Would you like to plunge into adventure in Saudi’s most picturesque Red Sea Islands this winter? Start your quest for tranquility amid the solitude that prevails on these islands for a mindful experience over the sea. Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing sea views that will transport you to a different paradise with flawless beauty. These islands are happened to be the booster of Saudi’ s tourism sector that aim to foster luxury tourism with sustainable measures for the well-being of the existing ecosystem. Embracing the natural intricacies and honoring the existing biodiversity, the government’s initiative of transforming these isolated islands into major tourism hubs is attracting millions of tourists from faraway lands to have an immersive experience.
Red Sea Islands: Gear up for the Island Adventures
Saudi Arabia is not only famous for its majestic dunes and vast deserts, lively cultural centers, diverse culinary scenes, colossal architectural wonders, but it is also famous for the awe-inspiring landscapes. Ranging from the massive sand dunes to the pristine, serene islands, Saudi Arabia has the best surprises for you to unfold at a go. Red Sea Islands have emerged as a new tourism hub along the western coast of Saudi Arabia region that offers a plethora of adventure activities for the visitors. Being engulfed by the world’s fourth-largest barrier coral reef with an archipelago of more than 90 unexplored islands, the Red Sea is best known for its tranquil beaches, dormant volcanoes, mountain canyons, and various cultural sites that echo history.
Let’s have a glance at the top 4 Red Sea Islands that will embark you on a journey full of fun and adventure.
- Tiran Islands
2. Sanafir Islands
3. Farasan Islands
4. Jinna Islands
1. Tiran Island: Discover the Majestic Underwater World
Located on the Straits of Tiran, the Tiran Island was formerly under the administration of Egypt, and later declared as a part of Saudi’s territory by the Egyptian government in 2016. It bridges two important landmarks of Sinai and Arabian Peninsula, the Gulf of Aqaba and Red Sea Saudi Arabia. This scenic paradise will transport you to a world of amazing marine life and enchanting coral reefs. The best way to access Tiran Island is to board a boat or cruise from Sharm El Sheikh port followed by entrance fee at Ras Mohammed National Park which is an hour and half journey that will offer you an ample of captivating sights of dolphins. Tiran island tours come with the best surprises based on your preferences ranging from the best sightseeing places, activities to undertake at certain spots, and buffet dining options for an invigorating experience to cherish. It is also considered as the hub of carrying out snorkeling activity amid the crystal-clear blues and is the best holiday island destination.
Address: Tiran Island, Sharm El Sheikh, 46619
Best Activities to do: Snorkeling, Diving, Dolphin Watching
How to reach: You can board a boat from Sharm El Sherikh port or join an organized boat tour that offers dining options, full-fledged sightseeing options, and adventure activities.
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2. Sanafir Island: Soak Yourself in the Pristine Blues
Located towards the easternmost part of Tiran Island and southeast of the narrow trait between Tiran and Saudi Arabia, Sanafir Island attained sovereignty and administratively became a part of Saudi Arabia in the year 2016. Sanafir Island is mostly known for the transparent blues that will lure you with the diverse underwater world, full of wonders, overlooking the unparallel beauty of the vast coastline. One of the best islands in Saudi Arabia, Sanafir Island is the paradise for sea lovers and adventure enthusiasts to try out varied water activities like diving, snorkeling, etc. Moreover, the majestic views of coral reefs and submerged boats sailing across the sea, leading to unknown, yet phenomenal destinations will blow away your mind. Never forget to undertake Sanafair Island tours along with a trip to Tiran Island to embrace the natural diversity prevail in this island destination and marvel at their ethereal beauty.
Address: Sanafir Island, Sharm El Sheikh, 46619
Best Activities to do: Diving, Snorkeling, Witnessing the Aquatic life
How to reach: Since the Tiran and Sanafir islands are in proximity, you can directly board a boat from Sharm El Sherikh port or opt for a full-fledged boat tour with varied facilities and experiences.
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3. Farasan Island: Embrace the Eccentricities of this Coral Island
Often considered as the small group of coral islands and located off the coast of Jazan province in the Red Sea, Farasan Island is one of the most popular Red Sea islands Saudi Arabia. The island is a part of the vast archipelago which consists of more than 80 uninhabited islands, only 3 of them are inhabited by humans and other living species. Best known for the incredible marine world, the island is the mecca for scuba diving and various other water adventures along with heritage tours to Ottoman Fort, Al Qassar, Beit Al Refai, Najdi Mosque. The island also features a verdant mangrove ecosystem, often considered as the haven to varied exotic avian species like Osprey, Scooty Falcon, Pink-Backed Pelican, Flamingos, Saunders Little Tern, White-Eyed Gull, and Crab Plover. You will be flattered to witness the diverse aquatic life like the Parrot fish, whale, sharks, manta rays, and sea turtles. Moreover, spotting a Farasan Island Gazelle amid one of the beautiful beaches in Saudi Arabia will make your Farasan Island tour a notable one.
Address: Jazan Province, Saudi Arabia
Major Attractions to Visit: Mangroves, Ottoman Fort, Al Qassar, Najdi Mosque, Beit Al Refai
Best Activities to do: Boat Trip to Mangroves, Snorkeling, Heritage tour, Beach Hopping, Scuba Diving, Bird Watching
How to reach: You can directly book your ferry tickets from the ferry station in Jazan port to reach Farasan Island. Don’t forget to book your tickets before the day of the visit if you plan to take your car on the trip.
