Sir Bani Yas is a natural island of about 87 km² in Abu Dhabi's Al Dhafra region, with more than half given over to wildlife conservation. Its Arabian Wildlife Park holds free-roaming Arabian oryx, gazelles, giraffes, hyenas and cheetahs.
- Country
- United Arab Emirates
- Type
- Island
- Approx. area
- 87 km²
- Best time
- December to February
- Suggested stay
- 2–3 days
- Main gateway airport
- Zayed International Airport (AUH)
- Malaria
- None
Why go to Sir Bani Yas Island
- 4x4 safaris in the Arabian Wildlife Park
- Arabian oryx, giraffes and cheetahs roaming free
- Kayaking and snorkelling in protected marine areas
- Ruins of an early church and monastery found in the 1990s
- Horse riding on dunes and beaches
Best time to visit Sir Bani Yas Island
Based on average weather and wildlife seasons, the best period to visit Sir Bani Yas Island is December to February.
Visit Abu Dhabi names November to March as the best time to visit the island.
Wildlife sightings are best around sunrise and sunset.
| Month | Temp (°C) | Rain | Experience | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 13–24 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| February | 14–26 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| March | 17–31 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| April | 21–37 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| May | 25–42 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| June | 27–44 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | very quiet |
| July | 29–44 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | very quiet |
| August | 30–43 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | very quiet |
| September | 27–41 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | very quiet |
| October | 24–37 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| November | 20–31 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| December | 16–26 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
What you can see
Wildlife you may see in Sir Bani Yas Island includes oryx, gazelles, giraffes, cheetahs, hyenas and birdlife.
Things to do
Getting there
It is about a 2-hour drive from Abu Dhabi to Jebel Dhanna jetty, then a boat transfer, about 3–3.5 hours in total. Day visits and safaris are booked in advance through the island resorts' activities team.
Trips to Sir Bani Yas Island
No trips are listed for this destination yet. Send a request and we will check with providers.
Plan by travel style
- Sir Bani Yas Island for families
- Sir Bani Yas Island for a honeymoon
- Sir Bani Yas Island for photographers
- Sir Bani Yas Island for a first safari
- Sir Bani Yas Island on a budget
- Sir Bani Yas Island for luxury travel
Compare with
- Sir Bani Yas Island vs Ras Al Khaimah Desert
- Sir Bani Yas Island vs Hatta
- Sir Bani Yas Island vs Mleiha
- Sir Bani Yas Island vs Al Marmoom
- Sir Bani Yas Island vs Dubai Desert
- Sir Bani Yas Island vs Liwa
Travelling to Sir Bani Yas Island from
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Sir Bani Yas Island?
Generally December to February. Visit Abu Dhabi names November to March as the best time to visit the island.
How many days do I need in Sir Bani Yas Island?
Most visitors spend 2 to 3 days there, not counting travel days.
How do I get to Sir Bani Yas Island?
It is about a 2-hour drive from Abu Dhabi to Jebel Dhanna jetty, then a boat transfer, about 3–3.5 hours in total. Day visits and safaris are booked in advance through the island resorts' activities team.
Sources: Visit Abu Dhabi – Sir Bani Yas Island · Visit Abu Dhabi – Arabian Wildlife Park · Weather Spark – Ar Ruways climate (nearest mainland reference)
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.