Thursday 12/March/2026 – 08:08 AM
South Sinai Governorate is distinguished by historical and archaeological sites, and its land witnessed the establishment of many historical sites, including the Citadel of Saladin, which aimed to protect and secure Egypt’s eastern borders. Among these places is Pharaoh’s Island, which is located within the borders of the city of Taba, and is considered one of the most wonderful historical places in South Sinai.
Pharaoh’s Island in the city of Taba is considered one of the most wonderful historical places in Egypt, and on this island is located the Saladin Citadel, which was established by the Muslim leader Saladin Al-Ayyubi in the twelfth century AD.
Securing Egypt’s eastern borders
Saladin Al-Ayyubi created this island with the aim of securing the eastern borders of Egypt, protecting the trade route between Egypt and the Levant, securing pilgrim convoys heading to the Holy Land, and monitoring the movement of ships in the Gulf of Aqaba.
It was built by Saladin on a small island
The castle was built on a small island in the middle of the Gulf of Aqaba, so it was a very important strategic location at that time. It was also part of a network of fortifications created by Saladin to confront the Crusaders during the Crusades.
Pharaoh Island is a unique tourist site to attract tourists
Today the island has become a wonderful tourist site, where visitors can see the remains of towers, defensive walls, and water tanks that were used during the siege.
There are amazing views of the Gulf of Aqaba and the coasts of four countries can sometimes be seen: Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Israel.
A combination of history and nature
Pharaoh Island is characterized by its clear waters and beautiful coral reefs, making it a wonderful combination of history and nature.
