Your Guide to Marsa Alam and the South

Photo Courtesy of Francis Le Guen

Your Guide to Marsa Alam

and the South!

Egypt’s Best Kept Secret!

Contents
Contents 01
The Team 02
How to Use This Guide 03
Welcome 05
Safaga 11
City Maps 13
Diving Sites 17
Classifieds 29
Quseir 33
City Maps 35
Diving Sites 39
Classifieds 41
Marsa Alam 43
City Maps 46
Wadi El Gemal 49
Diving Sites 51
Classifieds 61
Ras Banas to the South 67
Diving Sites 69
The Red Sea 81
Marine Life Highlights 83
Red Sea Topography 85
The Eastern Desert 87
Bedouin Tribes 89
Survival’s Guide 91
Common Arabic Words 93
The Team
C.E.O. and Sales & Marketing Director
Yasmine Ezzat
Business Development Director
Abdelrahman Abdelmoneim
Design
Shantel Seoane
Dear diver’s – nature lover’s – explorer’s & thrill seekers,
It is with great eagerness that we release the first ever travelers guide to
Egypt’s secluded south. Our team has collected nearly 20 years of research
from many of the pioneering individuals who explored these remote areas
beginning in the late 1980’s.
Together with these individuals, we have compiled what is now “Your Guide
to Marsa Alam and the South.” Take this publication as your personal guide
and the key to unlocking the treasures of Egypt’s best kept secret – Marsa
Alam and the southern Red Sea.
The Sea Ad Team
Special Thanks to;
Red Sea Desert Adventures Red Sea Diving Safari Team
Karen van Opstal Hossam Helmy
Thomas Krakhofor
Egyptian Chamber of Diving & To all the individuals who’s pictures
Watersports were used in this publication. Your
Hesham Kamel contribution made this possible.
Continue to dream and explore!
Dear Reader,
The information contained herein is factual to the
best of our knowledge. The publishers cannot
accept responsibility for any consequences arisii
ing from the use of this guide.
© Copyright 2009. All Rights Reserved.
 How to use this Guide

Your Guide to Marsa Alam and the South will open the doors to the treasures awaiting
you in Egypt’s southern Red Sea. This region is broken down into 4 main cities running
south along the Red Sea coastline. These cities are;

1. Safaga
2. El Quseir
3. Marsa Alam
4. Ras Banas South

A brief history and cultural background about each city is provided at the beginning of
each chapter. A detailed directory is also provided in each chapter which includes hotel
listings, restaurants, dive centers and other retail businesses. Dive site maps are also
provided which include information about each cities unique dive sites.

A “survivor’s guide” is offered in the final chapter that includes information such as
emergency procedures, Arabic phrases, etiquette and local customs, and much more.

Get ready to explore the southern Red Sea with Your Guide to Marsa Alam and the
South.

Classifieds Section Icons

Private Beach PADI

Sports and Activities SSI

Diving Center CMAS

Baby SItting Wind & Kite Surfing

Kids Club Accomodation

Desert Safaris Liveaboard

Star Rating

Diving Map Icons

Above Sea Level Current Direction

Shore Area Dive Profile

Coral Reef Mooring Area

Caves/Canyons DZ Depart Zodiac

Sea Grass T Table Coral

O-30 Meters Wreck

30+ Meters Zodiac Route

3
 Welcome to Marsa Alam!
Sea and desert horizons as far as the sight The Sea Ad team welcomes you once more to Marsa Alam and the south. Through this
can perceive, pristine coastal beach fronts, publication we hope that you will come to cherish this amazing place of adventure and
infinite sea life, mountains and landscapes mystery. It is truly one of the last remaining frontiers with so much yet to be discovered.
of all shapes and forms, pleasant weather
conditions year round, historical and archeoli Get ready to explore the southern Red Sea with “Your Guide to Marsa Alam and the
logical sites, and the list goes on and on. South.”
This region’s fascinating environment of
“desert meets ocean” makes it one of our
planet’s most exotic destinations. Anybody “In the hillsides all sorts of rocks are mingled in confusion; grey-green limestone cliffs
who travels to Marsa Alam is immediately run down sheer for hundreds of feet, in tremendous ravines where faces are medley of
captivated by the magic and mystery of colors wherever crags of black porphyry and diorite jut out, or wherever soft sandstone,
this treasure-packed wonder. Traveler’s washed down, has left long pink and white smudges on the lighter colors.”
fortunate enough to have explored these
regions will unanimously tell you that a Lawrence of Arabia’s famous quote about the Red Sea region
magical energy permeates the atmosphere.
Of all the things that this region has to offer
it is this singular force that keeps visitors
returning time and time again.

Marsa Alam’s coastal region is a

crystalline aquarium that dazzles
with the pure reflection of the sky.
Intriguing in the stunning design
of its coral reefs, this eco-system
sustains an overwhelming variety
of marine flora and fauna. Cruising
pelagic species like hammerheads
and whale sharks always make a
plunge into these waters exciting.
Clouds of fish swarm over the
reefs in a perpetual dance that
creates an incredible illusion of
majesty and colors.

In this unique region of our earth’s

planet, these two diametrically
opposed environments come
together in harmonious union.

Traveling to Marsa Alam has been described

as exploring a historic time vault uncovering
ancient mysteries and forgotten trade routes,
sunken wrecks, Pharaonic and Roman
historical sites - ruins of ancient civilizations
and their people all awaiting to be explored.
It is one of those very rare places where
coral reef gardens, desert adventure, and
cultural and historical exploration combine in
the get away experience of a lifetime.

5

Shark your senses!
Many divers have seen a shark or two. But who knows what
the intention of the animal was when it approached, which
factors affected the situation the most, or how its swim
pattern should have been interpreted? Sharki
School™ focuses on the behavior of sharks with
special emphasis on interacting with them.
SharkSchool™ brings divers, snorkelers and
swimmers closer to sharks, with the intention
to show the true nature of these incredible
animals.
SharkSchool™ is headed by Dr. Erich Ritter Ph.D.,
shark behaviorist and the world’s only field scientist
specialized in the study of shark – human interaction. We
teach courses in many destinations all over the world, like the
Bahamas with lemon and bull sharks and South Africa with white and tiger
sharks. In the Red Sea we teach courses on liveaboards and at land based
locations like Ecolodge Shagra Village, Marsa Alam, with a focus on hami
merheads or oceanic whitetips.
Please visit our website for more information.
www.sharkschool.com – office@sharkschool.com
SH RK
SCHOOL
When the sharks die, the oceans die
Sharks are probably the most misuni
derstood creatures on this planet.
Feared by most, these magnificent
animals lack the much needed
lobby to stop their onigoing
slaughtering. The killing of
sharks is one of the biggest ecoi
logical time bombs. A bomb that
will go off if not defused quickly.
Sharks have been around for
more than 400 million years and
their extremely efficient design has
proved highly successful. It is estii
mated that more than 90% of the world’s
shark populations have been killed for their fins or
just because people think they are dangerous and deserve to
die. But without sharks, the most important marine controllers, the oceans
die. The protection of sharks is crucial for the balance of the marine ecosysi
tem, the planet’s biggest oxygen provider.
Humans do not protect what they fear
A crucial step i if not the most important one i towards protection of sharks
is the elimination of this unsubstantiated fear. It is human
nature to only protect what is loved, but not what is
feared. However, this irrational fear of sharks needs
to be destroyed and all the erroneous information
corrected. The way for a better understanding
is the active interaction with sharks. There
is no such thing as dangerous sharks, just
dangerous situations, created by humans
knowingly, unknowingly or by third parties!
SharkSchool™ teaches how to detect and
avoid such scenarios.
 Safaga

Safaga
60 kilometers south of Hurghada is the secluded town of Port Safaga. Once called Port
Philotera, Safaga was built during the reign of Egypt’s King Ptolemy II.

Regarded as a Phosphate export center, Safaga was a merchant port for many years.
Today it gains its popularity for its wide azure bay, secluded islands, and miles of sandy
beach. Safaga has recently become very popular among kite surfers and windsurfers
and was the host of the 1993 Red Sea World Windsurfing Championships.

Fishing in Safaga is also very popular with frequent day trips to the nearby islands for
friendly fishing competitions. A number of fishing boats are regularly departing for day
trips around the near-by islands and reefs.

A special route from Safaga leads visitors on a 180 kilometer journey to Luxor and the
ancient capital of Thebes. The Qena-Safaga road was for many years the only route to
Luxor from the coast. A day-trip to Luxor can incorporate any number of activities that
include the Temples of Luxor and Karnak, followed by a felucca ride across the Nile to
the West Bank and the Valley of the Kings and Queens.

About 40km west off the Safaga-Qena road can be found an ancient Roman granite
quarry called “Mons Claudianus.”

Safaga is home to some of the most outstanding diving of the Red Sea. The chain
reefs of Tobia Arbaa and the impressive walls of Panorama and Abu Qifan, offer enci
counters with pelagic species such as sharks and mantas.

A World War 2 wreck located near the port is also an exciting dive. The ship belonged
to the British army and was outfitted as a complete workshop for repairing and mainti
taining war equipment and vessels. The allies used the port of Safaga during the war
and the ship was subsequently sunk by German Air Forces in 1944.

Safaga acquires its unique character from both its tropical beach atmosphere and
secluded town. Night entertainment consists of traditional Bedouin themed dinners in
the small town or near seashore.

A holiday in Safaga is mainly about watersports and sightseeing. You can expect a reli
laxing holiday lounging on the beach and soaking the desert sun, but lots of adventure
does wait with a variety of activities to choose from.

