Words By: Johan Van de Poel
Who would expect the desolate Western Region of Abu Dhabi to boast some the most interesting and relatively accessible dive sites in the emirate? So far, little is known about the area itself as a diving destination, which makes diving out there even more exciting. You could say every new dive there is like a new discovery leading you to untouched boat wrecks, natural reefs, steep drop-offs and even a peculiar topographic feature, which is believed to be a meteor crater.
Focusing on one location in particular, some 10km East of Sir Bani Yas island, lies what maybe considered as the local wreck divers’ playground. Having the benefit of being partially surrounded by a shallow reef, it invites all kinds of aquatic visitors.
The main points of interest are two old wrecks of what appear to be pilot boats, along with an overturned barge lying just a short distance to the South. In between and to the side are three huge anchor blocks, set up almost like guard towers. Various randomly scattered bits and pieces create plenty of opportunity to explore the rest of the area once you’ve figured out where everything is in relation to each other, which in itself will take more than a few dives.
Obviously, over the years marine life has completely taken over the site and it has become home to ever-present snappers, seasonal shoals of barracuda, angelfish, sweetlips, batfish, the occasional sea turtle and one particularly large hammour. Average depth being around 11m means there is still adequate light for photography and depending on the conditions, the wreckage can even be spotted from the surface.
In short, these wrecks off Sir Bani Yas always make for an interesting dive, either to simply explore the countless nooks and crannies that this site has to offer, or to sharpen your underwater navigation and charting skills. In any case, time has transformed this once underwater junkyard into a well-established artificial reef, teeming with marine life.
To access these wrecks, local dive centres like Desert Island Watersport Center arrange day trips to these wrecks from Sir Bani Yas Island. Desert Islands Watersports Centre is a PADI five-star dive centre offering diving, snorkeling, cruising, PADI programs, catamaran sailing, deep sea fishing in the area of Sir Bani Yas Island. For bookings, email sby@divemahara.com or calling 02 801 5400 extension water sport centre (Anantara Desert Islands Resort and Spa).
