SHARK ISLAND
Shark Island Dive Site: A Must-Visit Destination in Fujairah
Located just a short five-minute boat ride from Khor Fakkan, Shark Island is one of the best places to visit in Fujairah for diving enthusiasts. Nestled in the pristine waters of the UAE’s eastern coast, this dive site is a haven for marine life, offering spectacular underwater landscapes and an unforgettable experience for divers, snorkelers, and freedivers of all levels. Whether you’re visiting from nearby Sharjah, Dubai, or other parts of the UAE, Shark Island is a destination that promises adventure and discovery.
Unique Underwater Terrain and Features
Shark Island features two distinct underwater environments that cater to diverse diving preferences. The bay area boasts extensive coral gardens, where vibrant hard corals stretch across 200 meters, forming a colorful underwater paradise. Meanwhile, the wall section is characterized by striking granite boulders, spanning approximately 250 meters and creating dramatic underwater vistas. This combination of coral reefs and rock formations provides a unique setting for exploration, making it a popular choice among diving enthusiasts seeking variety and beauty.
Perfect for All Skill Levels
Shark Island’s versatility makes it suitable for snorkelers, discover scuba diving participants, and seasoned divers alike. With depths ranging from 5 to 14 meters, the site accommodates beginners exploring the underwater world for the first time, as well as experienced divers looking for a relaxed yet enriching dive. Freediving enthusiasts will also find the site’s tranquil conditions ideal for exploring the stunning coral gardens and marine life up close. Snorkeling in Fujairah doesn’t get much better than at Shark Island, where shallow waters teem with vibrant fish and coral.
A Diverse Array of Marine Life
One of the highlights of Shark Island is its incredible biodiversity. The waters around the island are home to an abundance of marine species, including schools of trevally, mackerel, fusiliers, and sergeant majors. Divers often encounter the curious cornetfish gliding gracefully through the water and the ever-present damselfish darting around coral formations. Larger species, such as honeycomb moray eels and majestic sea turtles, are frequent visitors to this site, adding excitement to each dive. During the cooler months from November to April, blacktip reef sharks are commonly spotted, giving Shark Island its name. These sharks are harmless and only enhance the thrill of diving in this stunning location.
Notable Attractions for Diving Enthusiasts
Shark Island is renowned not only for its rich marine life but also for its underwater features that make it a standout destination. Large table corals, some spanning up to two meters, dominate the underwater scenery, offering excellent opportunities for photography and marine observation. The interplay of sunlight with the coral and granite formations creates a mesmerizing underwater ambiance that captivates divers and snorkelers alike.
Interesting Facts About Shark Island
Despite its thrilling name, Shark Island is a safe and family-friendly destination for diving and snorkeling. The blacktip reef sharks that frequent the area are shy and pose no threat to humans, making it a fantastic spot for both beginners and seasoned divers. The island has gained a reputation as one of the best scuba diving locations in Fujairah, thanks to its accessibility, calm conditions, and the sheer variety of marine life.
Summary of Shark Island Dive Site
- Depth range: 5-14 meters
- Dive site type: Coral Reef with granite formations
- Distance to dive site: 5-minute boat ride from Khor Fakkan
- Suitable for: Snorkeling, Discover Scuba Diving, Open Water divers, Freediving
- Things to See: Blacktip Reef Sharks, Sea Turtles, Trevally, Fusiliers, Cornetfish, Honeycomb Moray Eels, Hard Corals