11 12
14
Safaga
Photo Courtesy of Francis Le Guen

The Eco-diving Adventure

Red Sea Diving Safaris Eco-diving Program
Eco-diving is what we refer to as an environmentally friendly
and educative diving program. This is a rare and unforgettable
experience where nature lovers engage in exciting team work
and learn about marine biology and underwater eco-systems.

RSDS not only believes in enforcing environmentally friendly

diving practices, but also the need to generate awareness about
the threats that reef eco-systems and marine life are facing.

Our Eco-diving Programs:

- Eco-diving Certification - Reef Check

i Marine Biology Workshop
i Fish Watch Workshop
i Sharkschool
i Dolphins Watch
i Introduction to RSDS Ecoidiving Program

16
www.redsea-divingsafari.com
 Safaga Dive Sites

Ras Abu Soma Tobia Arbaa

Ras Abu Soma is a protruding cape draped with fringing reef. A jetty atop a large lagi Tobia Arbaa is one of the Tobia dive sites approximately 2-3 nautical miles off the Safi
goon on the back reef makes the site accessible from the shore. The reef wall drops faga coastline. These pillars rise from a sandy bottom of approximately 15-25 meters
to a sandy bottom at approximately 15m. An abundance of hard coral formations, table and feature beautiful canyon swim throughs. A very pleasant dive site suitable for any
coral and large boulder coral litter the sandy bottom. The sandy bottom slowly slopes level diver.
to approximately 25m and then drops off to 50m+. Current is not very common here but
if present will be running from north to south. A very pleasant dive site suitable for any
level diver.

Angel Antenna Fish Bat Fish

Barracuda Big Eye

17 18
 Safaga Dive Sites
Tobia Saghir
Tobia Saguir is an off-shore dive site, which is one of the well known Tobia dive sites.
The site is approximately 2.5 nautical miles from the Safaga coastline. It is popular for its
natural and shallow tunnel ways. This dive site is fairly shallow reaching approximately
15m. The reefs are oriented north to south and collectively form a “Y” shape, which allow
for an interesting dive profile. A very pleasant dive site suitable for any level diver.
Bird Fish
Black Tail Butterfly Fish
19
Gamul Saghir
This is an off-shore site at approximately 2-3 nautical miles from the Safaga coastline. It
features beautiful coral towers, which are rising from approximately 15-20 meters. The
towers to the south are the most interesting part of this site and near the largest coral
tower can be found a garden of eels. Small caves towards the northern towers featuring
glass fish are a scene not to be missed. A very pleasant dive site suitable for any level
diver.
Blue Fish
Blue Spotted Ray
20
 Safaga Dive Sites
Gamul Kebir
A horseshoe shaped off-shore reef at approximately 2-3 nautical miles from the Safaga
coastline. The depth of the interior lagoon is approximately 14 meters, and towards the
outside of the reef on the northern side the depth reaches 25m. On the northern side
are a number of ergs with lovely soft coral growth and a myriad of small marine life. The
interior sandy floor bottom features patches of seagrass and a small eel garden. Blue
spotted rays, black sand rays and even eagle rays are commonly seen near the sea
grass. Large groups of blackfin barracuda are commonly present to the north east where
there can be a mild current, normally running from north to south. Suitable for all level of
diver but can be less accessible in rough conditions.
Box Fish
Clown Fish
21
Panorama Reef
One of the most popular off-shore reefs of Safaga approximately 4.5 nautical miles from
the coastline. This reef features stunning walls, plateaus, and drop offs. Jacks, barracudi
das and reef sharks are common encounters. Many grottos and overhangs, gorgonians,
soft corals and a dramatic array of purple soft corals can also be found here. The northei
ern and southern plateaus begin at approximately 15m and slowly slope to 30m before
dropping to the blue. Numerous clown fish decorate the southern end. A south bound
current offers a thrilling drift dive. Suitable for intermediate level diver.
Crocodile Fish
Crown Soldier Fish
22
 Safaga Dive Sites
Middle Reef
Another very popular off-shore dive site, approximately 4-5 nautical miles from the Safi
faga coastline. The northern side slopes to approximately 30m and then plummets vertici
cally to 40+. Occasional white-tip and grey reef sharks are cruising by. Hard coral growth
and large gorgonian sea fans can also be found on the northeastern end. The east and
west corners feature hard corals with acroporas, as well as brain and salad coral. The
southern side features a shallow labyrinth of caves, tunnels and passages. An occasi
sional north south current makes Middle Reef suitable for intermediate level diver.
Damsel Fish
Eagle Ray
23
Shaab Queis/Hal Hal
Hal Hal is composed of two adjacent pinnacles rising from approximately 20m and feati
turing both hard and soft corals. The site is approximately 4-5 nautical miles from the
Safaga coastline. Canyons cut through the middle of both reefs which allows for a very
fun “8” shaped dive profile. To the east the reef slowly slopes then drops offs and there
is a chance of seeing pelagic species here. Goatfish and bluelined snapper often cruise
the reef in large numbers. An occasional north south or northwest to southeast current
makes Hal Hal suitable for intermediate level diver.
Electric Ray
Emperor Fish
24
 Safaga Dive Sites
Shaab Sheer
Shaab Sheer is an off-shore dive site approximately 3 nautical miles from the Safaga
coastline. The site is made up of many large coral boulders and features two small
wrecks. In 2001 a small boat called the M.V. Hatour sank just beyond the channel and
in November 2005, Shaab Sheer also became the resting place of MY Dadealus. M.V
Hatour is located on the eastern side and MY Dadealus on the southern side. Schoolii
ing jack, snapper, and tuna fish are common here. Occasional pelagic species are also
visiting the reef. The inner lagoon is approximately 15m deep and the outer sides drop
down to 25m depth then slowly sloping to 40+. A very pleasant dive site suitable for any
level diver.
Garden Eel
Giant Green Turtle
25
Abu Kifan
Arguably the best dive site in Safaga, this 300m long reef rises from 400m+ and features
a ‘plateau’ on both the north and south ends. It is approximately 4-5 nautical miles from
the Safaga coastline. It takes at least two dives to fully enjoy the entire reef. The north
plateau begins at around 15m and slowly slopes down to 30m before dropping off into
the blue. The northeast wall features a vertical drop off to 100m+. The south plateau
begins at 15m sloping down to 27m and then dropping off into depth. Frequent sightings
of jacks, tuna, barracuda, reef sharks and the occasional hammerhead are the highlights
of this reef. The plateau can be swept with a northerly current. Wall drifting and sheer
drop-offs make this a very exciting dive, suitable for experienced divers.
Goat Fish
Gold Fish
26
 Safaga Dive Sites

Shaab Humdallah

Shaab Humdallah is an offishore dive site made up of various ergs, which are spread
apart forming an oval pattern. The outer side reaches approximately 20m and the ini
terior approximately 15m. The site features plenty of soft coral and an abundance of
marine life. Within the interior lagoon is a sandy bottom lagoon featuring blue spotted
rays and other sand dwelling critters. The largest erg situated northernmost features a
very slim tunnel. The southern and eastern ergs feature large gorgonian fan corals, as
well as pink, purple and orange soft coral. An occasional north south current makes this
dive suitable for intermediate level diver.

The Eco-diving Adventure

Marine Biology Workshop

Grouper
The RSDS Marine Biology Workshop is an ideal
starting point for people who are new to marine bi-
ology and the eco-diving concept. This is a very fun
and interactive program that was developed by Mr.
Stephan Moldzio.

Most of the workshop is hands on activity followed

by lecture portion in the evening. The best part of the
Guitar Shark workshop is all the diving followed by observation of
specimens under the stereomicroscope.

27
www.redsea-divingsafari.com
 Soma Bay Hotels
Photo Courtesy of Francis Le Guen
InterContinetal Abo Soma Resort
5 5
Abu Soma, Km 12 Safaga Road
Tel: 3260700 / 0748
E-Mail: abu-soma@interconti.com
Website: www.intercontinental.com
Robinson Club Soma Bay
5 5
Soma Bay, Red Sea
Tel: 3549854 / 9859
E-Mail: sekorotariat.somabay@robinson.de
Website: www.robinson-egypt.com
29
La Residence des Cascades Resort
Soma Bay, Red Sea
Tel: 3542333
E-Mail: info@residencedescascades.com
Website: www.residencedscades.com
Sheraton Soma Bay Resort
Soma Bay, Red Sea
Tel: 3545845 / 5915
E-Mail: reservationsomabayegypt@
sheraton.com
Website: www.sheraton.com/somabayresort
Safaga Hotels
Amira Safaga Hotel Coral Garden Resort
3 1
El Corniche Road Km 22, South of Safaga
Tel: 3253821 / 3822 Tel: 3262020 / 2021
E-Mail: info@amirasafaga.com E-Mail: info@coral-garden.com
Website: www.amirasafaga.com Website: www.coral-garden.com
Holiday Inn Resort Safaga Palace Lotus Bay Resort
4 4
Safaga, Red Sea Safaga Tourist Center
Tel: 3260100 Tel: 3260005 / 0006
E-Mail: holidayinnsafaga@holidayinnsafi E-Mail: info@lotusbay.com
faga.com Website: www.lotusbay.com
Website: www.holiday-inn.com/safagapalace
Menaville Village Nemo Dive Club & Hotel
4 2
Safaga Tourist Center Corniche Street
Tel: 3260064 / 0065 Tel: 3256777
E-Mail: menaville2link.com.eg E-Mail: info@nemodive.com
Website: www.menaville.com Web-site: www.nemodive.com
Shams Safaga Village Sharm el Naga Camp
4 3
Safaga – Hurghada Road Km 20, South of Safaga
Tel: 3260044 Tel: 0101112942 - 0101513615
E-Mail: shamsvillage@hotmail.com E-Mail: info@sharmelnaga.com
Website: www.shamshotels.com
Sol y Mar Paradise Beach Sun Beach Village
4 2
Km 8, Safaga Road El Corniche Road
Tel: 3260016 / 0024 Tel: 3260055 / 0056
E-Mail: paradise@solymaparadise.com E-Mail: sunbeach@hurghada.ie.eg.com
Website: www.solymar.com
Tuoubia Hotel
1
El Corniche Road
Tel: 3251294
E-Mail: N/A
Website: N/A
Graphic Design and Advertisement
telephone: +20233371833 / 9942
mobile: +0122112395
e-mail: yasmine.ezzat@redsea-divingsafari.com
marketing@redsea-divingsafari.com30
 Safaga Diving Centers

