Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara
IMMERSE IN ABU DHABI’S PROTECTED WILDERNESS
HIGHLIGHTS
- 64 rooms, suites and pool villas overlooking the Arabian Gulf
- Family-friendly adventures and water sports
- World-class conference centre
- Anantara Spa
- Technogym workouts
- Privacy is shaped by land and sea
- The quiet luxury of distance
- A sanctuary designed for effortless comfort
- A haven for families, where young explorers roam freely
Complimentary WiFi
Set along the untouched northern shores of Sir Bani Yas Island, Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara is a sanctuary shaped by land and sea, far beyond the city’s rhythm. Here, distance becomes a quiet luxury and privacy feels entirely natural.
Families gather in a setting designed for ease and exploration, where young adventurers roam with confidence — encountering wildlife across open plains, snorkelling in vibrant waters, or paddling through tranquil mangroves.
Between wildlife discoveries and water sports, days unfold effortlessly. A dedicated kids’ club, thoughtfully curated experiences and restorative moments at Anantara Spa ensure time together feels both enriching and unhurried.Desert Islands Resort & Spa By Anantara
Al Ruwais, United Arab Emirates
Excellent
1,043
Very Good
279
Average
128
Poor
50
Terrible
33
A unique dream - I couldn't have crafted it better myself
2026-06-10
2026-06-10
Since the Desert Islands is currently under renovation and thus closed, I experienced a fantastic surprise upon arrival at midnight: I was accommodated in a charmingly luxurious pool villa in Al Sahel and immediately knew, you will book your next vacation here again. That has already happened. For shopping, I let myself be transported to the mainland for free, then take the public bus (881, 882) to the Al Dhanna Mall or the traditional souk. I had already obtained the necessary rechargeable Hafilat bus card during a previous vacation at the Jebel al Dhanna Resort. If I want to go to the beach at the Al Yamm Hotel, I also let myself be taken there for free by shuttle. Now, at the beginning of June, the sea water is perfect for me: Initially a subtle refreshment and then pleasantly warm. I can spend four hours uninterrupted in the sea. The pools are also perfectly heated. As a born night owl, the hot and humid Gulf region in summer is simply ideal for me: I spend the nights in my own pool, a perfect exercise bath, and sleep outside on the lounge chair or in the luxury canopy bed, with or without air conditioning, as needed. When staying longer in air conditioning, I wear a mask to humidify the inhaled air. This is important for me as a former chronic cold sufferer. The staff takes care of you according to the luxurious ambiance. Yes, there are thieves and beggars here - of the animal kind, see photos. The sweet gazelles are as big as medium-sized dogs and roam around 24/7, even at 2 AM, everywhere, including on the terrace. Unforgettable!
A perfect Getaway
2026-06-06
2026-06-06
A very perfect getaway to enjoy with your partner and family. The rooms are clean and the place is magical. I highly recommend the safari activity that takes you around the beautiful sights in the island surrounded by the animals roaming freely. I also recommend to try Savana restaurant where it has the African vibes. The food was great. And thanks to mr. Kuntal from the reception who explained everything and helped us during our stay.
Disappointment
2026-05-30
2026-05-30
I expected more from the Anantara hotel. Our room was damp smelling mold. The breakfast was ok but not too much option. For dinner we visited the restaurant and this was a horrible full of smoke, the waiter's made a lot of mistake and they weren't so kind. The good thinks was the safari we could see a lot of animals and the driver Jonathan was very helpful. The beach was very clean and cristal water.
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ACCOMMODATION
CHOOSE YOUR SANCTUARY
Rooms
Rooms
Select from rooms in the main building with views that stretch across the Arabian Gulf. Reside in a ground floor room to allow access to lush gardens, or enjoy the ocean vistas from an upper balcony, all offering holiday luxury.
- 52 sqm
- Garden or sea views
- Private balcony or terrace
- Separate tub and rain shower
Suites
Suites
Nestle into the extra space afforded by these suites that invite both outdoor and indoor living. Admire the ripples on the ocean’s surface from your balcony or terrace in the warm breeze.
