Etihad Artificial Reef – Abu Dhabi (Arabian Gulf) Dive Site

25m Max

8-20m Vis

boat

Site Overview

Etihad Artificial Reef is one of Abu Dhabi (Arabian Gulf)'s most remarkable dive sites, offering a purposely sunk Lockheed L-1011 Tristar fuselage alongside tanks and armoured vehicles at 12 to 25 metres with dense marine colonisation. The site's productive marine ecosystem supports diverse fish populations and vibrant underwater formations throughout the diving season, creating an underwater landscape that rewards repeated exploration by both new and experienced divers alike. With warm Gulf water temperatures and good visibility depending on conditions and season, Etihad Artificial Reef provides excellent conditions for underwater exploration across all certification levels throughout the diving season. The site's diverse topography creates multiple habitat zones supporting different species at various depths, from shallow reef flats teeming with colorful fish to deeper sections where larger species patrol the structure looking for prey. The UAE's strategic position at the crossroads of the Arabian Peninsula and the Indian Ocean ensures a unique blend of tropical and subtropical marine influences contributing to the vibrant communities found at this location. Nutrient-rich waters sustain abundant filter-feeding invertebrates including soft corals, sponges, and colorful gorgonian sea fans that add spectacular color and texture to the underwater scenery. Whether exploring dramatic wrecks and artificial reefs or observing larger pelagic visitors cruising past the formation, Etihad Artificial Reef consistently delivers memorable and rewarding underwater experiences for all who dive here.

Dive Briefing

"Begin the dive at the shallowest point of Etihad Artificial Reef and take a moment to orient yourself before descending along the aircraft fuselage and military vehicles as artificial reef. Maintain excellent buoyancy throughout the dive to protect the fragile marine formations and diverse life inhabiting the site. Swim along the formation exploring the various depth zones while observing the diverse habitats and marine species that occupy each zone. Check overhangs, ledges, and crevices for resting moray eels, octopus, and cryptic species that shelter from the current. Pay special attention to the wreck structures, reef edges, and sandy patches where smaller species like seahorses, nudibranchs, and frogfish can be found with careful observation. Monitor your depth and remaining NDL carefully throughout the dive and maintain conservative ascent profiles. Keep your dive buddy in visual contact and communicate regularly using standard hand signals. Complete your safety stop at 5 metres while deploying your DSMB before making a controlled ascent to surface."