It is located 56 km (35 mi) north of Dongola, the capital of the Northern state, Sudan.
The island's inhabitants speak two Nubian languages: Nobiin (also known as Mahasi or Halfawai) and Andaandi (also called Dongolawi).
[2] The island is divided into four administrative districts: north, south, east, and west.
Farmers on the island cultivate various crops, including wheat and beans.
In 2005, the island obtained an electricity grid, which significantly improved the efficiency of agricultural operations.