Egypt
The Arabic name Sha'ab Ali (شعاب علي) means "Ali's reef". On nautical charts it is the outermost danger off this part of the coast: a group of numerous coral reefs and shoals stretching 8.3 miles on a northeast–southwest line, separated from the Sinai by the Inner Channel. Pods of dolphins are often seen at the reef.
The inner lagoon has its entrance on the northeastern side, marked by lit buoys. Safari boats usually moor inside it overnight so that divers reach the Thistlegorm at dawn, ahead of the day boats from Sharm and Hurghada. At the southern tip of the reef lies Shag Rock, marked by a lighthouse and also a popular overnight stop on dive safaris to the Thistlegorm wreck.
On the east side of Sha'ab Ali there is an oil field, with several production platforms and a conspicuous flare. On the west edge, about 6 miles northwest of Shag Rock, lies a stranded wreck, described as quite conspicuous, with its hull and funnel plainly visible.
Information on this page, including technical data such as depth, current, visibility, access, and recommended level, is informational and may vary. Confirm actual conditions with a local operator before the dive.
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