Are you done exploring everything above ground? How about underwater? The world of the marine is as exquisite or even more elaborate than the one we live in, making it mystical and mesmerizing at the same time. And let me tell you, not everyone gets a chance to take a glimpse at this world and marvel at its beauty. So, if you ever get a chance to go scuba diving, I say you grab it with both hands! This holiday season, why not shake things up a little bit by taking a plunge into the deep blue waters of the UAE?
Paradise For The Fans Of Underwater
Not everyone can go to the moon or Mars, but we can explore underwater! Similar experiences in space and underwater. We don’t know much about these regions, and the prospect of diving deep into the water gives us shivers. The UAE has diverse water bodies of different forms and sizes. Natural and man-made ones have varied terrains and people. Thus, UAE seas are diverse and interesting, allowing divers several options. Let me clarify: you don’t need to be an expert swimmer or diver to enjoy scuba diving in Dubai. It provides several scuba diving opportunities, from artificial reefs to deep sea. Both novice and experienced scuba divers may find something here. For all these reasons and more, the UAE is a top destination for adventurous and significant underwater experiences.
Why Is Scuba Diving So Fun?
The past few decades, especially the past three years, have seen an increase in people flocking towards scuba diving experience. Why do you think that is? I think maybe it is due to the pandemic and how we were all asked to stay put in our homes. It gave some of us an opportunity to rediscover the best part of nature, which includes underwater wonders as well. Anyhow, people are very much interested in scuba diving right now, and winter is the best time to give it a try in the UAE.
Apart from these reasons, we know how great water is. It has a sort of meditative and calming property that people tend to appreciate in current times. Also, like I said, if you want to experience something as close to weightlessness as possible, scuba diving can give you that.
It is also an extremely educational one as you get to take a closer look at the marine ecosystem and learn how they function. It helps us appreciate this underwater world, which is often hidden from us. Above all that, the mere act of swimming in the depths of the water is an exhilarating experience in itself.
Top 10 Locations in the UAE For Scuba Diving
Scuba diving is a one-of-a-kind experience that not everyone gets to enjoy. So, if you happen to be in the UAE and are looking for the top locations to go scuba diving, this list can be of great help:
1. The Lost City of Atlantis
As the name suggests, this super-cool place is nothing but a recreation of Atlantis, the city that is said to be submerged in water. This exotic diver’s paradise is in The Palm, which makes it one of the closest places to go scuba diving if you are ever in Dubai. The artificial structures are awe-spiring, which can be an educational session for people as well.
2. Underwater Caves of Musandam
I know this is in Oman, which is technically not in the UAE, but it is pretty close. What makes it famous is that it is easy to access. There are so many exotic underwater caves present here, with pretty clear water and tons of marine life to observe. In other words, there are a lot of exciting things one can do here while scuba diving.
3. Coral Gardens in Fujairah
Does clear waters and a rich marine ecosystem sound like something you would be interested in? The Coral Gardens, located in Fujairah, can be an excellent scuba diving spot for you. It is located on the east coast of the UAE and is an especially favorite spot for divers because of how clear the water here is.
4. The Artificial Reef in Dubai
We have all seen movies where cities are taken over by oceans and how exotic they look underwater. This is something the Artificial Reef in Dubai has tried to replicate. They have intentionally submerged structures and sunken ships to give the air of a submerged cityscape, making it adventurous for scuba divers.
5. Shark Island in Abu Dhabi
Don’t get alarmed, but there are sharks on this island. But it is more of a shark sanctuary where you are sure to encounter various species of sharks in their natural habitats. It is completely safe, though, because the instructors will be by your side at all times. If you are more of a daring soul, I suggest you try out this place.
6. Martini Rock in Dubai
The Martini Rock is super-famous for its nutrient-rich waters, thanks to its rich marine life and biodiversity. Like most waters in the UAE, this one is also quite clear, making it easier for you to observe the underwater world. There are colorful coral gardens underwater here, which makes for excellent exploration sites.
7. Inchcape 1 in Fujairah
Cargo ships that were unfortunate enough to sink have been converted into artificial coral reefs in Inchcape 1, located in Fujairah. Scuba divers can observe the ship wreck and see how it has been slowly converted into something beautiful by the marine life there. It’s really something.
8. The Khor Fakkan Wrecks
Just like Inchcape in Fujairah, the Khor Fakkan Wrecks, as the name suggests, is made up of shipwrecks that have beautifully transformed themselves into artificial reefs. It is an excellent place for both novice and expert scuba divers. It is wonderful to see how something that was part of a wreckage has been converted into something as beautiful as a coral reef, right?
9. Dibba Rock
If you want to observe more interesting marine life, like the turtles and the rays other than the normal colorful fish, then make sure you visit the Dibba Rock in Dubai. There are both deep and shallow sections in this area, so both novices and experts can make the most of the place.
10. The Car Cemetery
I know the name sounds scary, but ti is actually a fun place to go scuba diving i. The coral reefs are made from the car wreckages, which, like the ship wreckage, have been taken over by marine life, making it their home. It is a rare sight to see.
Things To Keep In Mind Before Taking The Plunge
Diving deep into the waters is super exciting, but proper guidance and safety standards are even more important. There are a couple of things you have to keep in mind before you take the plunge:
- Do a quick health check and make sure you have a thumbs up from the physician to go scuba diving. As this activity involves a certain level of atmospheric pressure as you dive deeper, it is best to check your health, especially if you have any health conditions.
- Even though you will have an experienced instructor telling you what to do and what not to do, it is judicious to give your gears one final check to see if they are in prime condition. Especially the BCD (buoyancy control device).
- Look out for the dive signals given by your guide or instructor. It is vital to keep communication going underwater.
Deep Blue Sea Awaits
The world of the underwater is nothing less than breathtaking. Everything looks ten times more pretty and wonderful down there, making it an excellent place to get some pictures clicked as well. Now that you have a basic knowledge of what to do and what to expect when it comes to scuba diving, the only thing left to do is pack your bags and book your tickets!
