The Red Sea is a unique natural and historical marvel stretching over 2,200 km between Africa and Asia. Known for its warm, salty waters and vibrant marine life, it hosts over 1,200 fish species and 200 coral types. Historically, it played a vital role in trade, religion, and exploration, including in the story of Prophet Moses. Today, it remains economically strategic due to its oil reserves, mineral resources, and trade routes like the Suez Canal. The article also highlights its ecological richness, popular dive resorts in Egypt, and the need for conservation amid climate change.
The Red Sea is a heavenly Phenomenon filled with several living miracles that come in different shapes and colors. The main goal of this article is to offer everyone all the information and facts about the Red Sea. This article was written by a group of a very skilled and professional team of tour operators, tour guides, and travel consultants who know all the details and the best ways to explore the full allure and grandeur of the Red Sea.
The Red Sea has been the main reason behind the rise and fall of many civilizations around the globe. The Red Sea is one of the most popular and influential seas in the world and has a great historical significance that played an essential navigational role since ancient times.
The Red Sea is the world's northernmost tropical sea and occupies a part of the Great Rift Valley. The Maximum width of the Red Sea is 355 km, the maximum length is 2,250 Km, and the water volume in the Red Sea is 233,000 km3. The Red Sea has a surface area of about 174,000 square miles (438,000 km²) which is 1,398 miles (2250 km) long and, at its widest point is over 220 miles (355 km) wide.
It has a maximum depth of 9,970 feet (3,040 m) in the central median trench and an average depth of 1,608 feet (490 m), but many shallow shelves are located deep and known for containing enchanting marine life such as over 1,000 invertebrate species, and 200 soft and hard corals.
The first exploration of the Red Sea started around 2500 BC and again in 1500 BC when the ancient Egyptians attempted to explore the Red Sea. The ancient Egyptians built many canals across the Red Sea, but none of them lasted. The Red Sea was mentioned heavily in the Biblical book of Exodus which describes the holy Crossing of the split of the waters of the Red Sea. In the 6th century BC, Darius I of Persia made the Red Sea his navigation project.
After two centuries, Alexander the Great continued the exploration process, where he sent his naval expeditions to harness the resources of the Red Sea and cross the Indian Ocean. From that time forward, the Red Sea has played a crucial role in trading and linking countries together across the centuries until our current day.
In the second century B.C.E., the renowned scholar Agatharchides collected facts and information about the Red Sea. In the first century C.E., the Periplus of the Erythraean Sea wrote a detailed description of the Red Sea's ports and sea routes and describes how Hippalus first discovered the direct route from the Red Sea all the way to India.
The Roman Empire took an interest in the Red Sea as an excellent route for trade with India. Through the Red Sea from Indian ports, goods from China were introduced to the Roman world. The main contact between Rome and China depended heavily on the Red Sea, but the route was damaged by the Aksumite Empire around the third century C.E.
During medieval times, the Red Sea was an important part of the Spice trade route. In 1798, Napoleon Bonaparte invaded Egypt and captured the Red Sea but failed to take lasting control. With the rise of Oil traffic across the Red Sea, both the Americans and the Soviets took a real interest in the Red Sea. It remains the most important sea in the world that acts as a shortcut connecting the east to the west.
The Red Sea’s climate is shaped by two primary monsoon seasons: the northeasterly and southwesterly monsoons. This creates a warm climate with high water temperatures that contribute to its saline environment. Key features of the Red Sea’s climate include:
Temperature: Average annual water temperatures hover around 22°C (72°F), with surface temperatures reaching 28°C (82°F) in winter and up to 34°C (93°F) in summer, especially in the southern regions. Its consistently high temperatures make it one of the warmest seas globally, ideal for many tropical species.
Seasonal Variations: Due to the influence of monsoon winds, the Red Sea’s water temperatures and wind patterns shift with the seasons. Summer temperatures often reach 26-30°C (79-86°F), while winter temperatures only vary slightly, maintaining warmth even in cooler months.
