Egypt Scuba Diving Prices: A Complete Guide for 2025
Scuba diving in Egypt’s Red Sea is known for its vibrant coral reefs, historic shipwrecks, and affordable prices compared to other global diving destinations. Egypt scuba diving prices vary depending on location, dive center, package type, and season. On average, a single dive costs between $35 and $60, while a full PADI Open Water course ranges from $400 to $650. Liveaboard trips for 7 nights can be booked from $1,200 to $2,800, including meals, accommodation, and up to 28 dives. These prices are significantly lower than in the Maldives, Thailand, or the Caribbean, making Egypt one of the most budget-friendly diving destinations in the world.
Red sea Scuba diving Team will break down all costs associated with scuba diving in Egypt’s Red Sea, including dive prices by region, certification fees, equipment rental, liveaboard options, and tips to save money. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, this detailed overview will help you plan your underwater adventure with confidence.
What Affects Egypt Scuba Diving Prices?
Several factors influence how much you’ll pay for scuba diving in Egypt. Understanding these variables will help you choose the best option for your budget and experience level.
Location of the Dive Destination
The Red Sea coast of Egypt includes several major diving hubs, each with different pricing structures.
- Sharm El Sheikh – One of the oldest diving centers in Egypt, offering a wide range of dive centers and mid-range prices.
- Hurghada – A growing tourist city with competitive pricing due to high supply. Is Hurghada Diving Expensive?
- Dahab – Known for its relaxed vibe and budget-friendly dive centers.
- Marsa Alam – More remote, with slightly higher prices but fewer crowds.
- Ras Mohamed & The Brothers – Often accessed via liveaboard, with higher overall costs.
Prices in Dahab are generally 10–15% lower than in Sharm El Sheikh or Hurghada due to lower operating costs and a focus on independent travelers.
Type of Dive Package
Single dives are the most expensive per dive, while multi-dive packages and courses offer better value.
- Single dive (fun dive): $40–$60
- 5-dive package: $175–$275
- 10-dive package: $320–$500
- PADI Open Water Course: $400–$650
- Advanced Open Water Course: $350–$550
Bulk bookings reduce the cost per dive. For example, a 10-dive package lowers the average price to $35–$50 per dive, compared to $55 for a single dive.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations
Diving prices in Egypt change with the tourist season.
- High season (October–April): Higher demand leads to full rates. Dive centers are busy, and availability is limited.
- Low season (May–September): Prices drop by 15–30%. Fewer tourists mean better deals and more personalized service.
July and August are the hottest months, but water temperatures reach 29–31°C, making diving comfortable even with shorter wetsuits.
Dive Center Reputation and Certification
Well-known, PADI-5 Star-certified centers often charge more due to higher safety standards, experienced instructors, and better-maintained equipment. Smaller, locally run centers may offer lower prices but should be carefully vetted for safety.
A 2024 survey by Dive Magazine found that 78% of divers rated Egyptian dive centers as “safe” or “very safe,” with only 5% reporting equipment issues.
Scuba Diving Prices in Sharm El Sheikh
Sharm El Sheikh remains one of the most popular diving destinations in Egypt. Located at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, it offers access to world-famous sites like Ras Mohamed National Park and the SS Thistlegorm wreck.
Single Dive and Dive Packages
Most dive centers in Sharm El Sheikh operate from Naama Bay or Sharks Bay. Prices are standardized across reputable operators.
| Package Type | Price (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Single Dive | $50–$60 | Includes tank, guide, and boat transfer |
| 5-Dive Package | $250 | Average $50 per dive |
| 10-Dive Package | $450 | Average $45 per dive |
| Night Dive | $60 | Requires special briefing and gear |
Ras Mohamed National Park charges a $25 park fee per diver, which is usually included in the dive price. This fee supports marine conservation and is mandatory for all divers.
PADI Certification Courses
Learning to dive in Sharm El Sheikh is both affordable and convenient. Courses are offered year-round in multiple languages.
- PADI Open Water Diver: $450–$600
Includes theory, pool sessions, 4 open water dives, study materials, and certification. - PADI Advanced Open Water: $400–$550
Adds deep diving, navigation, and three elective dives (e.g., night, wreck, peak performance buoyancy). - PADI Rescue Diver: $450–$600
Focuses on emergency response and diver safety. - Divemaster Course: $1,800–$2,500
Professional-level training with internship opportunities.
Many centers offer discounts for course bundles. For example, completing Open Water + Advanced + Rescue can save up to $200.
