PADI Diving Course Cost in Egypt: What You Really
PADI Diving Course Cost in Egypt: What You Really Pay (2026 Prices)
If you're planning a diving trip to the Red Sea, one question always comes up first: how much does a diving certification actually cost in Egypt? The answer depends on the course, the location, and the season — and there are some important line items that catch people off guard. Here's a fully transparent breakdown of real prices at Scuba World Divers Makadi Bay.
Course Price Overview (Online Prices — 10% Already Applied)
| Course | Duration | Online Price | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bubblemaker (kids 8-10) | 1 dive | €80 | Dive + equipment |
| Discover Scuba — House Reef | 1 dive | €62 | Dive + equipment + permission fee |
| Discover Scuba — Felucca 1 dive | Half day | €80 | Dive + equipment + permission fee |
| Discover Scuba — Felucca 2 dives | Half day | €107 | Dives + equipment + permission fee |
| Scuba Diver | 2 days | €179 | Dives + equipment |
| Open Water Diver | 3-4 days | €288 | Dives + equipment |
| Advanced Open Water Diver | 2-3 days | €243 | Dives (not equipment) |
| Rescue Diver | 3 days | €247 | Dives (not equipment) |
| Nitrox Course | Theory only | €71 | Knowledge only — no dives |
All prices include 14% VAT. An additional 10% amusement tax is collected on site.
What's NOT Included — Read This First
This is the part many blogs skip. At Makadi Bay, the following are charged separately:
- PADI Certification fee: €60 — required to receive your official certification card
- Dive permission fee: €4/day (house reef) or €7/day (boat dives)
- Equipment rental — included in beginner courses (OWD, Scuba Diver), but NOT in Advanced or Rescue courses: €26/day for full set
- 10% amusement tax — added at the center on the day
Real total example — Open Water Diver (3 days):
Course (online) €288
PADI Certification €60
Dive permissions €12 (3 days × €4)
Amusement tax ~€36
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Total estimate ~€396What IS Included
- Tank, belt, weights (all dive packages)
- Equipment rental in beginner courses (OWD, Scuba Diver)
- Dive guide when required (mandatory for <25 logged dives)
- Free Nitrox air for certified Nitrox divers on every dive
- Free hotel transfer within 15km
Is It Worth Getting Certified in Egypt vs. at Home?
Even with the extra fees, a total of ~€396 for a full PADI Open Water certification in warm, clear Red Sea water compares very favorably to €400-600 in Europe — usually in cold, low-visibility water. In Egypt you get 22-30°C water, 20-30m visibility, and year-round conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to know how to swim?
Yes, basic swimming ability is required. A swim test is part of the Open Water certification.
Is the certification valid worldwide?
Yes — PADI certification is internationally recognized and valid for life.
What if I'm not medically fit?
Certain medical conditions affect diving safety. A medical form is available—email [email protected] before arrival.
Can I cancel if something changes?
Cancellation is free up to 14 days before check-in. Within 7 days, 50% is charged. Certification and e-learning fees are non-refundable.
Book Online — Save 10%
At Scuba World Divers Makadi Bay, booking online gives you a 10% discount automatically. Courses are available for all levels from Discover Scuba to Divemaster.