Shaab Hamdallah

A sheltered offshore reef south of Safaga with sandy channels between coral structures, resident cleaning stations, and the calm water conditions that make it a productive day-trip option when exposed sites in the area are unworkable.

Overview

Shaab Hamdallah (“reef of praise” in Arabic) sits at approximately 26.63°N, 34.06°E — south of Safaga in the central Egyptian Red Sea, in a transitional zone between the Safaga reef cluster and the more southerly Marsa Alam dive territory. The reef occupies a relatively sheltered position that provides refuge from northerly winds and chop. The structure consists of a main reef body with sandy channels and coral formations at varying depths. As a less-documented site compared to the nearby Abu Soma complex and Tobia series, it receives fewer divers and maintains better coral integrity on the sandy transition zones.

Site Information

• Location: Offshore south of Safaga, central Egyptian Red Sea (~26.63°N)
• Entry Type: Boat dive
• Site Type: Reef
• Difficulty Level: Intermediate
• Maximum Depth: 20 meters
• Typical Visibility: 15–25 meters
• Current: Generally mild; assess before entry
• Best Time: Year-round; October to May optimal

Marine Life

Cleaning stations on the main reef structure attract resident groupers, moray eels, and passing turtles for extended cleaning sessions. Schools of anthias cover the reef crest in the shallower sections. Blue-spotted stingrays rest on the sandy channel floors. Moray eels are distributed throughout the crevices. Scorpionfish occupy the reef edges in camouflaged positions. Barracuda patrol the outer reef face. The sandy channels between coral structures support goby-shrimp pairs in areas of minimal current.

Dive Profile

Begin on the reef crest at 5–8 metres and work along the main reef body to the outer face at 12–18 metres. The sandy channels that intersect the reef structure provide natural navigation corridors — follow one channel to its endpoint before returning along the reef face. Cleaning stations in the 8–12 metre zone reward stationary observation. Return along the upper reef for the safety stop at 5 metres.

Entry and Exit

Day boat from Safaga (40–60 minutes). Giant stride entry. The sheltered position makes entry straightforward in most conditions. Pair with Abu Soma sites or Tobia Hamra for a two-site day. SMB deployment before ascending.

Tips and Recommendations

• The cleaning stations reward stationary, patient observation — approach to within 3 metres without disturbing the cleaning activity and wait
• The sandy channels are the macro zone — examine carefully for goby-shrimp pairs, flatfish, and blue-spotted rays
• This site is a productive option when northerly conditions make Giftun and Elphinstone impossible from Hurghada
• Visit the outer reef face in the last third of the dive when air is sufficient for the most exposed section

Safety Considerations

Mild conditions are typical but current can develop. Scorpionfish on the reef edge are a contact hazard. Fire coral on the upper reef. SMB before ascending.

Photography

The cleaning station portraits — groupers and morays in cleaning position — at 8–12 metres are the primary photographic subjects. Sandy channel macro work with goby-shrimp pairs rewards a patient, prone approach. The reef crest in morning light suits ambient wide-angle shots.

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