Sir Bani Yas - the private island of the sheik of Abu Dhabi

Like pearls the numerous islands stretch in front of the coastline of Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Some have been artificially created whilst others have been created by nature.
The archipelago with the name „Desert Islands“ comprises of altogether eight islands. The largest of them, Sir Bani Yas, is to be declared as the national park of the United Arab Emirates. With 87 square kilometres it is roughly as big as Sylt and lies 170 kilometres in front of Abu Dhabi.
The deceased sheik Zayid bin Sultan Al Nahyan, rulers of Abu Dhabi and president of the United Arab Emirates, regarded this place as his own. With a yacht one needs a day to reach it. With his chosen wife he often came here to enjoy the tranquillity. From the jeep they observed oryx that the deceased ruler had a great liking for.

The charming animals were once the uncrowned kings of the desert. The sheik had some brought to the island to prevent them from becoming extinct. At the beginning there were just ten oryx whereas today there are around 430 animals. Nowhere else can you find so many of these endangered animals than on this island.

Next to these antelopes there are also giraffes, gazelles and many other animal species. It is estimated that around 10.000 animals have made this island their home. Around 500 people including vets, gardeners, caretakers, wardens, guides and many others who take care of the well being of the flora and fauna.
After the death of his father in 2004 his son and successor sheik Chalifa has assumed the cultural heritage. The new ruler also has ambitions to open up the private island to a low level of tourism.
Explore the beauty of Abu Dhabi and reside in the official guest house of the government - the Emirates Palace Abu Dhabi. We can organise guided day trips and safaris to Sir Bani Yasi - contact us!