Al Fahal East

The eastern face of Al Fahal reef in the southern Saudi Red Sea — a current-exposed wall where open-ocean influence produces dense fish aggregations and shark activity in a stretch of reef receiving minimal diver traffic.

Overview

Al Fahal East is the eastern-facing dive site on the Al Fahal reef system at approximately 22.29°N, 38.97°E in the southern Saudi Red Sea. Al Fahal is a significant reef system in this latitude range — the name (الفحل — “the stallion”) suggests prominent natural geography. The eastern face of any reef in this zone receives the prevailing current and open-ocean exposure, which drives the high fish productivity that characterises Al Fahal’s eastern section. The reef system spans three designated dive sites: East, North, and South. This is specialist regional territory, accessed by Saudi-licensed operators or specialist liveaboards with appropriate clearances.

Site Information

• Location: Al Fahal reef, eastern face, southern Saudi Red Sea (~22.29°N, 38.97°E)
• Entry Type: Boat dive
• Site Type: Reef
• Difficulty Level: Intermediate
• Maximum Depth: 20 meters
• Typical Visibility: 20–35 meters
• Current: Moderate to strong on the exposed eastern face
• Best Time: October to May

Marine Life

The current-swept eastern face produces concentrations of schooling fish: barracuda schools, jack schools, and fusiliers in the open water. Grey reef sharks patrol the outer reef edge. The hard coral coverage on the exposed eastern face is in excellent condition — this reef has seen minimal bleaching pressure relative to the heavily-dived northern Red Sea. Large groupers in the deeper sections of the wall. Moray eels throughout the crevices. Hawksbill turtles on the reef platform.

Dive Profile

Descend to the outer reef edge at 15–18 metres and assess current direction before extending the dive. Work along the eastern face with the current, observing shark activity and schooling fish in the open water. Ascend the face progressively to the upper reef at 8–12 metres. Safety stop at 5 metres over the reef crest.

Entry and Exit

Specialist regional operator in Saudi Arabia or permitted liveaboard. Giant stride entry from the tender. SMB deployment before ascending. Research current access requirements for Saudi Red Sea diving before planning.

Tips and Recommendations

• The eastern face is best dived when current is running — calm conditions reduce the fish aggregation that defines this site
• Pair with Al Fahal North and Al Fahal South for a comprehensive three-section exploration of the reef system

Safety Considerations

Current on the exposed face requires management. Research the permit requirements for Saudi Red Sea access thoroughly. Remote location. SMB before ascending.

Photography

Dense school shots in current — barracuda and jacks against the open-ocean background — are the primary wide-angle subjects. Grey reef shark portraits at the outer reef edge in clear Saudi Red Sea water.

Sources: Divezone - Red Sea, Dive the World - Egypt Red Sea, Red Sea Scuba Diving, PADI - Diving in Egypt. Last updated 2026-04-04.