Set on the verdant island haven of Sir Bani Yas, just off the coast of Abu Dhabi, housing the Royal Nature
A royal retreat. Unique wildlife encounters. Rugged island beauty.
Fall under the spell of centuries of evocative Middle Eastern legends. Take in panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf waters and explore an Island with hilltops, created between five and ten million years ago. Explore the diverse wildlife inhabiting one of the world's most unique offshore wildlife sanctuaries. Revel in the history of an Island retreat, long known for its natural and rugged beauty.
Reserve of His Highness Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Anantara Desert Islands Resort & Spa offers intrepid travellers an unforgettable island escape in the glittering waters of the Arabian Gulf.
The Island is located just 8 kilometres off the shore of Abu Dhabi and is home to one of Abu Dhabi's largest wildlife reserve. With a total area of 87 kilometres, the reserve (not the whole island is a reserve) was established in 1971 by the late ruler & founder of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan and following decades of conservation work and ecological investment the Island is now a haven to thousands of large free roaming animals, a bird sanctuary and several million trees and plants. The Island also has a wide range of nature driven activities, including game drives, kayaking, mountain biking, hiking and snorkelling.
With 64 luxuriously appointed rooms, suites, spacious one-bedroom villas and truly luxurious two-bedroom Royal Villas, Anantara Desert Islands Resort & Spa invites you to live out your own Arabian nights in a destination that is anything but ordinary.
Hotel Accommodation
Trek through a desert isle. Return to a stylish resort oasis. Our Pool Access rooms and Deluxe rooms provide lavish comforts for island explorers, honeymoon couples or families seeking a once-in-a-lifetime bonding adventure. Spacious and bathed in natural light, these rooms remain true to the island’s colourful heritage and come complete with all the modern luxuries. Striking indigenous fabrics and original pieces of Middle Eastern art fill the space, evoking local colour and exotic arabesque traditions.
Pool Access Rooms:
Step out onto a private terrace, surrounded by lush tropical island gardens and only a few skips from the white sand beaches of your very own Desert Island. Our Pool Access rooms wrap you in 52 square metres of airy comfort, with king or twin-sized beds, terra cotta flooring, marble bath fixtures and hardwood accents, and indigenous touches of Arab decor, you'll never forget you're in a truly magical island setting.
Exclusive to the 12 Pool Access rooms is a private ground-floor terrace, offering direct access to the resort's tranquil garden and pool. And of course, all rooms come equipped with international satellite TV, individually controlled air conditioning, minibar and all the modern conveniences you deserve.
Deluxe Rooms:
Views over turquoise seas and white sand beaches. The luxurious touch of Egyptian cotton. Warm island sun and cool hardwood furnishings. The 44 Deluxe Rooms at Anantara Desert Islands Resort & Spa are designed to surround our guests with the beauty of this Middle Eastern island gem in all its splendour.
Featuring either a plush king-sized bed or twin doubles, all Deluxe Rooms are situated on an upper floor and offer views over the surrounding seas from a private balcony. Modern conveniences abound in these 52-square-metre rooms, including international satellite TV, individually controlled air conditioning, electronic in-room safe and fully equipped mini-bar. At the end of the day, every guest can relax under a private rain shower, included in all Deluxe ensuite bathrooms.
Hotel Restaurants and Bars
True to the island's history as a crossroads of culture, culinary delights at Anantara Desert Islands Resort & Spa span all genres, from light poolside snacks of Arab mezze to plentiful feasts of grilled local and imported seafood. Whether you're craving for fresh seafood or a candlelit dinner on the beach seafood, our four food and beverage venues are sure to tempt every appetite.
Al Shams:
With the convenience of our Pool Bar, there's no need for guests to take a break from soaking up the sun. Adjacent to the poolside, the Pool Bar offers plenty of lounge space, complete with sunbeds, for guests to enjoy a refreshing afternoon swim or snacks under shaded umbrellas. Guests can choose from a wide selection of light gourmet snacks and beverages in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere, just strides away from the beach. Evenings invite to unwind and savor a Shisha, featuring soothing flavours and an atmosphere of pure relaxation.
Samak:
Casual elegance mingled with zesty world flavours define our Samak seafood grill restaurant, open for dinner. The menu offers an astounding wine list and an abundance of seafood and imported steaks that are prepared to taste on an open grill. During the breezy island evenings, Samak transforms into a relaxing beachside retreat amongst the romantically lit landscaping and poolside surrounds.
The Palm:
Start your day at The Palm, our all-day dining restaurant, featuring an international and Middle Eastern breakfast buffet. When dusk settles, the airy restaurant becomes the site for occasional themed nights. The a la carte menu features many types of cuisine and the resident Wine Guru will match the perfect wine with your meal.
The Lounge:
On a culinary high, guests can share a nightcap at our lounge bar, with stunning views across the sea will end your evening on the perfect note. Relaxing on soft, comfortable furnishings, guests are offered quality coffees, gourmet loose leaf teas, aperitifs and cocktails, among other options, all day long.