Salinity and Visibility: With minimal freshwater input and high evaporation, the Red Sea has a salinity that ranges from 36 to 41 PSU (Practical Salinity Units), making it one of the saltiest bodies of water globally. Visibility underwater is generally good, reaching up to 200 meters (660 feet), which attracts divers from around the world.
Wind and Currents: Strong seasonal winds create localized currents that aid in nutrient mixing, benefiting the marine ecosystem. However, these currents, combined with tidal movements, also pose challenges for ships navigating the narrow waters.
The Red Sea’s unique climate, rich resources, and ecological diversity make it not only a critical economic region but also an invaluable natural reserve. However, it also faces increasing challenges from industrial expansion, navigation risks, and climate impacts, making conservation efforts crucial to sustaining its environmental and economic value.
The Red Sea is a direct translation of the Greek "Erythra Thalassa" Latin Mare Rubrum, Arabic Al-Baḥr Al-Aḥmar, and Tigrinya Qeyḥ bāḥrī. The name of the Red Sea has many origin stories as the name red could signify the seasonal blooms of the red-colored cyanobacteria "Trichodesmium erythraeum" which is located near the water's surface.
Many believe it could refer to the mineral-rich red mountains which are called Harei Edom, which means "ruddy complexion," which is an alternative Hebrew name for the red-faced biblical character Esau (brother of Jacob), and the nation descended from him, the Edomites, which in turn provides yet another possible origin for the Red Sea.
The Red Sea borders the Egyptian Desert, which the ancient Egyptians called the Dashret or "red land"; it would have been the sea of the red land. Some believe that the name comes from the Himyarite, a local group whose own name means red.
Another theory states that the name red refers to the direction south, just like the Black Sea's name refers to the north. The theory goes that some Asiatic languages used color words to refer to the cardinal directions such as the Greek historian Herodotus who uses "The Red Sea" and "Southern Sea" interchangeably at different times during his writings.
The Red Sea is an inlet, a means of entry to the Indian Ocean between Africa and Asia. The Red Sea connection is to the ocean in the south through the Bab el Mandeb strait and the Gulf of Aden. In the north are the Sinai Peninsula, the Gulf of Aqaba, and the Gulf of Suez, which leads to the Suez Canal. Nine countries share the shoreline of the Red Sea which are Djibouti, Egypt, Eritrea, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, Yemen, Somalia, Israel, and Jordan. Each one is connected to the shores in a different direction, such as:
Northern Shore:
Eastern Shore:
Western Shore:
Southern Shore:
It is about 2200 km long and its width is 330 km. The Suez Canal connects the Red Sea to the Mediterranean Sea and Bab El-Mandab which is why many ships go through the Red Sea. There are many Ports in the Red Sea, like Jeddah, Suez, Safaga, Aqaba, Eilat, Port Sudan, and many more. The Sea is the home of more than 1000 different species of fish and 200 hard and soft corals. There are many countries next to the Red Sea such as Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, Yemen, and Israel.
The Red Sea is an economically valuable region, rich in natural resources, strategic navigation routes, and abundant marine life that supports various industries. The main types of resources found in the Red Sea include:
Petroleum Deposits: With significant oil and gas reserves located beneath the seabed, the Red Sea is a critical area for the energy sector. The Saudi Arabian and Egyptian coasts are particularly rich in oil fields. These include the Durwara 2, Suakin 1, and Bashayer 1A fields on the Egyptian side and the Barqan and Midyan fields in Saudi Arabia’s Midyan Basin. These deposits are estimated to contain billions of barrels of untapped petroleum, which fuels the economies of bordering countries and contributes to the global oil supply.
Evaporite Deposits: The hot, dry climate around the Red Sea promotes the formation of evaporite minerals, such as salt, gypsum, and anhydrite. These minerals are vital for construction, chemical industries, and agriculture, supplying local and international markets.
Sulfur: Sulfur deposits are used in fertilizers, chemicals, and even pharmaceuticals. With sulfur mines along its coasts, the Red Sea area holds a valuable position in the production of industrial materials essential for multiple sectors.
