My Life Below Sea Level: Diving the Emirates and Beyond

Living in Abu Dhabi, I’m lucky to be a short drive away from some of the UAE’s best dive sites. Every weekend, my gear is packed—ready for a boat ride off Fujairah, a wreck dive near Ras Al Khaimah, or a quick escape to Musandam’s dramatic underwater cliffs.

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned? Your gear matters—a lot. Early on, I struggled with ill-fitting rental kits. A loose mask, stiff fins, a BCD that didn’t match my size—it all impacted my diving. Once I got properly fitted gear, tailored to my body and style, my whole experience transformed. Better trim, smoother buoyancy, less fatigue.

Certifications are just the beginning. I started like many—Open Water in a calm bay. But things got exciting after I took my Advanced Open Water, then Rescue Diver. Those courses opened up new dive environments and gave me real confidence. Abu Dhabi’s own coastline may not be as dramatic, but it’s the perfect place for skill-building and refining technique—especially in local training pools.

The local community is also stronger than most people expect. From Emirati divers to long-time residents, we’ve got a solid scene here. Weekly pool trainings in Khalidiya or Al Bateen, night dives organized through WhatsApp groups, and weekend trips across the border into Oman—it’s a great mix of fun and development.

If you’re serious about diving, find your crew. Join workshops—like finning technique, sidemount trials, or even rescue refreshers. Every session makes you a better, safer diver. It’s not just about depth or cool photos. It’s about mastering the water and enjoying it safely, with people who share your passion.