Sir Bani Yas Island is a gem when it comes to the Emirates’ attractions. This island is in the Al Gharbia area of the United Arab Emirates. It’s mostly taken up by the Arabian Wildlife Park, where giraffes, cheetahs, and gazelles walk freely. At several historical sites on the island, you can see the remains of an old Christian church. The dry centre of the island is made up of salt dome hills. Along the coast, there are beaches, sea kayaking trails, and even more. So, stay tuned with us and get on board. Let’s dive into the Sir Bani Yas Island information below!
Sir Bani Yas Island Overview
People come from all over the world to see Sir Bani Yas Island – which is the crown jewel of Abu Dhabi. It has one of the biggest wildlife parks in the UAE, as well as many historical places and beautiful natural sights. Also, because Sir Island has so many high-end hotels, tourists can enjoy the best of nature while staying in style.
The Island is one of the eight desert islands of Al Dhafra. This environment is home to beautiful wildlife, a variety of adventure activities that are good for the whole family, five-star boutique hotels, luxury houses, stables that were built just for horses, and historical sites.
The island is very old and has the only Christian convent in the UAE. You can see it on a Desert Islands Resort and Spa Culture Tour. The monastery was found again in 1992 during excavations. It is thought to have been built around 600 AD and left empty in 750 AD.
Sir Bani Yas Island Location
It takes two and a half hours to drive from Abu Dhabi city to Sir Bani Yas Island. To get there, drive to the Jebel Dhanna port and take a boat from there. See the map of Sir Bani Yas Island here.
Transportation
Here is how to get to Sir Bani Yas island in different ways. You can get to the Sir Bani Yas Ferry Terminal by taking one of the city’s buses. Moreover, you can dock your boat at Royal Bay Moorings if you are coming by boat. Lastly, you can hire a private air car service and fly right to the island because it has its own airport.
If you’re coming by car, from Abu Dhabi or Dubai, take the E11 highway and head towards Tarif and Mirfa. Take Exit 113 for Sir Island after Al Ruwais. From downtown Abu Dhabi, the Jebel Dhana Jetty for the Island boat is about two hours away. Leave your car at the pier and get on the free speed boat.
Amenities
There are a lot of nice things to do on Sir Bani Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. The following are some of the most famous features. So take a look at them here:
Sir Bani Yas Island Hotels
You would love to spend the night at Sir Island if you are there. You’re lucky that there are many hotels close for you to choose from. So, check out the Sir Bani Yas Island resort options we have placed on a list for you.
Let’s get right to it and look at what these hotels on Sir Island have to offer. Also, we will cover other pertinent items. These include hotel ratings and contact details. So, take a look at these:
- Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara
- Location: Al Ruwais
- Hotel star rating: 5 stars
- Contact details: +971 2 801 5400
- Anantara Al Yamm Villa Resort
- Location: Al Ruwais
- Hotel star rating: 5 stars
- Contact details: +971 2 801 4200
- Al Sahel Villas
- Location: Sir Bani YasIsland
- Hotel star rating: 5 stars
- Contact details: +971 2 801 4300
Sir Bani Yas Island Restaurants
Want good places to eat while you are on vacation on the island? These include options for fancy, high-class restaurants. So, this is not only a place to relax by the ocean but an excellent culinary scene! See the restaurant below:
- Olio Restaurant – Al Yamm Villa Resort
- Location: Al Yamm Villa Resort
- Top Dishes:
- Tuna Tartar
- Roasted Beet
- Rating: 3.9
- Average Price for two people: AED 350
- Opening Hours: 6:30 AM to 10:30 AM, 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM, 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM (Daily)
- Contact Information: +971 2 801 4200
- Savannah Grill & Lounge – Al Sahel Villa
- Location: Anantara Al Sahel Villa Resort
- Top Dishes:
- Organic Muesli
- Savannah Grill
- Rating: 3.9
- Average Price for two people: AED 350
- Opening Hours: 7:30 AM to 10:30 AM, 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM, 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM (Daily)
- Contact Information: +971 2 801 4300
- Amwaj Restaurant at Anantara Desert Island Resort
- Location: Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara
- Top Dishes:
- Atlantic Oyster
- Seared Scallops
- Rating: 3.9
- Average Price for two people: AED 330
- Opening Hours: 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM (Daily)
- Contact Information: +971 2 801 5400
Activities
There are also lots of things to do here. These include tours in a 4×4 car, many horseback riding activities, and seeing more than 17,000 animals free to roam. Here are some more things to do on Zaya Sir Bani Yas Island:
Sir Bani Yas Wildlife Park
Sir Bani Yas Wildlife Park is one of the best things to do onthe Island. It’s like going on a safari in the United Arab Emirates. The Island safari price is found below:
- Price: AED 250
Beautiful Beaches
There are clean, beautiful beaches on the island that are great for relaxing and having fun. People can lay out in the sun, swim, or just enjoy the stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. On the island, the beaches are peaceful places to get away from the noise and chaos of the city. On the other hand, you can also check out the Sir Bani Yas Island ferry while at the beach.
Kayak
A fun and different way to see the forests and coastal seas is to kayak around the Island. This is a great activity for thrill-seekers who want to see the island’s natural beauty from a different angle. You can go on guided kayak trips that are safe and teach you about the marine environment around the island.
Hiking
On Sir Island, hiking is a great way to see the island’s rough terrain and take in the views. Hikers can enjoy the island’s natural beauty on a variety of tracks that are good for people of all fitness levels. Animals that live on the island might be seen by tourists along the way, which would make the trip even better. Many Sir Bani Yas Island safari organisers allow for planned hikes!
Biking
Another great way to see Sir Island is by bike. There are bike paths on the island that are good for both new and expert cyclists. Biking lets people see more of the island and enjoy the beautiful scenery, from the beach to the inland, all while getting in shape.
FAQs
You can go to the island and see the Sir Bani Yas Cruise Ship Beach and its pavilion. Also, there is the Sir Bani Yas Cruise Port, which is a famous spot for tourists.
Overall, the Island is a one-of-a-kind place that you will never forget. It has a mix of natural beauty, cultural past, and high-end services.
It costs AED 15 to get into the park. For kids younger than 12, it’s free.
The distance from Dubai to the Island is 390 kilometres.
Overall, Sir Bani Yas Island is a beautiful spot for tourists to enjoy. So, here are our final thoughts! The island is one of a kind and is just waiting to be visited! So, do not miss out if you are a tourist in the area. For more information on Abu Dhabi and all it has to offer, see Property Finder’s blog. For instance, check out where to find the best Chinese restaurant in Abu Dhabi if you like this one. Also, you may like to read about Nurai Island and more.
