Set on the remote Sir Bani Yas Island, where desert dunes meet the sea, the Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara offers an experience both elemental and refined.
With just 64 rooms, suites, and villas, this boutique island resort blends barefoot adventure with Arabian elegance.
Gazelles graze beyond your terrace, waves lap against coral shores, and the scent of salt and frankincense drifts through warm coastal air—this is wilderness, tamed by luxury.
What Makes It Special
- Exclusive Location: On Sir Bani Yas Island, a protected wildlife sanctuary off the coast of Abu Dhabi.
- Wildlife Encounters: Home to over 10,000 free-roaming animals, including Arabian oryx, cheetahs, and giraffes.
- Private Beachfront: Pristine sands and turquoise waters perfect for snorkeling and kayaking.
- Anantara Spa: Desert-inspired rituals with sea salt, sand, and aromatic oils.
- Adventure Experiences: Guided wildlife drives, horseback riding, and ancient monastery tours.
- Sustainable Spirit: Conservation-focused design and local cultural storytelling.
A Day at Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara
Morning
Breakfast on the veranda as gazelles cross the dunes under a pale desert sky.
Afternoon
Embark on a wildlife drive through the Arabian Nature Reserve, then cool off in the infinity pool.
Evening
A candlelit dinner on the beach, the horizon glowing pink with sunset.
Night
Stars blanket the desert sky, the island silent but for waves and wind.
Insider Tips for Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara
- There is a complimentary water taxi service for resort guests. It must be booked 24 h in advance.
- The island is a nature reserve—private vehicles aren’t meant to freely roam, and drones are not allowed.
- Pack for the climate: The island can be quite hot (desert/arid climate) depending on the season. Also, if you’re travelling from the UAE mainland, expect time overhead for transfers.
- For the best experience, choose a sea-view room or villa overlooking the Arabian Gulf, ideally on a higher floor or with direct beach access.
- Activity options are rich: wildlife drives, nature walks, horse riding, archery, kayaking, water sports, and mountain biking.
- Use the transfer wisely—arrive as early as possible (or pick a ferry schedule that maximise your day) so you don’t miss half the day checking in.
Why We Love It (Curated Highlights)
At Hotelagio we hand-pick only stays that feel truly one-of-a-kind. This property made our list because of these rare details:
- Untamed Setting: A private island where luxury meets nature.
- Wildlife Sanctuary: Explore one of Arabia’s great conservation success stories.
- Authentic Wellness: Spa rituals inspired by the desert and sea.
- Cultural Depth: Ancient monastery ruins and island traditions to discover.
- Barefoot Tranquility: Remote, beautiful, and unforgettable.
For Whom
For couples: Remote romance framed by dunes and sea.
For nature lovers: Wildlife, conservation, and authentic island exploration.
For families: Outdoor adventures and learning woven into luxury.
Quick Facts (Luxury Snapshot)
Location: Sir Bani Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – 2.5 hours from Abu Dhabi by car and boat transfer
Rooms: 64 rooms, suites, and villas
Rates: From USD 254—desert calm, ocean air, and timeless Arabian beauty
Best for: Couples, families, and eco-luxury travelers
Style: Boutique and resort—nature’s rhythm refined by Anantara’s artistry.
