Shaab Ghadir Soraya

Shaab Ghadir Soraya (Soraya = “small” in Arabic) is the smaller companion reef to the main Shaab Ghadeer, located in the northern part of the Radir/Ghadir reef group approximately 8 km offshore and 29 km south of Marsa Alam.

Overview

Soraya functions as the “little sister” to the larger Sha’ab Ghadir. The reef features a shallow atoll on its northern side where juvenile fish congregate in sheltered water, and multiple small canyons running through the structure create an interesting topography for exploration. The site is 15 minutes by boat east of Marsa Alam.

The reef is characterised by rich fish schools and a variety of canyon passages that make the dive unforgettable, according to logged diver accounts. The currents here are moderate (1–2 knots), and visibility averages in the good range of 10–30 m. The reef’s proximity to the larger Sha’ab Ghadir means both can sometimes be combined in a single dive or consecutive dives from the same boat.

Dive Profile

• Average depth: ~11 m
• Maximum depth: ~25 m
• Current: Medium (1–2 knots)
• Visibility: Good (10–30 m)
• Entry: Boat (approximately 15 minutes from Marsa Alam)
• Suitable for: Advanced divers (CMAS **/AOW)

Marine Life

Dense fish schools are the primary attraction. Juvenile fish congregate in the shallow northern atoll. Canyon passages host typical southern Red Sea reef species: grouper, snapper, parrotfish, and smaller invertebrates. Pelagic species occasionally pass by on stronger current days.

Sources: Wannadive — Sha’ab Ghadir Soraya, Red Sea Diving — Shaab Ghadir. Last updated 2026-05-17.