Hotel in South Sinai, Egypt
New Pola Hotel Taba
Located on the Gulf of Aqaba, this resort offers stunning views of four countries from its beach. Excellent diving and snorkeling access to coral reefs. The relaxed atmosphere and reasonable prices attract independent travelers.
New Pola Hotel Taba is a mid-range resort hotel situated at Taba on the Gulf of Aqaba, in the far northeastern corner of Egypt's South Sinai Governorate. The hotel occupies a beachfront site on the Gulf of Aqaba at one of the most geographically distinctive points in the Middle East: on clear days, the coastlines of Israel to the north, Jordan to the east across the water, and Saudi Arabia to the south are simultaneously visible from the beach, a perspective made possible by the narrow width of the northern Gulf at this latitude.
Taba is a small town located directly adjacent to the Israeli border at Taba International Crossing, approximately 60 kilometres north of Nuweiba and 230 kilometres northeast of Sharm el-Sheikh by road. The location attracts a mix of independent travellers, divers, and Israeli visitors crossing for short Red Sea breaks. The New Pola Hotel is among the larger resort properties in Taba proper, offering direct beach access on the Gulf of Aqaba.
The hotel's architecture is straightforward and functional, reflecting its mid-range positioning in a small border town rather than a major resort development. Rooms are air-conditioned with private bathrooms, satellite television, and balconies or terraces on many units offering sea or garden views. The décor is modest but maintained to a standard comfortable for most independent travellers.
Diving and snorkelling are the primary activities for guests staying in Taba. The local reefs contain coral formations and fish populations characteristic of the northern Gulf of Aqaba, which is noted for its high visibility and relatively sheltered conditions compared to the open Red Sea coast. The hotel's dive centre provides equipment rental, guided dives, and PADI certification courses. Pharaoh's Island, a short boat ride offshore, features a restored Crusader-era castle — Île de Graye — and is a popular combination dive and historical excursion visible directly from the hotel beach.
The outdoor swimming pool serves as an alternative leisure space, particularly useful in the cooler months of November through February when sea temperatures drop. The on-site restaurant serves Egyptian, regional, and international dishes with an emphasis on fresh Red Sea fish and grilled meats. The property is a practical base for Sinai overland itineraries combining Taba with Saint Catherine's Monastery (approximately 130 kilometres by road), Nuweiba, Dahab, and border crossings into Israel and Jordan via the Wadi Araba crossing at Aqaba.
Amenities
- private beach
- diving center
- pool
- restaurant
- sea views
- snorkeling
Visit / Book / Contact
- Phone: +20 69 353 0340
Location
Taba, South Sinai
29.5892, 34.9014 — View on map
Highlights
- Beachfront location on the Gulf of Aqaba with simultaneous views of Egypt, Israel, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia
- Direct beach access with snorkelling and diving on the northern Gulf of Aqaba reefs
- Pharaoh's Island with its Crusader castle visible and reachable by short boat trip from the beach
- Practical base for Sinai overland routes to Saint Catherine's Monastery, Nuweiba, and Dahab
- Adjacent to the Taba International Crossing for travellers entering or exiting from Israel and Jordan
Tips
- Bring a snorkel mask — the reef begins close to shore and the visibility in Taba's northern Gulf of Aqaba waters is typically excellent, even without a guided dive.
- Israeli sheqels are widely accepted in Taba businesses near the border crossing; change remaining Egyptian pounds at the border or at hotel reception before crossing.
- Saint Catherine's Monastery requires an early start — the monastery's opening hours are limited to mornings, so arrange transport the evening before.
- The Gulf of Aqaba can feel cool in January and February, around 20–22°C; a 3mm wetsuit makes diving more comfortable during winter months.
- Pharaoh's Island boat trips are best arranged through the hotel's dive centre, which can combine the castle visit with a guided snorkel of the surrounding reef.
FAQ
Can travellers cross the Egyptian–Israeli border at Taba while staying at New Pola Hotel?
Yes, the Taba International Crossing into Israel is directly adjacent to the Taba hotel area, approximately a 10-minute walk or very short taxi ride from the hotel. The crossing is open year-round and is used by both tourists and day visitors.
How is the diving and snorkelling at Taba?
Taba's reefs on the northern Gulf of Aqaba offer good visibility and a healthy coral ecosystem. The dive centre at the hotel provides equipment and guided dives. The Pharaoh's Island reef system nearby is a popular destination for both divers and snorkellers.
How far is Taba from Sharm el-Sheikh Airport?
Taba is approximately 230 km north of Sharm el-Sheikh Airport by road, which takes around 2.5 to 3 hours. Taba itself has a small airport (Taba International Airport) with seasonal charter and regional connections.
Is there a swimming pool at the hotel?
Yes, the hotel has an outdoor swimming pool available for guests, which provides an alternative to beach swimming during the cooler winter months or windy days when sea conditions are less ideal.
Accessibility
The hotel is a ground-level and low-rise property with relatively flat terrain between the accommodation, pool, and beach areas. Guests with mobility limitations should contact the hotel to confirm room placement and beach access pathways, as some beach entry points involve uneven sandy surfaces.
When to visit
March through May and September through November offer the most comfortable diving and swimming conditions in Taba, with air temperatures of 24–32°C and Gulf of Aqaba water temperatures around 22–26°C. Winter months are cooler but still suitable for diving with appropriate wetsuits.