Tourist information about Tiran Island
Tiran Island, also known as Gezirat Tiran, is one of the islands located in the Tiran Strait, separating the Gulf of Aqaba and the Red Sea. After signing the maritime borders demarcation agreement in 2016, the island became part of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, previously administered by the Egyptian government. Today, it is considered one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in the Red Sea.
Tiran Island is now administratively part of Tabuk Province. In ancient times, the island served as a trading point between India and East Asia and hosted a Byzantine customs station for goods.
Tourism in Tiran and Sharm El-Sheikh:
Tourism on Sharm El-Sheikh and Tiran Islands is unparalleled, offering breathtaking views and a pleasant warm climate. The islands boast a diverse range of coral reefs that attract tourists from all over the world to marvel at their beauty. Visitors can indulge in activities like 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, Tiran and Sharm El-Sheikh are among the most beautiful tourist destinations in the Red Sea.
The Reason Behind the Name "Tiran":
Historians and scholars have different opinions and information about the origin of the name "Tiran" for the island. Some believe it could be derived from the word "Thawr" (bull), while others suggest that it might come from the Arabic word "Tayr," meaning "sea wave" or "ocean wave."
Tiran Island covers an area of 80 square kilometers, and it is approximately 2.5 kilometers away from Sharm El-Sheikh Island and about 6 kilometers from the eastern coast of the Sinai Peninsula. The island's unique beauty is enhanced by its small islands and coral reefs, making it a popular destination for diving and swimming enthusiasts due to the clarity of its waters and the variety of its coral formations.
Is Tiran and Sharm El-Sheikh Egyptian or Saudi Arabian?
There has been a longstanding dispute between Egypt and Saudi Arabia regarding the sovereignty of Tiran Island and Sharm El-Sheikh Island. 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.
