Brothers Islands (El Ikhwa Islands): Egypt’s Legendary Red Sea Dive Destination

El Ikhwa Islands (Arabic: جزر الإخوة, meaning “Islands of Brotherhood”), commonly known as the Brothers Islands, are a pair of small, remote islands located in the heart of Egypt’s Red Sea Governorate. These twin islands—Big Brother and Little Brother—are celebrated across the global diving community for their dramatic underwater scenery, thriving marine life, and advanced diving thrills.

Geography & Landmarks

Situated approximately 67 kilometers (42 miles) offshore from El Qoseir on the Egyptian mainland, the Brothers Islands appear as rugged outcrops rising sharply from the surrounding deep blue sea. A key landmark is the historic Brothers Islands Lighthouse, constructed by the British in 1883 atop Big Brother Island. The islands themselves are separated by just one kilometer, making them close enough to be explored together yet distinct in their individual charm.

World-Class Diving: Coral Gardens, Wrecks & Big Fish Encounters

The Brothers Islands are renowned among seasoned divers for offering some of the Red Sea’s most exhilarating and challenging dives:

Spectacular Coral Walls: Both islands are fringed by steep walls draped in colorful soft and hard corals, home to clouds of anthias, angelfish, and other vibrant reef fish species.

Famous Wrecks: Two iconic wrecks rest here—the SS Numidia (a large British cargo steamship) and the Aida II (an Egyptian supply vessel). Both wrecks, now carpeted in corals and teeming with marine life, offer unforgettable underwater exploration.

Big Pelagics: The Brothers are a magnet for oceanic whitetip sharks, hammerhead sharks, threshers, and, occasionally, manta rays and tuna. Encounters with these majestic creatures are a major draw for advanced divers seeking heart-pounding excitement.

Diving Conditions & Access

For Advanced Divers: Due to their exposed, isolated position and the presence of strong currents, sudden weather changes, and deep drop-offs, the Brothers Islands are recommended only for experienced divers with advanced certification and drift diving skills.

Liveaboard Diving: Most divers visit via multi-day liveaboard safaris, combining the Brothers Islands with other top Egyptian Red Sea sites like Daedalus and Elphinstone. During peak season, the area is bustling with safari boats catering to passionate dive travelers.

Accolades & Reputation

The Brothers Islands consistently rank among the world’s top dive destinations. In 2012, Big Brother Island was listed as the 9th best dive site globally and the 2nd best in the entire Red Sea, thanks to its adrenaline-packed dives and outstanding underwater biodiversity.