Fujairah dive sites

Dibba Rock benefits from over 15 years as a no-fishing zone, making it the UAE's oldest marine protected area. This protection has allowed marine life to flourish. Turtles are present on nearly every dive, blacktip reef sharks patrol the reef, and the macro life -- including seahorses, nudibranchs, and cuttlefish -- is exceptional for the region. The site's proximity to shore and shallow depth make it accessible to all divers.

Absolutely. The maximum depth is only 14 to 16 metres depending on tides, with the shore side as shallow as 3 to 4 metres. Currents are usually mild, and the boat ride from shore is only about 5 minutes. Many UAE dive operators use Dibba Rock for training and introductory dives. Despite its accessibility, the diversity of marine life makes it equally rewarding for experienced divers and photographers.

October through May offers the best conditions, with cooler water temperatures and better visibility. Summer months from June to September can bring reduced visibility due to plankton blooms, though this also attracts whale sharks to the broader Fujairah coast. Water temperatures range from 22 degrees in winter to 32 degrees in summer.

The island gets its name from its shape when viewed from certain angles on the beach -- the rocky silhouette resembles the cartoon character Snoopy lying on top of his doghouse. The island is a small rocky formation about 200 metres off Al Aqah's Sandy Beach in Fujairah, and its distinctive shape has made it one of the most recognizable natural landmarks on the UAE's east coast.

Snoopy Island is one of the best snorkelling and beginner diving spots in the UAE. The maximum depth is only about 7 to 8 metres, and you can swim or wade to the island from the beach. The sheltered side of the island has calm water perfect for first-time snorkellers. Many dive operators offer Discover Scuba programmes here, and it is popular with families.