Equipment Rental
Renting gear is common for travelers who don’t want to carry their own. Daily rental rates in Sharm El Sheikh:
| Item | Daily Rate (USD) | Weekly Rate (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Regulator & BCD | $15 | $80 |
| Wetsuit (3mm) | $10 | $50 |
| Full Set (all gear) | $25 | $130 |
| Nitrox Analyzer | $5 | $25 |
While rental gear is well-maintained, bringing your own mask, snorkel, and computer is recommended for hygiene and comfort.
Scuba Diving Prices in Hurghada
Hurghada has become a major diving hub on Egypt’s western Red Sea coast. It offers easy access to the Giftun Islands, Elphinstone, and the offshore reefs of Safaga.
Dive Rates and Packages
Hurghada’s dive market is highly competitive, leading to lower prices than Sharm El Sheikh.
| Package | Price (USD) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Single Dive | $35–$50 | From local reefs |
| 5-Dive Package | $175–$240 | Save 15–25% |
| 10-Dive Package | $320–$450 | Best value |
| Giftun Islands Day Trip | $60–$80 | 2 dives + lunch |
| Elphinstone Day Trip | $70–$90 | Advanced divers only |
The Giftun Islands are protected as a marine reserve, and a $15–$20 entry fee is added to most dive trips.
Certification Costs
Hurghada offers some of the most affordable PADI courses in the Red Sea.
- Open Water Course: $400–$550
Many centers include Nitrox certification at no extra cost. - Advanced Open Water: $350–$500
Often includes a wreck dive at the Carnatic or a drift dive at Abu Ramada. - Specialty Courses (per course): $120–$200
Popular options: Deep Diver, Wreck Diver, Nitrox, Night Diver.
Some dive shops, like Emperor Divers and Dive Hurghada, offer free theory online before arrival, reducing classroom time.
Equipment Purchase and Rental
Buying gear in Hurghada is cheaper than in Europe or North America. A full scuba set (BCD, regulator, wetsuit, mask, fins) can be purchased for $800–$1,200, compared to $1,500+ abroad.
Rental prices are also lower:
- Regulator & BCD: $12/day
- Wetsuit: $8/day
- Full set: $20/day
Many centers allow gear to be rented for the duration of your stay with weekly discounts.
Scuba Diving Prices in Dahab
Dahab is a backpacker favorite, known for its laid-back atmosphere and world-class diving at the Blue Hole. Prices here are among the lowest on the Red Sea.
Dive Center Pricing
Dahab’s dive centers cater to budget-conscious and experienced divers. Most operate on a pay-as-you-go basis.
| Service | Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Single Dive | $35–$45 |
| 5-Dive Package | $170–$220 |
| 10-Dive Package | $300–$400 |
| Blue Hole Dive | $40–$50 |
| Canyon Dive (Blue Hole) | $50–$60 (guide required) |
The Blue Hole is a unique site with the famous Arch, which descends to 55 meters. Only technical divers should attempt the Arch dive. A certified guide is mandatory and costs $50–$100 extra.
Certification and Training
Dahab is a top spot for learning to dive due to its shallow lagoons and calm conditions.
- PADI Open Water: $380–$500
Courses are often taught in small groups or one-on-one. - Advanced Open Water: $350–$480
Includes dives at the Lighthouse, Three Pools, and Eel Garden. - Rescue Diver: $400–$550
High emphasis on practical skills in open water.
Some centers, like Sinai Divers and Dive Dahab, offer internships and instructor courses at reduced rates.
Unique Diving Experiences
Dahab offers several specialty dives not found elsewhere:
- Canyon Night Dive: $60
A guided dive through the Blue Hole’s canyon after dark. - Wreck Dives (e.g., Kaisar-i-Hind): $50–$70
Shallow wreck suitable for beginners. - Snorkeling Trips to the Seven Pools: $25
Great for non-divers or freedivers.
While Dahab is affordable, safety standards vary. Always choose a PADI or SSI-affiliated center.
Scuba Diving Prices in Marsa Alam
Marsa Alam is more remote, with fewer tourists and pristine dive sites like Elphinstone, St. John’s, and the Dolphin House.
Dive Costs and Access
Due to its location, diving in Marsa Alam is slightly more expensive.
| Service | Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Single Dive | $50–$65 |
| 5-Dive Package | $240–$300 |
| 10-Dive Package | $450–$580 |
| Elphinstone Day Trip | $80–$100 |
| Dolphin House Snorkel + Dive | $90 |
Elphinstone is known for strong currents and frequent shark sightings (oceanic whitetips, hammerheads). Only advanced divers should attempt this site.
