Joanna James
Sir Bani Yas Island is host to a whole array of activities that cater to many people. Let's look at some of the best experiences this wondrous locale has to offer.
Kayaking is a great activity to check out when you're visiting the Island. You can paddle within the luscious mangroves or through the Arabian Gulf to witness some gorgeous sights. Kayaking can be done either during the day or even during the night, which makes for an excellent experience under the starlit sky. You'll be able to see gorgeous sea life underneath your kayak and even witness the breathtaking natural phenomenon known as bioluminescence.
The rugged terrain along with the scenic landscapes of Sir Bani Yas Island offers an excellent opportunity to go mountain biking. You'll be able to join guided tours, where you'll be taken through selected spots within the island that offer some amazing scenery. You may even come across different animals along the way so it is a must to bring along a camera. If you take the easy route, this could be planned as an excellent family adventure which will take you along the roads of the island. Gazelle and various birds roam the surroundings of the park and can be easily seen via this route. The advanced route is more suitable for those who consider themselves to be true explorers. Through this route, you'll be able to go right through the heart of the island to witness some beautiful scenery.
The island is also a perfect spot for amazing adventures underwater. You can find many different snorkeling spots around the island, within the shores as well as spots accessible through boats. If you take a boat you'll be able to access areas where you can witness some exotic marine life such as sea turtles, seabirds and even dolphins on certain occasions. Through the different snorkeling spots on the shores, you'll be able to see creatures like the iconic Arabic fish, various small colourful fish, sea urchins or even Hammour. If you're looking for a family hotel, Abu Dhabi has many great options. The Sir Bani Yas Island is a perfect location for some adventure and relaxation and you can find many places that offer access to the escapades on this list, Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Resorts being one of them.
The Sir Bani Yas Island also hosts a working and developing wildlife sanctuary. You'll be able to have amazing encounters with endangered animals and exciting unique environments. Notable examples include gazelles in the savannah and even the rare Arabian Oryx which is one of the world's most endangered Oryx species. Adding to the wilderness experience, you'll find that most of the nature and wildlife drive routes are along dirt tracks. And it isn't just getting up close with the animals, with these drives you'll get an amazing opportunity to look at the various flora and fauna on the Island as well.
Towards the eastern side of the Sir Bani Yas Island, you'll find the remains of the only early Christian site in the UAE which is of great historical significance. The site dates back to the late 6th Century AD and was abandoned by the last few monks in 750 AD, following the coming of Islam a century before. The monastery was found by Christians who were involved in the Gulf pearl trade. The island was a significant strategic location in the ancient sea trade route, all the way from Mesopotamia through the Arabian Gulf to South Eastern Arabia.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
