Malikia Resort is named for Abu Dabbab, the sheltered bay north of Marsa Alam town where green turtles graze on seagrass and a resident dugong has drawn snorkelers for years. That setting is the reason to choose it. Instead of a stay in a big central resort with a transfer to the reef, you sleep a short distance from one of the best-known shore snorkeling sites on the Egyptian Red Sea, with calm, shallow water that suits beginners, children and anyone who prefers not to take a boat. The resort is a self-contained beach property of the all-inclusive type found along this coast, so evenings revolve around the restaurant, the pool and the sea. For divers and snorkelers it is a practical base, and for sun-seekers it offers a more relaxed pace than the busier resorts further north.
Location
Abu Dabbab lies on the coast north of Marsa Alam town, roughly between the airport area and the town, so the transfer from the airport is usually short compared with the southern resorts. The bay itself is the draw: shallow, sandy and fringed by seagrass beds, with reefs at each end. Early morning is the best time to be in the water, before day-trip groups arrive, and staying close means you can be in the sea at first light.
Resort and rooms
Expect standard resort rooms with air conditioning and a balcony or terrace, set in low buildings near the sea. Resorts of this type on the coast generally offer a restaurant, a bar, a pool and a beach with loungers, and many run a dive center or can arrange diving and boat trips, but details change, so check the board basis, the facilities and the excursion options when you book. Ask about the walk to the beach or the reef and the quality of the house reef entry.
Who it suits
Snorkelers, divers, families with confident swimmers and couples who want a beach holiday without much nightlife. Wildlife is never guaranteed, so treat turtles and a possible dugong as a bonus rather than a promise, and follow the local rules about keeping a respectful distance from animals. Bring reef shoes, a rash vest and reef-safe sun protection, because the sun is strong and the coral is fragile. Do not stand on coral or chase animals.
Practical tips
Marsa Alam is a long-haul beach destination with few off-resort options, so decide at booking whether you want all-inclusive or a lighter plan. Day trips to Sataya Dolphin House, the Wadi El Gemal protected area and the temples at Edfu and Abu Simbel can be arranged from the area but involve long transfers. Winter and spring are the busiest and most pleasant times, and summer is very hot. Read recent traveler comments for the current condition of the reef, the food and the service.
Why stay here
- ✓Beach resort on Abu Dabbab bay
- ✓Calm shallow water for snorkeling
- ✓Turtle and seagrass reef nearby
- ✓Pool and sun loungers
- ✓On-site restaurant
- ✓Air-conditioned rooms
- ✓Short transfer from the airport area
- ✓Diving and excursions can be arranged
Good questions
Will I see a dugong at Abu Dabbab?+
Sightings are possible but never guaranteed. Turtles are far more reliable, and the bay is rewarding even without a dugong.
Is it good for beginners?+
Yes. The water is calm and shallow, which suits beginners and families, though you should still use a rash vest and reef-safe sunscreen.
Is the transfer long?+
Abu Dabbab is closer to the airport than the southern resorts. Confirm the transfer time and cost when you book.
