The shallow reef of Abu Toaq, situated in the waters around the Farasan Islands, boast one of the most spectacular diving opportunities in the Red Sea. With its calm waters and minimal current, this location is perfect for divers of all levels, as well as snorkellers and families who wish to tap into the archipelago’s rich biodiversity.

Protected by the Farasan Islands Marine Sanctuary, the area is home to a phenomenal amount of sea life, including rays, sharks and 231 species of fish. Visitors to Abu Toaq can also enjoy exploring clusters of hard and soft corals, which are dotted around the seabed. They almost resemble an underwater version of the islands themselves.

The route begins southeast of the reef and initially moves down towards the drop-off point. Along this stretch, reef sharks, lured by the warm tropical waters, are often encountered, while lemon sharks can sometimes be seen resting on the sea floor. The 40-minute dive traverses over dense seaweed and stony Acropora, engulfed by shoals of angelfish and Red Sea bannerfish. It’s worth having your camera ready in case you come across octopus or lobsters who are known to occupy these shallow waters.

Although sightings of the infamous dugong – or sea cows as they more commonly called – are confined mainly to the areas between Farasan Kebir and Segid, keep a lookout for these mysterious mammals.

If you’re left craving for more after exploring Abu Toaq, consider a visit to the nearby Al Hussain reef.

Lemon sharks get their name from their yellow-brown skin, which allows them to camouflage in the sand where they wait to feed off bottom-dwelling fish and rays. They can dive down to almost 400m in search of prey.