Brief synthesisThe Sanganeb Marine National Park and the Dungonab Bay – Mukkawar Island Marine National Park are located in the northern part of the Red Sea. Sanganeb atoll is the only atoll-like feature in the Red Sea, and a submerged and overhanging predator dominated coral reef ecosystem. Surrounded by 800 m deep water, the atoll-like coral reef systems are part of the northernmost coral reef systems in the world. DMNP is also unique as a home to species from different biogeographic origins: both northern and southern Red Sea species. However, regional coastal development increased recently and reinforces the need to protect these landward and marine areas.