Phosphates: Found along the Red Sea coastlines, phosphates are a key agricultural resource, used in the production of fertilizers. Egypt is one of the main suppliers of phosphate rock to the global market.
Heavy-Metal Deposits: The Red Sea floor contains metal-rich mud, including manganese, copper, zinc, and silver. These minerals are primarily found in “hot brine pools” in the central Red Sea and are essential for electronics and manufacturing.
The Red Sea is one of the world’s most important shipping routes, linking Europe, Asia, and Africa. However, navigation in the Red Sea is challenging due to its irregular water currents, strong winds, and narrow passages. Only two major channels remain open for global shipping: the Bab el-Mandeb Strait at its southern end and the Suez Canal in the north.
Both are strategically crucial for transporting goods, especially oil, reducing travel time between Europe and Asia by nearly half. Despite this, ships navigating through these channels face hazards from unpredictable currents and narrow channels, making it a vital yet complex route for global trade.
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The Red Sea hosts one of the most unique and diverse marine ecosystems globally, boasting more than 1,200 fish species, with around 10% exclusive to the region. This high biodiversity is largely attributed to the extensive coral reefs that extend over 2,000 kilometers (1,240 miles) along its coastline.
Coral Reefs: These coral reefs, composed mainly of Acropora and Porites corals, are believed to have formed 5,000 to 7,000 years ago. They support over 175 nudibranch species and 44 different shark species, adding to the region’s biodiversity. The reefs, however, are fragile ecosystems affected by rising water temperatures and human activities.
Endemic Species: The Red Sea’s unique environmental conditions, such as high salinity and warm temperatures, have led to the evolution of endemic species, including rare fish, coral, and other marine creatures found nowhere else in the world.
Coastal and Mangrove Habitats: Beyond coral reefs, the Red Sea coast features mangrove forests, seagrass beds, salt marshes, and salt pans. These habitats serve as vital nurseries for marine life, helping maintain the ecological balance and supporting commercial fishing, particularly for Egypt and Saudi Arabia.
The region’s ecological significance is formally recognized by the Egyptian government, which established the Ras Mohammed National Park in 1983 to protect these ecosystems. The park enforces rules and regulations to preserve marine habitats and sustain the Red Sea’s role as a globally significant biodiversity hotspot.
The Red Sea has become a renowned destination for divers from around the world, boasting crystal-clear waters, colorful coral reefs, and an abundance of marine life. Some of the most famous Red Sea diving resorts include:
Sharm El Sheikh: Known for its pristine coral reefs and popular dive sites like Ras Mohammed National Park, Sharm El Sheikh attracts divers of all skill levels. Nearby shipwrecks, such as the SS Thistlegorm, offer thrilling underwater experiences.
Hurghada: Hurghada offers an array of dive centers and resorts that cater to beginners and experienced divers alike. Known for its year-round warm waters and diverse marine life, Hurghada is ideal for exploring colorful reefs and encountering vibrant schools of fish.
El Gouna: Located north of Hurghada, El Gouna is a quieter resort town with excellent diving opportunities. Its waters are known for their clear visibility, making it a popular choice for underwater photographers.
Dahab: Known for the Blue Hole, one of the world’s most famous dive spots, Dahab attracts advanced divers who come to explore its unique reef structures and coral gardens.
The Red Sea is filled with diving centers that offer guided dives, equipment rentals, and certification courses for divers of all levels. Many diving centers operate year-round, with services including:
PADI and SSI Certification: Red Sea dive centers often provide PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) and SSI (Scuba Schools International) courses, enabling beginners to earn open-water certifications or advance their skills with specialty dives.
Guided Dives and Excursions: Most centers organize daily boat dives, taking divers to popular sites, including vibrant coral reefs, underwater caves, and historical shipwrecks.
Night Diving: Some centers offer night diving experiences, allowing divers to explore the unique nocturnal marine life of the Red Sea.
Equipment Rental and Sales: High-quality dive equipment is readily available for rent or purchase, and dive professionals are on-site to ensure equipment safety and fit.
