With beautiful weather, a day excursion from Sharm El Sheikh to Tiran Island provides an opportunity to escape into the untamed nature and relax in a hideaway. The island is famous for crystal clear blue sea water, lagoons, and vibrant coral reefs. Tourists can go snorkeling or scuba diving off the coast of Tiran for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure in this diving paradise. They can get up and close with the marine creatures or explore the coral reefs. Further, an old shipwreck near the island attracts many enthusiastic explorers.
How to reach Tiran Island
The Straits of Tiran connect the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aqaba, and Tiran Island is located at their mouth. It takes 2 hours to reach Tiran island from Sharm El Sheikh along the Gulf of Aqaba via boat/cruise.
History of Tiran Island
In the world war, Tiran Island and Sanafir Island were used by Egyptian forces to protect the country from attacks being led through Suez Canal. Since then, the island is a part of egyptian borders. During 1967 to 1982, Israel take control of the island after six day war. However, as part of a maritime border deal between Egypt and Saudi Arabia, the two Red Sea islands of Tiran and Sanafir were officially given to Saudi Arabia. As per the agreement, Israel have the rights to use the island for trade purposes.
Also, the treaty called for the construction of Saudi-Egypt causeway for easy transport of goods. Egyptian army occupies the island after the war with Israel. The agreement was accepted by the Egyptian Parliament and was ratified by the Egyptian President on June 24, 2017. Though the Island is a part of Saudi Arabia, its waters belong to Egypt’s Ras Mohammed National Park.
Location & Landscape
The island is located at the mouth of the Straits of Tiran, which links the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aqaba. It has strategic importance because it is the narrowest section of the Tiran Straits, a vital sea passage between Jordan’s Aqaba and Israel’s Eilat. Today, the island is an indispensable part of the Saudi Arabia Tourism. Some sections of the Aqaba Gulf are 1800 meters deep, making it likely to see Sharks, Manta Rays, Barracuda, and other underwater animals in deeper waters. Therefore, the island’s turquoise water provides numerous opportunities for any diver worldwide.
Suggested Read: Saudi Arabia Tourism 2022: Top Cities, Itinerary, Do’s and Don’ts
Things to do at Tiran Island
1. Snorkeling
Tiran Island is a snorkeler’s paradise, with crystal clear waters and an unspoiled coral reef. Snorkeling does not require hours of practice before trying it out; hence, it’s a source of instant enjoyment from the moment one steps into the water. Contrary to common opinion, admiring aquatic flora and wildlife does not need deep underwater diving at the island. Snorkeling in Tiran Island provides a window to the less explored underwater region. Tourists can find a varied number and colors of species in their natural habitat near the island.
Equipment required: Visitors will be equipped with a diving mask, a snorkel (a shaped breathing tube), and, in most cases, swim fins.
2. Scuba Diving
Scuba diving locations at the island combine four reefs: Gordon, Thomas, Woodhouse, and Jackson, all known for their incredible coral diversity. Many aquatic species flock to this area because of the strong currents that transport nutrients to the reefs and the abundance of reef fishes. Strong currents enhance the experience of drift diving and make the all four site locations accessible for scuba diving.
Pro-tip: Only experienced divers should take part in scuba diving when the current is strong.
Fish species one can spot: Large schools of Groupers, Snappers, Barracudas, Tuna, and Sharks can be seen in the nearby seas.
Best time: Diving can be done in the island at any time of year. In the summer, the average water temperature is between 28°C and 30°C, while in the winter season, it can drop to as low as 18°C. Tiran Island diving in the winter season may require the use of a full wetsuit.
3. Sea trip with lunch
Tourists on cruise to the island can enjoy the fresh air while soaking in the natural beauty spread around. On a full-day boat tour from Sharm El Sheikh, tourists can explore the underwater environment of the Island. After breakfast, tourists will be picked up from the hotel for boat excursions. Tiran Island trips generally have three stops at the top-notch sites for admiring vibrant coral reefs and diverse aquatic life. Tourists also get the opportunity to dine at the cruise in the middle of the sea and a beautiful surrounding. .
4. Shipwreck tour
Shipwrecks are said to be time capsules, preserving a particular moment in time. The shipwreck off the coast of Tiran Island offers a glimpse into the past. The Loullia, a 2,479 GRT motor bulk carrier, came aground on the northern tip of Gordon Reef in the Straits of Tiran on September 29, 1981, while traveling in ballast from Aqaba, Jordan to Suez. The crew stayed on board and attempted unsuccessfully to refloat the ship. However, on October 2, 1981, the crew abandoned the ship and declared it as a total constructive loss. The shipwreck has emerged to be a lovely exhibit for tourists who appreciate souvenirs of the past.
