Abu Dhabi stands out as a unique destination for underwater adventures. From historic shipwrecks to thriving coral gardens, the Emirates promises unforgettable experiences for professional and beginner divers. Let’s explore the best centres for scuba diving Abu Dhabi has to offer, providing access to some of the most exciting spots.
- Al Mahara Diving Centre
- Ocean Dive Centre
- Mermaid Diving Centre
- Abu Dhabi Marine Diving Centre
- Wave Club Marine Sports and Diving Centre
- FAQs
Top Scuba Diving Centres in Abu Dhabi
Let’s explore the top scuba diving centres in the capital city, where you can explore the stunning underwater world and marine life of the gulf.
1. Al Mahara Diving Centre
Al Mahara Diving Centre is run by passionate and experienced dive professionals who truly love the sea and underwater life. Their team have been teaching for over 15 years across the globe, bringing a wealth of knowledge to every dive.
As a PADI 5-Star Instructor Development Centre, the PADI Open Water Diver course introduces you to the fundamentals of scuba diving. You will begin in a swimming pool or similar controlled environment before moving on to open water.
The centre has a 100% success rate in training PADI professionals and provides lessons in multiple languages, including English, Arabic, Mandarin and more.
Location
Villa 215, Al Mina Road, Abu Dhabi
Contact
+971-50-111-8125
Opening Hours
- Friday and Saturday: 08:00 am to 05:30 pm
- Sunday to Thursday: 09:00 am to 05:30 pm
Cost of Scuba Diving Course
AED 2350 per person, which includes:
- PADI student crew
- Knowledge development sessions
- Confined water dives
- 4 open water training dives
- Equipment for training
- Wall certificate upon completion
- Professional instruction
2. Ocean Dive Centre
Ocean Dive Centre was established in 2006 and is a PADI 5-Star Instructor Development Center located at the Emirates Palace Marina in Abu Dhabi.
They offer a comprehensive range of PADI courses, from beginner certifications to professional-level training, including specialities like Wreck Diving and Underwater Photography. Their experienced, multilingual instructors ensure each dive is safe, educational and memorable.
Ocean Dive Centre also offers exciting dive trips and special offers to make your underwater adventures unforgettable. Their diving courses include:
- Beginner courses
- Kid-friendly lessons
- Free diving
- Speciality and professional courses
Location
Emirates Palace, West Corniche Road, Al Ras Al Akhdar, Marina Gate 3, Abu Dhabi
Contact
+971-2-246-8243
Opening Hours
- Monday to Friday: 08:00 am to 05:00 pm
- Saturday and Sunday: 07:30 am to 04:00 pm
3. Mermaid Diving Centre
Mermaid Diving Centre is a top-rated dive resort in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The diving centre has expert instructors with 27 years of collective experience, ensuring safe and memorable dives. Whether you are new to diving or aiming to become a professional, they offer certified courses in multiple languages to suit every level.
From exploring vibrant underwater ecosystems to advancing your skills as a Divemaster, Mermaid Diving Center provides exceptional training and experiences. In addition to scuba diving, the diving centre offers courses for other water activities in Abu Dhabi.
Location
W Corniche Road, Al Bateen, W10 01, Abu Dhabi
Contact
+971-55-887-6015
Opening Hours
Monday to Sunday: 09:00 am to 06:00 pm
Cost of Scuba Diving Course
From AED 3000 for the PADI Open-water diving course
4. Abu Dhabi Marine Diving Centre
Abu Dhabi Marine Diving Centre is part of the Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club, promoting water sports for all ages and skill levels. Located at the Marine Sports Club Marina, it is a PADI 5-Star Diving Centre offering children and adults scuba diving courses and experiences.
Their PADI-certified, multilingual instructors provide safe and eco-friendly diving adventures. The centre also emphasises marine conservation, eco-diving, and environmental awareness. Facilities include modern, high-quality equipment in a comfortable learning environment.
Led by a PADI Master Instructor, they use the full PADI education system to ensure excellent underwater experiences.
Location
Al Kasir, Al Marina, Abu Dhabi
Contact
+971-2-681-8882
Opening Hours
- Monday to Thursday: 08:00 am to 04:00 pm
- Friday: 08:00 am to 12:00 pm
- Saturday and Sunday are closed.
Cost of Scuba Diving Course
From AED 2150 for Open Water Scuba Diving Course.
5. Waves Marine Sports Club and Diving Centre
Waves Marine Sports Club is located at Qaryat Al Beri. It offers a variety of water activities, including scuba diving experiences suitable for all levels. Their Discover Scuba Diving program is ideal for beginners, providing basic scuba skills and an introduction to the underwater world.
For certified divers, Waves Marine Sports Club organises trips to sites like Lulu Island, an artificial island off Abu Dhabi’s coast known for its rich marine life, including barracudas and rays. After diving, explore things to do in Abu Dhabi, from beachside relaxation to thrilling watersports.
The club also offers PADI Open Water Diver courses, combining e-learning, pool training sessions and open-sea dives. With highly qualified, multilingual trainers, Waves Marine Sports Club ensures all participants a safe and enjoyable diving experience.
Location
Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi
Contact
+971-50-439-9073
Opening Hours
Opened 24/7
Cost of Scuba Diving Courses
From AED 750 for Scuba Diving (Try Dive)
FAQs
Yes, Abu Dhabi has excellent scuba diving spots. Popular sites include Dibba Rock, Martini Rock, and the MV Ludwig wreck.
Abu Dhabi’s waters are full of vibrant marine life, offering something for every diver. Dive sites cater to all levels, from beginners and junior divers to advanced and experienced ones.
The ideal time for scuba diving in the UAE is from October to May, during the cooler months. The waters are calm and clear, perfect for open water dives and PADI travel experiences.
Abu Dhabi has it all if you are looking for professional scuba diving experiences and courses. With years of experience and professional training, the scuba diving centres in Abu Dhabi offer various water sports facilities in natural and man-made destinations.
Moreover, explore these top jet-ski spots in Abu Dhabi to try sports other than scuba diving. Other than that, you can also visit waterparks in Abu Dhabi to have a fun day with family.
