Island hopping in front of Abu Dhabi

There are more than 200 islands in front of the coast of Abu Dhabi - ideal for the much loved island hopping. This activity is something one more associates with the Maldives, Seychelles or Greece.

The most well known island is Yas Island which is the sport and recreation centre of the Emirates. The profile was raised through formula 1 and the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix that is taking place between the 30th October to 1st November.

The American R&R singer Beyoncé Knowles will already kick off the three day race spectacle at Persian Gulf on the 29th of October. The grand finale will be the performance of the Band Aerosmith who will rocking the desert metropolis. Further musical highlights will be provided for example by Timberland which will make valuable contribution to ensuring this is race weekend is an unforgettable event.
The starting time for the Grand Prix of Abu Dhabi is 5 p.m. local time – 2 p.m. CET. The drivers will start in daylight and finish the course in the dark though modern technology will guarantee that the course shall be lit up.
The future infrastructure of the island will comprise of a Ferrari theme park, a water park, numerous golf courses, polo fields, a riding centre and several luxury hotels.
The heart of the nature reserve Desert Island is Sir Bani Yas which is the former private island of the sheik of Abu Dhabi. This unique piece of paradise was his private retreat where he spent time with his favourite wife and enjoyed the authentic Arab nature. The antelopes and colourful flamingos are trademarks of this island.

Al Futaisi is around 5 kilometres south of Abu Dhabi City and is a heaven for bird watchers. It is possible to explore the island by bus or bicycle.  The stud offers rides on camels and thoroughbred Arabian horses.
Horseshoe, Cut and Bahraini are approximately less than an hour away from the capital Abu Dhabi. Water sport enthusiasts will find the place to their liking. All year one can snorkel, sunbathe and windsurf here. The boat landing stage is close to the Emirates Heritage Village.

Lulu is artificial in contrast to its neighbouring islands. It is opposite the Corniche and can be reached with the water bus.
The island Saadiyat which is east of Corniche is presently being developed into a luxury culture and recreation destination. It is about 500 metres away from the main island and it shall be possible to access it via a bridge. From 2010 visitors will be able to enjoy a varied entertainment program with opera, theatre, museums (Louvre und Guggenheim) and first class hotels as well as a business centre are also included in the plans.
The island Dalma is further towards the west near to Sir Bani Yas. This is a designated cultural heritage site. It is going to include an archaeological museum, an agricultural research centre and dhow ship building centre.
Dalma and Sir Bani Yas belong to the discoverer islands which will in future be joined by an additional six islands. These islands are to place a greater emphasis on the rich natural resources available here and underline the fact that Abu Dhabi has more to offer than just oil and sand.

Two of the island will focus on the species richness of the Emirates: Breeding birds, tortoises and marine animals are to be domiciled here.
A further two islands are going to be turned into luxury resorts with the last two resorts being left to nature enthusiasts which will be able to enjoy an authentic nature camping experience.
The islands and Abu Dhabi City will be connected with one another by ferries and water planes. If you would like to visit these islands then of course we can organise such trips for you. Please contact us.
Following luxury hotels round off a perfect stay in Abu Dhabi:

•    Emirates Palace, the official guest house of the government
•    Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, the traditional luxurious desert hotel
•    Anantara Desert Island Resort & Spa, situated directly on Sir Bani Yas.