3 Turtles ABC Dream Divers

Yasmine Hotel St. Elokby Village

Tel: 0653253581 Tel: 0653252116 - 0124127549
Website: www.3turtlesiredisea.com Website: www.abcdreamdivers.com
E-Mail: info@3turtles-red-sea.com E-Mail: info@abcdreamdivers.com
Barracuda Lotus Bay Diving World Safaga

Lotus Bay Village Sakala Trafkom

Tel: 0653253911 - 065451041 Tel: 0693660065
Website: www.barakudaisafaga.com Website: www.divingworldsredsea.com
E-Mail: safaga@baracuda-safaga.com E-Mail: safaga@divingworldredsea.com

El Yassmin Extra Divers

El Yassmin Hotel
Tel: 0127430638 - 0653258531
Website: www.elyassminsafaga.com
E- Mail: elyassminsafaga@hotmail.com
Freedom Divers
Nefertari Hotel
Tel: 0124369878 - 0107578175
Website: www.freedomidivers.de
E-Mail: freedom-divers@yahoo.de
Deep South Mini Safari -St. Johns
Makidi Bay Beach
Tel: 0121563305
Website: www.extradive.info
E-Mail: makidibay@extradive.info
Mena Dive
The Eco-diving Adventure
Menaville Safaga Red Sea Diving Safari is always striving to deliver the best
Tel: 0653260060 diving that the Red Sea has to offer. It is with great delight
Website: www.menadive.com that we bring to you our new mini safari programs, “Deep
E-Mail: center@menadive.com South i St. Johns” and “Fury Shoal Explorer.”

Mermaid Divers Orca Dive Club Spend 3 adventure-filled days diving through the labyrinth
of coral canyons known as the Fury Shoals. Explore the
many splendid sites that St. Johns has to offer aboard our
2 Youth Street Orca Village luxurious boat M/Y Patriot.
Tel: 0105405982 - 0103647430 Tel: 0653250111
Website:www.mermaidiredsea.com Website: www.orcaidiveclubisafaga.com
E-Mail: info@mermaid-redsea.com E-Mail: info@orca-diveclub-safaga.com
Paradise Divers Sea Dream Divers
www.redseaidivingsafari.com
Solymar Resort Topia Hotel
Tel: 0122633073 Tel: 0123135676 - 0653252116
Website: www.enjoyidiving.de Website: www.seadreamdiversisafaga.com
E-Mail: info@enjoy-diving.de E-Mail: topia@hurghada.ie-eg.com

Shams Safaga Sheraton

Shams Safaga Soma Bay

Tel: 0653260044 Tel: 0653545915 - 0653545004
Website: www.shamsidive.com Website: www.orcaidiveclubisomabay.com
E-Mail: safaga@shamshotel.com E-Mail: info@orca-diveclub-somabay.com
Sub Aqua United Divers

Meridian Makadi Hotel City Board in front of Youth Camp

Tel: 0653590600 Tel: 0122267426 - 0653252687
Website: www.subaquaidivecenter.com Website: www.unitedidivers.net
E-Mail: makadi-bay@subaqua-divecenter.com E-Mail: N/A
31 Fury Shoal Explorer Mini-safari 32
 Quseir

Quseir
Located 205 kilometers south of Hurghada, this 5,000 year old Egyptian city
was called Leucus Limen (white harbor) in the Ptolemaic era. Until the 10th
century Quseir was the largest Red Sea port in Egypt.

In the Islamic period it was given the name “Al Quseir,” which means fortress.
The 16th century Ottoman fortress of Sultan Selim, which was rebuilt by the
French in 1798 sits overlooking the small town.

Quseir’s main street runs right through the center of town and features many
bazzars and souvenir shops.

Near the port in-between the main street and a small boulevard can be found
remnants of Islamic architecture with masharabea wood lattices, as well as
other restorated buildings. Mosques as old as 300 years such as Al Farran, Al
Qenawi and Al Senousi are all key highlights of the bustling little town.

“Al Quseir Al Kadima” is an old Roman port where hundreds of amphora, old
pottery, and other such artifacts were found. An ancient caravan trail to Qift
in the Nile Valley leads from the town through the mountains passing several
Pharaonic and Roman sites.

Graffiti dating from pre-historic times to the twentieth century can also be found
in the towering walls of Wadi Hammamat.

Quseir is the launch pad for diving trips to the famous Brother’s Islands, ranked
among the top 10 dive sites in the entire world. The Brothers Islands are situai
ated 67 km offshore just east of El Quseir. The Brother Islands are world-fami
mous for real “thrill diving” that include up close encounters with many different
shark species including Hammerheads and Oceanic White Tips.

Miles and miles of reef, colorful fish, and untouched corals make Quseir a very
popular dive destination. The small but bustling town gives the feel of a real
historical tour of Islamic culture and traditional Egyptian life.

A typical evening consists of horse or camel ride into the desert. You can expect
to be greeted with traditional folkloric entertainment such as fire-eaters and
dancing horse shows.

33 34
36
 Quseir

Photo Courtesy of Francis Le Guen

Photo Courtesy of Francis Le Guen

37
 Quseir Dive Sites
Big Brother
The brother islands are considered the greatest dive sites in the Red Sea. They are
made up of two small islands approximately 36 nautical miles from Quesir. Big brother
is approximately 400 meters long and is easily recognized by its lighthouse. The 2 Isli
lands feature coral draped walls and plunging drop offs. The sheer walls are covered in
soft and hard corals along with huge sea fans. Big Brother features two wrecks on its
north side; the Numidia and the Aida. The Numidia begins at 10m and vertically drops
to approximately 50m. Aida begins at approximately 15m and descends to about 45m.
The southern tip features a plateau at 30m then abruptly dropping to depth. Rarely a
dive goes by without seeing a pelagic including hammers, silkies, threshers, oceanic
whitetips and grey reef sharks. A strong northerly current makes this site suitable for
advanced divers.
Hawksbill Turtle
Lemon Butterfly Fish
39
Quseir Dive Sites
Little Brother
Little Brother is located less than 1km from Big Brother. On the northern side the first
plateau begins at 10m and slowly descends to another plateau at approximately 30m
before dropping off to depth. On the southern side the plateau begins at 30m and abruptli
ly drops off to depth. Fish usually range from hundreds of orange anithias to snappers,
tuna, barracuda and trigger fish. Pelagics including hammers, silkies, threshers, oceanic
whitetips and grey reef sharks are commonly seen. Whale sharks and manta rays can
also be seen during the plankton season beginning in March. A strong northerly current
makes this site suitable for advanced divers.
Lion Fish
Lizard Fish
40
 Quseir Hotels Quseir Diving Centers

Photo Courtesy of Francis Le Guen

Carnelia Beach Resort Cinderella Beach Resort

4 3

Km 26, South Quseir Km 26, South Quseir

Tel: 3334833 - 0122484300 Tel: 3334536 - 0127388003
E-Mail: reservation@carnelia-redsea.com E-Mail: utopiabc@link.net
Website: carnelian-redsea.com Website: utopiabc@link.net

Dreams Beach Hotel Fanadir Beach Hotel

5

Km 30, South Quseir Quseir
Tel: 0127859069 - 0127859072 Tel: 3331414
E-Mail: reserverinf@dreamsresortsegypt.com E-Mail: info@fanadir_hotel.com
Website: www.dreamsresortegypt.com Website: www.fanadir_hotel.com

Flamenco Beach Resort Mangrove Bay Resort Extra Divers Marina Divers

4 3
Radisson SAS Resort Flamenco Hotel
Km 7, Quseir-Safaga Road Km 29, South of Quseir
Tel: 010 6026099 - 065 335260 Tel: 065 3350200 - 012 3732780
Tel: 3350200 / 0210 Tel: 3395026
Website: www.extra-divers.info Website: www.flamincohotes.com
E-Mail: gm@flamencohotels.com E-Mail: mangrove@menanet.net
E-Mail: elquseir@extra-divers.info E-Mail: marinadivers@hotmail.com
Website: www.flamencohotels.com Website: www.mangrovebayresort.com

Movenpick Resort El Quseir Radisson SAS Resort - El Quseir Sub Aqua Dive Center Subex Diving Center
5 5

El Quadim Bay Safaga Road, Quseir Utopia Beach Club Movenpick- Resort, Sirena Beach
Tel: 3332100 Tel: 3350260 Tel: 010 1397900 - 065 3390014 Tel: 065 3332100 - 065 3350036
E-Mail: resort.quseir@movenpick.com E-Mail: reservation-elquseir@radissi Website: www.subaqua-divecenter.com Website: www.subex.org
Website: www.movenpick.com sonsas.com E-Mail: utopia@subaqua-divecenter.com E-Mail: elquseir@subex.org
Website: www.radissonsas.com
41 42
 Marsa Alam

Marsa Alam
220 km south of Hurghada is the still small fishing village of Marsa Alam. The town
consists of a few oriental cafes and supermarkets, a bus station, and a fuel station.
Despite its small size keen observers believe that Marsa Alam is destined to become
as popular a destination as Sharm el Sheikh and Hurghada.

