contact us for availability and upcoming dates.

Our adventure kicked off on April 19th with a late-night arrival in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia’s gateway to the Red Sea. After clearing immigration and gathering our dive gear, we journeyed south by minibus to the coastal port town of Al-Lith. The desert landscape gave way to the sea, and soon we were boarding Almonda, our comfortable and well-equipped base for the week ahead.

Excitement buzzed through the group as we prepared for six full days of diving in some of the Red Sea’s most vibrant and untouched dive sites.

🐠 April 20 – Aramco Reef
Our first underwater encounter was at Aramco Reef, a spectacular introduction to the Farasan Banks. With crystal-clear visibility, thriving coral gardens, and an abundance of reef fish, this dive set the tone for what was to come. Fusiliers, parrotfish, and even a few curious reef sharks welcomed us to the depths.

🦈 April 21 – Dreams Island and Hammerheads
On day two, Dreams Island lived up to its name. Drifting into the blue, we encountered a small school of hammerhead sharks, a breathtaking and humbling sight. Barracudas swirled in shimmering formations, while the reef buzzed with anthias, wrasses, and the occasional lurking grouper.

🌊 April 22 – Qad Humais and Dreams Revisited
We began the day at Qad Humais, a deeper site known for dramatic coral walls and potential pelagic encounters. Silky sharks appeared like shadows at the edge of our visibility. Later, a return to Dreams Island delivered more incredible reef life, with eagle rays, turtles, and inquisitive moray eels all making appearances.

🌺 April 23 – Malathu, Long Reef, and Dohra
Three diverse dive sites defined our fourth day. Malathu was a macro lover’s paradise, with soft corals and fascinating critters. Long Reef offered thrilling drift dives, while Dohra treated us to canyon swim-throughs, resting reef sharks, and stunning reef architecture.

🐟 April 24 – Ammar, Mudar, and Poppy Reefs
We started at Ammar Reef, with its expansive coral plateaus and relaxed reef sharks cruising the edges. At Mudar Reef, a hunting frenzy of trevallies stirred the waters, and by the time we reached Poppy Reef, we were enjoying a peaceful, shallow dive over fields of staghorn coral.

🐬 April 25 – Malathu Revisited and Canyon Reef Finale
Our final day began with a magical surprise – a pod of dolphins near the boat. Though they didn’t join us underwater, the moment was unforgettable. We ended at Canyon Reef, with cathedral-like coral corridors bathed in light, an awe-inspiring finale to an extraordinary week.

When we weren’t diving, Almonda offered everything we needed for a relaxed and social experience. The crew were fantastic, the food was a delicious fusion of Middle Eastern and Western dishes, and the sun deck provided the perfect spot for post-dive chill-outs and evening chats under the stars.

We celebrated Sharky’s birthday with a show-stopping cake crafted by the onboard chef and even squeezed in a night dive for those who wanted a final taste of the Red Sea’s nocturnal magic.

For many on board, this was a first-time scuba diving trip to Saudi Arabia, and it won’t be the last. The Farasan Banks, located along the remote southern coast, are a diver’s dream: rich in biodiversity, rarely visited, and absolutely bursting with potential.

With minimal boat traffic, flourishing coral systems, and frequent sightings of big marine life, Saudi Arabia is quickly emerging as a must-visit destination for divers looking for something new and authentic.

👉 Want to be part of the next expedition? Contact our team to check availability, reserve your spot, or ask us anything about diving in Saudi Arabia.

As we returned to Jeddah – sun-kissed, salt-covered, and soul-satisfied – we reflected on what made this trip so special. It wasn’t just the sharks, the reefs, or the visibility. It was the sense of discovery, the camaraderie, and the feeling that we were part of something new.

At Sea to Sky, we believe in diving deeper, not just underwater, but into culture, connection, and community. If you’re ready for a Red Sea dive holiday that takes you far from the crowds and deep into the unknown, join us. Scuba diving in Saudi Arabia is calling, and we’d love to show you what it’s all about.

Ready to dive the unspoiled reefs of Saudi Arabia? Whether you’re curious about dates or ready to book, we’re here to help you start planning your Red Sea adventure.