The Red Sea hosts a remarkable variety of marine life, making it a treasure trove for underwater enthusiasts. Key species include:
Dolphins: Several dolphin species, including spinner and bottlenose dolphins, are frequently seen swimming in groups.
Sea Turtles: The Red Sea is home to species such as hawksbill and green turtles, which nest along the shores and are commonly found near coral reefs.
Moray Eels: Known for their snake-like appearance, moray eels can be seen hiding within coral crevices.
Dugongs: Often called "sea cows," dugongs are rare but can be spotted in seagrass beds, especially near the southern Egyptian coast.
Colorful Coral: Over 200 species of soft and hard corals thrive in the Red Sea, creating vibrant underwater landscapes.
The Red Sea boasts over 1,200 fish species, 10% of which are endemic, meaning they are unique to this area. Notable fish species include:
Lionfish: Known for its striking appearance, the lionfish is a predatory species with venomous spines that can be seen gliding near reefs.
Parrotfish: Recognizable by its vivid colors and beak-like teeth, the parrotfish plays an essential role in reef health by feeding on algae.
Angelfish and Butterflyfish: These vibrantly colored fish add to the aesthetic appeal of Red Sea reefs and are popular with divers and photographers.
Groupers: Found in coral reefs, these large fish are often curious about divers, adding to the thrill of underwater exploration.
Hammerhead Sharks: Occasionally sighted in deeper waters, hammerhead sharks are a prized sighting for seasoned divers in the Red Sea.
The Red Sea is famously associated with the biblical story of Prophet Moses, who led the Israelites out of Egypt in a historic exodus. According to the account, Moses and his followers were fleeing Pharaoh’s forces when they reached the Red Sea. Trapped between the sea and the approaching Egyptian army, Moses raised his staff, and God miraculously parted the waters, allowing the Israelites to cross on dry land.
When Pharaoh's army attempted to follow, the waters returned, drowning the Egyptian forces. This miraculous event is a symbol of faith and divine intervention, celebrated in both religious and cultural contexts.
This fanciful sea played a crucial role in shaping the life and history of Ancient Egypt and changed the way people lived and thought by providing different facilities and possibilities, such as:
Transportation: Sea transportation is much easier than land transportation, which is why civilizations that had direct access to water had the advantage, as it facilitated the trading of goods, technological achievements, and cultural ideas. The Red Sea helped Egypt to have access to Africa and the east part of the world.
Stability: The stability of the geographical location is the thing that helped in the rise of Ancient Egyptian Civilization. It was the reason behind having a stable agricultural system. Without the Red Sea, Egypt would have been an isolated place, and there wouldn’t have been any technological development or stability.
Cultural Exchange: The Red Sea provided not only access to Africa and the East but also helped in exchanging things much further than goods. It helped the ancient Egyptians to exchange culture and knowledge with other civilizations and countries.
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The name "Red Sea" is believed to come from the seasonal blooms of a red-colored cyanobacteria, Trichodesmium erythraeum, which occasionally gives the water a reddish tint. Another theory suggests that the name may reference the ancient term for "south" in some languages, as "red" is often associated with southward directions.
The Red Sea is home to several shark species, including oceanic whitetip sharks, reef sharks, hammerheads, and tiger sharks. These species inhabit various depths and reefs across the sea, with sightings being common in specific areas like the Brothers Islands and Daedalus Reef.
The Red Sea has a strong symbolic meaning, often representing salvation, deliverance, and divine intervention due to its association with the story of Prophet Moses. Additionally, as a crucial maritime route, it symbolizes connection and global commerce, bridging Europe, Asia, and Africa.
The Red Sea is known for its rich marine biodiversity, vibrant coral reefs, and clear waters, which make it a top diving destination. it is a critical trade route, and its association with the biblical Exodus has made it a site of religious significance. It is also famous for its unique ecosystems and deep brine pools, which support rare species adapted to extreme conditions.
