A mere 3 hour drive from the Emirati capital of Abu Dhabi, lies an island shrouded in obscurity. Oh, we know you know Yas island, but we’re talking of something else. A 30-square-mile abandoned island—the biggest of eight Desert Islands just offshore. The Bani Yas tribe, who first moved here 7,000 years ago, left it for good at least a century ago. In the early 1970s, you could still see why. There were no trees or freshwater sources here; just craggy rocks and bare shorelines lapped by the waves of the Arabian Gulf.
More Than 17,000 Animals Roam Free On Sir Bani Yas Island
But soon, after consistent conservation efforts more than 17,000 animals roam free on Sir Bani Yas Island – thanks to extensive conservation work since the 1970s – so guests often travel for safari tours. Arabian oryx, Somalian ostrich, gazelle and deer roam the land, while sea turtles and dolphins swim in the glistening Arabian Gulf.
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This Nature-Based Destination Is Home To Stunning Wildlife
Adventure lovers can get from Abu Dhabi to Sir Bani Yas Island’s paradise shores in about three hours. On arrival, you’ll be rewarded with stunning spectacles of nature, picture-perfect beaches and a dash of culture and heritage too.
A nature-based destination home to stunning wildlife, a range of family-friendly adventure activities, five-star boutique hotels, luxury villas, purpose-built stables and historical sites, Sir Bani Yas Island is one of eight islands making up the desert islands of Al Dhafra.
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Enjoy Nature & Wildlife Safaris
You can enjoy 4×4 nature and wildlife safaris in specially made vehicles accompanied by expert guides, with the island’s state-of-the-art stables offering a variety of equestrian activities and lessons for the whole family. If you’re looking for a customised tour to explore the island in more detail, Danat Resort Jebel Dhanna, a hotel on the Abu Dhabi mainland, can help you book one.
With three Anantara retreats on the island, guests can indulge in luxurious five-star accommodation at Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara, enjoy beach-front seclusion at Anantara Al Yamm Villa Resort on the eastern shores, and breathtaking natural beauty at Anantara Al Sahel Villa Resort.
This ancient island is also home to the UAE’s only discovered Christian monastery, which can be visited during a Desert Islands Resort and Spa Culture Tour. Thought to have been built around 600AD and abandoned in 750AD, the monastery was rediscovered during excavations in 1992.
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Top 5 Reasons To Visit
- Wildlife Safaris
- Kayaking
- Attend a falcon show
- Horseriding on sand dunes
- Go snorkeling
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First Published: November 09, 2021 6:42 PM