Liveaboard Access
Many of Marsa Alam’s best sites are only reachable by liveaboard. Local day boats can reach Elphinstone and Abu Dabbab, but the Brothers, Daedalus, and Rocky are exclusive to liveaboards.
Day trips from Marsa Alam are longer (2–3 hours each way), so early starts are common.
Certification and Training
PADI courses in Marsa Alam are slightly more expensive due to lower competition.
- Open Water Diver: $480–$650
- Advanced Open Water: $400–$580
- Specialty Courses: $150–$220
Centers like Abu Dabbab Dive Club and Marsa Alam Divers focus on eco-friendly diving and marine conservation.
Egypt Red Sea Liveaboard Prices
Liveaboard diving is the best way to explore remote reefs and deep-water sites like the Brothers, Daedalus, and Zabargad.
7-Night Liveaboard Costs (2025)
| Boat Class | Price per Person (USD) | Dives Included | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | $1,200–$1,600 | 20–24 dives | Basic cabins, shared facilities |
| Mid-Range | $1,600–$2,200 | 24–28 dives | Private cabins, AC, better food |
| Luxury | $2,200–$2,800+ | 28+ dives | Ensuite bathrooms, gourmet meals, Nitrox |
Most liveaboards include:
- All meals and drinking water
- Unlimited dives (2–4 per day)
- Tanks, weights, and weight belts
- Nitrox (on most mid-range and luxury boats)
- Park fees for marine reserves
Flights to departure points (Hurghada, Port Ghalib, Marsa Nakari) are not included. Internal flights cost $100–$180 one way.
Top Liveaboard Routes
- The Southern Reefs (Brothers, Daedalus, Rocky)
- Best for: Shark encounters, deep walls, pelagics
- Season: March–June, September–November
- Average price: $1,800–$2,600
- St. John’s and Rocky
- Best for: Coral gardens, moderate currents
- Season: Year-round
- Average price: $1,500–$2,000
- Ras Mohamed & Straits of Tiran (from Sharm El Sheikh)
- Best for: Beginners, wreck diving, coral diversity
- Season: October–May
- Average price: $1,300–$1,800
- Safaga & Zabargad
- Best for: Technical diving, rare marine life
- Season: Spring and Fall
- Average price: $1,400–$1,900
What’s Not Included?
While liveaboards are all-inclusive, some extras cost extra:
- Alcoholic drinks: $3–$8 per drink
- Tips for crew: Recommended $100–$150 per person
- Private cabin upgrade: $200–$400
- Technical diving support: $300–$600 for gas and equipment
Nitrox is free on 80% of boats, but some budget operators charge $100–$150 for the week.
PADI Certification Prices in Egypt
Getting certified in Egypt is one of the most cost-effective options worldwide.
Open Water Diver Course Breakdown
The PADI Open Water course is the most popular entry-level certification.
Typical Inclusions:
- PADI eLearning or manual
- Confined water (pool) sessions
- 4 open water dives
- All rental gear
- Certification fee
Price Range by City:
- Dahab: $380–$500
- Hurghada: $400–$550
- Sharm El Sheikh: $450–$600
- Marsa Alam: $480–$650
Dahab offers the best value due to lower overhead and competitive pricing.
Advanced Open Water Course
This course builds on basic skills and introduces deep diving and navigation.
Key Features:
- 5 open water dives
- Deep dive (up to 30m)
- Underwater navigation
- 3 elective dives (e.g., night, wreck, peak performance buoyancy)
Cost: $350–$580 depending on location and center.
Many divers complete this course immediately after Open Water to save time and money.
Specialty Courses
Specialty courses allow divers to focus on specific interests.
| Course | Price (USD) | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Nitrox (Enriched Air) | $120–$180 | 1 day |
| Deep Diver | $150–$200 | 2 days |
| Wreck Diver | $180–$250 | 2–3 days |
| Night Diver | $150–$200 | 2 dives |
| Drift Diver | $160–$220 | 2 dives |
| Digital Underwater Photography | $200–$300 | 2–3 days |
Nitrox certification is highly recommended in Egypt due to the depth of many sites. It extends bottom time and reduces nitrogen absorption.
Equipment Rental vs. Buying in Egypt
Deciding whether to rent or buy gear depends on your diving frequency and budget.
Rental Costs (Per Week)
| Item | Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Regulator & BCD | $80 |
| Wetsuit (3mm) | $50 |
| Fins | $35 |
| Mask & Snorkel | $25 |
| Dive Computer | $60 |
| Full Set | $130–$180 |
Rental gear is serviced regularly, but fit and comfort may vary. Bringing your own mask and snorkel is strongly advised.
