Diving in Saudi Arabia (Red Sea) in May

Conditions in May

You're thinking of diving Saudi Arabia's Red Sea in May? Excellent choice! This month truly marks a sweet spot before the peak heat of summer really kicks in, offering a fantastic balance of comfortable conditions both above and below the waves.

Surface conditions are generally superb. You can expect calm seas for the most part, making for smooth sailing on your liveaboard and comfortable entries and exits from the water. Air temperatures typically hover around 30-35°C (86-95°F), so you'll definitely be enjoying that sunshine between dives. Water temperatures are a blissful 27-29°C (81-84°F), meaning you can often get away with a lighter wetsuit or even just a rash guard, depending on your personal preference and how many dives you’re planning.

Visibility during May is, as is characteristic of the Red Sea, nothing short of spectacular. Expect a staggering 25-40 meters (80-130 feet) on most days. This makes for incredible wide-angle photography opportunities and allows you to truly take in the immense scale of the reefs and the diverse marine life. While currents can always be present the Red Sea, May generally offers manageable and often gentle currents, particularly around the more protected reef systems. However, as always, your dive guide will assess conditions on each site to ensure a safe and enjoyable dive.

What you will see

May is a prime time for pelagic encounters in Saudi Arabia's Red Sea. The slightly warming waters and nutrient-rich currents often attract a parade of larger marine life. You’re in with a very good chance of spotting various species of sharks, particularly cruising along the drop-offs and around the offshore pinnacles. Oceanic whitetips, silvertips, and grey reef sharks are regular visitors to these waters, and the chances of seeing them are elevated during this period. Keep your eyes peeled into the blue – you never know what large animal might glide past!

Beyond the sharks, May can also bring in larger migratory species. While not guaranteed, manta rays and even whale sharks are known to pass through the Saudi Red Sea, especially around areas where upwellings bring food to the surface. It’s always an exhilarating surprise to encounter these gentle giants. Don't forget to keep an eye out for schooling barracuda, trevally, and fusiliers that form shimmering walls of fish around the reef.

And of course, the vibrant reef life is a constant, regardless of the month. Expect to be surrounded by colourful anthias, butterflyfish, angelfish, and parrotfish. Macro enthusiasts won't be disappointed either. While the big stuff might steal the show, take time to explore the crevices and coral gardens for nudibranchs, gobies, and an array of intricate invertebrates that add another layer of beauty to the underwater landscape. May sees the reefs in full bloom, with healthy hard and soft corals providing shelter and food for countless smaller creatures.

Top dive sites this month

For May diving, you absolutely want to focus on the remote, pristine offshore reefs that Saudi Arabia is becoming renowned for. The Farasan Banks are a must-visit. This expansive area offers a string of submerged seamounts, walls, and pinnacles teeming with life. Sites like Sha'ab Ammar are fantastic for pelagics, with strong chances of spotting silvertip and grey reef sharks in the blue. Its stunning coral gardens are also in peak condition, offering a visual feast of vibrant colours.

Another highly recommended region is around Five Coral Heads and the surrounding reefs. This area is known for its dramatic topography and healthy hard coral formations. Here you'll discover impressive gorgonian fans and black coral trees, where you might spot longnose hawkfish. The currents around these sites can bring in nutrient-rich water, attracting schools of fish and larger predators. The remote nature of these locations means little to no diving pressure, ensuring pristine conditions and abundant marine life encounters, making them ideal for an unforgettable May dive experience.

Practical tips for your trip

Given the water temperatures of 27-29°C (81-84°F) in May, you'll likely be comfortable in a 3mm shorty or full suit. Many experienced divers might even opt for a rash guard and board shorts, especially if they’re doing multiple dives a day and prone to overheating. Pack light for your surface time – breathable clothing, sunglasses, and a good sun hat are essential. Sunscreen is a non-negotiable!

May caters wonderfully to a wide range of diving experience levels. The generally calm conditions and excellent visibility are perfect for beginners looking to gain confidence, while the potential for pelagic encounters and drift dives in certain areas provides ample excitement for advanced divers. Liveaboard availability tends to be good in May – you're hitting the shoulder season, meaning you can often find great options before the absolute peak summer rush. However, as Saudi Arabia's Red Sea gains popularity, it's always wise to book your liveaboard well in advance to secure your preferred dates and vessel. Remember to inquire about any specific visa requirements for Saudi Arabia well ahead of your travel dates, as these can vary. And most importantly, come with an open mind and a spirit of adventure – the Saudi Red Sea in May is truly an unspoiled gem!