Abu Dhabi is made up of various islands, such as Al Reem Island, Yas Island, and Dalma Island. However, the latter is very different from the first two, as it is a more secluded Island that you need a ferry ride to get to. In addition, this bountiful Island is home to various attractions that make visiting it worth your while. So, explore all its landmarks, amenities, and more in this guide.
About Dalma Island
First of all, this ancient Island is considered one of the earliest settlement sites in the United Arab Emirates. It started as an important centre for pearl trading and fishing, and now it is both an archaeological site and a vibrant small community. Moreover, this island holds various ancient and significant finds across its stretch of 45 kilometres. This includes Ubaid pottery, stone tools, shell and stone beads, and much more. Some archaeological excavations date these findings to more than 7,000 years ago, proving that the Island existed as a human habitat since the Later Stone Age.
Nowadays, this Island is a tourist destination as it is still a pearl trade centre, especially for fishing. Also, the Island is home to three mosques, an airport, and various other landmarks and amenities. Most importantly, the Island of Dalma used to be considered a water supplier for the emirate of Abu Dhabi. With more than 200 wells till the end of the 1950s.
Location
According to the Dalma Island map – the island is situated in the Persian Gulf. Additionally, it is about 42 kilometres away from the coast of Abu Dhabi. Also, there are no main roads or bridges connecting the Island to the United Arab Emirates capital. Therefore, it can only be reached by the mainland ferry or plane.
Transportation
If you are wondering how to go Dalma Island – then you probably got your answer by now. The Island can be reached by either the ferry or by booking a flight to get there. Discover more details on these two transportation means below.
Dalma Island Ferry
Firstly, taking the ferry to the island is one of the most popular and affordable means of travel. You can take your car, drive onto the ferry, and head to the Island easily. As for the Dalma Island Ferry timing schedule, it is approximately between 7:00 AM and 7:00 PM. Furthermore, these are the ferry fares to get you to the island:
- Adults (above 12 years old): AED 20
- Children (under 12 years old): Free of charge
- One vehicle: AED 100
Furthermore, booking ferry tickets is easily done online through the Abu Dhabi Maritime. Simply head to the website, and choose your destination and dates. Choose the preferred ferry line, and add the number of passengers and vehicles if needed as well. Then proceed to pay online.
Dalma Island Airport
Secondly, you can also fly to the Island as it has its own airport. This airport is situated on Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Street and it provides transportation from Abu Dhabi and to it. Additionally, there are many airlines operating through this fundamental airport. Lastly, the flight from Abu Dhabi to the Island or the other way around is approximately 45 minutes approximately.
- Airport phone number: +971 2 505 5000
Things to Do in Dalma Island
In addition, if you are wondering which Dalma Island places to visit – then you are in luck. Below, you will explore all the Island’s activities and places to go. The fun things to do here vary between eating out, dining, and exploring ancient artefacts and monuments.
Dalma Island Camping
First of all, if you are a fan of camping out and sleeping under the stars, then you must head to the Island. Here, you will find two popular camping sites that are perfectly safe any time and any day. So, make sure to pack your camping gear, such as tents, sleeping bags, foldable chairs, board games and all the other essentials. Then head to one of the Island’s camping sites listed below.
- Chill space
- Al Huwad Street
- Beach Camping
- near Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Street
Restaurants in Dalma Island
Additionally, if you are looking for a restaurant on the Island, then you will find various options. Each restaurant here offers excellent food along with great hospitality. So, if you wanna grab a bite at the Island, find below where to go.
- Seven Level D Restaurant
- Location: Al Huwad Street
- Rating: 4.3
- Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 11:30 PM (Daily)
- Contact Information: +971 50 251 5901
- Muhurat Restaurant
- Location: 170 Al Huwad Street
- Rating: 4.1
- Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 11:30 PM (Daily)
- Contact Information: +971 50 752 8106
- Jasem Juma Ali Al Tamim Restaurant
- Location: Kasir Al Amwaj Street
- Rating: 3.1
- Lebanese Palace Restaurant
- Location: 6 Mismih Street
- Rating: 3.6
- Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Daily)
- Contact Information: +971 28 781 990
Dalma Lake
If you do visit the Island, make sure to stop by its famous lake. Why? Because you will enjoy the most breathtaking views of the Persian Gulf stretching as far as the eye can see. Also, it is a great place to visit at sunset to take Instagram-worthy pictures.
Abu Dhabi Dalma Island Museum
Additionally, make sure to explore the island’s old lifestyle at this amazing museum. Here, you will enjoy windowless rooms with upper stories reached by ladders. Also, the traditional decorations on the walls will surely catch your eye!
- Working hours:
- 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Saturday – Thursday)
- 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM (Friday)
Public Park
Furthermore, if you are looking for outdoor fun then you must head to Dalma Island Ruwais public park. This is the perfect spot for a picnic, a stroll, or to ride a bike with your little ones.
- Location: Al Hadhoudh Street
- Contact details: +971 2 898 8888
Mangrove Trees
If you head to the Island, then you must explore its Mangrove Trees area. This is a site open any time and any time, and it has various mangrove trees with a marvellous seafront view.
Boat Club
Lastly, if you fancy renting out a boat and ferrying yourself to the Island, then you are in luck. The boat club on the Island is the perfect pier to dock your boat.
Amenities
In addition to the Island’s many attractions, it also consists of various amenities. These amenities offer services to both the Island’s residents and visitors. Explore all about them below.
Dalma Island Hospital
The first amenities on the Island is its famous hospital. This is the perfect place for the Island’s residents and visitors to seek all sorts of medical care. In addition, this hospital operates under the supervision of SEHA, so excellent care is guaranteed.
- Location: Umm Al Shuwaiheen Street
- Working hours: 24/7
- Contact details: +971 2 807 0000
Dalma Island Hotel
Secondly, if you are looking for hotels in Dalma Island, UAE, you may not find any. For instance, there is no Dalma Island resort, unfortunately. Nevertheless, there is an excellent motel that you can stay at, you will find it listed below.
- Delma Motel
- Rating: 3.4
- Contact details: +97128781222
FAQ
The Dalma Island trip from Dubai takes approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes. It will start by travelling from Dubai to Abu Dhabi via any means you prefer. Then you will take the ferry to the island.
Yes, there is a gym just for women on the Island, which is the Ladies Club on Bu Taniah Street.
Yes, it is. According to recent counts, the island’s population is estimated at 6,7000.
Yes, it is. This forecast website is extremely reliable. So, make sure to check it upon travelling to the island.
In conclusion, Dalma Island is an extraordinary place to visit and experience the UAE’s first habitats firsthand. In addition, there are various Islands in Abu Dhabi that you can learn about on Property Finder’s blog.