4. Jinna Island: Marvel at the Crystalline Waters
Located on the Eastern province of Saudi Arabia, towards the Persian Gulf, and near the industrial town of Jubail, Jinna or Jana Island is best known for the nesting site of green sea turtles and one of the best places to visit in Saudi Arabia. This island is famous for its pellucid waters where adventure lovers can carry out numerous water activities like snorkeling and scuba diving to discover the rich aquatic life for a soul-stirring experience. With a rich underwater ecosystem and spectacular views of the sea, the island will promise you an enriching trip filled with everlasting fond memories. You can opt for full day or half day boat tours based on your preferences that will include dining options, activities to carry out in the famous spots of islands, spotting aquatic species during the tours, etc. Never forget to visit this isolated island of Red Sea Islands to redefine beauty of this untouched gem and experience solitude at its best.
Address: Jana Island, Jubail, Saudi Arabia
Best Activities to do: Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Diving
How to reach: You can directly board a boat from Jubail port, and you can also go for a complete 1-day island tour with dining options and activities which will include Jinna Island as well.
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Where to Stay Near/Around Red Sea Islands
Make the best out of your Red Sea Islands adventure by booking your stay at the most luxurious resort on Ummahat Island, St. Regis Red Sea Resort, best known for its ideal location. Ranging from a myriad of luxurious villas like Coral Villa, Dune Villa, Astor Villa, etc., with opulent decor and elegant setting, you will find pleasure and comfort in every space. The resort also features exclusive facilities and top amenities to ensure quality service to the guests to unwind in the lap of luxury for an incredible experience amid the natural vigor. You can indulge in a vibrant gastronomic scene where you can savor the authentic Middle Eastern cuisine at Nesma and organic Japanese flavors at Gishiki 45. Plunge into adventure by taking up water activities offered by the resort for an ultimate thrill. Never miss out on living your Afternoon tea moment at St. Regis to marvel at the colorful and artful delights.
Types of Villas: Dune Villa, Sunset Dune Villa, Coral Villa, Sunset Coral Villa, The Astor Villas, Presidential Dune Villas
Dining Options: Nesma, Tilina, Gishiki 45, Private Dining, The Beach Club, St. Regis Bar
Best Experiences: Water Sports, AlUla, Sustainable Guest Transportation, St. Regis Butler Service, The Bloody Mary Ritual, St. Regis Afternoon Tea
Facilities: 2 Outdoor Pools, Fitness Center, St. Regis Spa, Kid’s Club
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Travel Tips for Visiting Red Sea Islands
Red Sea in Saudi Arabia consists of a group of islands that attract millions of visitors from all over the world throughout the year. It is highly recommended to plan your trip in the winter season between the months of November to February and try to avoid the summer months. While visiting an island destination, these are the important travel tips you should follow for a pleasant and comfortable trip.
- Dress modestly and wear light comfortable clothes.
- Take sunscreen and a water bottle to keep yourself hydrated the whole day.
- Don’t forget to carry your beach bag for the quick essentials.
- Carry enough cash with you (Saudi Riyal)
- Plan your day and meal accordingly.
- Carry your valid ID proof to be on the safer side.
- Take your flip flops and a hat to safeguard yourself from the sun.
- Book your ferry tickets early for hassle-free travel.
- Enquire about the timing and prices of water activities beforehand.
- Enquire about the permits for islands beforehand, if needed.
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If you are a true nature enthusiast and adventure lover, Red Sea Islands of Saudi Arabia should be on your bucket list for a seamless experience to cherish for a lifetime. Engulfed by the pristine blues on all sides and home to the rich aquatic life, these islands will take you on a unique island tour with the sea delicacies served onboard. Never forget to miss out on this island trip while visiting Saudi Arabia’s significant tourist destinations. Start booking your Saudi Arabia tour packages with us to have unlimited fun in the island destinations of this Middle Eastern country.
Red Sea Islands FAQ’s
The Red Sea Islands of Saudi Arabia are the most picturesque, serene islands that draw the attention of numerous adventure enthusiasts and sea lovers from across the globe to unwind in nature’s bounty. The major Red Sea Islands of Saudi Arabia are:
- Tiran Island
- Sanafir Island
- Farasan Island
Though Saudi Arabia is the home to 1300 islands, it has 1150 islands which come under Red Sea. Most of these islands are uninhabited and only a few of them are inhabited by humans and other living species. This is the reason why these islands are known for their untouched beauty.
The best way to reach Tiran Island is to book your boat or ferry ticket in the ferry station at Sharm El Sherikh port which is 1 and half hour ride to reach the island. You can also go for ful-fledged boat tours accompanied by guides, lunch, sightseeing, and activities.
The best time to visit the Red Sea Islands is during the winters starting from the months of November till March. The weather is pleasant during these months to plan your trip and enjoy a comfortable stay in these destinations.
The Farasan Island consists of major historical landmarks that represent the rich cultural heritage of Saudi Arabia, offering you an insightful experience. The major tourist attractions in Farasan Island of Red Sea Islands are:
- Mangrove Forests
- Ottoman Fort
- Al Qasar
- Najdi Mosque
- Beit Al Refai
Farasan Island is full of adventures for the adventure seekers to unfold in a never-ending way. You should never miss out on a chance to try out these activities for unlimited fun. The major activities to carry out on Farasan Island are:
- Boat Riding to Mangroves
- Snorkeling
- Scuba Diving
- Heritage Tour
- Bird Watching
The best way to access Farasan Island is by taking a ferry from Jazan port. You can book a ferry ticket from Jazan port based on your preferences either for a half-day or full day. Moreover, if you want to take your car along with you, try to book your tickets before the day of the visit.
Yes, Jinna or Jana Island is worth visiting to witness breathtaking views of the sea along with the rich marine life. You can snorkel on the crystalline waters to have a close encounter with the majestic corals for a jaw-dropping experience.
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