Call it artificial but UAE boasts of some of the most magnificent wonders that define the excellence of humans. Islands in UAE are such an addition offering you the pleasure of discovering the man-made beauty. Boasting an unmatchable beauty, the islands have everything from luxury accommodation, leisure and adventure to offer you a real thrill. It was Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the honorable prime minister of United Arab Emirates and Emir of Dubai, who encouraged the development of these islands in the country.
Top 12 Islands in The United Arab Emirates
Wondering how the land dominated by the desert that experience a really hot climate will have the pleasing beauty of islands. Well, there is a process called reclamation with dredging sand from the Gulf, spraying and spreading with the GPS technology. We have listed some of the best islands that are artificially created to lure traveler.
1. The Palm Islands
The Palm Islands is one of the most popular islands to visit in UAE that is spreading to an area of 5km to the Persian Gulf. Being one of the largest man-made islands in the world, Palm Island is designed in a unique palm shape enclosed within 7miles of crescent shaped island. The main motive behind building this magnificent wonder was to offer accommodating space for more than millions of tourists. In 2006, the Palm Islands was built with a coastal diameter of 56 km.
Today the island houses more than 4500 residential places with 22 hotels, resorts, shopping malls, and other facilities.
Location: Emirate of Dubai
Nearest Airport: Dubai Airport
Best Nearby Hotels: The Palm Island Resort, Kings Landing Hotel, The Islander's Inn, La Pagerie in Carriacou, Green Roof Inn
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2. Al Maya Island
Operated by the Abu Dhabi Country Club, Al Maya is another option to choose from one of the best Islands in UAE for a vacation where there is an undefined luxury. Offering the facilities like accommodation in best hotels and resorts in UAE, the island is the hub for leisure seekers. Located at an approximate distance of 9 kilometers, the island offers the best accommodation at Al Maya Island Resort that overlooks the captivating beauty of the vast sea, the clear sky and the tranquil panorama.
Talking about the unique experiences, Al Maya Island is perfect for barbeque lovers where they can relax in the soft sands, enjoy their delighting meals and admire the spectacular wonders around.
Location: Al Maya Jetty, Abu Dhabi
Nearest Airport: Abu Dhabi International Airport
Best Nearby Hotel: Al Maya Island Resort, The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, InterContinental Abu Dhabi
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3. Deira Islands
The Night Souq, shopping malls, restaurants and cafes have made the Deira Islands, one of the most popular islands to visit in UAE. What makes the Deira Inland an impressive and famous attraction for travelers is the authentic range of restaurants offering the most delectable taste of all time.
This group of artificial islands is an abode of wonders where you praise the man-made excellence with its architecture. The island somewhere resembles the style and beauty of Palm island with amusements and fascinating elements in every corner. Spreading to an area of 15,8 sqm, this island with the best beaches in UAE is surely a heaven for travelers.
Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Nearest Airport: Dubai International Airport
Best Nearby Hotel: Crowne Plaza Dubai-Deira, Park Hyatt Dubai, Hyatt Regency Dubai, Hyatt Place Dubai Al Rigga, Swissotel Al Ghurair Hotel
4. Al Reem Island
Not every island in the UAE is an artificial addition to nature. Al Reem Island is among the most spectacular natural islands in UAE where you can discover a plethora of captivating marvels. There are residential units, shopping centers, entertainment hub and other fascinating activities to engage your holiday.
You can find the best restaurants like Smoking Doll, Nando's, Super Poke and Natural Kitchen for family dine-in on the island. Favoring the sightseeing and holiday experience, the climate of Al Reem Island is perfect throughout the year, falling below 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Nearest Airport: Abu Dhabi International Airport
Best Nearby Hotel: Crowne Plaza Dubai-Deira, Park Hyatt Dubai, Hyatt Regency Dubai, Hyatt Place Dubai Al Rigga, Swissotel Al Ghurair Hotel
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5. The Worlds Island
A group of 300 small islands, the World is another project in Dubai that stands as one of the best islands in the UAE for vacation. The unique heart-shaped island is a perfect honeymoon destination in the world that offers a romantic and luxury escape to the newlyweds.
