Ras Muhammad National Park

Ras Muhammad is a marine national park in South Sinai, located where the Gulf of Suez meets the Gulf of Aqaba. The reserve covers 480 square kilometers and includes coral reefs, mangrove inlets, and rocky coastline.

Egypt established this first national park of the country in 1983 to protect underwater life from destructive fishing practices. The Environmental Affairs Agency took over management and introduced visitor regulations step by step.

The word Ras comes from Arabic and means cape or headland. Locals sometimes see the outline of a bearded face in the rugged cliffs at the southern tip of the peninsula.

The reserve offers several entry points for divers and snorkelers, including Shark Reef and Yolanda Reef for underwater observation. Water and head cover are advisable in strong sun.

The small mangrove inlet at the edge of the park shelters young turtles and various fish species seeking protection among the roots. The reefs host more than 200 coral species.

Location: South Sinai Governorate

Inception: 1983

Elevation above the sea: 14 m

GPS coordinates: 27.76944,34.20972

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:26