Al Gharbia and the Desert Islands

Tourism in Al Gharbia

Al Gharbia was originally known as the western region and it makes up a cluster of eight islands/cities which now will become a tourist and expatriate hot spot with a size equivalent to a thriving city.  Al Gharbia is currently going through huge development and has miles and miles of beautiful coastline. The eight islands will be known as the Desert Islands and have their own mix of resorts and a nature sanctuary.  Sir Ban Yas Island is on one of the first islands to open to the public in 2008.  It was formerly a royal nature reserve of Sheikh Zayed and now home to the Arabian Wildlife Park with native Oryx, giraffe, cheetah and more.  The amazing newly built boutique hotel Desert Islands Resort and Spa is a must do getaway from city life.  Activities such as kayaking, snorkelling and dolphin watching can be done amongst the chilled out beaches. The remaining islands are Dalma Islands and Discovery Islands both rich in archaeological and marine life and all islands will be linked by water transport and air from Abu Dhabi.  Currently, the distance by car from Abu Dhabi Island is 250kms.  It is anticipated all eight islands in Al Gharbia will be fully operational by 2020.