Saudi Arabia
Farasan Islands
Gazelles graze between Ottoman ruins on a Red Sea archipelago ringed by untouched coral.
The ferry from Jizan crosses open Red Sea water for 90 minutes before the Farasan archipelago appears — low, flat islands fringed with white sand and coral shallows the colour of bottle glass. On the main island, Farasan gazelles graze between crumbling Ottoman customs buildings, apparently unbothered by the contradiction of ruins and wildlife sharing the same frame.
The Farasan Islands are an archipelago of over 80 islands in the southern Red Sea, off the coast of Saudi Arabia's Jizan region. The largest island holds the remains of Ottoman-era buildings from when Farasan was a pearl-diving and fishing hub, along with a small heritage museum. The surrounding waters support pristine coral reefs, mangrove channels, and one of the region's largest populations of hawksbill turtles. The islands are a protected area, and the absence of large-scale development means the marine ecosystem remains in unusually good condition. The Farasan gazelles — a subspecies found only here — roam freely across the island, often visible from the single paved road.
Couple
The combination of empty beaches, warm shallows, and the complete absence of resort infrastructure creates an intimacy that curated luxury cannot.
Family
The shallow, warm water is safe for swimming, the gazelles fascinate children, and the ferry ride itself is an adventure.
Friends
Snorkelling the outer reefs, exploring the Ottoman ruins, and camping on uninhabited islands make Farasan a group expedition with variety.
- Over 80 islands in the archipelago — most uninhabited, with coral reefs beginning at the shoreline.
- Farasan gazelles graze freely on the main island, undisturbed between crumbling Ottoman customs buildings.
- Mangrove channels wind through the islands, sheltering hawksbill turtles and over 100 bird species.
- The ferry from Jizan takes 90 minutes — long enough to feel like you are leaving the mainland behind.
Freshly grilled red snapper and shrimp on the harbour wall, caught that morning by local fishermen.
Sweet Jizan mangoes and bananas from the mainland, eaten with yoghurt in the island shade.
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