Are you planning to start your scuba diving journey in 2025? Hurghada diving is one of the best destinations in the world for learning to dive. Known for its clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and rich marine life, Hurghada offers a unique diving experience. For beginners, the Open Water course is the first step toward becoming a certified diver. In 2025, the prices for different Open Water diving courses in Hurghada remain competitive, with options from PADI, SSI, SDI, and CMAS.
Let’s explore the Open Water diving course price in Hurghada for 2025, the differences between the certifications, and why Hurghada diving is the perfect place to start your underwater adventure.
What Is the Open Water Course?
The Open Water course is the most popular scuba diving certification. It allows divers to explore the ocean up to a depth of 18 meters, either independently or with a buddy. The course typically takes 3–5 days to complete. It includes classroom sessions, confined water dives (usually in a pool), and open water dives in the sea.
The course is suitable for anyone aged 10 years or older, with no prior diving experience. It is the foundation of all scuba diving adventures and is recognized globally. Whether you’re looking to dive for fun or plan to pursue a professional career in diving, the Open Water course is your starting point.
Open Water Diving Course Price in Hurghada 2025
In 2025, the prices for the Open Water course in Hurghada vary slightly depending on the certification agency. Here’s a breakdown of the current prices:
| PADI | Open Water Diver | €350.00 |
| SSI | Open Water Diver | €350.00 |
| SDI | Open Water Diver | €320.00 |
| CMAS | One-Star Diver (P1*) | €320.00 |
All courses include training, equipment rental, dive site fees, and certification. Some diving centers may offer additional services such as accommodation, meals, or transportation for an extra fee.
Why Choose Hurghada for Your Open Water Course?
Hurghada diving is world-renowned for its ideal conditions for learning to dive. Here are a few reasons why Hurghada is one of the top diving destinations in the world:
- Warm Water and Clear Visibility
The Red Sea offers warm, calm waters with visibility often exceeding 30 meters. This makes it perfect for beginners learning to dive. - Diverse Marine Life
From colorful coral reefs to schools of tropical fish, dolphins, and even turtles, Hurghada diving offers a rich underwater ecosystem. - World-Class Dive Sites
Hurghada is home to famous dive sites such as Shaab El Erg , Dolphin House , and shipwrecks like Thistlegorm and Abu Nuhas . - Experienced Instructors
Many dive centers in Hurghada employ multilingual instructors who are certified by international agencies such as PADI, SSI, SDI, and CMAS. - Affordable Prices
Compared to other diving destinations, Hurghada diving offers high-quality training at competitive prices. - Year-Round Diving
Thanks to its sunny climate, diving in Hurghada is possible all year round.
PADI Open Water Course in Hurghada (€350.00)
PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) is the most well-known diving certification agency in the world. The PADI Open Water Diver course is the most popular entry-level certification. It is divided into three main parts:
- Knowledge Development
This includes online or classroom learning where you’ll learn the basics of diving physics, physiology, equipment, and safety. - Confined Water Dives
These are practice dives in a pool or shallow water to learn essential scuba skills. - Open Water Dives
Four dives in the open sea, usually spread over two days. These dives are supervised by a certified instructor.
Upon completion, you will receive a PADI Open Water Diver certification, which is valid for life and recognized globally.
SSI Open Water Diver Course in Hurghada (€350.00)
SSI (Scuba Schools International) is another major diving certification agency. The SSI Open Water Diver course is similar to the PADI course in structure and content. However, SSI offers more flexibility in the way the course is delivered.
One key difference is that SSI allows divers to complete the knowledge development section through digital learning materials, which can be done at your own pace. This makes it a great option for travelers with limited time.
SSI also emphasizes environmental awareness and sustainable diving practices, which aligns with Hurghada diving centers that support marine conservation.
SDI Open Water Diver Course in Hurghada (€320.00)
SDI (Scuba Diving International) is known for its flexible and student-focused approach. The SDI Open Water Diver course is slightly more affordable than PADI and SSI, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious divers.
SDI allows for a more personalized learning experience. Instructors can adapt the course to suit individual learning styles and schedules. This makes it ideal for those who prefer a more hands-on, instructor-led approach.
The SDI certification is also internationally recognized and accepted by dive centers worldwide.
CMAS One-Star Diver Course (P1 ) in Hurghada (€320.00) *
CMAS (Confédération Mondiale des Activités Subaquatiques) is the international federation that governs underwater sports. The CMAS One-Star Diver (P1 ) course * is equivalent to the Open Water certification from other agencies.
CMAS courses are often used by national diving federations and are popular in Europe and the Middle East. The CMAS certification is known for its rigorous training standards and emphasis on safety.
The P1* level allows divers to dive to a maximum depth of 20 meters with a buddy, making it suitable for recreational diving. The CMAS certification is also recognized by other diving agencies, allowing for easy progression to advanced levels.
