MARJAN (PROBABLY) - Dubai & Abu Dhabi

The Marjan is one of those wrecks that really gets its hooks into you, precisely because it’s a bit of a mystery. She went down back in '83, vanishing on a run from Bahrain to India, and while we know where she ended up – about 28 metres down off Das Island – the why is still debated. We’ve heard everything from a rogue storm to dodgy cargo, and that lingering question just adds to her appeal. Dropping down onto her, the first thing you notice is the sheer scale of the thing. She’s nearly 100 metres long, largely intact, and lying on her starboard side, which makes for some dramatic swim-throughs if you're comfortable with overhead environments. The engine room is our favourite part; it’s dark, silty, and feels like stepping back in time. Light shafts filter through the deck plating, illuminating schools of snapper that dart between the machinery, and we've often spotted big groupers lurking in the shadows. Visibility can be a bit variable here, so we always try to hit it on a calm day with an early start to beat any potential chop. The external structures are now completely encrusted with soft corals, a vibrant counterpoint to the rust, and you'll find plenty of moray eels peering out from every crevice. This site is definitely one for experienced wreck divers who appreciate a bit of history and a genuinely atmospheric dive.

Location
Dubai & Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Red Sea & Middle East
Coordinates
25.690140, 52.669304
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
28m

Best Time to Dive in Dubai & Abu Dhabi

The warmest water temperatures in Dubai & Abu Dhabi occur in January, averaging 23.3°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 23.3°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 23.3°C (air: 19.5°C)
  • February: 23.3°C (air: 20.6°C)
  • March: 23.3°C (air: 23.4°C)
  • April: 23.3°C (air: 26.5°C)
  • May: 23.3°C (air: 30.3°C)
  • June: 23.3°C (air: 33.5°C)
  • July: 23.3°C (air: 35.4°C)
  • August: 23.3°C (air: 35.1°C)
  • September: 23.3°C (air: 32.9°C)
  • October: 23.3°C (air: 29.8°C)
  • November: 23.3°C (air: 26.2°C)
  • December: 23.3°C (air: 22.1°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Dubai & Abu Dhabi

Nearest Dive Centres to MARJAN (PROBABLY)

Marine Life in Dubai & Abu Dhabi

Home to 25 recorded species including 7 reef fish, 5 hard corals, 4 other, 3 seagrass & algae, 2 crabs & lobsters, 2 whales & dolphins.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for MARJAN (PROBABLY)

Based on average water temperature of 23.3°C.

  • Wetsuit (3-5mm) - comfortable for 23°C water
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical diving depths at Al Marjan Island dive sites?
For the Marjan (Probably) wreck, a notable dive site in the Dubai & Abu Dhabi area, the typical diving depth is 28 meters. This depth makes it an interesting exploration for divers looking to experience a significant wreck.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see when diving around Al Marjan Island?
When diving at the Marjan (Probably) site, divers can expect to explore a significant underwater feature: a motor vessel wreck. This vessel, measuring 97.2m x 15.2m, sank on February 24, 1983, and offers a unique structural environment to explore. The provided data does not specify particular marine life species found at this site.
Is diving at Al Marjan Island suitable for beginner divers, or is it more for experienced divers?
Diving at the Marjan (Probably) wreck is classified as intermediate difficulty. Given its classification as a dangerous wreck and the depth of 28 meters, it is more suitable for divers with some experience rather than absolute beginners. Divers should possess the necessary skills and certifications for intermediate-level wreck diving.
What is the best time of year to go scuba diving at Al Marjan Island for optimal conditions?
The provided data for the Marjan (Probably) dive site does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions. For general guidance on seasonal diving in the United Arab Emirates, you might consult our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at Al Marjan Island?
To dive the Marjan (Probably) wreck, which is rated as intermediate difficulty, divers typically need at least an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent. Given it's a wreck dive at 28 meters, specialized wreck diving training or experience is highly recommended. Always check with local dive operators for specific certification requirements.
What are the usual water conditions, visibility, and currents like at Al Marjan Island dive sites?
The provided data for the Marjan (Probably) dive site does not include details on usual water conditions, visibility, or currents. It is always advisable to consult with local dive centers in Dubai & Abu Dhabi for the most current conditions before planning your dive.