Dive sites in Kuwait

Kubbar Island lies approximately 30 kilometres off the southern coast of Kuwait in the Persian Gulf. From the nearest mainland launch points south of Kuwait City, the boat ride takes about 90 minutes depending on conditions and vessel type. Most dive operators depart from Fahaheel or the marinas south of Kuwait City. Day trips are the standard format, though some operators run overnight camping trips on the island during cooler months.

Yes, Kuwait has a small but active diving community. The Persian Gulf conditions are challenging compared to tropical destinations, with variable visibility, extreme temperature ranges from 15 degrees in winter to over 34 in summer, and occasional strong currents. However, the marine life has adapted to these conditions, and the reefs around Kubbar and other offshore islands support surprising biodiversity. The diving season runs from October to April when temperatures are comfortable and visibility improves.

While most Kuwait diving focuses on artificial structures and wrecks like the Oga Maru, Kubbar Island offers natural coral reef diving. The island is a designated nature reserve, which has helped protect its reefs from the fishing pressure that affects mainland coastal areas. The coral platforms around the island support the highest diversity of hard coral species in Kuwaiti waters, and the island's beaches are among the last hawksbill turtle nesting sites in the northern Gulf.

The Oga Maru is a Japanese cargo freighter that sank in Kuwaiti waters and now rests upright on the sandy bottom at approximately 18 meters depth. The vessel is reasonably well-preserved with intact bridge, engine room, and cargo holds accessible for penetration diving. The ship has become an effective artificial reef, attracting significant marine life populations to an otherwise featureless sandy seabed. Its relatively shallow depth and upright position make it one of the most accessible wreck dives in the Arabian Gulf.

Visibility on the Oga Maru is the most challenging aspect of this dive. The Arabian Gulf's shallow, warm waters tend to support high plankton levels, and the sandy bottom around the wreck can reduce visibility further when disturbed by divers or currents. Typical visibility ranges from 3 to 10 meters, with best conditions during winter months when water temperatures are cooler and plankton levels lower. Good torch discipline and close communication with your buddy are essential. Despite the limited visibility, the wreck provides a compelling dive experience.