Marsa Alam has the appearance of a tropical paradise with its palm trees, mangi
groves, and coastline fringed with coral reefs. It has gained a very strong reputation
amongst scuba divers because of its pristine dive sites, both along the coastline and
offshore. Sightings of spinner dolphins, dugongs, turtles, mantas, and sharks are a
frequent occurrence for those who venture into its waters.

While off-shore boat diving is the most popular, the nature of the coastline equally
lends itself to fabulous shore-based diving. Fringing coastal reefs are split apart by
small “Marsas” and “Sharms.” “Sharm” means a shape being like a camel’s lips, and
“Marsa” means area with anchoring possibilities. These are two forms of natural bays
that allow easy access to their outer walls. The back reefs contain swim throughs
and tunnel systems, which provide for interesting profiles to start and finish your
dive. These coastal reef “walls” are in shallow water rarely exceeding 35m. Beyond
the coral walls is a sandy seabed bottom, which after a distance drops off to 100
meters+.

Marsa Alam’s dive sites are spread over approximately a 200km stretch of coastline
with over 50 dive sites to choose from. The best known offshore reefs are probai
ably Elphinstone, which features (seasonally) Oceanic White Tips, Hammerheads,
Mantas, and sometimes whale sharks. Other popular off-shore reefs include Dolphin
House and the Fury Shoals. The Fury Shoals is a multitude of reefs hosting some of
the best examples of hard and soft coral worldwide.

Much of the history of the Marsa Alam region is still being discovered, but we can
trace its history to both the Egyptian and Roman empires. By the Pharaonic era
Marsa Alam had become vital to the economy of ancient Egypt. The surrounding
coastal area was rich in deposits of copper, lead, gold, emeralds and semi-precious
stones. The mines are said to have been the only source of emeralds for the Roman
Empire, and the first emerald mines anywhere in the world.

Some of the gold mines were recently reopened by foreign investors using the latest
mining technology. These mines, together with some marble and granite quarries
provide employment for some of the population.

Long ago several ancient Roman caravan routes ran between the Nile to ports along
the Red Sea. These ancient ports included Apollonopolis Magna (Edfu), Coptos (Qift)
and Caenepolis (Qena). The main purpose of these roads was to take emeralds and
other precious stones and metals for shipment across the Red Sea.

43 44
 Marsa Alam

While these roads were used for the gold mining trade, Archaeologists
believe that the main use was as a trade route between the Nile Valley
and the Red Sea. Very important ancient ports were located along the
Red Sea coast in ancient days. The main port is said to have been
Berenice just south of Ras Banas. The ruins of one of these ancient
ports can still be found in Marsa Nakari just 18km south of Marsa
Alam.

Other historic sites include the Emerald Mines of Wadi Suket, which
also hosts a small Ptolemaic rock temple dedicated to Isis and Serapis.

A newly opened road in Marsa Alam is linked to Edfu, which is situated

along the Nile River at about 230km inland. A wealth of rock inscripti
tions from as early as the pre-dynastic periods can be found on the
road leading to Edfu. The ancient markings depict animals including
giraffes and cattle, as well as many hunting scenes.

Off of the Edfu road can be found an area called Wadi Baramiya. Wadi
Baramiya extends into another larger Wadi called Wadi Miya. Where
the ancient caravan route crosses the Marsa Alam - Edfu road at Wadi
Kanais, about 40 km from Edfu, a temple was build by among others
Seti I.

It’s hard to find words that rightfully describe the wonder that is the
Marsa Alam region. The abundance of tourist attractions both marine
and terrestrial would take months to fully explore. Much still remains
to be discovered about the region, but a recent influx of tourism and
development will change that very soon.

45
 Marsa Alam

Your Add Here...

47
 Wadi El Gemal

Wadi El Gemal National Park

Approximately 50km south of Marsa Alam city begins the Wadi el Gemal National park,
which has been nominated as a Biosphere Reserve. The Reserve Area encompasses
the segment of the Red Sea coastal plain and mountains extending roughly between
24°51’N in the north and 24°06’N in the south; and between the Red Sea shoreline in
the east to about 34°28’E in the west.

The Reserve area includes marine and terrestrial components. Wadi El Gemal and its
delta are the central theme of the terrestrial reserve area. The marine component of
the protected area encompasses a strip of coastal marine waters featuring patches of
mangroves, as well as a number of marine islands (the Hamata archipelago and Wadi
El Gemal Island).

The presence of mangroves on the islands makes it a perfect habitat for hundreds of
shore and sea bird species. In addition to the bird populations, two species of turtles
use the Island for nesting grounds and dolphins are commonly seen swimming around
the Island. Daily boat excursions to the Qulan islands for sunbathing and snorkeling is
a favored excursion.

Land based excursions to the Wadi el Gemal delta and desert for trekking, bird watchii
ing, and Bedouin encounters is also very popular. The local Bedouin Ababda who inhi
habits the Wadi el Gamel reserve and eastern desert offers cultural based excursions.
The eastern desert’s spectacular scenery and wildlife are also a popular attraction.

Animals that inhabit the wadis include many rare species like the Nubian Ibex, Capra
Ibex Nubiana, and the Hyrax. Wild donkeys, camels, and gazelle are also abundant in
the region and feed on the vegetation of the desert.

49
 Marsa Alam Dive Sites
Sharm Abu Dabbour
A shore based dive site unique for its small passage that leads to a fairly shallow cavern
and canyon. A rope is used to guide divers through the canyon as sometimes current
is present. Snappers and schools of fusiliers are commonly taking shelter inside the
cavern. Near a large pinnacle in front of the opening between the north and south reef
is an eel garden. The northern and southern reef feature lots of hard coral formation. A
very pleasant dive site suitable for any level diver.
Mackerel
Moray Eel
51
Marsa Abu Dabbab
Marsa Abu Dabbab is an expansive bay famous for its resident dugong and big green
turtles, which are feeding on the sea grass bed. Commonly sighted near the sea grass
are also cuddle fish, jacks, guitar ray, and box fish. The north and south reefs are also
rich in colorful corals and fish. A very pleasant dive site suitable for any level diver.
Napoleon Fish
Octopus
52
 Marsa Alam Dive Sites

Sharm Abu Dabbab Shaab Abu Dabbab

Sharm Abu Dabbab is a shore based dive site featuring a unique tunnel system within
the back reef, which connects 3 small pools. The pools are shallow not exceeding 15m.
Towards the outer walls is an abundance of porite corals and reef fish. The north and
south walls drop down to a sandy bottom at approximately 15m. Black and white damsi
selfish, bat fish, groupers and parrot fish are dwelling among the corals. A very pleasant
dive site suitable for any level diver.
This is a large and shallow offshore reef chain approximately 1.5 nautical miles from
shore. The site is based around two large reefs and in between is a small wreck resting
at about 14m. A very beautiful chain of coral mountains on the east side connects both
larger reefs. An abundance of pristine corals, reef fish and the occasional white tip reef
shark and barracuda make this a very popular dive site. A very pleasant dive site suitable
for any level diver.

