Introduction: Is the PADI Advanced Open Water Course in Fujairah Worth It?
Looking to elevate your scuba experience? The PADI Advanced Open Water Course offered by Reef Oasis Diving Center in Fujairah promises to sharpen your skills and unlock access to some of the UAE’s most impressive dive sites.
What makes this program appealing? First, it’s a two-day structure that balances classroom-style training with real underwater adventures. Second, the inclusion of three specialty dives of your choice allows you to tailor the experience to your interests—whether wrecks, night diving, or drifting along currents. Third, the price of $354 offers solid value considering the comprehensive training, equipment, and guided instruction involved.
However, a quick note: the logistical aspect involves moving between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah, which might be a consideration if you prefer to stay in one place or have tight schedules. This tour is perfect for certified divers eager to build confidence and expand their underwater horizons, especially those wanting a mix of training and adventure in a short span.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Two-day program combining classroom and practical dives
- Access to top dive sites in Fujairah with guided instruction
- Specialty dives tailored to your interests, including wreck, drift, or night diving
- Certification upgrade enabling deeper and more diverse dives globally
- All equipment and instruction included for a hassle-free experience
- Flexible booking options with pay-later reservations
Looking for more options in Fujairah? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Why Choose the PADI Advanced Open Water Course in Fujairah?
This course is designed for certified Open Water Divers who are ready to take their confidence under the water to the next level. The combination of theory, navigation, buoyancy, and adventure dives offers a well-rounded package that boosts your skills and gives you access to more challenging and exciting dive sites.
The course’s two-day format means you’ll get immersed in practical learning without a long commitment; perfect for travelers with busy schedules or those wanting a quick skill boost. Plus, the guided instruction from certified PADI instructors ensures safety and personalized advice, which many reviews highlight as a significant plus.
The inclusion of three specialty dives of your choice (from options like wreck, drift, boat, or night) means you can customize your experience based on your interests and local dive conditions. Many reviewers appreciated the flexibility and the chance to try something new, especially the wreck and drift dives, which are often highlights for advanced divers.
The Itinerary: How the Two Days Unfolds
Starting in Abu Dhabi, you’ll spend a morning with your instructor focusing on navigation and buoyancy skills. These are foundational skills that, once mastered, dramatically improve your comfort and control underwater. The navigation training involves using compasses and natural landmarks, which help when exploring new sites independently.
Peak Performance Buoyancy is all about fine-tuning your position in the water, conserving energy, and protecting marine life. Reviewers note that this session is especially helpful for those who struggle with maintaining neutral buoyancy—an essential skill for all advanced divers.
The instructor, often praised for their patience and clarity, will guide you through exercises that might feel tricky at first but become second nature with practice. The morning session typically wraps up with time for questions and review, setting a solid foundation for the dives ahead.
More Great Tours NearbyDay 2: Fujairah – Adventure Dives & Specialty Exploration
The second day involves traveling to Fujairah, renowned for its clear waters, dramatic underwater terrain, and diverse marine life. Here, you’ll complete three dives, including the mandatory Deep Dive and Navigation Dive, plus three additional specialty dives of your choosing.
Many reviewers mention that the Deep Dive is a highlight. It’s not just about going deeper but understanding how to manage your buoyancy and air consumption at greater depths. The famous visibility and vibrant coral formations make Fujairah an ideal backdrop for these dives.
For the three adventure dives, options include wreck diving, which enthusiasts say offers a fascinating glimpse into history; drift diving, perfect for those who love a sense of adventure; night diving, providing a completely different perspective on marine life; or boat diving, easing access to remote sites.
What makes the offshore dives special?
Many reviewers appreciated the guided experience led by friendly, professional instructors who emphasize safety and enjoyment. The small group sizes (not specified but often praised) allow for personalized attention, which enhances confidence for newer divers or those trying out new specialties.
What’s Included & What to Budget For
The $354 price covers almost everything you need: all diving equipment, the instruction, the two mandatory dives, and the three specialty dives. Access to changing rooms, showers, and toilets at the dive center ensures comfort before and after dives.
