Joanna James
Located off Abu Dhabi’s southwest coast, Sir Bani Yas Island is fast becoming a sought-after escape away from the city’s more modern allures. From breathtaking landscapes to hidden historical treasures, here are 5 of the top highlights that make the island a captivating destination.
Spread across 4000 acres, the Arabian Wildlife Park is the island’s standout attraction. It began with the intention of protecting several endangered wildlife species and is now home to over 17,000 wild animals that wander about freely.
Needless to say, wildlife safaris on Sir Bani Yas Island are in no short supply. Whether it’s through jeep safaris or serene walking tours, visitors now have the chance to witness several animals up close, including cheetahs, gazelles, giraffes and the rare Arabian Oryx. This makes the island a top choice for those nature lovers seeking memorable adventures.
But the wildlife park isn’t the only aspect of the island worth discovering. Outdoor enthusiasts will be delighted to learn that the various landscapes of Sir Bani Yas Island make it a prime locale for some good old-fashioned explorations. Visitors can hop on a bike and head up to the rugged mountain terrains, or explore the island’s wadis on foot, where they’ll walk through large rocky corridors and pass by massive salt domes.
Each of these landscapes provides a unique perspective of the island, not to mention plenty of captivating scenery worth capturing on camera. Those who embark on any such land-based adventure will come away with a newfound appreciation for the island’s immense natural beauty.
Unsurprisingly, Sir Bani Yas Island is also an ocean lover’s dream paradise, offering multiple water sports and activities for enthusiasts of all levels. Those staying on the island at the likes of Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara can enjoy a range of activities out on the water.
Snorkelling offers the perfect opportunity to discover the region’s incredible marine biodiversity with the help of a tour guide. Alternatively, those who prefer to stay above the water can still enjoy the island’s coastal beauty via kayaking or paddleboarding - a more serene experience befitting a vacation on a paradise island.
Perfectly complementing its water sports are the island’s stunning beaches that take relaxation to a whole new level. Given that Sir Bani Yas Island is a natural island, visitors can expect to find pristine shorelines with all the right elements for a few hours of beachside bliss - powdery white sands, calm blue waters and a gentle breeze that will make you forget your worries.
The beaches on Sir Bani Yas Island also offer much-needed seclusion, where the crowds are fewer and there’s nothing but the sounds of the ocean. It’s no wonder that the island is becoming a top choice for beachside getaways and tranquillity - one of the top Abu Dhabi things to do!
One thing to keep in mind is that Sir Bani Yas Island isn’t all about natural beauty - it’s also a historical treasure trove! The island has been around for thousands of years and still contains many landmarks that speak to its extensive history, including over 36 archaeological sites and several forts and watchtowers that history buffs will love to visit.
The Sir Bani Yas Island Visitor Centre is also a must-visit, with its numerous exhibits, curated objects and artefacts providing a kind of retelling of the island’s vast history and culture. Another of the island’s most visited sites is the Sir Bani Yas Church and Monastery, from back in the 6th century, when Christianity was still influential in the region.
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.
