Since the opening of its international airport in 2001, Marsa Alam has become a great Red Sea destination for diving enthusiasts. Nestled between sea and desert, the town offers all kinds of accommodations, ranging from upscale comfort establishments with complete Western amenities to Bedouin-inspired eco-lodges. Dive sites accessible from Marsa Alam number among the most attractive in the Red Sea for experienced divers. Healthy coral reefs and the wide range of underwater wildlife such as dugongs and dolphins are the principal draw factors of Marsa Alam. For less experienced divers, in-shore coral reefs are the ideal location for hours of marine wildlife watching. The new Port Ghalib Marina at Marsa Alam added to the location a very exclusive standing, with its luxurious hotels, resorts and berthing space for about 1000 yachts. The newly built marina offers some of the best relaxation and entertainment options on the Red Sea coast, including gourmet restaurants and tantalizing Spas. Additionally the resort houses the International Convention Centre, the only multipurpose state-of-the-art centre of its size on the Red Sea. The centre offers a meeting space of 1,950 sq. m. that is capable of hosting all events from full scale conventions of 2,000 delegates to informal small size meetings. Marsa Alam is also a world-renowned kite surfing destination, and an ideal starting point for safaris and wilderness exploration. In ancient times, the surrounding mountains were mined for gold and emeralds – today you can visit some of these ancient mines. It is located 274 km south of Hurghada city. The pleasant climate makes it a great vacation spot, winter temperatures have been known to reach 31°C and in summer they lie between 20 and 35°C. The nearby National Parks of Gebel Elba and Wadi al Gimal are home to a stunning variety of birds and desert animals. Marsal Alam is also known as a therapeutic destination. So whether it is the beach, the desert, the reefs or a combination of sightseeing and activities you are interested in, you will love Marsa Alam.