Parrot Fish Picasso Fish

Peacock Angel Fish Puffer Fish

53 54
 Marsa Alam Dive Sites
Marsa Shagra
One of the most beautiful house reefs in the southern Red Sea operated by Red Sea
Diving Safari. According to the author of Collins Reef guide, Marsa Shagra is home to 15
endemic fish species, about 300 other species of fish, and 100 types of corals. The bay
is frequented by dolphins and manta rays during certain seasons. The north and south
reefs feature walls that slope down to a sandy bottom at about 15m. The sandy bottom is
littered with hard coral and extends approximately 8-10m, before sloping down to 50m+.
White and black tip reef sharks, different ray species, resident turtles, barracudas, groupi
pers, mackerels, nudibranches and a lot of very colorful coral patches are just some of
the highlights. A very pleasant dive site suitable for any level diver.
Rabbit Fish
Rainbow Fish
55
Elphinstone
A 375m long off-shore reef with drop-offs descending to over 100 meters+. Elphinstone
is ranked among the top ten dive sites in the entire world. It is located approximately 2
nautical miles from the coastline. The reef is angled slightly to the north, which causes a
constant current over the northern and southern plateaus. These plateaus are an ideal
location to catch a glimpse of different shark species like Oceanic White Tip, Scalloped
Hammerhead, White Tip Reef, Grey Reef, Silver Tip, and Thresher. Elphinstone features
Oceanic White Tip (Sep. - Nov.), Scalloped Hammerhead (June - August.), and Mantas
(March - April). A current makes this site suitable for advanced level diver.
Sergeant Fish
Sea Horse
56
 Marsa Alam Dive Sites
Marsa Nakari
One of the most beautiful house reefs in the southern Red Sea operated by Red Sea
Diving Safari. This is a fairly expansive bay with an abundance of coral and marine life.
The north and south reefs feature walls that slope down to a sandy bottom at about 15m.
The north reef features an abundance of colorful corals and the south reef is heavily pitti
ted with many swim throughs. A very pleasant dive site suitable for any level diver.
Scorpion Fish
Soldier Fish
57
Shabb Samadai
Also know as “Dolphin House” Shabb Samadai is a national park approximately 9km
from the coastline. Shaab Samadai is the home of a group of Spinner Dolphins that live
in this horse shoe shaped reef. The site is protected by the Rangers who have zoned the
inside of the reef to protect the dolphins. The site is large and requires two dives to be
fully explored. The entire site is scattered with pillars and domes of stony coral including
brain, mushroom, table and soft coral. The north-east reef features a rich landscape of
mountain corals next to a sandy bottom scattered with reef patches. This area also feati
tures an eel garden and lots of anemones. On the west side is a shallow tunnel system
that is open on the top and ends in a landscape of mountain corals and canyons. A very
pleasant dive site suitable for any level diver.
Spiny Globe Fish
Star Fish
58
 Marsa Alam Dive Sites
Shaab Sharm
This is an offshore dive site approximately 5 nautical miles from the coastline. This reef
is oriented north-west to south-east with plateaus on both ends. On the north-western
side is a plateau that begins at about 25m. There is a chance to see Hammerheads
here from spring until mid August and Oceanic white tips (Longimanus) in autumn. The
east plateau begins at approximately 17m and slowly slopes to another plateau at 30m
before dropping off into depth. Many pelagic species frequent this area year round. Suitai
able for advanced level diver.
Stone Fish
Striped Butterfly
59
Daedelus
This circular island is located approximately 50 nautical miles off the Marsa Alam coastli
line. At its widest point the island is approximately 500 meters wide. A lighthouse stands
in the center of the island and is the only reference point to its location. This is an unsi
spoiled dive site which has become one of the favored diving destinations in the Red
Sea. Its spectacular sheer walls are carpeted in soft corals, hard corals and enormous
sea fans. There is a plateau on the southern side that begins at approximately 35m. All
other sides feature steep vertical drop offs. The east wall features spectacular caves
and overhangs and the west wall features spectacular hard coral formations. You can
expect to see barracuda, jacks, tuna, rainbow runners, grey reef sharks, hammerheads,
threshers and occasionally dolphins. Mantas and whale sharks are also common during
the plankton season. Suitable for advanced level diver.
Surgeon Fish
Trigger Fish
60
 Marsa Alam Hotels
Photo Courtesy of Francis Le Guen
Abo Nawas Resort
4 4
Km 20 North Marsa Alam
Tel: 0122439950 - 0122439951
E-Mail: info@abonawasresort.com
Website: www.abonawasresotr.com
Akassia Swiss Resort
5 4
38 Km of Marsa Alam Airport
Tel: 012 2307718 – 012 7455049
E-Mail: info@akassia.com
Website: www.akassia.com
61
Abu Dabbab Diving Lodge
Km 33 North Marsa Alam
Tel: 0102339271
E-Mail: Kahramana@link.net
Website: www.balbaagroup.com
Amaraya Resort
North Marsa Alam
Tel: 0127458802 – 0127458799
E-Mail: amarya@balbaagroup.com
Website: www.balbaagroup.com
Badawia Beach Hotel Baraka Sons Hotel
4
Address: Kilo 90 Marsa Alam Road Km14, South Marsa Alam
Tel: 0102505560 - 0102505564 Tel: 012 2488062
E-Mail: reservation@badawiamarsaalam.com E-Mail: N/A
Website: www.badawiamarsaalam.com Website: N/A
Blue Lagoon Hotel Blue Reef Hotel
4 4
Km 20 South Marsa Alam North Marsa Alam City
Tel: 0123245792 - 0123245793 Tel: 012 7676728 – 012 7676729
E-Mail: N/A E-Mail: N/A
Website: N/A Website: N/A
Brayka Bay Hotel Reef Resort Cataract Resort
5 4
Km 18 North Marsa Alam 17 Km North of Marsa Alam
Tel: 0121004401 – 0121004406 Tel: 0127343071 - 0127343072
E-Mail: info@braykabay.net E-Mail: marsa@cataractmarsaalamresi
Website: www.braykabay.com sort.com
Website: www.catracthotels.com
Coral Beach Diving Hotel Dream Lagoon Hotel
4 5
Port Ghalib Km 20 South Marsa Alam
Tel: 0653700222 Tel: 0122295791 - 0122295792
E-Mail: reservation@marina.net E-Mail: fordream@florianahotels.com
Website: www.florianahotels.com
Ecolodge Shagra Village El Zabarget Hotel
4
Km 113 South Quseir Hamata
Tel: 0122449073 - 0122449075 Tel: 0122152775
E-Mail: info@redsea-divingsafari.com E-Mail: N/A
Website: www.redsea-divingsafari.com Website: www.zabarget.net
Equinox Resort Flora Beach Resort
4 2
Marsa Alam Km 112 South of Quseir
Tel: 0122106217 - 0122353475 Tel: 0123342080 – 0124755435
E-Mail: reserve@hermes-group.com E-Mail: info@floramarsaalam.com
Website: www.elnabaa.com Website: www.floramarsaalam.com
Habiba Iberotel Coraya Beach Resort
5 5
North Marsa Alam Madinat Coraya
Tel: 3380107 - 3380108 Tel: 3750000 – 012 3912055
E-Mail: sales@balbaagroup.com E-Mail: info@iberotelcorayabeach.com
Website: www.balbaagroup.com Website: www.jaz.travel
62
 Marsa Alam Hotels

Iberotel Lamaya Resort Jaz Solaya Resort

5 5

Madinat Coraya Madinat Coraya

Tel: 3750030 Tel: 3750015
E-Mail: info@iberotellamayaresort.com E-Mail: info@solymarsolayaresort.com
Website: www.iberotel_eg.com Website: www.solymart.com

Kahramana Resort Lahami Bay Resort

5 5

Marsa Alam Km115 South of Marsa Alam

Tel: 3380008 – 3380009 Tel: 010 009266 – 012 3173300
E-Mail: Kahramanama@balbaagroup.com E-Mail: info@Iahamibay.com
Website: www.Kahramanaresort.com Website: www.lahamibay.com

Pensee Royal Garden Resort Resta Reef Resort

4 4

Km 22, South Quseir Km 65 Quaseir MA Road

Tel: 3390022 i 33900023 Tel: 3750090 – 3750099
E-Mail: Pensee@Iink.net E-Mail: www.restareefresort.com
Website: www.utopia_resort.net Website: info@restareefresort.com

Shams Alam Resort Sol y Mar Abu Dabbab

4 5

Km 45 South Marsa Alam Madinat Coraya

Tel: 0122444931 - 0122444932 Tel: 010 0096002
E-Mail: alam@shamshohtels.com E-Mail: info@solymarabubbab.com
Website: www.shamshotels.com Website: www.solymarabubbab.com

Solitaire Beach Resort Sun International Port Ghalib

4 5

Km 81 South Marsa Alam Airport Gabal El Gezira El Haram Center

Tel: 3380100 – 33380102 i 3380103 Tel: 3700100 – 3700101
E-Mail: reservation@solitaire2008.com E-Mail: N/A
Website: N/A Website: N/A

Three Corners Fayrouz Plaza Resort Tulip Resort

5 5

Port Ghalib Km 17 South Marsa Alam Airport

Tel: 010 0095561
E-Mail: fairouzplaza@threecorners.com
Website: www.threecorners.com
Vera Club Elphistone
4 4
Km 25, North Marsa Alam
Tel: 3380031 - 3380034 – 012 2271127
E-Mail: info@elphistone.com
Website: www.elphistone.com
Tel: 010 1617002 – 010 1617003
E-Mail: reservation_tulip@flash_interna-
tional.net
Website: www.falah_international.net
Wadi Sabbara Hotel The Eco-diving Adventure
- Diverse Accommodation Styles (all-inclusive)
Km 25 North Marsa Alam - Unlimited Shore-based Diving / Boat Diving
Tel: 02 37605950 – 02 37603877 - Unique and Diverse Diving Program
E-Mail: N/A - World Famous Dive Sites
Website: N/A
www.redsea-divingsafari.com

