Marine Life & Conservation
Ras Mohammed National Park: Egypt's first protected area, explained
Ras Mohammed, at the southern tip of Sinai, was declared Egypt's first protected area in 1983 under Law 102 on protected areas, and later became a national park with wider land and sea boundaries. It has since joined the IUCN Green List of well-managed protected areas. Its reef walls and currents are why it features on northern Red Sea liveaboard routes.
By 71 Guardians · Published 29 Oct 2026
When was Ras Mohammed protected?
Egypt adopted Law 102 of 1983 on protected areas, and Ras Mohammed was the first area declared under it. The Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency lists it under Prime Ministerial Decrees 1068/1983 and 2035/1996; the later decree extended the protected area.
How big is the park?
The IUCN Green List site record gives 850 km². EEAA publications use different areas, so figures from different records should not be treated as directly comparable; the cited 2008 management plan gives 480 km².
What is the IUCN Green List?
It is the IUCN's standard for protected areas that are effectively and fairly managed. Ras Mohammed's listing recognised the reserve's management, not just its scenery.
How do divers from Hurghada visit Ras Mohammed?
From Hurghada, Ras Mohammed is a liveaboard destination: our North Wrecks & Reefs route (Liveaboards) combines it with the Thistlegorm, Abu Nuhas and Tiran. Park fees for liveaboard routes are included in our price.
Frequently asked questions
Is Ras Mohammed Egypt's first national park?
It was Egypt's first protected area, declared in 1983; its status and boundaries were extended later.
Can you do Ras Mohammed as a day trip from Hurghada?
Not practically — it's across the Gulf of Suez, near Sharm el Sheikh. From Hurghada it's part of liveaboard routes.
Do I need to be an advanced diver?
Many sites have walls and currents; Advanced Open Water and some drift-diving experience make the most of them.
Questions before you dive with us?
Message our team on WhatsApp — we're divers in Hurghada and happy to help.
Chat with us on WhatsAppSources
- Ras Mohamed National Park business plan (2008) — legal framework — Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency (EEAA)
- Ras Mohammed National Park — Green List site record — IUCN Green List