Taking a trip to Tiran Island and Sanafir Island will help tourists make lasting memories. The island offers exotic flora and wildlife, stunning views of turquoise-blue sea water, and beach walks. Additionally, scuba diving and snorkeling activities enhance the overall experience of the Tiran Island tour.
Suggested Read: Farasan Islands: Guide To KSA’s Most Beautiful Island Cluster
Tiran Island FAQs
Is Tiran Island suitable for Scuba Diving/ Snorkeling?
Yes, the island is suitable for Scuba Diving.
How much time is required to reach Tiran Island from Sharm El Sheikh?
The total travel time from Sharm El Sheikh to the island via boat is 2 hours.
How to travel from Sharm El Sheikh to Tiran Island?
The island can be reached via a boat from Sharm El Sheikh.
Can visitors stay overnight at Tiran Island?
Yes, visitors can stay overnight at the island.
What are the popular fish species found near Tiran Island?
Snappers, Groupers, Barracudas, Sharks and Tuna, and Sharks are some of famous species that can be spotted near the island.
In which country is Tiran Island located?
The famous Tiran Island, known for its beautiful coast, is located in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It is situated at the mouth of the Straits of Tiran. It is considered an indispensable tourist spot in the country for its various water sports and diverse marine life. The island offers excellent activities for visitors, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, sea trips, and shipwreck tours.
Why is the Strait of Tiran important?
The Strait of Tiran holds immense importance primarily due to its strategic location. It is centrally located, separating the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aqaba. It acts as a natural border between Jordan, Israel, and Saudi Arabia. Tiran Island, situated at the mouth of the Straits of Tiran, is one of the top scuba diving destinations in Saudi Arabia.
When did Egypt block the Strait of Tiran?
Egypt blocked the Strait of Tiran on May 22, 1967, after the Arab League decided to boycott any economic transactions with Israel. This later on escalated to the popular Six-Day War, which began with the Israel force launching attacks on Egypt. In the end, Egypt lost the war to the Israeli force.
Why was the Strait of Tiran closed?
Egyptian President, Gamal Abdel-Nasser, believed that the Israeli force could easily conquer the Egyptian borders through the Strait of Tiran. Therefore, he and the Arab League decided to boycott Israel. Egypt announced the closing of the Strait of Tiran for any Israel-related transactions. This later on escalated into a full-fledged war between Egypt and Israel, which was later known as the Six-Day War.
When was Tiran Island opened?
The uninhabited island of Tiran was under the control of the Egyptian government until the Six-Day War broke out in the 1960s, and Egypt lost to Israel. The island was returned to Egypt in 1982 after a peace treaty was signed between the two countries. Later, Egypt had an agreement with Saudi Arabia, and Tiran Island was officially transferred to Saudi Arabia in 2017 and opened to the public.
Do you need to book in advance to visit Tiran Island?
It is advisable to book tickets in advance to visit Tiran Island as it is crowded almost throughout the year, and it is best to secure seats to avoid any last-minute hassle. The tickets get quickly sold out. Therefore, booking tickets and planning an itinerary beforehand is always convenient and safe.
What is the best way to see Tiran Island?
Visitors planning to explore Tiran Island can do so by taking a boat to the island from Sharm El Sheikh. From there, they can see Tiran Island fully. From Sharm El Sheikh, a city in Egypt, the island is only two hours away via boat. Since the waters surrounding the island belong to Egypt, visitors will have to take the route of Sharm El Sheikh, the nearest coastal city.
Are there any good hotels near Tiran Island?
Yes, there are many good hotels near Tiran Island, which visitors can easily book online. Some of the famous names are Jaz Belvedere, Baron Resort Sharm El Sheikh, Royal Savoy - Sharm El Sheikh, Charmillion Club Aqua Park, Albatros Palace Sharm, Rixos Sharm El Sheikh, and Coral Sea Sensatori Resort, among many others.
Can you find any good restaurants near Tiran Island?
Yes, there are many good restaurants near Tiran Island where visitors can relish great food and have a great time with family and friends. Some of the famous restaurants near Tiran Island are Fontana Bar, Sea Garden Main Restaurant, Tiran Dinner, Queen Vic, Cafe Chino, House of Spice, Fleur De Lis, Mandarin Bistro, Arab Bucks, and Casa Mia, among many others.
What is the entry fee for the island?
Touring Tiran Island costs between SAR 180 and SAR 270. For one person traveling to the island individually, the charge is around SAR 270, while for those in groups, it is SAR 200. Children who are 0-5 years old will have free entry. While 6-11 years old children will have to pay half the tour ticket price, children aged 12+ will pay the full ticket price as adults. Extra charges will add up based on the activities and services used.
