Pharaoh's Island | Suez

Pharaoh’s Island: A Hidden Gem in the Red Sea

Pharaoh’s Island (also known as Coral Island or Geziret Faraun) is a small but historically significant island in the Red Sea, located near the town of Taba, in the eastern part of Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula. It is renowned for its medieval fortress, stunning coral reefs, and strategic location, making it a popular destination for history enthusiasts, divers, and tourists alike.

1. Location and Accessibility

Region: Red Sea, off the coast of Taba, Egypt.

Distance from Taba: 8 km (5 miles) south of Taba.

Distance from Eilat (Israel): 13 km (8 miles), visible from Israel.

Distance from Aqaba (Jordan): 15 km (9 miles), visible from Jordan.

How to Get There:

Visitors can take a boat or ferry from Taba or nearby resorts.

Some tour operators from Sharm El-Sheikh, Dahab, and Nuweiba offer excursions to the island.

2. History and Strategic Importance

Pharaoh’s Island has been an important military and trading post for centuries due to its strategic position controlling the Gulf of Aqaba, where Egypt, Israel, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia meet.

Ancient Egyptian & Phoenician Use

The island was first inhabited by the Phoenicians, who used it as a trading post.

The Ancient Egyptians may have controlled it for a period due to its proximity to trade routes.

Crusader Period: The Fortress of Saladin

In 1116 AD, the Crusaders (King Baldwin I of Jerusalem) built a fortress on the island to control trade routes between Arabia, Sinai, and the Levant.

The island’s location made it an ideal spot for taxing merchants and securing trade routes.

Saladin’s Conquest (1170 AD)

The legendary Muslim leader Saladin (Salah ad-Din) recaptured the island from the Crusaders in 1170 AD.

He expanded and strengthened the fortress, making it a key defensive outpost against European forces.

The fortress was used as a naval base to monitor enemy ships in the Red Sea.

Ottoman & Modern Era

The fortress remained under Ottoman rule for centuries.

It was later abandoned but remained a site of historical and strategic significance.

Today, it is a well-preserved archaeological site, attracting tourists, historians, and divers.

3. Attractions and Things to Do

1. Saladin’s Fortress

The main attraction on Pharaoh’s Island is the medieval fortress, which is one of the best-preserved Crusader castles in Egypt.

Features:

Thick stone walls and towers used for defense.

Lookout posts with stunning views of the Gulf of Aqaba.

Storage rooms, living quarters, and a mosque inside the fortress.

Panoramic Views:

From the fortress, visitors can see Egypt, Israel, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia at the same time.

2. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

The island is surrounded by vibrant coral reefs, making it a popular diving and snorkeling destination.

Marine life includes colorful fish, sea turtles, and exotic coral formations.

The clear Red Sea waters provide excellent visibility for underwater exploration.

3. Boat Tours & Island Exploration

Many tour operators offer boat trips from Taba, Nuweiba, and Sharm El-Sheikh.

Visitors can walk around the island, explore the fortress, and relax on the sandy shores.

4. Photography & Sightseeing

Due to its stunning location, Pharaoh’s Island offers incredible photo opportunities of the fortress, the Red Sea, and the surrounding countries.

4. Best Time to Visit

Ideal Season: October to April (mild temperatures, clear waters).

Avoid: Summer months (June to August) due to high temperatures (35-40°C / 95-104°F).

5. Why Visit Pharaoh’s Island?

✅ Rich history: A fortress that dates back to the Crusader and Islamic periods.
✅ Breathtaking views: The only place in Egypt where you can see four countries at once.
✅ Fantastic diving and snorkeling: Home to some of the best coral reefs in the Gulf of Aqaba.
✅ Easy access from Taba, Israel, and Jordan.
✅ A unique mix of history, adventure, and relaxation.

Conclusion

Pharaoh’s Island is a hidden treasure in Egypt’s Red Sea, offering a unique blend of history, adventure, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a history lover, a diver, or just looking for a scenic escape, this small island has something special to offer. Its Crusader fortress, stunning coral reefs, and breathtaking views make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Taba, Sinai, or the Red Sea region.