A unique boutique hotel and sanctuary of nature in the Persian Gulf

Desert Islands Resort & Spa, sited on the island of Sir Bani Yas, is an uncomparable and unique destination in the United Arab Emirates. 2 hours drive from Abu Dhabi airport or a 50 minutes airtrip takes you to this boutique hotel, sanctuary of unspoiled nature. The island houses the private collection of animals of His Highness Shiekkh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Enjoy an arabian safari amongst 3500 species of protected animals!

The turquoise blue sea and rocks alongst the crystalline shores of white sand give the resort a magic atmosphere.

The multiple eco-tourism activities and the comfort of this magnificent 5 star luxury hotel makes Desert Island Resort & Spa a perfect holiday destination for families but also for lovers that will appreciate the intimacy and romance of the nature.

Exceptional Luxury Eco-tourism

Located in the north of the island, this eco-resort features 64 deluxe rooms and 6 lodges. They all overlook the turquoise waters of the Persian Gulf and some have direct access to the white sand beach.

The tasteful decoration incorporates typical artifacts and craftmanship of the Middle East, with local sand colour tones and arabesques. It discreetly evokes oriental art as well as the preservation of the Oryx (the local antelope) represented in carved frames.

The Beach Rooms (52m²) have a terrace surrounded by tropical gardens and have direct access to the beach.
The Deluxe Rooms (52m²) are located upstairs and offers a magnificent view over the sea and the beaches from their private balconies.
Junior Suites (80m²) offer a separate bedroom and a comfortable lounge equipped with a kitchenette.
The Beach Villas (120m²) are very spacious: with a separate bedroom, they offer privacy and exclusivity for a relaxing stay. Each villa has a private swimming pool covered by a lush and luxuriant nature. Those at the back of the resort, have direct access to the beach.
The two Royal Villas (200m²) guarantee high quality service with a private butler to ensure comfort and to cater to all your needs. They have 2 separate bedrooms, a lounge, a dining room, and they enjoy a garden and a private swimming pool.

Tempting Experience: safeguarding the white Oryx

His Highness Shiekkh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan has spent 25 years making the island of Sir Bani Yas a sanctuary for endangered wildlife. Thanks to the preservation work, the White Oryx, gazelles unique on the Arabian Peninsula, were saved from extinction. They have been reintroduced in other parts of the world and were recently estimated at 886, including 400 on the island.

The reserve hosts more than 3,500 wild animals including giraffes, emus... and is a migration spot for thousands of birds.

Services and activities

Choose from the plenty of activities to enjoy the resources of the island: guided walks to meet animals, kayaking in the mangroves, mountain bikes to explore the island, masks and snorkels to explore the beautiful seabed.

A kids club welcomes children whilst you relax in the library and enjoy a novel, burn calories at the gym (open 24/24), play a tennis match, or whilst you are being pampered at the luxury spa!

Activities offered by Desert Islands Resort & Spa

Visit the reserve of animals and take a 2h30 motorized tour to discover wildlife including the famous Oryx whose species was saved from extinction at the island.
Ride a mountain bike to explore the wild island: a guide you will show you the most beautiful views of the island.
Hike: You can climb the highest peaks of salt in the world and enjoy a 360° view on the island and its widlife.
Kayak: go into the mangroves to explore the bird sanctuary on crystaline simmering water.
Snorkle: explore the beautfiul flora in crystal-clear water, a happy time to meet the small fishes.

Safaa The Spa

Designed to help you discover the delights of an Eastern royal tradition of well-being, the spa is absolutely sublime and an experience not to be missed! (see our article on the spa).

Discover Abu Dhabi, a capital in renaissance

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is also the largest of the seven Emirates making up the Federation.

Stroll along and connect with the locals at the Abu Dhabi corniche - an 8km sea-side esplanade and popular place where locals go.

Visit the Eagles hospital, the first public hospital of the United Arab Emirates that has welcomed more than 24000 patients since its opening in 1999.

Check out the fort Qasr Al Hosn, built in 1793 and now official residence of the ruling family of Abu Dhabi.

Also stop by the last Emirate traditional market (the Camel Market) and its offerings.

If you happen to be in town on Thursdays and Fridays, then grab a taxi and enjoy the Al Maqam horse and camel races (a 45km drive from the city centre).

Finally, enjoy a visit of the Heritage Village, at the crossing of the Corniche and the Abu Dhabi Jetty and close to the imposing Marina Mall. The village offers visitors a taste of traditional Abu Dhabi Bedouin life with a reconstruction of desert scenes (goat-skin tents, campfires, oriental tea and coffee-pots ...).

Clients Recommendations

"A great hotel with excellent staff. The executive chef deserves a special mention for his assistance with my diabetic menu and overall helpfulness."
John Morton - Sept 2011