From protecting endangered species to bringing life back to the desert, Sir Bani Yas Island has become one of the UAE’s most remarkable conservation stories. What was once a rugged landscape is now a place where wildlife thrives, and nature is cared for.
We sat down with Mark to talk about how his journey into conservation began, the work taking place across Sir Bani Yas Island today, and what the future holds for this unique natural refuge.
Where Passion Meets Purpose
What first drew you to conservation, and how did that lead you to Sir Bani Yas Island?
Since I was a child, I have been surrounded by fields and nature, and it is something I have always loved. From an early age, spending time outdoors felt natural to me, which is why even in my first job I chose to become an outdoor instructor. Activities, sports, and nature have always been a strong influence in my life and played a major role in guiding me towards a career in conservation.
I have always enjoyed nature documentaries, and they inspired me to pursue work that allowed me to stay closely connected to the natural world. That motivation led me to apply for a role on Sir Bani Yas Island as a guide. Around the same time, a friend had also shared a post online about the island back in 2014, and I immediately felt drawn to the idea of working in such a beautiful and unique location.
That interest soon became a reality in December 2014, when I began my journey with Anantara, sharing the island’s scenic beauty and wildlife while continuing to grow my connection to conservation.
After working so closely with the island for many years, what continues to inspire and motivate you today?
Despite being in the same place, everyday is so different. Even on the tough days I can take a vehicle to go look at nature and it immediately resets my day. I feel deeply connected to nature and respect what Sir Bani Yas represents.The environment, ecosystems and habitats here are heavily invested in. The dedication to the conservation of this island is shown through the preservation of species and greening of the desert project.
To today, I continue to find motivation in doing what I love. I have the opportunity to share the landscape with others and educate people about habitat creation and the conservation of rare species. Most importantly, I feel that I can make a meaningful difference to the team and our stakeholders.
Turning Vision into Action
What are some of the most important sustainability and conservation initiatives currently in place on Sir Bani Yas Island?
Well, the island now has alternative energy from wind and solar power. This was a big leap forward as it is closer to becoming a circular economy. The properties at Al Sahel and Al Yamm have received significant investment and upgrades to AC, water aerators,and design. Recently, the island has received a severely endangered species to breed, called the Addax. It’s an antelope with a blood line originally from Chad and the Sahara. The future of the species is uncertain, so the UAE is helping to breed the species for future preservation, which I find very important.
We are also plastic bottle free resorts, supported by our own bottling plant, which allows us to significantly reduce single-use plastic across the island. All drinking water is now provided in glass bottles, reinforcing our commitment to more responsible and sustainable operations. For three years in a row, we have achieved Platinum Certification for all properties. By the end of 2025, we will achieve our KPI goals in energy and water reductions.
Where Guests Become Part of the Story
What do you hope visitors take away after experiencing Sir Bani Yas Island and its conservation efforts?
I hope that visitors take away an understanding that the UAE does a lot for preserving endangered species. We are actively working on reducing desertification by creating new habitats, restoring natural landscapes, and producing fruits for the nation. Now, we are also using alternative energy to fossil fuels. These efforts also follow in HH Sheikh Zayed vision for greening the desert. Above all that, I want visitors to view us as not just a luxury resort but a whole new experience in which people get to connect with nature, and leave feeling truly re-energized.
The Road Ahead
What excites you most about the future of Sir Bani Yas Island?
What excites me most is that hotels across the island continue to evolve while staying true to what made them special when they first opened. The ongoing development and changes ensure that new experiences will connect people with the environment. Coral restoration, new habitat developments, and more species protected or released.
The reintroduction of predators like the cheetah and future release programs, re-activation of areas such as the animal hides, kids’explorer activities, and campsite upgrades is something I am really excited about. I also look forward to the possibility of implementing new activities such as star gazing and special EV kart rides. Together, these aim to strengthen the island’s role as a place where conservation, learning, and unforgettable experiences come together, which I am proud to be a part of.
Rapid Fire with Mark Penfield
Forest or desert—and why? Both, I get the pleasure of spending time deep in the desert at Qasr Al Sarab and on Sir Bani Yas Island with different concepts on conservation and sustainability. Both environments are special to me.
One thing guests are most surprised to learn? The scale of the efforts and work going into habitat creation and animal preservation of 87 Square Kilometers.
Favourite nature documentary? Anything with David Attenborough in it. Our Planet, Planet Earth series, Blue Planet.
A hidden gem on the island? The natural Wadis (dry riverbed) and the rainbow colours due to oxidising minerals.
Favourite animal on Sir Bani Yas Island? The Giraffe and the Arabian oryx.