Meal Plan Information
Meals will be served in the All-Day dining restaurant.
Hotel Activities and Entertainment
RESORT FACILITIES:
Anantara Desert Islands Resort & Spa is designed to be a one-of-a-kind luxury escape from the everyday, set against a seductive natural island backdrop. As such, we have developed our luxurious enclave to cater to every whim. Explore the grounds of our spacious seaside retreat and discover all the hidden gems we've sprinkled amidst the island landscape to ensure that each day spent with us is as relaxing or fun-filled as you like.
Boutique:
The resort houses a boutique shop, offering the local handicrafts, some artifacts, and a good selection of International reading reading material. Also available are a selection of local jewellery and accessories and gift items.
Fitness Centre:
Our state-of-the-art fitness centre is open from 07:00-22:00 hrs, allowing guests to maintain their fitness regimen at their convenience. The fitness room features a vast array of high tech machines, ranging from cardiovascular exercise to free weights and other strength training machines. Beautifully located on the edge of the beach, the floor to ceiling windows offer stunning views across the Arabian Gulf.
Library
Visit the library to sink back into a comfortable chair and read a favourite novel or use our wireless internet to update friends on your travels. Guests can also take advantage of our collection of reading material.
Swimming Pool:
Just steps away from the sea, our freeform infinity-edge swimming pool on the beach is the centrepiece of our resort's grounds. Families and couples alike gather to soak up the island sun, plunge into the refreshing waters and gaze over the clear waters of the Arabian Gulf. Sipping a refreshing fruit juice elixir from the Pool Bar under an umbrella provides escape from the sun.
Tennis Court:
Guests can volley all day and night at our resort's impeccable tennis court, situated under the shade of palms and just a stone's throw from the surf. For those who want to avoid the heat, the floodlit court is available well into the night for evening play under the stars.
ISLAND EXCURSIONS:
Anantara Desert Islands Resort & Spa offers more than just an oasis of tranquility surrounded by an island paradise. We also offer you unparalleled opportunities to experience all the beauty, history and intrigue of this once royal retreat. With an amazing array of wildlife marine beauty and a unique desert island landscape, you'll find plenty of reasons to venture out of your room and into the heart of this magical island.
Archery:
Work on your aim and discover the thrills of this relatively sedate sport. Archery targets are set amongst the rugged wadis on the Islands and can be pre booked on arrival at the hotel. Suitable for couples or larger groups, as part of a team building exercise.
Bird Watching:
Bird watchers will delight in the diverse multitude of birdlife that call the Sir Bani Yas island bird sanctuary their home, or temporary resting place on their migratory paths. The result of a successful conservation and breeding project undertaken by Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the island's bird sanctuary now teems with a range of native and imported birds, including the flightless African ostrich, rhea and emu, along with their flying cousins, the Egyptian goose, partridge, crane, guinea fowl and pheasant. Although the guest's perennial favourite is of course our flocks of pink flamingo, which can be seen by the hundreds in the island's mangroves and lakes.
Game Drives:
Sir Bani Yas island is fortunate to house the one-of-a-kind Arabian Wildlife Park, the dream come true of Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi's former leader. His visionary concept for an offshore wildlife sanctuary, teeming with both indigenous and imported wildlife, have made possible one of the world's most unique settings for up-close wildlife encounters.
The guided game drives, are a perfect way to explore the park and its population of indigenous animals such as the reem, oryx antelopes, hyenas, ostriches and giraffes.
Game Walks:
A trip to Sir Bani Yas offers even more than just seaside fun in the sun. The rugged landscapes of our island surrounds beckon exploration, and the many walking trails that wind through the nearby bird sanctuary and game reserve offer the perfect way to experience the island's unique beauty up close, with the expertise of an experienced guide. Trails wind along the sea and through the peaceful bird sanctuary and reserve, which are at their best just after dawn. Guided by our game experts, you'll get an unparalleled up-close glimpse at this unique natural sanctuary.
Kayaking:
What better way to explore the island's natural beauty up close than from a kayak? Depending on the tidal system, our kayaking trips will take you across our lagoons or through the mangroves where our intrepid visitors are exposed to the rugged splendour of the island's wildlife sanctuary. Glide quietly through the water in the early morning under a canopy of tropical greenery while your guide points out migratory birds nesting above and the occasional gazelle coming to drink at the banks. And of course, keep watch for the stars of the reserve, our resident flamingos!
Mountain Biking:
Sunrise on this island is when the island is at its most beautiful and when the sanctuary's wildlife are out in full force before the heat of the day. Take advantage of the stunning setting and the perfect time of day with a morning bike ride through the islands hinterlands and desert salt flats to get a glimpse of the island as it comes to life. Your guide will have you back just in time for breakfast – and a day spent relaxing those spent muscles in the spa or by the pool.
Snorkeling:
The island's abundance of wildlife doesn't stop on the surface - no trip to the island of Sir Bani Yas would be complete without going on a guided snorkeling expedition. Protected from the rough waters by a newly formed reef system, guests will enjoy the perfect water conditions for swimming and snorkeling.
