Siyul

Siyul (also called Suyul Island) is an island reef within Wadi El Gemal National Park in the southern Red Sea, near Hamata. It is distinct from Siyul Kebira in the north Hurghada area — the Siyul islands in this area are part of the Qulaan Archipelago and form one of the outstanding dive and snorkel destinations within the national park.

Overview

Siyul Island is a protected area within Wadi El Gemal National Park. The island is known locally as the “Island of the Birds,” having been colonised by eight nesting bird species. Underwater, the site features colossal table corals teeming with marine life, reef drop-offs close to the surface, and sandy shallows between the island and surrounding reef structures. The reef profile includes steep drop-offs on one side and shallow sandy beds on the other, accessible only at higher tides.

Marine Life

The reef supports finger corals, tabular corals, and fire corals. Common reef fish include bluespotted ribbontail rays, regal angelfish, Red Sea clownfish, threadfin butterflyfish, Red Sea bannerfish, and sea goldies. The shallow areas are rich in reef fish diversity. The surrounding Wadi El Gemal National Park area is known for turtles and occasional dugongs in seagrass areas.

Dive Profile

Maximum depth approximately 10 m at reef structures; sandy bottoms at 15–25 m. The steep reef drop-off surfaces at 1–3 feet below the surface, making it excellent for snorkelling and shallow reef dives. Access is by boat tour from Hamata or nearby operators within the national park.

Site Information

• Location: Qulaan Archipelago, Wadi El Gemal National Park, Hamata area, southern Red Sea, Egypt
• Entry Type: Shore entry
• Site Type: Reef
• Difficulty Level: Intermediate
• Maximum Depth: 25 meters

Additional Resources

• Last Updated: 2026-05-17

Sources: Snorkeling Report – Suyul Island, Abu Ghosoun – Wadi El Gemal National Park. Last updated 2026-05-17.