The UAE is globally famous for its glittering skyline, desert dunes, and man-made marvels—but tucked away in the southwest of Abu Dhabi lies a natural gem that feels worlds apart from the urban buzz: Sir Bani Yas Island.
Home to Arabia’s largest wildlife reserve, pristine beaches, luxury resorts, and even a 1,500-year-old Christian monastery, Sir Bani Yas Island is a true offbeat destination for nature lovers, history buffs, and adventure seekers.
What is Sir Bani Yas Island?
Located about 170 km southwest of Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas Island is the largest natural island in the UAE. It was transformed in 1977 by the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who established it as a protected wildlife sanctuary.
Today, the island is part of the Desert Islands group and offers a rare blend of eco-tourism, luxury experiences, and nature-based adventures—making it a top UAE bucket list destination.
Things to Do on Sir Bani Yas Island
1. Go on a Wildlife Safari
The island’s most famous activity is its guided jungle safari across the Arabian Wildlife Park, which covers over half the island. In specially-designed 4×4 vehicles, you’ll spot:
- Arabian Oryx (once extinct in the wild!)
- Arabian Tahr
- Sand and Mountain Gazelles
- Giraffes, Barbary Sheep, and Peacocks
- Cheetahs, Hyenas, and other carnivores
Bird watchers will be delighted by hundreds of migratory and resident bird species.
All safaris are led by trained guides who share stories about the animals, conservation efforts, and the island’s transformation.
2. Mountain Biking & Hiking
Sir Bani Yas Island has marked biking trails and nature walks for all levels. Ride or walk through hilly terrain, forested patches, and beachside paths, a scenic workout with views worth every drop of sweat!
3. Visit the Ancient Christian Monastery
Yes, you read that right. In 1992, archaeologists uncovered a Christian monastery that dates back to the 6th century AD – one of the oldest churches ever found in the Arabian Peninsula. It’s a beautiful site that tells a story of early Christian presence in the region.
4. Relax at Luxury Resorts
Want to turn your visit into a weekend getaway?
Check into one of Anantara’s luxury villa resorts on the island:
- Anantara Al Yamm Villa Resort – Beachfront villas with ocean views and spa treatments
- Anantara Al Sahel Villa Resort – Set within the wildlife park, offering a “safari lodge” feel
Each resort comes with private pools, fine dining, outdoor adventures, and family-friendly amenities.
How to Reach Sir Bani Yas Island?
You can get to the island by road + boat, ferry, or even by air. Here’s how:
By Car + Boat:
- Drive from Abu Dhabi or Dubai via the E11 highway
- Exit at 113 for Sir Bani Yas Island, heading toward Jebel Dhanna Jetty
- Park your car at the secure lot at the jetty
- Take a water taxi (around 20–30 minutes) to reach the island
By Boat:
- Private or chartered boats can dock at the island’s Royal Bay Moorings
By Air:
- Seaplanes and small aircrafts operate from Abu Dhabi and Dubai directly to the Sir Bani Yas Island airstrip
Pro Tip: If you’re staying at an Anantara resort, they’ll arrange the transfer for you.
Entry Fee & Timings
| Entry Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Adults | AED 15 |
| Children (under 12) | Free |
| Opening Days | Timings |
|---|---|
| Saturday – Thursday | 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM |
| Friday | Closed |
Best Time to Visit
October to March is the ideal time to visit Sir Bani Yas Island, when the weather is pleasant and perfect for outdoor exploration. Summers can be extremely hot and may limit certain activities.
Travel Tips Before You Go
- Carry sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses – it’s sunny year-round
- Bring your camera or phone for wildlife photos and breathtaking landscapes
- Don’t forget swimwear if staying at a resort
- Wear comfortable shoes if you’re planning to hike or bike
- Perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers looking for a peaceful yet exciting break
Final Thoughts
Sir Bani Yas Island is more than just a tourist destination—it’s a sanctuary of biodiversity, a retreat for luxury travelers, and a gateway to ancient Emirati heritage. Whether you’re in the UAE for a week or a lifetime, this natural oasis deserves a place on your must-visit list.
From wildlife safaris to luxury spa days, historical discovery to eco adventures, Sir Bani Yas offers it all—just a few hours away from the city.
