Today's Edition
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
The UAE is home to several breathtaking islands that serve as perfect getaway destinations during the mild winter.
The islands provide nature lovers with the unique opportunity to enjoy the glittering turquoise waters and pristine white sands stretching along the serene shores in world-class resorts, while partaking in engaging activities.
The ‘World’s Coolest Winter’ campaign drives residents and visitors from all the world to discover the wildlife and go on boat trips in experiences that form ‘Unforgettable Stories’ about the islands that add to the UAE's charm.
Sir Bani Yas Island
Sir Bani Yas Island in Abu Dhabi is one of the eight desert islands of Al Dhafra. This stunning landscape enables visitors to enjoy 4x4 nature and wildlife safaris, with the island’s state-of-the-art stables offering a variety of equestrian activities and lessons.
The Arabian Wildlife Park makes up more than half of this incredible island. It is home to one of the region’s largest wildlife reserves home to more than 17,000 free-roaming animals, including Arabian oryx, gazelles, giraffes, hyenas, and cheetahs.
The island’s stunning wildlife, range of family-friendly adventure activities, five-star boutique hotels, luxury villas, purpose-built stables, and historical sites, earned it ‘World’s Leading Sustainable Tourism Destination’ at the 2014 World Travel Awards.
Saadiyat Island
Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi is known for being a serene paradise that brings culture and nature together. It is home to the iconic Louvre Abu Dhabi and other landmarks of Abu Dhabi's cultural scene like the upcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and Zayed National Museum. On Saadiyat Island, visitors can engage in diverse activities including boat trips and sport clubs, topped by a collection of top-rated resorts.
Yas Island
Yas Island in Abu Dhabi houses a unique mix of activities from scenic landscape and stunning beaches to world-famous theme parks and international events that cater to different interests of residents and tourists.
The island is packed with entertainment, featuring Ferrari World and Yas Waterworld, in addition to an array of restaurants, shopping malls, and adventurous activities at CLYMB and Yas Marina Circuit.
Nurai Island
Nestled in Abu Dhabi, Nurai Island is a unique tourist destination that promises visitors an extraordinary experience characterised by its captivating turquoise waters, soft white sand, and exceptional architectural marvels. Positioned as an ideal escape for those seeking tranquillity, the site offers breathtaking views of the expansive Arabian Gulf. Beyond its natural allure, this destination encompasses a luxurious resort comprising 32 villas, enhancing the visitor’s experience with opulent accommodations.
Reem Island
Reem Island is a natural island situated 600 metres off the north-eastern coast of Abu Dhabi island and connected to Abu Dhabi city by bridges. It is home to a variety of residential, commercial, and retail developments, including one of the emirate’s architectural landmarks: the linked, pillared-style Gate Towers. At the heart of the island, with an imposing central dome, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi was the first French higher-education institution to open in the Gulf and is the university's first international campus.
Marawah Island
Artefacts excavated on Marawah Island, off the coast of Abu Dhabi, piece together a comprehensive picture of life in the past UAE where people herded sheep and goats and used stone tools to hunt animals such as gazelles. Large quantities of fish, dugong, turtle and dolphin bones, as well as marine shells, suggest that seafood formed the main part of their diet.
Excavations revealing adornments worn by the people of Marawah include beads made from seashells and a carefully drilled shark tooth.
Delma Island
One of the oldest known permanent settlements in the UAE, Delma Island in Abu Dhabi boasts some of the region’s earliest evidence of date-palm cultivation, along with Mesopotamian pottery and finely flaked stone tools.
Pearl Island
Pearl Island in Abu Dhabi is one of the most famous artificial islands in the UAE. Its location, characterized by calm and picturesque nature, allows visitors to enjoy different experiences, including camping and get a true island getaway in the sand dunes, hills, palm trees and lakes.
Palm Jumeirah
Palm Jumeirah, the palm tree shaped island, is one of the most outstanding attractions in Dubai.
The unique island is home to some of Dubai’s top luxury resorts, including Atlantis, The Palm, and Jumeirah Zabeel Saray. It also provides easy access through Palm Monorail that extends to Atlantis, The Palm.
Sailing around Palm Jumeirah in a yacht or speedboat is a popular option, while thrill-seekers can also take to the skies with Skydive Dubai.
Moon Island
Visitors can enjoy an unforgettable experience on Moon Island, Dubai, which is a haven for diving and water adventure enthusiasts. They can spend time swimming, diving, and skiing on the water pages, and enjoy fishing on the island’s coast with nets or traditional hooks, in addition to several family activities available.
Dubai Islands
A man-made archipelago off the shores of Deira, Dubai Islands is a cluster of four islands covering an area of 15.3 square kilometres.
Visitors cannot miss a foray into Souk Al Marfa, a modern indoor Arabian bazaar with shops, pavilions and waterfront restaurants. The islands also boast an array of world-class islands and resorts.
Sir Abu Nu’Ayr
Sir Abu Nu'Ayr Island holds a significant historical legacy as one of the region's oldest islands, recognised among early fishermen as “Sir al-Qawasim.” The island has unveiled its rich past through archaeological excavations, showcasing remnants dating back to 3500 BC, marking the historical significance of the Iron Age. Beyond its archaeological value, the island served as a pivotal centre for various activities. It functioned as a hub for camping and accommodation, particularly for pearl-hunting divers, who sought refuge and respite from the sea storms.
Al Noor Island
Al Noor Island, situated in Sharjah, is a captivating haven renowned for its incredible natural ambience. This lush oasis boasts over 70,000 trees and plants, creating a botanical paradise that captivates visitors with its diverse greenery. The island’s allure extends beyond its botanical richness, featuring fine art sculptures that seamlessly blend with the natural landscape. One of its distinctive attractions is the Butterfly House, a sanctuary hosting more than 20 species of butterflies.
Al Noor Island is home to the serene Literature Pavilion and a children’s play area, as well as a venue for captivating shows and events.
Over 500 butterflies live on Al Noor Island in the Butterfly House, one of the most popular tourist places in Sharjah. The Butterfly House itself is a feat of modern architecture, with the outdoor structure made of perforated steel and ergonomic design to let in sunlight.
Shark Island
Located off the south-east coast of Khorfakkan, Shark Island makes for an interesting dive, with a maximum depth of 16 metres. Surrounded by anemone gardens, some of the marine life found here include barracuda, mackerel, and in the winter months, blacktip reef sharks. The island also has a beach where island-goers can relax.
Al Marjan Island
Located in the heart of Ras Al Khaimah, the emirate’s first man-made archipelago offers an unparalleled beach getaway experience.
Comprising four coral-shaped islands, Al Marjan Island is home to world-class hotels and resorts, including the Andalusian-inspired Marjan Island Resort and Spa, and stunning natural attractions including 7.8km of pristine, sandy beaches.
Al Siniyah Island
Al Siniyah Island, situated in Umm Al Quwain, stands as a captivating nature reserve where many birds and animal species reside. It also includes natural plants and various trees. The island is also of archaeological importance as it consists of many monuments such as tombs, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Snoopy Island
Located off the coast of Fujairah, Snoopy Island is appealing for lovers of marine sports and natural life. One of Fujairah’s most important tourist destinations, the island provides them with an ideal beach environment to enjoy activities like kayaking, snorkelling, and diving, in addition to providing stunning landscapes. Snoopy Island got its name from three rocks that form the shape of the cartoon character “Snoopy”.
