Leisure
Island adventures in Abu Dhabi with inspiring activities.
A private island shared with sister resorts Desert Islands and Al Yamm, Sir Bani Yas is an homage to the vision of His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Nature blooms, with a terrain that varies from salt domes to savannah to beach to mangroves, all ripe for adventure. Ride through the wildlife park. Kayak calm waters. Head out in search of discovery and explore the outdoor activities in Abu Dhabi.
Kindly note that water sport activities are not available during the summer months.
Nature and Wildlife Drive
Enter the Arabian Wildlife Park in one of the few vehicles allowed on the island. Marvel at the numerous species that flourish in the reserve, from cheetahs and hyenas to giraffes and ostriches and the prized Arabian Oryx.
Nature Walk
Get a closer look at the flora and fauna on this guided walk down the eastern side of the island. Giraffes may wander by as you stop to admire the view. Visit the mangroves to spy osprey diving for their lunch.
Culture and History Tour
Learn about the unique history of the island, from its 20-million-year-old salt domes to its greening under the Sheikh's patronage. Explore the 42 scattered archaeological sites and counting, including the Nestorian Christian monastery dating from 600 A.D.
Wadi Walk
Wadi walks through surreal landscape transport you to another time and world. See the island from a new perspective as you scale the dunes for panoramas of the entire reserve. Pass towering rock corridors, fossils in the sand, salt domes and the occasional sand gazelle.
Archery
Shoot at stationary targets in the wadi, moving them further and further away as you master new precision.
Mountain Biking
Explore the island by pedal power, taking a variety of on- and off-road trails through the Arabian Wildlife Park, wadis, beaches and lagoons.
Swimming Pool
Three temperature-controlled pools across the island offer a range of outlooks. Bask in Al Sahel's free-form pool overlooking lush savannah.
Fitness Centre
Keep up your daily workout schedule, with a small gym at Al Sahel and a full-sized centre - with cardio machines, resistance training and dazzling views - at Desert Islands.
Tennis Court
Perfect your serve, with floodlights available for cooler, evening play. All equipment provided with our compliments.
Spice Spoons
Immerse yourself in the spices and aromas of Arabia, with step-by-step cooking classes of authentic recipes.
Kids' Club
Playtime unfolds at our friendly kids' club, with multiple rooms and outdoor spaces providing games, books, movies and adventures.
The well-being and health of little VIPs is our top priority. With directives from local authorities, Kids' Club facility is closed until further notice as a Covid-19 precautionary measure. Please inquire for available family activities.
Library
The library provides quiet moments of escape, with books to browse and computers for personal use.
The Souk
Browse locally sourced clothing, traditional jewellery and more, with gift purchases for family and friends back home.
Kayaking
A great way to get your daily exercise, glide through the mangroves through flocks of migratory birds, or head out to open sea.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding
A serene way to savour the stunning views of Sir Bani Yas and the Arabian Gulf, paddleboarding also offers a full-body workout.
Snorkelling
Don your mask and fins for the short journey to the protected reefs off Sir Bani Yas Island. Spot angelfish, groupers, batfish and barracuda as they swim all around you.
Dune Ride
The stables are home to over 30 horses, from Arabian stallions to gentle mares. Dune rides are perfect for beginners, with a short trail through sandy, gentle terrain.
Bush Trail
For more experienced riders who are confident controlling their horse in open terrain, trot along sandy paths and into the bush for encounters with free-roaming wildlife.
Wildlife Ride
Canter through the wildlife park on an Arabian horse, the wind in your hair and herds of Arabian Oryx surrounding. Helmets, boots and chaps are provided. Weight limit of 85 kg.
Private Yacht Access
Only 8 km off the coast of Jebel Dhanna, set sail for unique island adventures at Sir Bani Yas. Dock your yacht at the island's Royal Bay with a mooring package. Explore the wildlife sanctuary, then retreat to a unique setting for savannah dining.
Facilities
Open year-round, Royal Bay has all the facilities required for day visits or extended overnight stays. Ten water moorings allow for vessels up to 50 ft, with 7 m water depth. Guests have access to fresh drinking water, fuel (ADNOC card required, no cash facilities), fire protection and medical services. Yachts need to provide their own tender to shore, or arrangements can be made via our Water Sports Centre for a small fee.