The island was under Egyptian control in the past but is back under Saudi Arabia sovereignty since 8 April 2016, after the completion of transfer procedures. On 17 June 2017, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi ratified the maritime demarcation agreement between the two countries.
The island had been under Egyptian authority previously but is now under Saudi control, as a result of the transfer process being completed. On June 17, 2017, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi validated the maritime border agreement with Saudi Arabia.