Sharks are an established part of the marine ecosystem inhabiting the waters surrounding Egypt. The region’s unique geography and nutrient-rich currents support a diverse range of marine life, including numerous shark species. Their presence indicates a healthy ocean environment and contributes significantly to the ecological balance of the area.
Geographic Distribution in Egyptian Waters
Shark presence and population density in Egyptian waters are split between the country’s two coastlines. The vast majority of sightings are concentrated in the Red Sea, which is internationally recognized as a premier location for shark encounters. The Red Sea’s deep drop-offs, clear, warm waters, and strong currents attract large pelagic species. These conditions provide an ideal habitat for over 40 different shark species near resort areas like Hurghada, Marsa Alam, and Sharm el-Sheikh. In contrast, the Egyptian coast along the Mediterranean Sea sees significantly rarer shark activity and smaller populations.
Key Shark Species Encountered
The Egyptian Red Sea hosts several notable shark species, ranging from smaller reef dwellers to large, migratory pelagic predators. The Grey Reef Shark is commonly sighted, often patrolling coral walls and drop-offs, growing up to two meters in length. Whitetip Reef Sharks are also frequently seen; they are smaller, non-aggressive, and often rest motionless in shallow reef crevices during the day.
Among the larger species, Scalloped Hammerheads are a major draw for divers, known for schooling in large groups around offshore reefs during the summer months. The Oceanic Whitetip Shark is a powerful pelagic species, easily identified by its distinct rounded, white-tipped fins, and is known for its curious nature. Tiger Sharks, recognizable by their large size, are also present in deeper offshore waters and have been implicated in some high-profile incidents.
Understanding Shark Incidents and Risk
Despite the presence of large shark species, the actual risk of a human encounter in Egyptian waters remains statistically very low. Incidents are rare, but when they do occur, they are typically associated with specific environmental and human factors that alter the sharks’ natural behavior.
One significant contributing factor is the human alteration of the marine environment, such as overfishing, which depletes the natural food sources of these apex predators. Illegal dumping of animal carcasses or waste from cargo ships has also been shown to lure pelagic sharks closer to shore. Furthermore, intentional or unintentional feeding of fish by tourists or diving operators can cause sharks to associate humans with food, changing their natural foraging patterns.
The theory of “mistaken identity” applies to unprovoked surface attacks, where a shark may confuse a swimmer or snorkeler for its typical prey, especially in murky water or near dusk or dawn. High-profile events, such as the series of attacks near Sharm el-Sheikh in 2010 or the incidents in Hurghada, generate widespread public attention but should be viewed in the context of the millions of tourists who safely enter the Red Sea each year.
Safety Guidelines for Swimmers and Divers
Tourists can minimize the risk of an encounter by adhering to simple preventative guidelines while in the water. Following these rules helps ensure safety and reduces the chance of altering a shark’s natural behavior.
- Avoid swimming or snorkeling alone, as sharks are generally less likely to approach a group.
- Respect local regulations that prohibit entering the water during specific times, such as dawn, dusk, and nighttime, when many shark species are actively hunting.
- Avoid entering the water if you have any open wounds, as a sharkâs highly developed sense of smell can detect minute traces of blood.
- Avoid swimming or diving in areas where fishing activity is present or where fish scraps or refuse have been discarded.
- Divers should maintain calm movements, avoid harassing marine life, and immediately exit the water if a shark begins to circle or exhibit unusual curiosity.