Sir Bani Yas named as one of top 40 tourist spots in the world

Abu Dhabi was the only destination in the Arabian Gulf to make the list compiled by British newspaper The Guardian.

Sir Bani Yas Island has been selected as one of the world’s Top 40 Holiday Hotspots for 2014 by The Guardian, a UK newspaper, making it the only destination in the Arabian Gulf to be featured on the list. Photo Courtesy-Martin PfeifferShow less

ABU DHABI// Sir Bani Yas Island has been named as one of the world’s 40 must-visit destinations by a British newspaper.

The Guardian praised the Anantara resort on the nature reserve, saying it was “unflashy” despite being luxurious.

“An island off Abu Dhabi is the antithesis of the glitz around it,” the newspaper said.

“The 30 villas of Al Yamm overlook the beach and the turtle nesting grounds; the 30 villas of Al Sahel are in the savannah grasslands, where gazelle and giraffes graze in front of your balcony.”

Abu Dhabi was the only destination in the Arabian Gulf to make the list.

“We are pleased that Sir Bani Yas was selected as one of the must-visit destinations for 2014,” said Wael Soueid, Anantara area general manager.

“This not only reflects the island’s growing reputation for travellers searching for a location that offers a harmonious blend of luxury and a return to nature, but also Abu Dhabi’s growing appeal as an international destination.”

Anantara also owns the other hotel on the island, the Desert Islands Resort and Spa.

The island was originally home to Sheikh Zayed’s private animal collection before being opened as a tourist destination in 2007.