Sir Bani Yas grows into international destination

Sir Bani Yas Island, the nature-based island destination in the Western Region that is developed by the Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC), is growing more popular with the launch of several new exciting activities for its guests.
The 87-square kilometre island, located off the coast of the Western Region of Abu Dhabi, is home to over 13,000 free-roaming animals and three award-winning luxury resorts managed by Anantara where visitors can come and experience a world full of wildlife and adventure. Six years since the start of its tourism operation, Sir Bani Yas has welcomed over 250,000 visitors from around the world, reflecting its growing status as an international island destination. It's a complete hospitality destination that enjoys luxury resorts, a conference centre and a water sports centre.
Among the new activities on offer yesterday is a daily falconry demonstration that offer visitors a glimpse into a rich feature of Emirati heritage and allow them to get close to these majestic birds of prey.
Guests will also be able to get their adrenaline pumping by joining a land-sailing session, whereby they navigate the terrain of Sir Bani Yas with a three-wheeled vehicle powered by wind through the use of a sail. Moreover, for those who wish to experience a truly memorable night under a blanket of stars, a camping excursion can be arranged with the Desert Islands Watersports Centre, who will select the perfect place in an area nestled between the lagoon and hills of Sir Bani Yas.
Ali Majed Al Mansoori, Chairman of TDIC, said, "It's been six years since Sir Bani Yas has been open as a tourism destination to the general public. Today, we're proud of what we have achieved on the island, making it one of the most attractive places to visit in the region. It has become a destination of choice as it brings a different kind of travel experience to Abu Dhabi, and one that puts the emirate alongside top leading tourism destinations in the world." In addition to these new activities, the island currently offers a range of land and water-based adventures. The more popular excursions currently available are a Nature & Wildlife Drive in the heart of the 4,100 hectare Arabian Wildlife Park, home to over 13,000 free-roaming wildlife that includes Oryx, gazelles, deer, ostriches, giraffes and cheetahs, to Nature & Wildlife Walks, mountain biking and horseback riding that allow participants the opportunity to get up-close to the animals and birds as well as the Island's unique landscape.
For guests who prefer more water-based adventures, there are kayak tours through the Island's mangrove lagoons while the Desert Islands Watersports Centre offers a wide range of ocean activities that include snorkelling and diving in various areas under Sir Bani Yas' glittering waters, deep sea fishing, sea kayaking, Stand Up Paddle boarding, and much more.
"Provision of unique experiences is at the core of the Anantara offering on Sir Bani Yas Island, whether it be a romantic escape, family vacation, conference, destination wedding or away day for school students," explained Wael Soueid Anantara Area General Manager.
"The exotic flora and fauna of the Arabian Wildlife Park, is in itself, a world class conservation effort and Anantara Hotels & Resorts are very privileged to be the resort operator on the Island. We want our visitors and guests to feel enriched by their time at Sir Bani Yas, and to get a glimpse into the heritage and traditions of the U.A.E. through the broad range of activities and excursions available," he added.
Guests interested in visiting or staying on Sir Bani Yas can enjoy short direct flights from Abu Dhabi and Dubai or can avail of boat transfers from Jebel Dhanna in the Western Region. For guests who wish to travel to Sir Bani Yas with their personal boats, they may dock their crafts at the Royal Bay Moorings. With space for boats up to 50 feet and a range of high-end services and facilities, owners can be reassured that their crafts will be well taken care of while they enjoy their stay and explorations of Sir Bani Yas.
Discerning travellers can choose from the Island's three five-star resorts - the Desert Islands Resort and Spa by Anantara, the Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Yamm Villa Resort, and the Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort – each offering unique hospitality experiences. Launched in December 2013, Al Sahel is located within the celebrated Arabian Wildlife Park, offering guests a luxury island-stay experience in any of its 30 villas that offer an incomparable glimpse of natural beauty up close. For those staying at the beachside Al Yamm, guests may choose a villa with a relaxing sea view or a view of the island's lush green mangroves and the glistening sea beyond. While Desert Islands Resort and Spa by Anantara is the preferred choice for families with its luxurious amenities, top-quality services, kids club and beachside location.
Sir Bani Yas is also an ideal location to host corporate events, team building workshops and private gatherings with the Desert Islands Conference Centre offering flexible packages designed to suit a wide range of needs.