Arabian Wildlife Park Sir Bani Yas Abu Dhabi
Discover the Arabian Wildlife Park on Sir Bani Yas Island, a sanctuary for diverse animals and a haven for nature lovers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
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Arabian Wildlife Park Sir Bani Yas Abu Dhabi
Best Time
Better animal sightings
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the Arabian Wildlife Park on Sir Bani Yas Island, a sanctuary for diverse animals and a haven for nature lovers.
"Uncover the hidden gem of Abu Dhabi's Arabian Wildlife Park on Sir Bani Yas Island, a breathtaking natural wonder waiting to be explored."
🚗 Long Drive Ahead
The drive from Abu Dhabi is ~4 hours, from Dubai ~3 hours. Leave early and be mindful of speed limits .
💰 Budget Considerations
Sir Bani Yas is not a budget destination. Resort dining and activities are pricey .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Arabian Wildlife Park Safari
Sir Bani Yas Island
Encounter cheetahs, giraffes, ostriches, and more in their natural habitat on an open Land Cruiser safari.
Nature Walk Tours
Sir Bani Yas Island
Explore the island's unique landscapes and attempt to spot wildlife on guided nature walks.
Anantara Resort Experience
Sir Bani Yas Island
Indulge in luxurious villas and enjoy good food at the island's exclusive resort.
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Planning Your Visit
Access & Accommodation
Safari Tour Insights
Best Times
Insider Tips
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🚗 Long Drive Ahead
The drive from Abu Dhabi is ~4 hours, from Dubai ~3 hours. Leave early and be mindful of speed limits.
💰 Budget Considerations
Sir Bani Yas is not a budget destination. Resort dining and activities are pricey.
📅 Book in Advance
Secure your hotel booking and safari tours ahead of time, especially during peak seasons.
🦒 Safari Timing Matters
Afternoon safaris may offer better chances for animal sightings and feeding times.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Long Drive Ahead
The drive from Abu Dhabi is ~4 hours, from Dubai ~3 hours. Leave early and be mindful of speed limits.
💰 Budget Considerations
Sir Bani Yas is not a budget destination. Resort dining and activities are pricey.
📅 Book in Advance
Secure your hotel booking and safari tours ahead of time, especially during peak seasons.
🦒 Safari Timing Matters
Afternoon safaris may offer better chances for animal sightings and feeding times.
🚫 No Outside Food
Only resort-affiliated restaurants are available; plan your dining budget accordingly.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Sir Bani Yas Island for its stunning wildlife and conservation efforts, offering a unique safari experience in a beautiful natural setting. While the luxurious resort and peaceful atmosphere are highlights, the high cost of dining and activities, along with potential variability in animal sightings on tours, are noted drawbacks.
"Though I enjoyed visiting this wildlife park...I was a little disappointed in the way these tours are structured...companies know the animals mostly comes out during the afternoon which is when they're more likely to be alert plus feeding, and they still took us on an early morning safari tour which hardly provided our group of much animal sitings.
The little we did see though was enjoyed, to see the animals roaming around in their natural habitat, our only Giraffe photo was a lucky chance because he pull away from the herd and went for a walk far away from the others..he made it worthwhile in the end.
So though I recommend visiting the park, just know what to expect if you're luckier than us."
Jules Cates (Jules)
"The Safari tour (1.5 hour tour the only way to access the wildlife park is pretty short) i will give it an average honestly (cost to value), with a highlight of giraffes and zebra spotted. The most interesting part of it for me is how they are attempting to green the hills on the island, which is not an easy task (lack of rain makes the soil too high in salt and minerals). The cheetah is in its own enclosure (of course, as the safari jeeps isn't caged in itself) and the roaming animals are the peaceful ones."
Rtexal Tan
"The whole island is amazing for a peaceful family getaway from the hustle of the city life to indulge in the beauty of nature, animals etc... Great villas from Anantara and some good choice of restaurants make the stay a very luxurious experience... The Wildlife safari with Mr. Delano was the highlight of our stay, his passion for mature and wildlife conservation was inspirational for me and my kids... We would definitely visit again soon..."
Riyaz Mather
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The primary way to reach Sir Bani Yas Island is by ferry from Jebel Dhanna. The drive from Abu Dhabi takes about 4 hours, and from Dubai, it's around 3 hours. Ensure you have a hotel booking to board the ferry, as it's often a requirement. Some sources suggest day passes might be available, but it's best to confirm with the resort.
No, you cannot ferry your personal vehicle to the island. You'll need to park your car at the Jebel Dhanna jetty before taking the ferry.
Ferry schedules and costs can vary and are often tied to hotel bookings. It's recommended to contact the Anantara hotels directly on Sir Bani Yas Island for the most up-to-date information on ferry timings and fares.
