What makes Sir Bani Yas Island unique?
Explore the wonders of Sir Bani Yas Island, an adventure oasis in Al Dhafra's desert. Experience three unique getaways in one: a fortress-style hotel by the sea, a cozy lodge surrounded by wildlife, and private villas on a sandy beach.
Discover a vast wildlife park with over 17,000 animals, including gazelles, giraffes, and cheetahs. Join guided safaris, try horseback riding, and tailor your island tour with help from Danat Resort Jebel Dhanna.
This comprehensive blog covers all the necessary information about Sir Bani Yas Island, which you must know before visiting. Read on!
What makes Sir Bani Yas Island unique?
Sir Bani Yas Island's diverse wildlife, history, and distinctive resort experiences stand out.
History of Sir Bani Yas Island
Sir Bani Yas is a unique island with a long history. The name comes from the Bani Yas tribe, who lived in Abu Dhabi long ago. The island was formed by nature a very long time ago.
People started living on the island thousands of years ago. Many places on the island show us what life was like in the past. They found a port from a long time ago where people traded things. They also found an ancient Nestorian Christian monastery from 600 AD. It's protected now to keep it safe.
The island has lots of old places, like from the Stone Age and early Islamic times. There's even an ancient Christian church from the 7th century. Christians used it until about 750 AD.
People first wrote about Sir Bani Yas in Europe in 1590. They said it's an island where pearls were found. British sailors in the 1800s also talked about it when they were looking at the waters around the island.
In 1971, the leader of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Zayed, chose this island as a special place. He made a law to stop hunting there and started turning it into a safe area for animals and plants.
He wanted to improve the desert for people and animals, so he brought trees and animals like gazelles, oryx, and giraffes. Later, he opened the island for people to visit and learn about nature. It became so popular that people had to book their visits a year ahead.
In 2007, the government made a bigger area called Desert Islands. This included Sir Bani Yas and another island called Dalma. People can visit these islands, but not the smaller ones around them.
Unique Features of Sir Bani Yas Island
Some of the highlighting features of this island are:
Exploring the Arabian Wildlife Park in 4X4
As highlighted in our tale of reserves in the Abu Dhabi region, the Arabian Wildlife Park is a must-see attraction. Join a relaxed 90-minute ride with up to six guests in an open-sided Land Cruiser for constant wildlife spotting.
Keep an eye out for reticulated giraffes and the park's resident cheetahs, sometimes caught in the act of enjoying a meal.
Library Oasis
Find respite on the second floor of the Desert Island Resort in the well-stocked library. Its expansive mahogany tables and warm lighting make it a cozy space to enjoy a good read, sip on a drink, or even have a cigar.
Seaside Adventures & Resort Activities
Centered around the sea, the resorts offer an array of activities. Dive into snorkeling, sea kayaking, paddleboarding, or relax in the pools and beautiful beaches. For those seeking unique experiences, opt for horseback rides that take you past wildlife and over dunes, among other exciting options.
Wildlife Adventure
Explore the vastness of Sir Bani Yas Island on a wildlife safari, where animals roam freely and only cheetahs have separate spaces. This natural area allows animals to hunt and mate without human interference.
The best time to observe these creatures is during the morning trip, as animals are active in feeding and hunting during this time.
Island's Past - Guided History Tour
Discover the island's Bronze Age origins with an intriguing guided history tour. Over a few dozen archaeological sites have been unearthed here, including a Christian monastery established by monks 1,400 years ago.
The island's history dates back, and one of the earliest mentions hails from 1590 when Venetian jeweler Gasparo Balbi noted an island surrounded by pearls.
Exploring the Lunar-Like Wadi
Kickstart your day with a guided walk through a narrow, moon-like wadi, a valley with mesmerizing landscapes. The 90-minute journey gently ascends, revealing twisting rock formations and shadowy crags painted in a rainbow of colors.
The wadi is a natural wonder, from iron's reddish hues to sulfur's yellows, magnesium's purples, and glimmers of hematite on the red-rock floor.
Location of Sir Bani Yas Island
Ṣīr Banī Yās is a big natural island far away from Abu Dhabi, which is the central city of the United Arab Emirates. It's about 110 miles (170 km) southwest of Abu Dhabi. There's another place called Jebel Dhanna that you can use as a starting point to reach this island.
It's about 5.6 miles (9 km) away from Jebel Dhanna. This island is large, approximately 10.9 miles (17.5 km) from top to bottom and 5.6 miles (9 km) from side to side. This island is the biggest natural island in the United Arab Emirates. It's in the western region of Abu Dhabi.
How To Get There
● To reach the island by car, take the E11 highway from Abu Dhabi or Dubai towards Tarif and Mirfa. After Al Ruwais, use Exit 113 for Sir Bani Yas Island. It takes about two hours to get to the Jebel Dhana Jetty, where you can park and take the free speed boat.
● Use the city's bus service to reach the Sir Bani Yas Ferry Terminal.
● If you're coming with your boat, you can dock at Royal Bay Moorings.
● The island has its airport, so you can hire a private air taxi to fly in directly.
Where to Stay
You can find three unique resorts across the island.
● Al Yamm features 30 villas with porches overlooking beautiful white-sand beaches.
● Al Sahel offers another 30 villas, styled like a safari, nestled in the heart of the savanna.
● Desert Islands, a larger resort, occupies Sheikh Zayed's former vacation home on the northern shore.
Dining Experience
Enjoy a variety of dining experiences as staff effortlessly transport you between resorts. Take your pick from Italian, Arabic, and African-themed restaurants, adding a delightful flavor to your island experience.
Opening Hours
The park is open every day (except Friday) from 2 pm to 6 pm. For the most recent information on opening times and timings, it is always advised that you contact the park directly.
Conclusion
Sir Bani Yas Island offers a getaway because of its extensive history, unique wildlife, and distinctive resorts. Explore the wilderness, indulge in the luxury, and lose yourself in a world where relaxation and nature coexist.
Whether looking for close encounters with wildlife, insights into local Bedouin culture, or a peaceful retreat, this island promises an unmatched experience. On Sir Bani Yas Island, plan your trip, make memories, and savor the extraordinary.
What's the significance behind the name Sir Bani Yas
Island?
The island is named after the Bani Yas tribe and holds historical significance.
Who initiated the establishment of Sir Bani Yas Island?
Sheikh Zayed, the founder of the UAE, played a vital role in the island's development.
Can I bring my car to Sir Bani Yas Island?
You can take your car to Sir Bani Yas Island using the E11 highway and designated exit.