What’s Included in the Open Water Course Price?
Most Open Water courses in Hurghada include the following:
- Training materials (digital or printed)
- Equipment (mask, snorkel, fins, wetsuit, BCD, regulator, tank)
- Pool or confined water training
- Open water dives
- Certification fees
- Lunch and refreshments during dives
- Transportation to and from dive sites (within Hurghada)
Some centers may offer additional services such as accommodation packages , night dives , or advanced course upgrades for an extra fee.
Why Are Prices Slightly Different Between Agencies?
While the content of the Open Water course is very similar across agencies, the pricing may vary due to several factors:
- Certification fees charged by the agency
- Marketing and branding costs
- Instructor training and experience
- Facility and equipment maintenance
- Additional services offered
For example, PADI and SSI are more widely recognized globally, which may contribute to their slightly higher pricing. SDI and CMAS often offer more flexibility and lower costs, making them attractive to budget travelers.
Choosing the Right Certification for You
When deciding which Open Water course to take in Hurghada, consider the following:
- Recognition : PADI and SSI are the most widely accepted certifications worldwide.
- Flexibility : SSI and SDI offer more flexible learning options.
- Cost : SDI and CMAS are slightly more affordable.
- Language : Most instructors in Hurghada are fluent in English, German, Russian, and Arabic.
- Progression : All certifications allow you to continue to advanced levels, including Advanced Open Water, Rescue Diver, and Dive Master.
If you’re unsure which certification to choose, speak with your dive center in Hurghada. Many centers offer multiple certifications and can help you decide based on your goals and budget.
Safety and Environmental Responsibility in Hurghada Diving
Safety is a top priority in all Open Water courses in Hurghada. All certified instructors follow international standards and conduct thorough dive briefings before each session. Equipment is regularly maintained and inspected to ensure it is in optimal condition.
Additionally, many diving centers in Hurghada are committed to marine conservation and sustainable diving practices . They participate in coral reef restoration projects and educate divers on how to protect marine life.
When choosing a dive center, look for those that are affiliated with organizations like PADI Project AWARE or Green Fins , which promote environmentally responsible diving.
How to Book Your Open Water Course in Hurghada
Booking your Open Water course in Hurghada is simple. Most dive centers allow you to book online or through their website. At Diving Around, you can easily reserve your spot and choose your preferred certification agency.
Here’s how to book:
- Visit the website: https://divingaround.com/
- Select your preferred course (PADI, SSI, SDI, or CMAS)
- Choose your dates
- Fill out the registration form
- Make the payment
- Receive your confirmation and pre-course materials
It’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak seasons (March–May and September–November), to secure your spot.
Tips for First-Time Divers in Hurghada
If this is your first time diving, here are some tips to make the most of your experience:
- Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol before diving
- Get enough rest the night before your dives
- Follow your instructor’s instructions closely
- Don’t rush – take your time to enjoy the underwater world
- Ask questions – your instructor is there to help
- Take photos (if allowed) to remember your experience
Remember, the Open Water course is not just about getting certified – it’s about discovering a new world and developing a lifelong passion for diving.
Conclusion: Hurghada Diving – The Best Place to Start Your Diving Journey
In 2025, Hurghada diving remains one of the best places in the world to take your Open Water course. With competitive prices, world-class instructors, and stunning dive sites, it’s the perfect destination for beginners.
Whether you choose the PADI Open Water course (€350.00) , SSI Open Water Diver course (€350.00) , SDI Open Water Diver course (€320.00) , or CMAS One-Star Diver course (€320.00) , you’ll receive high-quality training that opens the door to a lifetime of underwater adventures.
So, if you’ve ever dreamed of exploring coral reefs, swimming with dolphins, or discovering shipwrecks, now is the perfect time to take the plunge. Book your Open Water course in Hurghada today and start your journey into the fascinating world of scuba diving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The minimum age is 10 years. Divers aged 10–15 can earn a junior certification.
Yes, basic swimming skills are required. You must be able to swim 200 meters and float for 10 minutes.
Yes, all necessary equipment is included in the course price.
Yes, your certification never expires. However, it’s recommended to dive regularly or take a refresher course if you haven’t dived in over a year.
Most dive centers offer flexible schedules. If you need extra time, you can extend your course for a small fee.
Absolutely! You can take the Advanced Open Water course, Rescue Diver course, and even become a Dive Master.
References
Final Thoughts
Hurghada diving is more than just a course – it’s an experience that will stay with you for life. Whether you’re looking to explore the Red Sea’s vibrant reefs, discover historic shipwrecks, or simply enjoy the beauty of the underwater world, the Open Water course is your gateway to adventure.
With affordable prices, expert instructors, and unforgettable dive sites, Hurghada is the perfect place to start your diving journey in 2025. So, what are you waiting for? Take the plunge and become a certified diver today!