63
 Marsa Alam Diving Centers
Akassia
Akassia Resort
Tel: 012 241 67 39
Website: www.diving.de
E-Mail: info@diving.de
Barracuda
Marsa Alam
Tel: N/A
Website: www.barracudadiving.com
E-Mail: info@barracudadiving.com
Coraya Divers
Km 65 El Quseir MA
Tel: 010 7670808
Website: www.coraya-divers.com
E-Mail: info@coraya-divers.com
Diving Ocean New Project
Tulip Resort
Tel: 012 7484335 - 065 3854738
Website: www.divingocean.com
E-Mail: sharm@divingocean.com
Equinox Divers
310 A Sudan Street – El Naba
Tel: N/A
Website: www.elnabaa.com
E-Mail: N/A
Flora Diving Center
Flora Ecolodge Resort
Tel: 012 4755435 - 010 6377712
Website: www.floramarsaalam.com
E-Mail: info@floramarsaalam.com
Oasis
Kilo 20 El Quseir Road
Tel: 010 1573889
Website: www.wernerlau.com
E-Mail: theoasis@wernerlau.com
65
Aquarius Orca Orca Dive Club
Awlad Barka Zabargad Village- Hamata Abu Dabbab Diving Lodge
Tel: 010 5056644 - 010 6460408 Tel: N/A Tel: N/A
Website: www.aquariusredsea.com Website: www.orcadiveclub Website: www.orca-diveclub-abudabb-
E-Mail: aquarius@redsea.com E-Mail: N/A bab.com
E-Mail: N/A
Blue Heaven Holidays Pioneer Divers Red Sea Diving Safari
Tondoba Bay Kilo 14 South M.A. Kahramana Hotel Ecolodge Shagra Village
Tel: 012 3131157 - 065 3415121 Tel: 012 1607326 Tel: 012 2449075 - 065 3380021
Website: www.blueheavenholidays.com Website: www.redsea-divingsafari.com Website: www.redsea-divingsafari.com
E-Mail: info@blueheavenholidays.com E-Mail: pioneer@redsea-divingsafari.com E-Mail: info@redsea-divingsafari.com
Deep South Sea Fari Sea World
Baraka Sons – Camp 6 Safir Hotel Address:
Tel: 012 3258869 - 012 7923336 Tel: 012 1020196 - 010 1013816 Tel: 012 7747018
Website: www.deep-south-diving.com Website: www.seafari-int.com Website: www.seaworld-diving.it
E-Mail: info@deep-south-diving.com E-Mail: info@seafari-int.com E-Mail: info@seaworld-diving.it
Emperor Divers Sefpa Subex
Coral Beach Hotel Equinox Resort Abdel Aaty Abou Zaid Villa
Tel: 012 7372126 Tel: 012 2106217 - 012 2353475 Tel: 012 2454128
Website: www.emperordivers.com Website: www.hermes-group.com Website: www.subex.org
E-Mail: infomarsa.alam@emperordivers.com E-Mail: d.c@elnabaa.com E-Mail:
Extra Divers Wadi Lahmi Divers Wadi El Gemal
Aquarius Beach Village Ecolodge Wadi Lahmi Village Camels Valley
Tel: 016 5529293 - 010 3071247 Tel: 023 3371833 - 02 333749942 Tel: 012 2444932 - 012 7677009
Website: www.extradivers.info Website: www.redsea-divingsafari.com Website: N/A
E-Mail: marsa@extradivers.info E-Mail: info@redsea-divingsafari.com E-Mail: N/A
Marsa Nakari Divers
Ecolodge Nakari Village
Tel: 022 3371833 - 022 7494219
Website: www.redsea-divingsafari.com
E-Mail: info@redsea-divingsafari.com
Ocean Pro
Lahmi Bay Village
Tel: 012 2242527 - 010 0090292
Website: www.barakuda-diving.com
E-Mail: lahamibay@barakuda-diving.com
66
 Ras Banas South

Ras Banas South

Southwards to the Sudanese border is an almost completely empty coastline, except

for the occasional mangrove and herds of grazing camels. Ras Banas is a 51km peninsi
sula towards the end of the Egyptian/Sudanese border. The inlet of water sheltered to
the south of this peninsula is called Foul Bay.

At the head of this bay and approximately 145km south of Marsa Alam sits the ancient
port of Berenice. The town was founded by Ptolemy II Philadelphus in 275 B.C. For
many years it was one of the most important ports on the Red Sea coast, carrying on
trade with India, Arabia, and the east coast of Africa.

Abandoned during the fifth century AD, the site was excavated in 1818 by the Archeoi
ologist Belzoni, who found a Temple of Queen Semiramis and other ancient ruins.

Littered on both the northern and southern sides of the Ras Banas peninsula can be
found a vast complex of islands and off-shore reefs. These include; the Fury Shoals,
Mikauwa Island, St. John’s Island, and Rocky Island.

The reefs found here are intact and frequented by a host of pelagic species. The
multitude of reefs on the northern side of Ras Banas is collectively known as the Fury
Shoals. They offer world-class hard and soft coral formations and plenty of diversity
from drop-offs to coral gardens.

Mikauwa Island lies off the southern point and acts as a sanctuary to nesting terns, as
well as turtles coming to lay their eggs. Furthest south is a 14 km group of reef tables
and pinnacles known as St. Johns. St. Johns contains a staggering profusion of hard
and soft corals including abundant black corals and pristine Gorgonian sea fans. These
reefs are also frequently visited by a variety of sharks.

Further south is the “The Hala’ib Triangle,” which is a disputed land just between the
borders of Egypt and Sudan. The two major towns in this area are Hala’ib and Shalati
teen. Shalateen is the Egyptian frontier famous for its local Bedouin tribes called the
“Ababda” and the “Bisharia.”

Today these regions are under Egyptian rule, which has launched a program of “devi
velopment” to cement its hold on this potentially oil-rich region. Anyone wishing to visit
this region is advised to hire a guide. A company called Red Sea Desert Adventures
will run a very informative day-trip to the village. There are no tourist accommodations
in the area, but this is likely to change in the very near future.

The Camel Market is one of Shalateen’s most memorable attractions. Buyers from all
across Egypt converge here to choose from the different breeds brought by herders
who come from Sudan on foot.

The southern most area of the Egyptian Red Sea is very much reminiscent of the
African Saharas. Most of the region is desolate territory and still remains unchartered.
Major tourism development agencies have already laid stake to the coastline and hotel
projects are expected to begin by the beginning of 2010.

67
Ras Banas South Dive Sites
Shaab Malahi
The Arabic word “malahi” means play ground, which is a fitting name for this extraordini
nary off-shore dive site. Approximately 10 nautical miles from the coastline, it features
a maze of hard coral landscaping and a series of corridors (between 10 to 12 meters)
inside the southern side of the reef (hence the name playground). The depth around the
reef ranges between 20-25 meters and features a rich variety of soft and hard corals.
The wonderful landscape makes this a very fun dive site. Suitable for any level diver.
Shaab Mansour
Shaab Mansour is an off-shore reef located approximately 10 nautical miles from the
coastline. On the southern side is a plateau that begins at about 10m and then slopes
down to another plateau at 30m before dropping off into the blue. The rest of the reef is
surrounded by a drop off with beautiful coral draped walls. Many different shark species
have been sighted here as well as mantas and whale sharks (beginning during plankton
season). A strong current occasionally occurs here and the site is suitable for advanced
divers.
Ras Banas South Dive Sites
Satayah
Satayah is one of the biggest reefs in the Fury Shoals approximately 11 nautical miles
from the coastline. The reef is semi-oval shaped and features very large lagoons in the
interior. A very large pod of spinner dolphins inhabits the lagoons, which is about 10m
in depth. The east side features a drop off where thresher sharks, hammerheads, and
oceanic white tips sharks have been sighted. Reef sharks and mantas have also been
sighted in the area. A very pleasant dive site suitable for any level diver.
Gota Abu Galawa
Gota Abu Galawa is a small reef approximately 9 nautical miles from the coastline. This
site features a small wreck on the south side at 17m, which was an American yacht that
sank 15 years ago. The hull and roof are still intact and the interior is home to a variety
of sweeper fish. Surrounding the wreck are soft and hard coral formations littered around
the sandy bottom. Towards the northern side is a small channel at about 16 meters,
which enters into a sandy bottom area that features a wonderful arrangement of mounti
tain corals. A very pleasant dive site suitable for any level diver.
Ras Banas South Dive Sites
Abu Galawa
Abu Galawa is located just north of its “little brother” Gota Abu Galawa. It also features a
much larger and very impressive wreck, which was a Chinese tugboat that sank around
1945. The bow is just under the surface leaning on the coral reef and descending to
about 17 meters. The larger reef to the north features very impressive coral gardens,
which continue all the way towards the west end of the reef. The depth here is approximi
mately 20m and slowly slopes to depth towards the western tip. A very pleasant dive site
suitable for any level diver.
Shabb Claudia
Shabb Claudia is one of the most popular dive sites of the Fury Shoals located approximi
mately 9 nautical miles from the coastline. This reef is popular due to its breathtaking
underwater landscape and cave system running through the southern part. Depth inside
the caves range between 8 to 10 meters and around the reef is a sandy bottom at appi
proximately 20m. It is common to see pelagic species cruising by just south of the tunnel
entrance. Many napoleons also congregate outside the cave entrances as well as many
other fish species. A very pleasant dive site suitable for any level diver.
Ras Banas South Dive Sites
Milkauwa Island
Just south of the Ras Banas peninsula is the Island of Mikauwa, situated approximately
30km from the coastline. The island acts as a sanctuary to flocks of nesting terns and
turtles coming to lay their eggs. The island is fringed with remarkable hard coral gardens.
Around the oblong shaped reef is a sloping bottom that begins at about 15m and slowly
descends to 30m+. Along the northern side is collection of pinnacles that featuring many
fish species and coral. A very pleasant dive site suitable for any level diver.
Zabargad Island
Zabargad Island is a marine park located approximately 37 nautical miles from the
coastline. It is recognized as one of the most beautiful islands for diving featuring an
extensive diversity of marine life. There are several yet unidentified wrecks around the
island. This triangular shaped island covers about 5 square kilometers and hosts nestii
ing turtles which are readily seen in August. On the southern side is a turquoise lagoon
and shallow coral reefs at depths of 18-25 meters. This then slopes to a sandy bottom
covered with a wide variety of intricately sculpted stony coral pinnacles. Large and small
reef fish can be seen cruising through the pinnacles and the sandy bottom hosts blue
spotted and black spotted stingrays as well as crocodile fish. Hammerheads and manta
rays can sometimes be encountered cruising about the island. A very pleasant dive site
suitable for intermediate level diver.
Ras Banas South Dive Sites

Rocky Island

Just a few kilometers south of Zabargad Island is the Rocky Island, designated as one
of the underwater wonders of the world. An abundance of marine life is found all around
the island. Its sheer walls draped in colorful soft corals, sponges, and sea fans drop
vertically down to the first plateau at about 25 meters, then dropping down to 50+. The
southern tip features several caves and overhangs where a great deal of shark and
pelagics are cruising by. Strong currents make the Rocky Island suitable for advanced
level diver.

