If your dream is to spend a getaway weekend on an island, put Sir Bani Yas island on your bucket list. Visiting this island will take you on a journey to a place where nature runs wild and history whispers tales of the past. During a Christmas break, we had the incredible opportunity to escape to Sir Bani Yas Island, a hidden paradise accessible only to guests of Anantara resorts. And let me tell you, it was an experience unlike any other!
The boat pier to the island is 3,5 hours drive from Dubai but the long drive is definitely worth it. From the moment we stepped foot on the island, we knew we were in for something special. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters and lush greenery, it felt like stepping into a postcard-perfect oasis. We even saw dolphins not far from the shore s couple of times. And the best part? Our package included everything from thrilling safaris to cultural tours and beyond.
First up on our adventure agenda was the safari, and it did not disappoint. As our safari vehicle rumbled across the rugged terrain, we were treated to incredible sightings of giraffes gracefully roaming the savannah, cheetahs prowling in the distance, and the iconic Arabian oryx proudly striding through the landscape. The animals roam around freely and that is why it was like being on our very own episode of National Geographic, the feeling we will never forget. The reserve was established by a founding father of the UAE Sheikh Zayed in 1977 and now there are over 17 000 animals roaming free and it is truly an incredible sight.
But the magic of Sir Bani Yas Island doesn’t stop there. We also had the chance to dive into its rich history during a cultural tour. One highlight was exploring the remains of the country’s first Christian monastery, dating back to the 6th century. Walking amidst the well-preserved foundations of the church and the monks’ headquarters, we couldn’t help but marvel at the centuries of history that unfolded right beneath our feet.
And let’s not forget about the beauty of the island itself. With its sprawling nature reserve and panoramic views, every moment felt special. The feeling of the total escape from the world and absolute silence is something we will take back with us as a treasured memory.
As the weekend came to a close, we felt grateful for the unforgettable memories we had made on Sir Bani Yas Island. It’s a place where adventure meets relaxation, where nature’s wonders are on full display, and where history comes to life in the most captivating way.
So, if you’re looking for your next getaway that’s equal parts thrilling and tranquil, look no further than Sir Bani Yas Island. Trust me, it’s a journey you won’t soon forget!
Sir Bani Yas Island is a natural island located 170 km southwest of Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates. It is the largest natural island in the UAE, spanning over 87 km2. The island is home to a vast wildlife reserve established in 1977 by Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The reserve is now home to thousands of large free-roaming animals and several million trees and plants. Visitors can enjoy activities such as adventure safaris, kayaking, mountain biking, archery, hiking, and snorkeling.
The Church of the East monastery on Sir Bani Yas is an archaeological site discovered in 1992. It is significant as evidence of the presence of Christianity in the UAE in the pre-Islamic period. The monastery operated for 150 years during 6th and 9th centuries CE. and is believed to have housed between 30-40 monks. The site consists of a church, a monastery, and a series of courtyard houses, including dormitories, a kitchen, cells, and burial sites. It is the oldest Christian site in the UAE and it is believed to have continued for at least a century after the arrival of Islam.
For more detailed information, you can visit the Wikipedia pages for Sir Bani Yas, Church of the East monastery on Sir Bani Yas, and Sir Bani Yas Airport.
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