Erg Abu Nugar

Erg Abu Nugar is a dive site in Red Sea, Middle East.

Overview

Erg Abu Nugar is part of the Abu Nugar reef complex, one of the most northerly dive sites in the Hurghada area — almost reaching El Gouna — and approximately 60–90 minutes by boat from central Hurghada. The name Abu Nugar translates as “father of the pools,” referring to the clear lagoons formed in the reef top. The site combines a long T-shaped reef to the west and a shallow plateau to the east dotted with numerous ergs (coral pinnacles). The pinnacles are set on a seabed averaging 12–14 m depth, topped with colourful table corals, brain corals, yellow and purple gorgonians, and horn corals. Because of its distance from the tourist hub, Abu Nugar sees fewer divers than closer sites and the corals are impressively pristine.

Marine Life

The ergs and reef host an active community of reef fish: parrotfish, angelfish, surgeonfish, butterflyfish, and schooling anthias. Cornfish (cornetfish) and hunting packs of tuna, jacks, and occasionally barracuda and Spanish mackerel patrol the outer areas. Along the drop-off edge, whitetip reef sharks and, occasionally, hammerheads and feathertail rays are reported. On the shallow plateau, turtles, blue-spotted stingrays, Spanish dancers (Hexabranchus sanguineus), moray eels, and lunartail and leopard groupers are regular sightings.

Dive Profile

Shallow site — maximum depth 14–18 m, making it accessible to all levels. The plateau is typically calm with very weak currents, allowing long bottom times. Navigation follows the erg field east-to-west and back along the main reef. Visibility is typically excellent due to the reduced boat traffic — often 20–30 m. Duration 50–70 minutes.

Entry and Exit

Boat dive from Hurghada or El Gouna (60–90 min transit). No shore access. Suitable for all certification levels; the shallow depth and low current make it particularly good for beginners and snorkellers.

Tips and Recommendations

Plan the trip for a full-day excursion given the long transit. The pristine condition of the corals rewards slow, attentive diving — look carefully in the crevices between ergs for lobsters and moray eels. Best visibility and calmest conditions are typically mid-morning.

Safety Considerations

Weak currents — assess direction before beginning the dive. Shallow depth minimises decompression risk. Sun exposure during the long boat transit each way is significant; use full SPF sun protection. The open-water location means surface swells are larger than at inshore sites — prepare for a potentially rolling surface interval.

Site Information

• Location: ~60–90 min north of Hurghada / near El Gouna, northern Red Sea
• Entry Type: Shore entry
• Site Type: Reef
• Difficulty Level: Intermediate
• Maximum Depth: 18 m

Sources: Divescover — Erg Abu Nugar, Shaab Abu Nugar — RedSea Life. Last updated 2026-05-17.