The Eco-diving Adventure

Reef Check Eco-diving Certification

Reef Check is the world’s largest international coral
reef monitoring program and the United Nations official
reef monitoring program. Reef check is dedicated to
global coral reef education, monitoring, and managei
ment by involving recreational divers and experienced
marine scientists in community based team work.

Stephan Moldzio is our Reef Check team leader as

well as a Reef Check instructor. Our long term plan
is to create an onigoing network of volunteers to coni
duct surveys in all the reefs of the region.

www.redsea-divingsafari.com 78
 St. John’s Reef
This massive reef system encompassing a 20km wide and 12km long area is located
approximately 16km from the coastline. There are dozens of excellent dive possibiliti
ties, which would take a few days to explore. The entire reef system rises up from
an underwater plateau. Some of the small circular reefs peak just below the surface
and look very small. But once in the water the reef expands wider and wider as they
descend towards the bottom.
79
St. John’s contains a wealth of hard and soft corals including black corals and gorgoni
nian sea fans. Massive schools of fish congregate here such as fusiliers, angel fish,
black banner fish, groupers, and surgeon fish. Turtles, napoleons, and the infamous
bumped-head parrotfish are also a common sight. These reefs are also commonly
visited by a variety of sharks species including Hammerheads.
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The Red Sea

The Red Sea’s History

The Red Sea mountains consist mainly of very old igneous rocks and sediments
that have been faulted and folded. The sediments have also been affected by the
heat and pressures they experienced during the intrusions of the igneous rocks.

The oldest of these rock formations are thought to have originated between 1000
and 750 million years ago, during movements of the tectonic plates of the earth.

During successive periods thick layers of sediments that were deposited on land
and in sea covered these oldest rocks.

A considerable uplift of the land bordering the Red Sea in the west took place 15
million years ago. This resulted in erosion of more than 3km of sediment cover
exposing the deeper older rock formations. It was during this era that the Red Sea
Mountains more or less started to take on their present shape.

The Red Sea is a young growing ocean and part of a much larger body of water
that forms the contact zone between two crustal plates of the earth. In the north this
sea extends until the Dead Sea and to the south it continues into the Indian Ocean.

About 35 million years ago forces in the earth’s crust began to separate the Arabian
Peninsula from Africa. The Red Sea was subsequently formed around 20 million
years ago.

At the moment the Red Sea widens around 1.8 cm per year. At the same time
the central part of the Red Sea is subsiding, while the landmasses bordering the
Red Sea (Africa and Arabian Peninsula) are being uplifted. Up until now the uplift
has been 3 km while the maximum subsidence has been 4 km. This makes a total
offset of at least 7 km.
 Marine Life Highlights

Oceanic White Tip White Tip Reef Shark

Scalloped Hammerhead Black Tip Reef Shark

The Eco-diving Adventure

Whale Shark
SharkSchool
Eco-diving at its best! The most popular workshop in our
eco-diving program, Sharkschool has been described as the
ultimate diving experience.

Spinner Dolphin

Manta Ray

Developed by Dr. Erich Ritter, this workshop is for ad-

Dugong vanced divers who want to learn about shark behavior
and how to be a safe diver near sharks. Key goal of the
program is to make the participants aware that there are
no dangerous sharks, only dangerous situations, know-
ingly or unknowingly created by humans because they
do not understand shark behavior.

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www.redsea-divingsafari.com
 Southern Red Sea Topography

The topography of the southern Red Sea region is unique in its variety of marine and Marsa
terrestrial components. Islands and off-shore reefs, coastal white sand beaches, desert
valleys, and rocky mountains are the four main components of the regions topography. This is the Arabic word that
open sea
means a place with anchoring
90% of the coastline from Safaga to the Ras Banas peninsula is made up of fringing possibilities. A marsa is a natural
reef. This fringing reef is supported by a “back-reef,” which can extend to 200 meters in opening in the reef with a sandy
some cases. This back reef sits under very shallow water that must be crossed in order reef
bottom that allows for access to
to access the open sea. the open sea from shore.

beach area

Sharm

This is the Arabic word that

open sea means “shaped like a camel’s lip”
or “V” shaped. This is in reference
to the “V” shaped groove that alli
lows access to the open sea.
reef

Most hotels have jetties that run atop the “back reef” to the reef edge. You can then
climb down stairs on the jetty to enter the water. Other hotels have dug out large
lagoons in the back reef, which provides a secluded swimming area overlooking the
beach area
open ocean. This is what is called a “halk,” some of them being natural lagoons or
man-made lagoons. Some of these lagoons are very expansive and serve as a great
training ground for kite surfing.

In some rare areas fringing coastal reefs are split apart by small “marsas” and Halk
“sharms.” “Sharm” means a shape being like a camel’s lips, and “marsa” means an
area with anchoring possibilities. These are two forms of natural bays that allow easy open sea A halk can be a natural or man-
access to their outer walls. These reef “walls” are in shallow water rarely exceeding made lagoon in the back reef.
35m. Beyond the coral walls is a sandy seabed bottom, which after a distance drops It is sheltered from the open
off to 100 meters+. ocean and can be likened to an
reef artificial pool.
“Shabb” is the Arabic word meaning an off-shore reef. The distance of these reefs from
the coastline vary from reef to reef and can only be accessed by boat.

A “wadi” is the Arabic word for a valley, which is usually found some distance away
from the coastline and lead into the desert. Then the mountainous terrain follows called beach area
“gabel,” or mountains.

In a lot of cases you have a “shabb” located directly in front of a “marsa,” that is located
directly in front of a “wadi.”
Ras
Marsa Shagra for instance is located directly in front of Shabb Shagra (also referred to
as Elphinstone). The wadi behind Marsa Shagra is called Wadi Shagra and the peaks A ras is a small peninsula that
behind the valley also take the name of Shagra. The same name will pertain to all the open sea can sometimes be found along
different geographical components if they are relatively near to each other.
the coastline.
Most of the hotels in the region can organize boat excursions to visit the off-shore reefs
and islands for diving or snorkeling. You can visit the local marsas by car for swimming
and sunbathing. If a resort is situated in front of the marsa you may be required to pay
an entrance fee. reef

Traveling into the desert should be done with a qualified guide. These excursions can beach area
include a cultural encounter with the Bedouins, visits to historical and archeological
sites, and quad or camel riding trough the desert.

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 The Eastern Desert

The Rock art of the Eastern Desert

When the German Egyptologist Hans Winkler started his journey through the
southeastern desert of Egypt in 1936; he was rewarded with the discovery of
hundreds of spectacular rock drawings dating from preihistoric times.

During the dark times of the Second World War Winkler’s discoveries were lost
and forgotten. Only in the early 1990´s did a group of English archaeologists
retrace the travels of H. Winkler and studied the carvings once again.

In prehistoric times the landscape of the eastern desert resembled more the
savannas of today’s East Africa. Herds of wild game like African Gazelles,
Elephants, Ostriches and Giraffes were grazing the Wadis. They provided hunting
for the human population as well as for Lions and other predators. While Ibex
and Gazelle still cling on in today’s harsher environment, the others disappeared
from the region as long ago as the third millennium BC. During this time drastic
climatic changes turned the area into a barren and forbidding landscape. Some of
the oldest rock carvings are scenes with Giraffes, Elephants or Ostriches. Some
drawings indicate a strong connection between the desert and the Nile valley.
Others are drawings of boats transporting godlike figures. They symbolize men’s
communication with the after world, a theme common in most tombs of pharaonic
and preipharaonic Egypt.

Different trading routes followed the Wadis connecting the Red Sea with the Nile.
They produced the more recent rock carvings: caravans with camels, fighting
scenes on camels or horses, men hunting with dogs, or Egyptian hieroglyphic
writing. Ancient or more recent, the rock drawings of the eastern desert present a
spectacular document of history. They give hints to preipharaonic Egypt, present
some of the roots of pharaonic times at the Nile valley, and tell about the history of
later desert inhabitation.

Ptolomeans and Romans in the Eastern Desert

Since pharaonic times the Eastern Desert was famous for its trading routes and
mining resources. Under the Ptolemaic and the Romans (4th century BC until 7th
century AD) trading was extended to the Mediterranean region. Caravans leaving
from south Arabia, east Africa, and south Asia had to cross the eastern desert
and successively follow the Nile to the Mediterranean Sea, which they then had to
navigate to Rome. In the Ptolemaic times trade of elephants, gold and emeralds
was very common. In the roman and early Byzantium eras pearls, pepper, general
exotic spices, silk, exotic animals, medicines, frankincense and myrrh were traded
with Rome in exchange for wines, fine pottery, glass and textiles.

Several caravan routes led from Red Sea harbors like Myos Hormos and Berenice
to the Nile. At distances of 30 to 35km (about a day-march on foot) fortified water
stations were established to supply the caravans. Branch roads connected mining
areas to the main routes. In the north mainly granite, porphyry and other hard rock
for pillars, bathtubs, statues and fountain bowls were quarried and roughly shaped
at site before transported to the Nile. In the southieastern desert gold, emeralds,
and bekhen stone were mined for sarcophagi and other artifacts. Cairns of piled
stones frequently marked the caravan routes and towers occasionally overlooked
the road. Fire towers covered the whole distance from Myos Hormos (Quseir) until
Coptos (Qift) to signal messages from the coast to the Nile. Many remains of this
period are still visible today. Fortresses, wells, quarries, mining shafts and even
whole villages can be found in these now deserted areas.