The entire country of Egypt deserve to be explored with its every heavenly detail but there are places that must be seen before any other such as the breathtaking Hurghada's red sea, The wonders of Cairo the pyramids of Giza, the great sphinx, the Egyptian Museum, Khan El Khalili Bazaar, the wonders of Luxor like Valley of the Kings, Karnak & Hatshepsut temple and the wonders of Aswan such as Abu Simbel temples, Philea temple, Unfinished obelisk and The Wonders of Alexandria like Qaitbat Citadel, Pompey's Pillar and Alexandria Library. Read more about the best places to visit in Egypt.
If you want to apply for a Visa On Arrival that lasts for 30 days then you should be one of the eligible countries, have a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining and pay 25$ USD in cash, as for the E-Visa for 30 day you should have a valid passport for at least 8 months, complete the online application, pay the e-visa fee then print the e-visa to later be presented to the airport border guard. You could also be one of the lucky ones who can obtain a free visa for 90 days. Read more about Egypt travel visa.
Egypt has a variety of delicious cuisines but we recommend “Ful & Ta’meya (Fava Beans and Falafel)”, Mulukhiya, “Koshary”, a traditional Egyptian pasta dish, and Kebab & Kofta, the Egyptian traditional meat dish.
The best time to travel to Egypt is during the winter from September to April as the climate becomes a little tropical accompanied by a magical atmosphere of warm weather with a winter breeze. You will be notified in the week of your trip if the Climate is unsafe and if any changes have been made.
You should pack everything you could ever need in a small bag so you could move easily between your destinations.
We have been creating the finest vacations for more than 20 years around the most majestic destinations in Egypt. Our staff consists of the best operators, guides and drivers who dedicate all of their time & effort to make you have the perfect vacation. All of our tours are customized by Travel, Financial & Time consultants to fit your every possible need during your vacation. It doesn't go without saying that your safety and comfort are our main priority and all of our resources will be directed to provide the finest atmosphere until you return home.
You will feel safe in Egypt as the current atmosphere of the country is quite peaceful after the government took powerful measures like restructuring the entire tourist police to include all the important and tourist attractions in Egypt. Read more about is it safe to travel to Egypt.
Wear whatever feels right and comfortable. It is advised to wear something light and comfortable footwear like a closed-toe shoe to sustain the terrain of Egypt. Put on sun block during your time in Egypt in the summer to protect yourself from the sun.
The best activity is by far boarding a Nile Cruise between Luxor and Aswan or Vise Versa. Witness the beauty of Egypt from a hot balloon or a plane and try all the delicious Egyptian cuisines and drinks plus shopping in old Cairo. Explore the allure and wonders of the red sea in the magical city resorts of Egypt like Hurghada and many more by diving and snorkeling in the marine life or Hurghada. Behold the mesmerizing western desert by a safari trip under the heavenly Egyptian skies.
There are a lot of public holidays in Egypt too many to count either religious or nation, the most important festivals are the holy month of Ramadan which ends with Eid Al Fitr, Christmas and new years eve. Read more about festivals & publich holidays in Egypt.
Egypt is considered to be one of the most liberal Islamic countries but it has become a little bit conservative in the last couple of decades so it is advised to avoid showing your chest, shoulders or legs below the knees.
Arabic is the official language and Most Egyptians, who live in the cities, speak or understand English or at least some English words or phrases. Fewer Egyptians can speak French, Italian, Spanish, and German. Professional tour guides, who work in the tourism sector, are equipped to handle visitors who cannot speak Arabic and they will speak enough English and other languages to fulfill the needs of all our clients.
The fastest way is a car, of course, a taxi. If you are in Cairo ride a white taxi to move faster or you could board the fastest way of transportation in Egypt metro if the roads are in rush hour.
The temperature in Egypt ranges from 37c to 14 c. Summer in Egypt is somehow hot but sometimes it becomes cold at night and winter is cool and mild. The average of low temperatures vary from 9.5 °C in the wintertime to 23 °C in the summertime and the average high temperatures vary from 17 °C in the wintertime to 32 °C in the summertime. The temperature is moderate all along the coasts.
It is the home of everything a traveler might be looking for from amazing historical sites dating to more than 4000 years to enchanting city resorts & beaches. You will live the vacation you deserve as Egypt has everything you could possibly imagine.
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