However, you will need to bring your passport and swimming wear, and if you want to review eLearning materials beforehand, you’ll need to purchase those separately. Reviewers also mention bringing a towel—an obvious but sometimes overlooked item.
Not included are additional personal items like towels, extra snacks, or souvenirs. The tour’s flexibility with pay later booking is convenient, giving you time to confirm travel plans without upfront costs.
Transport & Timing
The itinerary involves moving between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah, so transportation logistics matter. The exact timing isn’t specified but expect a full day in each location, with the second day’s focus on diving. The total experience is designed to fit into a weekend or a short trip, making it accessible for many travelers.
Authentic Experiences and Practical Insights
From reviews, it’s clear that Reef Oasis Diving Center’s professional instructors foster a relaxed, safe environment. Many appreciated the detailed briefings and the patience during skill refinement, especially for those new to advanced skills.
Travelers often mention that the underwater scenery in Fujairah does not disappoint. The vibrant coral reefs, abundant marine life, and intriguing wrecks provide a perfect setting for specialty dives. The drift dives are often described as thrilling, with currents gently carrying divers along colorful formations, while the night dives reveal a completely different ecosystem, with bioluminescent creatures and nocturnal marine species.
The overall value is high: the price includes quality equipment and guided instruction, which might otherwise cost significantly more if booked separately. Many reviewers note that the personalized guidance from experienced instructors helps build confidence, especially at greater depths or during more challenging dives.
Who Should Consider This Course?
This program is best suited for certified Open Water Divers eager to expand their skills and explore new underwater environments. It offers a practical, hands-on approach that’s ideal for those looking to gain more confidence and access to more diverse dive sites.
If you’re interested in wrecks, night diving, or drifting, this is a perfect option. It’s also a great choice for travelers who want a short, intensive, yet comprehensive, upgrade to their diving qualifications.
However, it’s not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or anyone who recently completed dives within 24 hours. Make sure you’re comfortable with open water diving before signing up.
The Sum Up: Is This the Right Choice for You?
For certified divers wanting to push their limits, this two-day PADI Advanced Open Water Course in Fujairah offers excellent value, professional guidance, and access to world-class sites. The combination of training, specialty options, and guided exploration makes it a well-rounded upgrade for your diving skills.
Travelers looking for a short but comprehensive experience that balances skill development with adventure will find this program rewarding. The flexibility in dive options and the opportunity to explore Fujairah’s vibrant reefs and wrecks make it a memorable choice.
While the logistics involving Abu Dhabi and Fujairah might require some planning, the quality of instruction and the diversity of dive sites make it worth the effort. This course is best suited for those eager to learn, explore, and gain confidence in varied underwater conditions.
FAQ
Do I need to be a certified diver to join? Yes, you must hold an Open Water Diver certification to participate in this course.
What is included in the price? The price covers all diving equipment, instruction, two mandatory dives (Deep and Navigation), and three specialty dives of your choice, as well as access to changing rooms, showers, and toilets.
Can I choose which specialty dives I do? Yes, you select three adventure dives from options like Wreck, Drift, Boat, or Night diving.
Where do the dives take place? The first day’s training is in Abu Dhabi, while the actual dives are in Fujairah, known for its clear waters and vibrant marine life.
How long is the course? The program spans two days, typically with a morning session in Abu Dhabi and a full day of diving in Fujairah.
Is transportation arranged? The tour involves moving between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah, so transportation arrangements are part of the experience but should be clarified with the provider.
What should I bring? Bring your passport, swimming wear, a towel, and any personal items you might need. Review materials are not included but can be purchased separately.
What is the minimum age? The experience is not suitable for children under 12 years old.
Is this suitable for pregnant women? No, pregnant women are advised not to participate.
Can I book now and pay later? Yes, the tour offers a flexible reservation with the option to book now and pay later, making planning easier.
This detailed review should help you decide whether the PADI Advanced Open Water Course in Fujairah suits your diving ambitions. Whether it’s your first step into more challenging dives or a chance to refine your skills, this program offers a practical, enjoyable way to grow as a diver.
You can check availability for your dates here: