Discover Abu Dhabi’s stunning islands: Yas Island for entertainment, Saadiyat Island for culture, and Sir Bani Yas Island for nature escapades.
Abu Dhabi’s islands cater to every traveler. Saadiyat Island offers cultural gems, Sir Bani Yas Island wildlife adventures, Yas Island theme parks, and Zaya Nurai Island blissful relaxation. Dalma Island boasts rich heritage, while Al Maryah Island tempts shoppers and Al Hudayriat Island beckons outdoor enthusiasts. Find your island paradise in Abu Dhabi!
Al Maryah Island
Experience luxury at its finest on Al Maryah Island, an exquisite destination tailored for those with discerning tastes. Whether you’re traveling with loved ones or friends, this locale promises an unforgettable retreat.
Indulge in a leisurely escape amidst breathtaking views of the turquoise sea by booking a stay at the opulent five-star Rosewood Abu Dhabi hotel, nestled in the vibrant Sowwah Square waterfront, or opt for the sleek and contemporary Four Seasons Hotel, situated on the edge of the Arabian Gulf. Immerse yourself in a world of shopping bliss at The Galleria, featuring an impressive array of over 400 stores, ranging from beloved high-street brands like Zara to prestigious luxury labels such as Chanel, Cartier, and Dior. After indulging in retail therapy, tantalize your taste buds at culinary hotspots like The Cheesecake Factory or Paul Café, or savor exquisite dining experiences at acclaimed venues like Zuma, Nusr-et, and Coya along the Al Maryah Island promenade. The mall also offers world-class entertainment options, including the city’s largest theater, the region’s inaugural National Geographic Ultimate Explorer experience, three rooftop parks, and much more to captivate you for hours on end.
When it’s time to bask in the sun and unwind by the sea, venture just a short 15-minute drive to Al Maryah Island Beach and the beloved Corniche Beach, ensuring a day of relaxation and blissful serenity.
Delma Island
Delma Island, steeped in over 7,000 years of history, stands as a significant pearl-diving hub in the Arabian Gulf, preserving its rich maritime heritage and traditions.
As one of the oldest permanent settlements in the UAE, this historic island showcases early evidence of date-palm cultivation, Mesopotamian pottery, and finely crafted stone tools. Despite its arid surroundings, Delma Island surprises with its fertility, boasting numerous farms and plantations yielding a diverse range of produce. Accessible via the Delma Island ferry, which shuttles to and from the island via Jebel Dhanna, exploring its storied past is both convenient and immersive.
While accommodations are limited on Delma Island itself, visitors can opt for lodging at the Delma Motel or explore stays on nearby islands like Sir Bani Yas Island for a memorable experience amidst this captivating historical landscape.
Saadiyat Island
Welcome to Saadiyat Island, where tranquility and culture intertwine to create a serene paradise. Immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural landscape, anchored by the iconic Louvre Abu Dhabi and other esteemed institutions such as Manarat Al Saadiyat. Exciting additions like the forthcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and Zayed National Museum, crafted by Pritzker Architecture Prize laureates, further enrich the island’s allure. Saadiyat Island serves as an ideal haven for those seeking enlightenment through art, history, and culture, complemented by a selection of luxurious resorts nearby.
Unwind amidst the pristine shores of Saadiyat Island’s beaches, where soft white sands and lush greenery beckon. Keep an eye out for the Hawksbill turtles, a critically endangered species that call this coastal sanctuary home.
For those not lodging on the island, carve out a day to explore its myriad attractions. Tee off at the prestigious Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, indulge in retail therapy and delectable cuisine at Mamsha Al Saadiyat’s array of cafes and boutiques, or unwind with a refreshing drink and dip at the exclusive Saadiyat Beach Club. Saadiyat Island promises an unforgettable retreat, where every moment is infused with serenity and cultural enrichment.
Hudayriyat Island
Hudayriyat Island beckons with its beachfront charm, perfect for memorable moments with friends and family. Just a short distance from Al Bateen, this vibrant destination offers everything you need for a fantastic day or evening adventure, boasting sports facilities, dining options, glamping opportunities, and playgrounds galore.
