Sir Bani Yas Island

Sir Bani Yas Island is 170 km southwest of the city of Abu Dhabi and 9 km offshore from Marsa Jebel Dhanna. The island is the UAE's largest naturally-occurring one, at 17 1/2 km from north to south and 9 km from east to west. Sir Bani Yas plays host to a wildlife reserve whose area is over 87 km2. Many varieties of animals, birds and plants live on the island, and in the water, there are dolphins and turtles.

Take the E11 in the direction of Ruwais, roughly a 3-hour drive. Follow signs for a turnoff to Marsa Jebel Dhanna. From there, a water taxi to the island takes 20 minutes. If you are staying in one of Anantara's resorts on the island, the water taxi is complimentary, but you should contact crome@anantara.com and provide your reservation number to have a seat reserved for you.
You could also take a limo from Abu Dhabi city or Dubai or a chartered plane from Abu Dhabi city, if you really have money to burn.

The stars of the wildlife preserve are the flora and fauna, and a major attraction, therefore, is to go on a safari. However, you can also experience the island's hilly terrain on a bicycle, hike, snorkel, kayak, or do archery.

The resorts have restaurants on the premises. Breakfast is complimentary for guests, but you will have to pay extra for other meals.

Anantara operates all three accommodations on the island. They are all called resorts and priced accordingly.

• Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Resorts

  phone: +971 2 801 5400
  This resort is known for its wildlife safaris.