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 Bedouin Tribes

Bedouin Tribes
The eastern desert is inhabited by the Ma’aza bedouin and the Ababda bedouin tribes.
The northieastern desert is inhabited by the Ma’aza bedouin tribe. Ma’aza means
‘Goat People.’ The tribe is subdivided into clans in which each member of the clan can
be traced back over several generations to one forefather. The Ma’aza tribe has its
origins in Arabia and is of Semitic origin. In the eighteen century few households of the
Ma’aza tribe began settling in Egypt. The tribe comprises about 20 clans, of which the
Khushmaan clan has by far the most numerous desertidwelling clan members (many
Bedouin settled along the Nile).

The Khushmaan build tents of thick durable blankets woven from goat hair. The blani
kets are sewn together and stretched over a frame of wooden sticks from the acacia
tree. Most families consider a special area in the desert their homeiland. A family will
usually settle near a watering well. In winter they can move sites regularly depending
on where the rain falls to alter the grazing for the animals.

The southieastern desert is occupied by the Ababda tribe. They make up the Arabic
speaking tribe of the Beja, an indigenous Hamitic race that occupies the southern
areas between the Nile and the Red Sea coast in southern Egypt and Sudan. The Beja
date from 4000-2000 BC and were most probably related to the ‘Blemmeys’ that had
alternating friendly and hostile relationships with the Romans during their occupation of
the area 2000 years ago.

The Ababda are also called ‘The children of Abad’. Abad came from the Arabian
Peninsula to Egypt around 1300 AD (around the same time the Beja converted from
Christianity to Islam.) He claimed to descent from Abdellahi, the son of the famous
Zubeir Ibn el Awwaam, a close relative of the Prophet Mohammed (SAWWS) and one
of the first converts to Islam.

The Ababda hut is built of matting woven from the leaves of the domipalm. The mats
are stretched over a frame of long curved acacia sticks and fastened by wooden skewi
ers. The lower interior and exterior of the hut are covered by blankets and hand woven
woolen carpets. The Ababda live partly in small settlements along the coast, and partly
as isolated families in the mountains. Their main source of income is their livestock of
goats, sheep, and camels.

Apart from strong black sugar rich tea, their most common social drink is ‘Gabena’,
which is hand roasted coffee beans ground with ginger. The minimum number of
rounds to drink is three. Bread makes up the main dish of their diet. It is made from
flour, salt, and water and can be kneaded into a thick round shape baked into the sand
with firewood, called ‘gurs’, or baked on an iron plate into thin pancakes called ‘fetir’.
The bread is mixed with sour goat milk or fat for the meals. At special occasions a
sheep or goat can be slaughtered and the meat grilled on hot rocks.

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 Survival Guide
You need four things to set about traveling in Egypt. Firstly, always allow for extra time
for even small tasks. Secondly, patience - have it or you’ll learn it here. Thirdly, a sense
of humor helps to ameliorate a difficult situation. Fourthly, “baksheesh” – always have
small bills for tipping and don’t ask for any service unless you are sure you want it.
There is a strong sense of communal responsibility especially towards foreigners. Anyoi
one in distress can expect the immediate assistance of both the public and police. Egypt
is one of the most liberal Muslim countries in the Middle East, but please be aware that
it is still a very conservative country. Islamic and Christian values are dominant.
Weather
Egypt’s climate consists of mild winters from November to April, and hot summers
from May to October. Summer days are typically warm and it is not uncommon for
temperatures to reach 45 Celsius.
Important Note: You’ve not experienced a real sun burn unless you’ve sat under
Egypt’s sun! Please heed this advice to avoid harrowing pain, especially children.
Make sure to do the following:

Open displays of affection between sexes can be very offensive. Modest dress should 1. Try to limit your time in the sun from the hours of 10am to 2pm.
be worn and either sex displaying bare shoulders may also be offensive. Within the 2. Use sunblock with SPF 15 or above every 2 hours while in the sun.
resorts and private beaches shorts and swimsuits are acceptable. 3. No sun or sunblock for children under 1 year old.
4. Wear a hat and sunglasses.
For most visitors to Egypt stomach problems and over-exposure to the sun are the two 5. Drink plenty of water.
greatest health risks. Drink only bottled water and eat only at reputable restaurants.
Peel all fruits and eat only vegetables that have been cooked or that you can peel.
Never drink or eat anything from street vendors. Use sunblock and cover yourself well
from the sun. Drink plenty of water.
Weather Chart

Month Air Temperature Water Temperature

Passport and Visa Information
Visitors to Egypt should posses a passport valid for 6-months beyond their planed
date of entry. Anyone wishing to visit the country must buy a visa. These can be
obtained in advance from Egyptian consulates abroad or upon arrival to Cairo Airport,
Hurgahda Airport, Marsa Alam Airport, or Luxor Airport. The 3 types of Visas that can
be obtained are:
1. Tourist Visa: valid for a period not exceeding 3 months granted on either single or
multiple entry basis.
2. Entry Visa: is required for any foreigner arriving in Egypt for purposes other than
tourism, e.g. work, study, etc. The possession of a valid Entry Visa is needed to
complete the residence procedure in Egypt.
January 14 / 22 22 / 23
February 13 / 20 21 / 22
March 17 / 23 22 / 23
April 21 / 27 23 / 24
May 24 / 30 24 / 25
June 27 / 32 24 / 25
July 28 / 33 25 / 26
August 28 / 39 26 / 27
September 22 / 39 28 / 29
October 16 / 34 27 / 28
November 11 / 32 25 / 26
December 6 / 28 24 / 25

3. Transit Visa.

Emergency Numbers Time

Ambulance: Egypt’s is 2 hours ahead of the standard GMT time.

Fire Dept.:
Marine Police: 12pm 4am
2pm 1pm 7am
Hospital:
Deco-chamber: Cairo Berlin London New York L.A.
Tourist Police:
Police:
Marsa Alam Airport:

Embassy Numbers in Cairo (02+)

Australia: 575-0444 U.K.: 794-0852

Austria.: 794-7494 Germany: 735-3687
Belgium: 794-7494 Italy: 794-3194
Canada: 794-3110 Russia: 748-9354
Denmark: 739-6592 Slovenia: 749-1771
Finland: 736-1487 Switzerland: 575-8284
France: 570-3916 U.S.A.: 797-3300
Greece: 795-0443
Netherlands: 739-5500
Spain: 735-0047
Sweden: 736-4132
91
 Survival Guide
Language Traveling

Within the resorts and tourist areas you will always find English speaking staff. If Airplane: tayara
you want to travel off the beaten track then learn these few Arabic phrases below. Airport: mattar
Recognizing Arabic numerals is also very helpful for getting around and dealing with Bus: auto beas
money. Ticket: tazkara
Change: sarf or taghieer
Customs: gumruk
Emergencies
Station: mahatta
Porter: shaial or hammal
Police: bolice
Train: atre or kittar
Infirmary: mashfa
Suitcase: shanta
Hospital: mustashfa
Departure: zehab
Pharmacy: ssaydaliya
Arrival: wussul
Doctor: doctur
Delay: taakhear
I’m feeling sick: Ahsaor bel taab
Travel Agent: wikalat safar
Please call the doctor: etlob el-tabib men fadlak
Bus station: mehatet el-outobees
When does the....arrive: emta wussul
When does the...leave: emta qiyam...
Common Expressions
I want to go to...: ayez arrouh ella...
Stop here please: wakeff hena men fadlak
Yes: naam, aywa
No: la
Possibly: mumken
At the Restaurant
Impossible: mesh mumken
Necessary: daruri
Restaurant: mataam
Please: men fadlak (m.) men fadlik (f.)
Breakfast: fetar
Thank you: shukran
Lunch: ghada
Your welcome: ahlan beka
Dinner: asha
Sorry/Excuse me: assef
Water: mayya
Good morning: sabah el-kheir
Mineral water: mayya maadania
Good evening: masa el-kheir
Wine: nebite
Good night: tesbah ala kheir
Juice: assir
Welcome: marhaba
Glass: kas
Goodbye: salam
Plate: tabaq
My name Is: esmi
Bread: aish
What is your name: esmak eh
Butter: zebda
How are you: ez zayyak (m.) ez zayyek (f.)
Olives: zeitun
Today: en-nahar da
Cheese: jibna
Tomorrow: bukra
Salad: salata
Yesterday: imbarih
Vegetables: khodar
I speak English: ana batkallem englizi
Meat: lahma
I don’t speak Arabic: ma-batkallamsh `arabi
Chicken: ferakh
I don’t understand: ana mish fahem
Fish: samak
Do you speak english: int betetkalem inglizi
Dessert: halawa
Can you help me: mumken tsaa’dni
Fruit: fakiha
Information: istiilaamaat
Ice-Cream: ice cream
What time is it: el-saa kam
Coffee: ahua
Coffee without sugar: ahua sada
Fairly sweet: mazbut
Numbers
Very sweet: ziada
Tea: shay
One: wahed
Sugar: sokkar
Two: etnein
Milk: labn
Three: talata
Hot: sokhna
Four: arbaa
Cold: bared
Five: khamsa
Six: sitta
Seven: sabaa
Eight: tamania
Nine: tesaa
Ten: ashaara
Fifty: khamsin
One Hundred: mia
Five Hundred: khams mia
One Thousand: alf
93 94