From football fields to running tracks, indoor and outdoor basketball and tennis courts, bike parks, cycling tracks, skate parks, and even an exhilarating obstacle course, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy.
Yes, Abu Dhabi has beaches, and Hudayriyat Island boasts a spacious one! Sink your toes into the soft sand, take a refreshing dip in the shimmering turquoise waters, savor delicious bites at the array of restaurants and food trucks, explore the island’s historical and cultural attractions along the Heritage Trail, and top off your experience with a night of luxury camping under the stars. Hudayriyat Island offers endless opportunities for relaxation and excitement against a stunning coastal backdrop.
Nurai Island
Imagine sun-drenched days lounging by the beach, with waters as blue as a brochure – it’s not just a dream, it’s the reality at Nurai Island, Abu Dhabi. A mere 15-minute boat ride from Abu Dhabi or an hour from Downtown Dubai transports you to this idyllic paradise.
Named after the Arabic word ‘Nur,’ meaning ‘light,’ Nurai Island dazzles with its breathtaking vistas: the crystal-clear waters of the Arabian Gulf, powdery white sand beaches, and exquisite architecture seamlessly integrated into the natural landscape. Whether you seek solitude for personal rejuvenation, quality time with family, or an unforgettable getaway with friends, this island offers the perfect retreat. Nurai Island is more than just an escape – it’s an experience to treasure and cherish forever.
Al Reem Island
Located just 600 meters off the northeastern coast of Abu Dhabi island, Reem Island is a natural gem seamlessly connected to Abu Dhabi city by bridges. With a convenient proximity of twenty minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport, this vibrant island hosts a diverse array of residential, commercial, and retail developments. Situated near Saadiyat Island and Al Maryah Island, Reem Island offers a strategic location for both work and leisure.
Among its architectural wonders stands the iconic Gate Towers, a series of linked, pillared-style structures that define the island’s skyline. Anchoring the island is the prestigious Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, characterized by its grand central dome. As the first French higher-education institution in the Gulf region and the university’s inaugural international campus, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi represents a cornerstone of education and cultural exchange in the emirate.
Sir Bani Yas Island
Embark on an adventure through the untamed beauty of Sir Bani Yas Island, nestled among the Al Dhafra’s desert archipelago. This captivating terrain boasts an array of wildlife, an assortment of family-friendly pursuits, opulent boutique hotels, lavish villas, purpose-built stables, and significant historical landmarks.
The heart of this island’s allure lies within the expansive Arabian Wildlife Park, spanning over half of its expanse. Serving as one of the region’s premier wildlife sanctuaries, it shelters over 17,000 free-roaming creatures, including majestic Arabian oryx, graceful gazelles, towering giraffes, elusive hyenas, and swift cheetahs. Delve into the wilderness through exhilarating 4×4 nature safaris, guided by seasoned experts and conducted in specialized vehicles. Additionally, the island’s state-of-the-art stables offer an array of equestrian activities and lessons tailored for the entire family’s enjoyment. For those seeking a more personalized exploration, the Danat Resort Jebel Dhanna, situated on the Abu Dhabi mainland, can assist in arranging bespoke island tours.
Adding to its mystique, the ancient island harbors the UAE’s sole known Christian monastery, accessible through the Desert Islands Resort and Spa Culture Tour. Dating back to approximately 600 AD and abandoned by 750 AD, this historical gem was unearthed during excavations in 1992, offering a captivating glimpse into the region’s rich heritage.
Yas Island
Yas Island is an irresistible haven where the excitement never ceases. Bursting with a plethora of entertainment options, this paradise promises to keep you enthralled throughout your stay. Perfectly suited for families, it enjoys a prime location just 30 minutes away from the bustling city and a mere 15-minute drive from Abu Dhabi International Airport.
At Yas Island, thrill-seekers can revel in the adrenaline rush of an F1™ race track, explore world-renowned theme parks, tee off at an exceptional links golf course, bask in the serenity of its pristine beaches, and indulge in luxurious accommodations. With its impressive array of amenities including a dazzling mall, Yas Island offers an unforgettable experience that caters to every taste and preference.