Hamata Islands: Snorkeling the Egyptian Maldives in Qulaan Archipelago

Located 160 kilometers south of Marsa Alam Airport, the Hamata archipelago—consisting of Siyul, Shawarit, Mahabis, and Um El Sheikh islands—is nicknamed the "Egyptian Maldives" for its uninhabited white sandbars, crystalline neon shallows, and lush mangrove reserves.

Island Hopping & Virgin Sandbars

Yachts depart Hamata Marina to cruise between the islands. Snorkelers step off directly into knee-deep turquoise water on virgin sandbars with powdery coral sand, surrounded by thriving table corals and butterflyfish.

Birdlife & Mangrove Conservation

The islands are protected under the Wadi El Gemal National Park authority and serve as nesting sanctuaries for rare marine birds, including the Western Reef Heron and the Sooty Falcon.