Joanna James
Situated 8km away from the coastline of the UAE, Yas Island is only three hours and a boat journey from Abu Dhabi, the capital city. The Island boasts a range of attractions, from safaris to theme parks!
For most travellers, Sir Bani Yas Island's free-roaming wildlife population of over 17,000 is its real attraction! This is due to the late founder of the nation, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan al Nahyan, who was devoted to preserving wildlife. He wanted to ensure the conservation of native species like the sand gazelle and Arabian oryx continued after him. At present, the majority of the island's land mass is reserved for the Arabian Wildlife Park. The inhabitants include gazelle, oryx, giraffes, hyena, ostrich, cheetahs and even the rare Egyptian jerboa on a good day!
Arabian horses are treasured for their hardiness by centuries of nomadic Bedouins all over the Arabian Peninsula. To experience Arabic culture to the finest, head to the Yas island's stables, where at least 30 horses are kept. Even novices can learn to ride – lessons are conducted at the stables, and learners will be taken on a guided tour on horseback over the mighty dunes. Skilled equestrians can track an outback trail riding an Arabian stallion, all across the National Park on their own.
The theme parks in Yas Island deserve a special mention, as they are diverse and grand, plus guaranteed to provide you with hours of entertainment. The most famous are Yas Waterworld, Ferrari World, and Warner Bros. World. There is also the Yas Marina Circuit and plenty of shopping in the Yas Mall, not forgetting loads of fancy restaurants and hotels. You won't be lacking in any accommodation options while on the island, and the likes of Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort can be a great option if you are too lost for choice.
Due to the 8km of 'no fishing territory' surrounding Sir Bani Yas Island, the encircling sea water is abundant in marine life. Dolphins, the super rare dugongs and hawksbill turtles are some of the star attractions in these waters. If you're snorkelling close to the protected coral reefs, you'll probably see groups of angelfish, groupers, barracuda, and batfish. The other option is to discover the seaside on a kayak, if not, rent a paddleboard and tour the nearby mangroves to locate migrating birds like the osprey.
The Bedouins of yore treasured the falcons for their hunting capabilities; however, at present they are appreciated for their magnificence and swiftness. The predatory bird is the fastest bird on the planet. Thus, it is no surprise falconry has become a pastime in the United Arab Emirates for centuries. It is one of the unique activities in Abu Dhabi that you must explore as a visitor to the country! Meet a falcon trainer while on Sir Bani Yas Island and learn the principles behind the training of these incredible birds. You will also get the opportunity to catch their feeding time and perhaps even hold one.
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