Rotana Jet previously offered flights from Dubai to Sir Bani Yas Island. It's advisable to check current flight availability and schedules with airlines operating in the region.
The drive from Dubai to Jebel Dhanna is approximately 3 hours. There's a new highway with a speed limit of 160 km/h, making the journey quicker. However, be aware of potential truck traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Historically, a hotel reservation was often required to access the island and its facilities, including the ferry. While day passes might be an option now, it's crucial to verify this with the Anantara resort directly before your visit.
Safari tour costs are typically part of resort packages or can be booked separately. Prices can vary, and it's best to inquire directly with the Anantara hotels on Sir Bani Yas Island for current pricing and booking details.
Day trips are possible, but access often depends on having a confirmed hotel booking or a pre-booked day pass. The safari tour is the main activity for day visitors.
Access to the Arabian Wildlife Park is generally through a guided safari tour, which has associated costs. There isn't a separate entrance fee for the park itself outside of tour bookings.
Safari tours can usually be booked directly through the Anantara hotels on Sir Bani Yas Island. It's recommended to book in advance, especially if you're not staying at the resort.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The park is home to over 10,000 animals, including cheetahs, giraffes, Barbary sheep, blackbucks, ostriches, and various deer species. You might also spot wild cats.
The standard safari tour typically lasts about 1.5 hours, offering a chance to see animals in their natural habitat.
Yes, you can enjoy nature walks, and if staying at the resort, activities like horse riding through the desert are available.
Absolutely! It's described as an amazing place for a peaceful family getaway, offering nature, wildlife, and luxurious experiences.
The island features beautiful landscapes, with efforts underway to 'green' the hills, which is a challenging task due to the soil's high salt and mineral content.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no standalone restaurants on the island. All dining options are attached to or affiliated with the Anantara resorts and are generally pricey.
The Anantara resorts offer various dining experiences. The Italian restaurant, in particular, has been highlighted as excellent.
While not explicitly forbidden, given the resort-centric nature of the island, it's advisable to check with the resort regarding bringing outside food. However, most visitors opt for the resort's dining facilities.
Yes, dining at the resort is considered premium and can be expensive, as the entire island's hospitality is managed by the hotel.
The resort offers a range of cuisines, often including international options and specialized restaurants like an Italian eatery.
📸 📸 Photography
The wildlife safari offers incredible opportunities to photograph animals in their natural habitat. The island's diverse landscapes, from desert to coastal areas, also provide scenic backdrops.
It depends on luck and timing. While you might get lucky with a giraffe walking alone, seeing animals can be unpredictable. Afternoon safaris might offer better chances.
A telephoto lens is highly recommended for capturing wildlife from a distance. A wide-angle lens can be useful for landscape shots of the island's scenery.
Generally, photography is allowed, but always be respectful of the animals and avoid using flash if it might disturb them. Follow your guide's instructions during the safari.
Yes, you can photograph the resort's amenities, but be mindful of other guests' privacy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the island is resort-focused and can be pricey, the experience of seeing animals like giraffes and ostriches can be incredibly memorable for kids. Consider booking a package that includes activities suitable for children. The peaceful environment also makes it a relaxing escape from city life. Ensure you book accommodations and activities in advance, especially if traveling during school holidays.
💰 Budget Travelers
If you're on a tight budget, you might need to carefully weigh the costs against the experience. Consider looking for package deals or off-season rates. However, be prepared for higher expenses for food and any organized tours. The drive to Jebel Dhanna can be done with your own car, saving on some transportation costs, but the island itself requires significant spending.
🌿 Nature & Wildlife Enthusiasts
Beyond the safari, the island's unique landscapes provide a backdrop for exploration. Engaging in nature walks allows for a deeper appreciation of the island's ecosystem and conservation efforts. The commitment to preserving this natural haven makes it a rewarding destination for anyone interested in the natural world and sustainable tourism.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Arabian Wildlife Park Experience
Visitors can expect to see species like giraffes, ostriches, gazelles, blackbucks, and even cheetahs (though cheetahs are often in a dedicated enclosure for safety reasons).
Beyond the safari, the island offers opportunities for nature walks, allowing for a more intimate exploration of its flora and fauna. The landscape itself is a testament to the island's transformation, with ongoing efforts to enhance its greenery and support its wildlife population. It's a place where conservation meets luxury, offering a memorable experience for those seeking to connect with nature.
Logistics: Getting There and Staying
Crucially, access to the island and its ferry service is often contingent on having a confirmed hotel booking with one of the Anantara resorts located there.
For those planning a visit, it's wise to factor in the travel time and the costs associated with accommodation and activities. The island is not typically considered a budget destination. Planning your itinerary, including booking safaris and understanding dining options in advance, will help ensure a smoother and more enjoyable experience.
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