The island houses some of the best hotels and resorts to discover leisure and luxury. There are a number of cases where you can plan a romantic date or stroll around the soft sandy shores to admire the vista. Adventures and fun games can be enjoyed like volleyball or watersports at UAE World Islands.
Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Nearest Airport: Dubai International Airport
Best Nearby Hotel: Four Seasons Resort Dubai, Beach Walk Hotel, Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Roda Beach Hotel, Park Regis Boutique Hotel
6. Al Maryah Island
The boutique hotels, the waterfront, pedestrian and the captivating panorama of Al Maryah Island makes it one of the best islands to visit in UAE. Apart from being an essential hub for business and trade, the island attracts tourists to explore the best attractions in the UAE. Although the island is not crowded much, it is still the most happening destination.
The island boasts of perfect luxury and lifestyle that will offer you world-class hospitality and economical centers and more.
Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Nearest Airport: Abu Dhabi International Airport
Best Nearby Hotel: Rosewood Abu Dhabi, Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island, Le Meridien Abu Dhabi
7. Dalma Island
Dalma Island, one of the best UAE world islands, is an important pearl trading destination of the Arab. Now, this is one of the best places to visit in the Middle East that is known for the oldest inhabited islands housing some of the important historical attraction for travelers. You can discover the history of the island related to religious hotspots, the beauty of Islamic architecture and Arabian culture. Some of the best attraction to explore in Dalma Island includes the Volcano sites, the Al-heerat, Gallery of Antiquities and more.
You can observe the diversity of landscape with some lush green mountains, the captivating valleys and flatlands.
Location: Emirates of Abu Dhabi
Nearest Airport: Abu Dhabi International Airport
Best Nearby Hotels: The Emirates Palace Hotels, Khalidiya Hotel, Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi, Uptown Hotel Apartment Abu Dhabi
8. Burj Al Arab
The historic landmark, Burj Al Arab is surely one of the most beautiful and fascinating UAE islands you can add to your bucket list. This is another man-made marvel in Dubai where you can embrace the beauty of magnificent architecture, high-class restaurants and shop for the best brands.
Offering you the best things to do in UAE, Burj Al Arab is a hub for water adventures where you can experience the adrenaline of surfing, speed boating and more. You can even find the premium range of hotels to discover heartwarming hospitality of Dubai.
Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Nearest Airport: Dubai International Airport
Best Nearby Hotels: Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, Jumeirah Al Naseem, Jumeirah Mina A’Salam, Jumeirah Al Qasr
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9. Sir Bani Yas Island
Sir Bani Yas Island is one of the most stunning islands to visit in UAE that offers visitors a breathtaking beauty to witness. With the Arabian wilderness, the parks and more than 17,000 free roaming wilds in the island, it is surely an incredible destination that has been awarded as the World’s Leading Sustainable Tourism Destination in 2014.
You can even find the best accommodation to embrace luxury and relax. Indulge with the activities like discovering the nature, explore the historical sites and wildlife safari spotting the wilds like Arabian oryx, giraffes, gazelles, hyenas, cheetahs and more.
Location: Abu Dhabi United Arab Emirates
Nearest Airport: Dubai Airport
Best Nearby Hotel: Anantara Desert Islands Resort & Spa, Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Yamm Villa Resort, Anantara Al Sahel Villa Resort, Danat Jebel Dhanna Resort
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10. Saadiyat Island
Located close to the Abu Dhabi International Airport, the Saadiyat Island is one of the best islands in UAE. With the best class hotels and the residential space, the island offers every comfort and leisure to every guest.
The transformation is still going on to make it a perfect luxurious escape where there will be premium accommodating sectors, the museums and entertainment centers. The island will house attractions like First Universal Museum in Arabia, Eco-conscious Golf Course and more.
Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Nearest Airport: Abu Dhabi International Airport
Best Nearby hotels: Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas, Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort Opens, Saadiyat Rotana Resort and Villas
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11. Dolphin Island
One of the best islands in UAE, Dolphin Island offers a soulful experience to guests with its enthralling beauty and sand back. You can just lazily walk on the sand back amidst the surreal beauty of the ocean and can capture mesmerizing views of the sunset. The only way to get to this island is via a ferry ride operated by private tour operators. Though the island is named after dolphins however there is no guarantee of seeing dolphins on the island. However, if you are lucky enough, you might spot a few dolphins frolicking on the island.
Location: Atlantis Palm
Nearest Airport: Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC)
Best Nearby Hotels: Sofitel Dubai The Palm, W Dubai - The Palm, Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort, The Retreat Palm Dubai MGallery by Sofitel
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12. Happiness Island
Happiness Island which was once a private island has now been converted into a luxurious beach resort with around 26 two-bedroom villas offering exotic views of the landscape. As the name suggests, the island ensures that guests spend a happy time here amidst nature and serene ambience. There is also a jacuzzi and an infinity pool facing the sea. One can access the island from the Saadiyat Island in a private jetty. There are intriguing dining options as well available at the island resort with a poolside bar and shisha. For all the girls out there, the island resort also organizes a special Saturday lady out night exclusively for girls where they can enjoy a gala time.
Location: N/A
Nearest Airport: Bateen Airport
Best Nearby Hotels: Al Seef Resorts & Spa by Andalus, Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort, Corniche Hotel Abu Dhabi, Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences
Gaining its status as one of the finest travel destinations in the world, UAE continues to spread its hands over the global travel industry as it continues to emerge as one of the top holiday destinations around the world. With top of the line hotels, restaurants, and other attractions, there are many islands in the UAE that travel should have on their travel wishlist. So, are you a budding traveler fancying a vacation in the UAE? Book your UAE flights ticket today and come witness the serenity of this destination today.
FAQs
For the best water adventure and leisure, the best beaches in Dubai are:
- Jumeirah Beach
- Al Sufouh Beach
- Sunset Beach
- Mercato Beach
- Kite Beach
The United Arab Emirates offers some of the best man-made and natural islands like the Burj Al Arab, Dalma Island, Al Maryah Island, Al Reem Island, Deira Islands and Al Maya Island.
Al Maya island is one of the best islands to visit in UAE where you can book the best resorts and try some water adventures, eat from the boutique cafes and more.
The Palm Islands is a popular island you can visit in UAE. It is the unique palm shape that is enclosed within 7miles of crescentshape that makes it so popular in the world.
The best hotels close to The worlds Dubai are:
- Four Seasons Resort Dubai
- Beach Walk Hotel
- Mandarin Oriental Jumeira
- Roda Beach Hotel
- Park Regis Boutique Hotel
Al Reem Island is the most magnificent natural islands in UAE that offers a plethora of captivating marvels to discover. You can find facilities like the residential units or some shopping centers, entertainment hub and more.
If you are planning a stay in Burj Al Arab, you can book your accommodation at:
- Burj Al Arab Jumeirah
- Jumeirah Al Naseem
- Jumeirah Mina A’Salam
- Jumeirah Al Qasr
Bani Yas Island in UAE houses an incredible wilderness where you can plan safari tours. Discover than 17,000 free-roaming wilds with species like Arabian oryx, giraffes, gazelles, hyenas, cheetahs and more.
Happiness Island is a private resort that offers a lavish stay in its well-designed and modern villas. It also gives access to poolside restaurants, bar and shisha lounge. Admire the gorgeous views from every nook and corner of the island. Also, enjoy a private access to the infinity pool and jacuzzi facing the sea.
Some of the best hotels near Saadiyat Island are Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas, Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort Opens, Saadiyat Rotana Resort and Villas
Some of the best beaches in Abu Dhabi are:
- Nurai Island Beach
- Yas Beach
- Radisson Blue Beach Club
- Saadiyat Public Beach
- Al Bateen Beach
- Corniche Beach
The best time to visit UAE for island visit are the months of October, March and April when the weather is pleasant and sunny which is just perfect for island strolls and beach activities.
Around 3 to 4 days are considered good to explore Dubai during which you can explore all the major attractions here and indulge in different activities like shopping and adventures.