Sir Bani Yas Island – rich with culture in Abu Dhabi Sir Bani Yas Island is home to important archaeological sites, dramatic geological formations and diverse wildlife

Sir Bani Yas Island is famous for its ancient archaeological sites, geological features and man-made attractions that make it a popular destination in Abu Dhabi’s Al Dhafra region.

Salt domes
Sir Bani Yas Island in Abu Dhabi is one of the largest of a group of islands located in the Al Dhafra region. The unique salt dome geology that leads to the creation of small mountains in the central area of the island is the remnant of a geological process that created outcrops of haematite and other rocks that rise above the surrounding terrain and sea.

Archaeological heritage
Archaeologists have unearthed numerous discoveries, including the remains of a Christian church and monastery from the seventh and eighth centuries CE, and flint tools dating back to the Neolithic period (7,000 years ago). In addition, a trading settlement dating back to the Bronze Age (4,000 years ago) was recently discovered on the island.

Sir Bani Yas Island was first mentioned in European literature around 1590 by Gasparo Balbi, an Italian jeweller and merchant, who referred to it as being located in a region where pearls were found. The tradition of pearling continued to be important until the early 20th century.

Wildlife sanctuary
What is there to do on Sir Bani Yas Island? In 1971, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan declared Sir Bani Yas Island a nature reserve that is now the Arabian Wildlife Park. Covering 1,400 hectares, the park is a sanctuary for thousands of free-roaming indigenous and exotic animals and birds, and home to animal breeding and relocation programmes. Visitors enjoy the island’s isolated, white sand beaches, guided nature and wildlife tours and visits to archaeological sites.