Weekend getaway: Sir Bani Yas Island

Sir Bani Yas Island (SBY), located eight kilometres off the coast of Abu Dhabi is home to one of the largest herds of Arabian Oryx in the world. The former private island of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan was taken over two years ago by the Tourism Development and Investment Company (TDIC), which has transformed it into a prime visitor destination and with the help of Anantara, converted the old guest lodge on the northern tip into a five-star hotel and spa.

Why is it special?

Stepping onto Sir Bani Yas Island is like stepping into another world. It is so quiet and peaceful that many guests feel like they have been there much longer than they actually have.

SBY Island forms part of the eight isle Desert Islands and is the first to open to the public. Dalma and Discovery Islands are also being developed.

One of the world's largest herds of Arabian Oryx – which are extinct in the wild – greet guests as they make the 15-minute journey from the jetty to the hotel, while giraffes, emu and deer, among others roam the island, on which 75 per cent is soon to become a national park.

How do I get there?

Catch a sea plane from Abu Dhabi airport, but it can also be reached via boat, although it will take at least 90 minutes by car to reach the port from the capital. All vehicles have to be left on the mainland as SBY has a strict car policy restricted to those few owned by the authorities to transport guests to and from the hotel.

What is there to do?

Although many guests come here to unwind, it is not all about relaxing on a sun lounger. There are many organised activities to take advantage of, including game drives, snorkelling, hiking and mountain biking. But the beauty of the small 64-room hotel means guests rarely see people outside their group once they drive out of the gates and into the sandy terrain beyond. Alternatively, sink into a world of pampering by enjoying a massage at the spa with the sound of the waves crashing against the shore.

Once the sun goes down the island, which spans 87 square kilometres, descends into darkness – the only lights being found in the hotel or on the odd car as staff retreat to their accommodation.

The TDIC is undertaking a number of ambitious projects such as continuing Sheikh Zayed's breeding programme, researching what grasses are best for the animals and expanding the mangroves, which are named after early visitors and that guests can explore on kayaks.

Rates start at Dh1,900 for two and include transfers and activities. Visit www.desertislands.com for more information.