[2025 Al Dhafra Stay] Travel Guide for Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villas (Updated May)

Sir Bani Yas Island in Abu Dhabi is a unique nature reserve with an area of nearly 100 square kilometers. The island is home to more than 10,000 animals, including Arabian oryx, giraffes, cheetahs, and various birds. Although you won't see Africa's "Big Five" (lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos) here, you can still enjoy the rich wildlife viewing experience. There are three hotels on the island: Anantara Al Sahel Villa Resort, Anantara Al Yamm Villa Resort, and Anantara Desert Islands Resort & Spa, all of which offer "Nature & Wildlife Drive" activities. I think this is a must-do activity on Sir Bani Yas Island! Visitors can take a professional off-road vehicle and explore the reserve with a guide. The entire trip lasts about an hour and a half, and along the way, you can see herds of various antelopes strolling on the grasslands, giraffes gracefully nibbling on leaves, and two cheetahs eating in an enclosed area. The guide will give a detailed introduction to the habits and conservation status of each animal. Sir Bani Yas Island combines the features of the African savannah and the Arabian Peninsula, with both the open grasslands of the Serengeti and the island scenery of Zanzibar. For visitors who want to experience wildlife viewing but don't want to travel all the way to Africa, this is an ideal alternative. In addition to wildlife viewing, the island also offers activities such as mangrove boating and snorkeling, making it suitable for family trips. Plan a two- to three-day itinerary.

There are three Anantara hotels on Sir Bani Yas Island in Abu Dhabi. I stayed two nights each at the Anantara Al Sahel Villa Resort and the Anantara Al Yamm Villa Resort. The two hotels are 10 km apart and have completely different styles! Sir Bani Yas Island, once a royal hunting ground, is now a paradise where people and nature coexist in harmony. It's a place that will make you want to stay forever. In the morning, I woke up to the sound of birds chirping and opened the floor-to-ceiling windows. The private pool shimmered in the sunlight, and the jungle in front of the pool was quietly waking up. Antelopes walked gracefully, rabbits perked up their ears, sika deer leaped lightly, and peacocks spread their gorgeous tail feathers. It was as if a feast on the African savannah was unfolding before my eyes. I opened the door and held my breath, afraid to disturb the tranquility. The Anantara Al Sahel Villa Resort on Sir Bani Yas Island perfectly embodies the true meaning of "wild luxury." The rough stone walls, thatched roofs, wooden furniture, and copper bathtubs and double sinks all exude the atmosphere of primitive Africa. The modern facilities and attentive butler service make you feel comfortable. In the evening, sitting on the outdoor sofa and watching the silhouettes of animals in the sunset, I felt like I was in a documentary of "Animal World."

There are three Anantara hotels on Sir Bani Yas Island in Abu Dhabi. I stayed two nights in a beach villa at Anantara Al Yamm Villa Resort and two nights in a jungle villa at Anantara Al Sahel Villa Resort. Sir Bani Yas Island is over 30 km in circumference and nearly 100 square kilometers in area. The island is home to over 10,000 free-range animals, including ostriches, crowned cranes, rabbits, peacocks, giraffes, sika deer, and various antelopes and birds. It's like an animal paradise on the sea, a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Sir Bani Yas Island was once the private island of the late president of the UAE. Today, it is a secluded desert oasis. Arriving at Anantara Al Yamm Villa Resort by speedboat, I was greeted by the stunning sight of the azure Arabian Gulf and the golden desert. I stayed in a one-bedroom beach pool villa. Opening the door, I was greeted by a private pool and beach. The sea and sky merged in the distance, while palm trees swayed nearby. I listened to the waves gently lapping the shore and enjoyed the beauty of time standing still. There are many activities on Sir Bani Yas Island. You can snorkel in the Arabian Gulf and dance with colorful tropical fish, or join a tour to explore the island's wildlife. As night falls, lie by your private pool and gaze at the starry sky, far from the hustle and bustle of the world, and feel the peace and tranquility within. Sir Bani Yas Island is like a secluded desert oasis, offering an amazing vacation experience!

There are beaches, deserts, mangroves, and pristine, free-roaming wild animals here. It can be said that "I have everything you want." There are 2.5 million plants on the island and more than 13,000 animals from all over the world are raised and bred. There are three Anantara hotels, each with its own style due to their different locations. Al Sahel is located between the savannah and the seaside, where you can experience the charm of Africa. All villa rooms, only 30 villas with a hunting style. If you get up early, you can say hello to the little animals outside the window and have close contact with them. There are antelopes and peacocks in front of and behind the house, as if you are in the ancient African jungle, feeling the wildness. Some rooms also have.