- 80 sqm
- Sea views
- Private balcony or terrace with sea views
- Separate living room
Villas
Villas
Revel in a villa sanctuary to call your own on Sir Bani Yas Island, with private spaces to gather as a family. Bask in the endless Gulf sunshine beside your private pool or slip into the shade for a midday meal.
- 120 – 200 sqm
- Private pool steps from the beach
- Indoor and outdoor living
- Choose from one or two bedrooms
In their words
marielle grace t
TripAdvisor November 2025
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
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YOUR ANANTARA JOURNEYS
Location
AN ISLAND OF ADVENTURE
Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara
P.O. Box 12452, Al Ruwais, Sir Bani Yas Island
GPS:
24.366137158607444,52.594342507934584
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Explore nearby
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- Anantara Al Yamm Villa Resort
- Anantara Al Sahel Villa Resort
-
- Arabian Wildlife Park
- Water Sports Centre
- Archery Range
- Sir Bani Yas Stables
- Christian Monastery
- Anantara Spa
- Spa Cabana
ANANTARA EXPERIENCES
YOUR MOST MEMORABLE MOMENTS
Special Offers
Find Your Bliss
Desert Islands Stay Longer Special
From
The longer you stay, the more you save. Extend your journey and luxuriate in savings of up to 20%.
Desert Islands Advance Purchase Special
From
Book in advance to save up to 15% and receive daily breakfast for two.
AWARDS & ACCREDITATIONS
Enjoy an award-winning experience. See select accolades below.
FAQ'S
Where is Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island located?
Anantara Sir Bani Yas is located in the western region of Abu Dhabi, near Al Ruwais. Click on the link for google maps location.
How far is the island from the city of Abu Dhabi?
Sir Bani Yas Island is 250km away from Abu Dhabi and is a 3 hours’ journey that includes drive from the city, boat ride to the island and last drive to reach the resort. Dubai is 350km away and the journey is approximately 4 hours journey.
Can we bring a drone to the island?
No, drones are not allowed on the island.
Is there a spa at Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island?
Yes, the award winning Anantara Spa is located at Desert Islands Resort & Spa and accessible for guests from all three Anantara resorts on the island. Explore journeys inspired by desert surrounds, Anantara Spa's Thai roots and the latest in beauty and wellness. Click on the link for more information.
What activities are available at Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island?
Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island has an array of activities available for guests including nature & wildlife drives, horse riding, nature walks, mountain biking, archery, water sports and more. Click on the link for the activity list.
Is Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island pet friendly?
No, pets are not allowed on the island.
Can we bring a drone to the island?
No, flying drones is not allowed on the island.
How to get to the island from the mainland?
From Jebel Dhanna Jetty on the mainland, you will be transferred by our non-private complimentary boat service to the Island (30 minutes trip). This service operates 4-5 times daily and must be booked 24 hours in advance with Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Resorts.
Upon arrival at the Sir Bani Yas Island Jetty, guests will be met by our team and transferred to their respective resort. As the resorts are located in different areas of the island, the complimentary transfer from the jetty to the resort takes approximately 20–25 minutes.
For enquiries or to reserve your crossing, please contact Guest Services at +971 (0) 2 801 5400 or email [email protected].
Can we bring our own alcoholic beverages to the island?
We strictly prohibit bringing alcoholic beverages onto the island. If any are found, they will be securely stored in our arrival centre and returned to you upon departure.
What is the maximum weight allowance and quantity of luggage permitted for each guest?
Each guest is allowed to bring one piece of luggage weighing up to 30kg and one piece of hand luggage weighing up to 7kg.
Do you have any restaurant at the arrival centre/mainland jetty?
No, we only have five restaurants available on the island spread across the three Anantara resorts.
Who can I contact to find out more information and reservations?
You may email [email protected] or call +971 2 895 8700 or 800-ANANTARA (UAE only).