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HOME > UAE > Sir Bani Yas Island

Sir Bani Yas Island

This stunning natural island is located just over 100 miles southwest of Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates and is the largest natural island and one of eight known collectively as the Desert Islands. The island is actually the crest of a salt dome created millions of years ago by natural geological forces with its name stemming from the Bani Yas tribe, who first inhabited Abu Dhabi. With a strong conservation mandate, the island is a popular haven balancing luxury and sustainability, having recently won the "World's Leading Sustainable Tourism Destination" at the 2014 World Travel Awards in Anguila. More than half the island makes up the Arabian Wildlife Park, one of region' s largest wildlife reserves, home to more than 13,000 free-roaming animals along with the presence of the centuries-old Bedu people, who specialized in raising camels for organized races across the region . The Bedu people are instantly recognizable with their brightly-colored costumes, detailed masks and flowing robes. Steeped in history, Sir Bani Yas has over 36 archaeological sites in the Middle East including a 4,000-year-old circular tomb, a fortified watchtower, a mosque and the remains of a pre-Islamic Christian site.

EXPERIENCES

Arabian Wildlife Park

Stretching across 1,400 hectares of land, this park is home to a diverse array of animals including the Arabian Rock Hyrax, Ostrich, Beisa Oryx, Giraffe and even the Striped Hyena. As a wildlife sanctuary with constant conservation efforts and true care for the animals, you will find over 13,000 animals to discover on your tour.

Falconry

Once a location used to hunt falcons overlooking Desert Islands hotel and the northern coast, an expert guide will teach you about the history of falconry, interesting facts and information, demonstrating traditional training techniques of these majestic birds.

Horse Riding

Sir Bani Yas Stables is ideal for horse lovers or those keen to learn about horses and the heritage of Arabian horses within the UAE. Home to 30 horses of various breeds, including the Arab horse, there are riding packages to suit all needs and levels. Keep your eyes open for the gazelles and peacocks on your ride!

Mangrove & Sea Kayaking

Stunning mangroves are best explored by kayak, where you can observe beautiful flamingos feeding in the shallows, schools of flying fish and be amazed by the rich habitat of wildlife that call the mangroves home.

Sir Bani Yas Island Church and Sir Bani Yas Island Monastery

The ruins of a Christian church and monastery dating back to the 7th century A.D. were discovered on Sir Bani Yas Island in 1992 where 30-40 monks lived between 600-750 A.D. The largest Christian archaeological site in Eastern Arabia, guided tours are available to discover the rich history of this incredible place.

Snorkelling & Scuba Diving

Offshore reefs in the stunning waters of Sir Bani Yas Bay make for the perfect place to explore some of Arabia's exotic sea life. The famous Arabic fish - the Hammour - swims alongside hundreds of colourful fish, sea urchins and more create a visual spectacular under the water.

UAE Regions

MAJOR AREAS

PREFERRED HOTEL

Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort, Abu Dhabi

Due to its unique location within the expansive Arabian Wildlife Park, Al Sahel Villa Resort offers guests a beautiful and luxurious place to stay juxtaposed against its rugged, untouched desert environment. It opens up a rare glimpse into the beauty of mother nature within the island’s savannah and guests have the privilege of sharing their stay with over 10,000 free-roaming animals. Marvel at the stunning views over the Gulf and trek to the historic salt-domed hilltops and then spend the evening relaxing in your personal plunge pool beneath the twinkling Arabian stars. Additionally Al Sahel stands as one of the leading luxury eco-friendly resorts in Abu Dhabi with its sustainable design and features. The 30 private villas have been built with traditional thatched roofs and an African ‘feel’, whilst still maintaining absolute excellence and comfort. Unique to the majority of resorts throughout Abu Dhabi, Al Sahel Villa Resort manages to encompass luxury with a traditional and authentic finish as well as a modern approach to sustainability to complement its natural surroundings.

PREFERRED HOTEL

Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Yamm Villa Resort

Picturesque at every turn and surrounded by free-roaming wildlife on land and an infinite variety of marine life in the aqua colored Arabian Gulf, Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island’s Al Yamm Villa Resort is a luxurious oasis blessed by natural beauty. A mangrove lagoon complements the island’s delicate eco-system and the resort itself has been built with the environment in mind, making sure not to disturb the balance of this incredible habitat. The villas are built with sustainable features and reflect a by-gone era of the Arabic fisherman and their barasti lodgings, now designed as a private oasis with unparalleled luxurious finishings and services to allow guests an opulent experience on this stunning island paradise. Rich, flavorful food is served at the resort’s four restaurants, while the famous Anantara spa beckons for pre- or post-meal indulgence. Guests will never find themselves wondering what to do next with a host of activities available for them - from watersports to archery and much more.

PREFERRED HOTEL

Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara

Sitting amidst the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf, the beautiful island of Sir Bani Yas is home to Desert Islands Resort and Spa, boasting the internationally-renowned service of Anantara amidst stunning natural surroundings. Guests at Desert Islands can truly escape, just a short 25 minute flight from Abu Dhabi airport, they find themselves ensconced in luxury and relaxation. The rooms, suites and villas, bathed in island sunshine, are decorated and equipped to the highest standards and enjoy breathtaking panoramas. The multiple dining outlets cover an array of modern and traditional cuisines in a variety of stylish environments. What’s more, with an array of countless activities available on- and off-site, from hiking, snorkelling and fishing to complete relaxation in the spa or by the pool, there’s never a dull moment at Desert Islands.

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Sir Bani Yas: Staying in Style in the UAE’s Safari Paradise

Author : John McMahon

There are Sudanese cheetahs and Arabian oryx on an island in the Persian Gulf called Sir Bani Yas. To see it, there is no other way than Anantara.

Al Fahidi: Dubai’s Haven of History and Culture

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Yes, there are the skyscrapers, Burj Khalifa, and man-made islands, but there's still some culture left in Dubai, and you'll find it in Al Fahidi.

Supercar Dubai: Asia’s Premier Destination for Motoring Masterpieces

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Underwater Dubai Hotel Experiences You’ll Want to See

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While most might expect somewhere like the Maldives to be leading the world in underwater hotel experiences (and they are), underwater Dubai will not be left behind.

Eat Your Way through 5 of Dubai’s Art Hotspots

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Dubai's art scene has been on the rise for years, and now that it's in full bloom, there's plenty of innovation for art lovers and gastronomes.

Photographer’s Eye on the Deserts of Dubai

Author : Jordan Hammond

Photographer and Instagrammer Jordan Hammond travels to the deserts outside of Dubai to shoot wandering balloons, shifting sands, and abandoned roads.