Edge of the World (Saudi Arabia) and Sir Bani Yas Island (United Arab Emirates) are often weighed against each other. This comparison uses seasons, activities and access to help you choose.
| Edge of the World | Sir Bani Yas Island | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Saudi Arabia | United Arab Emirates |
| Type | Mountains | Island |
| Best time | December to February | December to February |
| Suggested stay | 1 days | 2–3 days |
| Main gateway airport | King Khalid International Airport (RUH) | Zayed International Airport (AUH) |
| Malaria | None | None |
| Approx. area | — | 87 km² |
| Families | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Honeymooners | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Photographers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| First-time visitors | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Budget travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Luxury travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Month by month
| Month | Edge of the World | Sir Bani Yas Island |
|---|---|---|
| January | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| February | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| March | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| April | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| May | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| June | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| July | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| August | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| September | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| October | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| November | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| December | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
How to choose
Choose Edge of the World if
- you want hiking, camping, stargazing and camel rides
- you hope to see camels
Choose Sir Bani Yas Island if
- you are travelling in September
- you want game drives, horseback safaris, canoeing, snorkelling and cultural visits
- you hope to see oryx, gazelles, giraffes, cheetahs and hyenas
Edge of the WorldSir Bani Yas Island
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Edge of the World or Sir Bani Yas Island?
It depends on when you travel and what you want to see. Sir Bani Yas Island is stronger in September.
When is the best time for each?
Edge of the World: December to February. Sir Bani Yas Island: December to February.
Sources: Visit Saudi – Edge of the World · Arab News – Treading the Edge of the World near Riyadh (2018) · Weather Spark – Riyadh climate · 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.