Buying Scuba Gear in Egypt
Egypt is a great place to purchase high-quality gear at lower prices.
| Item | Price in Egypt (USD) | Price in USA/EU (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| BCD | $300–$500 | $500–$800 |
| Regulator | $250–$400 | $400–$700 |
| Wetsuit (3mm) | $120–$200 | $200–$300 |
| Full Set (new) | $800–$1,200 | $1,500–$2,200 |
Popular brands like Scubapro, Mares, and Apeks are available in dive shops across Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh. Some centers offer discounts for students who buy gear during certification.
Hidden Costs and Fees to Watch For
While Egypt scuba diving prices appear low, several additional costs can add up.
Marine Park Fees
Most offshore dive sites are within protected areas. Fees are usually included in dive prices but should be confirmed.
- Ras Mohamed National Park: $25 per diver
- Giftun Islands: $15–$20
- Elphinstone (Marsa Alam): $20
- The Brothers & Daedalus (liveaboard): $150–$200 per trip
These fees support conservation and are non-negotiable.
Nitrox and Gas Fees
- Nitrox (32%): Free on 70% of boats and centers
- Trimix or technical gases: $50–$150 per tank (for technical dives)
- Oxygen sensor check: $10–$20 (if bringing your own tank)
Guide and Safety Fees
- Blue Hole Canyon Guide: $50–$100 (mandatory)
- Dive Master for solo divers: $40–$60 per day
- Private instructor: $80–$120 extra per day
Tips and Gratuities
Tipping is not mandatory but widely expected.
- Dive guides: $5–$10 per dive
- Liveaboard crew: $100–$150 per person for a week
- Instructors: $20–$50 for a course
Tipping in cash (USD or EUR) is preferred.
How to Save Money on Egypt Scuba Diving
Egypt is already affordable, but smart planning can reduce costs further.
Book During the Low Season
May to September offers the best discounts. Dive centers may offer:
- 20% off courses
- Free Nitrox
- Complimentary equipment rental
Water is warm, visibility is good, and crowds are minimal.
Choose Budget-Friendly Locations
Dahab and Hurghada offer the lowest prices. Avoid premium resorts in Sharm El Sheikh if budget is a concern.
Bundle Courses and Dives
Many centers offer packages like:
- Open Water + Advanced: $700–$900 (save $100)
- 10 dives + Nitrox: $400 (normally $480)
Bring Your Own Gear
Even bringing a mask, snorkel, and computer can save $50–$100 in rental fees.
Compare Liveaboard Deals
Use comparison sites like:
- Divebooker.com
- DeeperBlue.com
- LiveAboard.com
Last-minute deals can save 20–30%. For example, a $2,000 liveaboard might drop to $1,400 two weeks before departure.
Safety and Environmental Considerations
While prices are low, safety should never be compromised.
Dive Center Accreditation
Always choose centers certified by:
- PADI
- SSI
- NAUI
- CMAS
Check online reviews on TripAdvisor and DiveAdvisor.com. Look for centers with 4.5+ stars and recent safety audits.
Environmental Impact
Egypt’s reefs face threats from over-tourism and climate change. Responsible diving practices include:
- No touching corals or marine life
- Proper buoyancy control
- Using reef-safe sunscreen
- Participating in clean-up dives
Several centers, like Hurghada Environmental Protection Society (HEPS), offer eco-diving programs.
Final Thoughts: Is Egypt Worth It?
Egypt scuba diving prices offer exceptional value for quality. For the cost of a single dive in the Maldives ($120+), you can complete an entire certification in Dahab. World-class reefs, historic wrecks, and abundant marine life are accessible at a fraction of the price of other destinations.
While prices vary by location and season, the average diver can expect to spend:
- $400–$650 for certification
- $35–$60 per dive
- $1,200–$2,800 for a 7-night liveaboard
With proper planning, a full week of diving—including course, equipment, and accommodation—can be done for under $1,000.
Egypt remains one of the last affordable diving frontiers, combining low Egypt scuba diving prices with high underwater rewards.
Sources:
- PADI Official Website (padi.com) – Course Standards & Fees (2025)
- Scuba Diving Egypt Red Sea Prices
- What is the Price for Diving in Hurghada
- CMAS vs PADI Cost
- Dive Magazine – “Best Dive Destinations 2024”
- DiveAdvisor.com – Egypt Dive Center Reviews
- LiveAboard.com – Red Sea Liveaboard Pricing (2025)
- Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency – Marine Park Fees
- Interviews with dive operators in Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, Dahab, and Marsa Alam (January–March 2025)
