Islands | Experience Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi's top island destinations

These islands are ideal for visitors seeking exceptional beaches, iconic attractions, coastal adventures and protected landscapes.

Abu Dhabi is an archipelago of more than 200 islands, and a select few make for exceptional day trips and getaways. Easily reached by car, boat or plane, these standout destinations offer everything from historical landmarks and luxury resorts to protected mangroves and tranquil stretches of soft sand. Where will you begin?

Saadiyat Island

From arts and culture to nature conservation, the natural Saadiyat Island offers a multitude of experiences. Get your cultural fix at Saadiyat Cultural District, opt for a vibey day at Saadiyat Beach Club, a sun-kissed tan courtesy of Kai Beach or play a round of golf at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club (the region's first ocean course). This island is recreation central!

Find culture

Yas Island

Abu Dhabi's premier entertainment and family destination, Yas Island has it all. It's home to exhilarating theme parks, unmatched golf courses, five-star luxury hotels, one of the largest shopping malls in Abu Dhabi and so much more.

Chase thrills

Sir Bani Yas Island

About 250km from Abu Dhabi city, Sir Bani Yas Island is one of eight islands making up the desert islands of Al Dhafra. It's home to the incredible Arabian Wildlife Park, a wildlife reserve that has over 17,000 free-roaming animals, as well as stunning five-star luxury resorts by Anantara that are perfect for getaways.

Explore nature

Al Maryah Island

For a more dynamic pace, head to Al Maryah Island, where the business and glitzy lifestyle intertwine. Indulge in shopping and socialising at The Galleria Mall, book your five-star stay at the luxurious Rosewood Abu Dhabi hotel, or the Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi nearby. There are a number of bridges that connect Al Maryah to Abu Dhabi, and the easiest way to get there is by taxi.

Shop up a storm

Dalma Island

Known as one of the earliest sites of human habitation in the UAE, Dalma Island is a significant historical pearl-diving island. Hop on a ferry from Marsa Jebel Al Dhanna port to get you to the island. Visit the fortified home of a pearl merchant, Mohammed Bin Jassim Al-Meraikhi. Made of beach stone and coral it is thought to have been built around 1931.

Find heritage

Hudayriyat Island

Linked to the city by bridge, Hudayriyat Island is Abu Dhabi’s outdoor playground. This once- quiet island destination is now a leading sports and lifestyle hub, home to unique attractions like Surf Abu Dhabi – the world’s largest artificial wave facility – and Bab Al Nojoum, a glamping site by the beachfront.

Get active

Al Maya Island

Just 10 minutes by boat from Abu Dhabi, Al Maya offers the quintessential island escape, only accessible by water from the Al Maya Island Boat Jetty near Qasr Al Watan. With soft white sand, clear waters and a private resort beach, it’s the perfect spot to unwind for a day or stay overnight for a true retreat.

Feel the ocean

Jubail Island

Jubail Island is a natural sanctuary conveniently located along the E12 highway. At its heart lies Jubail Mangrove Park, where boardwalks and kayak trails reveal tidal forests and grazing gazelles. Stop off to experience some of Abu Dhabi’s natural beauty, right at the edge of the city.

See mangroves

Explore Abu Dhabi's coast

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