Making the most of Sir Bani Yas
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
Ships berth at "Cruise Beach". Occasional strong winds may cause the port call to be cancelled.
A new jetty built in February 2022 makes landing much faster for most passengers.
Cruise Beach covers a 1.5 mile stretch of the natural Sir Bani Yas island, just off Abu Dhabi's south-west coast. Its 387,500 square feet of beach hold hundreds of palm trees, shaded cabanas and more than 2,000 sunbeds.
Arabian Wildlife Park occupies about half of Sir Bani Yas Island, giving wild creatures space to roam freely while the island remains open to visitors. Some 13,000 animals native to the Arabian Peninsula live in the Park, including endangered Arabian Oryx, Sand Gazelle and Mountain Gazelle, as well as free-ranging predators and scavengers such as Sudan cheetahs and striped hyenas.
Complimentary parasols, wooden loungers and freshwater showers are spread across a beach divided into areas for different clients. At one end are a children's play area and inflatable aqua park with floating mats for families; a more secluded area provides spa treatments and cabanas for a quieter experience.
A lush mangrove lagoon complements the beach, where cruise passengers can spot nesting ospreys or flamingos while kayaking or paddle-boarding.
Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Resorts provide lavish comfort, splendid views and adventurous escapes. A shuttle to the resort is available (20 minutes), where guests can use sun beds, umbrellas and other facilities.