A secluded island with pristine natural beauty, exotic wildlife and historical sites, Sir Bani Yas Island is perfect for a romantic escape or fun family adventure. Here’s more on what to expect.
Plan Your Holiday
The island can be accessed from the mainland of the United Arab Emirates and is only 8 km from the Jebel Dhana Jetty. Transport is available via water taxis (15 – 20 minutes) or a seaplane ride. When looking for resorts in Abu Dhabi from which to visit, choose from one of the resorts on Sir Bani Yas itself.
Arabian Wildlife Park
Here, you will find the Arabian Wildlife Park, home to more than 15,000 free-roaming animals that provide unforgettable wildlife encounters. Properties the likes of Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara offer wildlife drives where you may spot cheetahs, giraffes, sand gazelles, hyenas, the endangered Arabian oryx and much more.
Things to Do
You can go on nature walks to see more wildlife, embark on tours to visit an ancient Nestorian Christian monastery and salt domes that are millions of years old and explore impressive wadis. Other exciting experiences include mountain biking, land sailing, witnessing falconry and horse riding over the dunes or at the wildlife park.
Water Sports
There’s plenty of things to do in Sir Bani Yas in the water too; kayak amidst thriving mangroves, snorkel and spot diverse marine life be it groupers, angelfish or barracuda and enjoy stand-up paddleboarding in the Arabian Gulf. Those who have a yacht can make use of the Royal Bay Moorings and set sail around the island too.