Can Muslims go scuba diving?

The sea is a gift

The Quran invites us to reflect on the sea and be thankful for it:

Nothing in Islam forbids going under the water to see coral, fish and wrecks. Many people say that diving makes them feel closer to Allah's creation. Just treat the underwater world with care: don't touch, take or damage marine life.

Safety is part of the deal

The Quran tells us, "do not let your own hands throw you into destruction" (Quran 2:195). Diving has real risks, but with training and the right rules they are managed. Scholars generally allow calculated risks like this, and not reckless ones.

• Take an accredited course and get certified before diving.
• Dive with a buddy or a guide, never alone.
• Stay within your depth and time limits, and check your equipment.
• Get medical clearance if you have asthma, ear or heart problems, and don't dive when you're unwell.

For other water sports, see Can Muslims go surfing?

Staying modest in a wetsuit

A full wetsuit covers you from neck to ankle, but it is snug. That's the main modesty question:

• Men: a full or knee-length wetsuit covers you from the navel to the knee with room to spare.
• Women: wear a full wetsuit with a loose rash vest or shorts over it, and a swim hood under the mask. A thicker suit clings less than a thin one.
• Changing: dive boats are often tight on space. Ask for a private corner, and use a large towel or a changing robe.

See Can Muslim women wear a wetsuit or rash guard? and What is a burkini?

Prayer on dive trips

A day on a dive boat can easily cover Dhuhr and Asr. You don't need a mosque, so plan it:

• Pray Fajr before you leave the hotel, since dive boats leave early.
• Make wudu with sea water if needed. A man once asked the Prophet ﷺ about this and he replied, "Its water is pure and what dies in it is lawful food" (Sunan Abi Dawud 83).
• Pray on the deck, facing the qibla as best you can. If the boat is rocking and you can't stand safely, scholars allow you to pray sitting.
• If you travel far for a diving holiday, you may shorten your four-unit prayers. See How many days can I shorten my prayers when traveling?

Choosing a dive centre

Many resorts and boats serve alcohol and play loud music in the evenings. You don't have to join in. Choose a dive centre that focuses on the diving, keep to your own cabin or table, and tell the instructor about your prayer times at the start.