Explore the stunning islands of Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, the UAE capital, is a fascinating archipelago made up of over 200 islands, many of which are accessible to visitors. The bustling Abu Dhabi city itself is on an island, 250 metres (820 feet) from the mainland. Each island has something special to offer. Think breathtaking views, pristine beaches, surprising wildlife – like Arabian oryx, giraffes, cheetahs, hyenas, flamingoes, heron, foxes and more – rich culture and history, covetable luxury, family-friendly entertainment, championship-standard golf facilities, world-class venues for events, and more. Whether you’re on a solo trip or travelling with the family, myriad discoveries await.
Al Maryah Island
This upmarket island is perfect for visitors who love the finer things in life. Home to dramatic turquoise sea views, the five-star Rosewood Abu Dhabi hotel set on the vibrant Sowwah Square waterfront, the ultra-modern Four Seasons Hotel on the edge of the Arabian Gulf, and the upmarket The Galleria shopping centre, this plush destination promises a fabulous day out with friends or family.
If you love shopping, you’ll love The Galleria. This luxe mall recently saw an impressive extension, with more than 250 new shops opening, as well as over 70 new restaurants. Today the mall boasts over 300 retail brands, with stores including high-street favourites such as Zara, H&M, Monki, Debenhams, Missguided and Decathlon. The world’s most famous luxury brands, think Chanel, Valentino, Piaget and more, also call the mall home. If all that shopping works up an appetite, sit down for something delicious at The Cheesecake Factory, P.F. Chang’s, Paul Café and Central Kitchens, a central dining spot offering moreish flavours from around the world. Want to catch a movie? There’s a 21-screen VOX Cinema too.
Nurai Island
In the turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf, to the east of the Abu Dhabi coastline, lies Zaya Nurai Island. A short 15-minute boat ride from the shores of Abu Dhabi, and a 60-minute journey from Downtown Dubai, this lush, secluded island is conveniently accessible from all major travel ports in the UAE.
From the Arabic word ‘nur’ meaning ‘light’, this sun-drenched paradise boasts azure waters, powder-white soft sand beaches, as well as stunning architecture and garden scapes. A blissful retreat for solo travellers, families and couples seeking peace and tranquillity, the idyllic Zaya Nurai Island is home to unparalleled and uninterrupted Arabian Gulf views.
A jewel in Abu Dhabi’s crown, this private island is home to an ultra-luxurious resort with a 32-bed all-villa hotel and five fantastic restaurants, including Frangipani, Hooked, Dusk, Smokin’ Pineapple and Ginger Mermaid. Restaurants are open to residents and non-residents alike. Dining reservations must be made in advance, and if you’re not staying at the resort you’ll be pleased to know that dine-in bookings include complimentary boat transfers to and from the island.
Delma Island
Inhabited for over 7,000 years, and one of the Arabian Gulf’s most important historical pearl-diving centres, Delma Island still maintains strong links to its maritime heritage and traditions.
One of the oldest known permanent settlements in the UAE, this historical island boasts some of the region’s earliest evidence of date-palm cultivation, along with Mesopotamian pottery and finely flaked stone tools. With a good supply of fresh water, the island is surprisingly fertile, with many farms and plantations growing a wide variety of produce.
Get to Delma Island by ferry from Jebel Dhanna.
