Al Bazm al Gharbi Island

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Where no one goes, nature thrives

Essential marine ecosystems, including coral reefs, seagrass meadows and mangroves, also flourish here, supporting an extraordinary range of marine life – more than 150 species. Al Bazm al Gharbi Island is off-limits to the public, but if you have the right permit, you can explore the surrounding waters by private boat or yacht using designated mooring buoys. Snorkelling, scuba diving and wildlife watching are all permitted under conservation guidelines, so you can be fully immersed in the UAE’s unique nature and wildlife.

Become one of the lucky few to experience the best of Abu Dhabi’s natural beauty for yourself – it’s waiting off the shores of Al Bazm al Gharbi.

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Getting to Al Bazm al Gharbi Island

Al Bazm al Gharbi Island is located deep in the western waters of Abu Dhabi, approximately 250 kilometres from the city, making it one of the most remote islands in the emirate. There is no public access to the island itself, and no infrastructure for tourism or transport, but the surrounding marine area can be reached by private vessel.

The most common starting points for a journey to Al Bazm al Gharbi are the marinas at Al Bateen and the Corniche, where licensed yacht charter companies operate. From these departure points, the journey by yacht typically takes 4 to 5 hours.

While you can’t set foot on the island, the waters around it are accessible for low-impact activities like snorkelling, diving and marine dugong viewing, provided you have the correct permits and use designated mooring buoys within the reserve. It’s not a trip for the casual traveller, but if you’re interested in seeing the UAE’s protected seascapes, it’s one of the most rewarding.

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FAQs about Al Bazm al Gharbi Island

Al Bazm al Gharbi Island Abu Dhabi is located in the westernmost waters of the emirate, approximately 250 kilometres west of Abu Dhabi city. It lies near the edge of the Khor al Bazim lagoon and is part of the Al Dhafra Island chain. It sits within the boundaries of the Marawah Marine Biosphere Reserve – one of the UAE’s most ecologically important protected zones.

Yes, Al Bazm al Gharbi Island is located within the Marawah Marine Biosphere Reserve. This internationally recognised conservation zone is home to vital marine ecosystems, including seagrass meadows, coral reefs and mangroves, and provides habitat for more than 150 species.

While Al Bazm al Gharbi Island is situated in an area of archaeological significance, there is currently no confirmed public record of archaeological discoveries on the island itself. Unlike nearby Marawah Island, which has yielded Neolithic artefacts and the world’s oldest natural pearl, Al Bazm al Gharbi’s known value is primarily ecological, with any potential archaeological relevance yet to be publicly documented or made accessible.

Al Bazm al Gharbi Island tourism is not currently permitted. The island itself is off-limits to the public to protect its fragile environment and sensitive ecosystems. However, visitors can explore the surrounding marine areas by private boat or yacht.


Activities like snorkelling, diving and wildlife viewing are allowed, but mooring is only permitted at designated buoys. There are no visitor facilities or infrastructure on the island.