250 km southwest of Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas the largest natural island in the Emirates hosts an 87 sq km wildlife reserve; part of the eight island Desert Islands project being designed to provide close encounters with nature of all kinds. Sir Bani Yas is at the heart of the project as it is the first island to have been formed with years of dedicated efforts to introduce and conserve animal, bird and plant species. It is now home to about 15,000 free roaming animals, 100 species of migratory and resident birds and to millions of trees and plants.

Visitors are introduced to the park’s expansive landscape and its collection of free roaming animals inclusive of sand gazelles, Arabian mountain gazelles, llama, Arabian Oryx, rhea, giraffe, Somali ostrich, blackbuck, emu, gemsbok, eland, Urial sheep, Barbary sheep, sea turtles, cheetahs – the park’s first predators – and hyenas through game drives and guided bush walks, the best ways to see animals in their natural habitats. Choose a game drive in the morning or afternoon and be driven in a specially adapted vehicle that will allow the best possible views of large animals in the wild; lying in the shade of bushes, at a water hole, or with their young enabling true to life views at close quarters and some very special photo opportunities. Many other eco friendly adventure activities are also encouraged in an effort to get visitors close to nature. Mountain biking and hiking for instance allow access to the ancient salt dome mountains of Sir Bani Yas which provide hikers and bikers with a challenging trail and allows for the appreciation of the uniqueness of the landscape. Snorkeling in waters rich with protected marine life and kayaking among mangroves with only the swish of the paddle in the water and the call of birds for company are other wonderful ways of enjoying the park’s facilities and close interactions with nature. A visit to the island’s recently discovered late Stone Age and early Islamic archaeological sites will round off a trip that provides insights into hitherto unknown aspects of an isolated desert island.

In a wildlife park by the beach, the location of Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara could not be better. Sense the thrill and adventure of encounters with endangered desert animals and experience the expansive space of a wonderful location and the many excellent amenities and facilities offered by one of the luxury Abu Dhabi hotels. Here you will enjoy spacious contemporary rooms, suites and villas with enchanting views of the surrounding landscape and sea, beautifully situated dining destinations serving a range of international cuisine, relaxing and rejuvenating spa treatments and modern leisure facilities. Have a great adventure; experience game drives, guided walking tours and other activities that showcase the natural advantages of this extraordinary location. Be part of one of the greatest holiday experiences in the UAE and stay at this one of the prominent Abu Dhabi resorts.