Hotel Children Information
Kids Club:
Let the kids watch movies and play games at our Kids Club while you venture to the spa or enjoy a romantic picnic lunch for two. With multiple rooms, the Kids Club features activities for both young children and teens, including computers with games and learning activities, flat screen TV with a large selection of movies and reading materials.
Spa Information
Safaa means serenity. A peaceful sanctuary that is at once indulgent and luxurious but welcoming too. By stepping into our calm and intimate world, you can discover true relaxation, genuine wellbeing and complete pleasure.
Pure and natural elements have been chosen for their curative benefits and energetic powers. Exquisite new fragrances in oils and elixirs will sate all five senses. Ancient healing and modern therapies work in harmony to renew, restore and revive.
Encounter rituals and healing ways based on the therapeutic energies of semi-precious stones. Amber is renowned for its energising qualities; Emerald is the colour of love and perfect for couples to experience together. Aqua Marine helps reduce stress and brings about a deeper level of relaxation.
Choose from our inventive menu of Spa Rituals alongside a comprehensive list of therapeutic and prescriptive treatments and beauty programmes - all of them tailored exactly to your personal choices and desires.
Through original and personalised treatment techniques Safaa Spa provides balance to the skin, relaxation to the body and well-being to the mind.
Safaa. Your rejuvenating journey awaits.
Hotel Additional Guest Services
Meeting Rooms:
Kick-start an executive retreat at one of our wifi-equipped conference rooms, in which seating can be arranged in boardroom, classroom, theatre or U-shaped style. A wide selection of audiovisual and presentation equipment is available for organizers or conference presenters, including portable LCD screen and DVD player, digital data projector, conference phone cabling and handsets, whiteboards and flipcharts.
SPA:
Safaa means serenity. A peaceful sanctuary that is at once indulgent and luxurious but welcoming too. By stepping into our calm and intimate world, you can discover true relaxation, genuine wellbeing and complete pleasure.
Pure and natural elements have been chosen for their curative benefits and energetic powers. Exquisite new fragrances in oils and elixirs will sate all five senses. Ancient healing and modern therapies work in harmony to renew, restore and revive.
Encounter rituals and healing ways based on the therapeutic energies of semi-precious stones. Amber is renowned for its energising qualities; Emerald is the colour of love and perfect for couples to experience together. Aqua Marine helps reduce stress and brings about a deeper level of relaxation.
Choose from our inventive menu of Spa Rituals alongside a comprehensive list of therapeutic and prescriptive treatments and beauty programmes - all of them tailored exactly to your personal choices and desires.
Through original and personalised treatment techniques Safaa Spa provides balance to the skin, relaxation to the body and well-being to the mind.
Safaa. Your rejuvenating journey awaits.
Transfer to Hotel
Please note:
One Way transfer is NOT included in price for this hotel. One Way transfer is £135 per car (holds 2 adults & 2 kids). Transfer time is approx 2 hours from Abu Dhabi airport to Desert Island arrival jetty followed by 15 minute ferry ride and further 15 minutes from Desert Island jetty to hotel.
Boat transfer from Island to Main land :
Dep 1115Hrs arrival 1135Hrs , Dep 1215Hrs arrival 1235Hrs, Dep 1315Hrs arrival 1335Hrs, Dep 1415Hrs arrival 1435Hrs, Dep 1515Hrs arrival 1535Hrs, Dep 1615Hrs arrival 1635Hrs, Dep 1615Hrs arrival 1635Hrs, Dep 1715Hrs arrival 1735Hrs.
Boat transfer from Main land to Island:
Dep 1145Hrs arrival 1205Hrs , Dep 1245Hrs arrival 1305Hrs , Dep 1345Hrs arrival 1405Hrs , Dep 1445Hrs arrival 1505Hrs , Dep 1545Hrs arrival 1605Hrs , Dep 1645Hrs arrival 1705Hrs , Dep 1745Hrs arrival 1805Hrs ,
Boat transfer rates are included in the rates. All transfer are subject to weather condition.
Hotel Local Attractions
While being off the beaten path is one of the island's best attributes, visitors to Anantara Desert Islands Resort & Spa will find that getting here - from anywhere in the world - is simple.
The journey for many will begin with arrival at the modern Abu Dhabi International Airport, home base of Etihad Airlines and offering connections to Europe, Asia, Australia and the Americas.
Only guests booked at the resort will have access to the island.
Errata
Ramadan 2010 (approx 11 Aug-9 Sep):
Ramadan is the Muslim festival of fasting and is the most important festival in the Islamic Calendar which is celebrated by Muslims all over the world. The sighting of the crescent moon signals the start of 30 days of fasting during which Muslims don't eat, drink or smoke during the day, eating all their meals before sunrise and after sunset. Non-muslims are obliged to respect this event and also not eat, drink or smoke in public during daylight hours. International hotels in Abu Dhabi will therefore serve food and drink restricted designated areas during this time. Restaurants and Caf¯ Shops outside hotels will be closed during day light hours whilst evening entertainment will be extremely low key with no loud music etc permitted.
