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Taba, in the eastern Sinai peninsula of Egypt, is on the border with Israel, close to the city and airport of Eilat. The area within one km of the border is a duty-free zone with a couple of large resort hotels, a few shops, the bus station and other amenities. It is within Egypt and the term "border zone" on this page refers to this strip, not to the controlled area where you're crossing between countries. 20 km further south, the new resort of Taba Heights is developing, described on its own page.
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This castle perched on Pharaoh's Island just offshore was first built in 1116 AD by Baldwin I of Jerusalem, one of the leaders of the First Crusade. In 1170 it was captured by Salah El-Din ("Saladin") who rebuilt it. There were no other great battles here, and the castle was altered under Mamluk and Ottoman rule. There are boat trips to the island, hours vary with demand, enquire at the nearby hotel. Reckon US$3 for the boat and $1.50 to enter the castle.
متحف طابا الكبير
Seems to have been closed since pharaonic times, but try your luck.
formerly Taba Sands Hilton
Now part of Steigenberger chain, it's an unmissable 11 storey slab, the first place in the border zone after entering Egypt. Includes a diving centre and a popular casino. It's okay as a mid-range place, but the new management have a lot to do to earn their supposed "five star" rating.
Large resort hotel now part of Accor group, comfy and good service. There's a main block surrounded by garden chalets. With private beach and nearby diving.
By plane
Taba International Airport as of March 2020 has very few international flights and no Egyptian domestic flights. There's no public transport to the airport, take a taxi.
By bus
" There are a few cafes and kiosks here, but will there be buses? The bus schedule is an Arabian mystery perhaps known to the Sphinx, but not necessarily to East Delta the operator.
From Sharm el-Sheikh
There's a daily(?) bus from Sharm el-Sheikh bus station leaving at 09:00, stopping in Dahab and Nuweiba and arriving Taba around 4 hours later. The price Sharm-Taba (October 2026) is 290 EGP.
From Eilat
From Eilat Ramon Airport, Bus 30 runs via downtown to the border, while Bus 15 / 16 also shuttles between downtown and border, so the service is every 15 min.
By boat
See Nuweiba and Taba Heights for ferries to Aqaba in Jordan, bypassing Israel.
The border zone is small and walkable. You'll need a taxi to reach Taba airport or Taba Heights.
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Aqaba · International · AQJ
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