Tourism on Sanafir Island
Tiran and Sanafir Islands, though not widely known until recent times, have become major tourist attractions drawing visitors from all over the world and serving as primary destinations for Arab tourism.
Sanafir Island is located in the strait between the Gulf of Aqaba and the Red Sea. After Saudi Arabia claimed sovereignty over both Tiran and Sanafir Islands, the islands became administratively part of Saudi Arabia in 2016 following the signing of a maritime borders demarcation agreement between Egypt and Saudi Arabia.
Tourism in Tiran and Sanafir Islands:
Tourism on Sanafir Island is unparalleled, offering breathtaking views and a pleasant warm climate alongside Tiran Island. The islands boast diverse coral reefs that attract tourists from all corners of the world to marvel at their beauty. Visitors can enjoy activities such as diving in the Red Sea to witness the magnificent coral reefs and submerged boats. Tourist trips usually start from the Egyptian city of Sharm El-Sheikh and lead to both islands. Therefore, tourism in Tiran and Sanafir is among the most beautiful tourist trips in the Red Sea.
Sanafir Island holds significant importance in the Red Sea as a tourist destination, attracting diving enthusiasts, adventurers, and explorers throughout the year. Its scattered coral reefs and stunning white sandy beaches appeal to tourists from around the globe.
Is Tiran and Sanafir Island Egyptian or Saudi Arabian?
There has been a long-standing dispute between Egypt and Saudi Arabia regarding the sovereignty of Tiran and Sanafir Islands. Both countries claimed ownership of the islands until April 8, 2016, when they signed a maritime borders demarcation agreement. According to this agreement, Egypt recognized the sovereignty of both islands as belonging to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The agreement was later ratified by the Egyptian Parliament in June 2017.