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Wondering which islands in the UAE to visit for your dream vacation? While the UAE is famous worldwide for its soaring skylines and vast, golden landscapes, its coastline holds a secret archipelago. It has a stunning collection of islands that redefine luxury, leisure, and natural beauty. From engineering marvels that defy imagination to serene sanctuaries teeming with wildlife, these islands are untouched havens. Get ready to discover the best Islands in UAE and your very own oasis in this incredible archipelago of wonders.
Explore The Best Islands In UAE
Indulge in the best luxury and man-made islands in the UAE for your dream holiday.
1. Palm Jumeirah
Photo: Nelemson G / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Palm Jumeirah is the instantly recognizable palm-tree-shaped artificial archipelago in Dubai. It is one of the most famous Islands in UAE, synonymous with luxury and grand living. It has ultra-luxury resorts, stunning beachfront residences, and a vibrant lifestyle. Atlantis, The Palm is a majestic hotel and along with Atlantis The Royal, dominates the crescent. It offers world-class dining, the thrilling Aquaventure Waterpark, and The Lost Chambers Aquarium. Don’t miss The View on level 52 at The Palm observation deck for a panoramic vista of the entire island.
Distance From Airport: 36.4 km
Nearest Airport: Dubai International Airport (DXB)
Best Time To Visit: November to March
2. Yas Island
Photo: Planet Labs, Inc / Wikimedia Commons
In Abu Dhabi, Yas Island is a premier entertainment and leisure destination that attracts thrill-seekers and families alike. It packs many world-class theme parks and attractions into one space, making it the ultimate destination for fun. You can go on fun rides in Ferrari World, enjoy the indoor theme park in Warner Bros. World, splash around at Yas Waterworld, or explore marine life at the newly opened SeaWorld. The island is also home to the iconic Yas Marina Circuit, which hosts the F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix), the sprawling Yas Mall, and luxurious hotels.
Distance From Airport: 8 km
Nearest Airport: Abu Dhabi International Airport
Best Time To Visit: October to March
3. Saadiyat Island
Photo: Shaun D’Rozario / Wikimedia Commons
Saadiyat Island is a cultural and leisure hub, famous for its pristine natural beaches and commitment to art. It’s where high culture, luxury resorts, and protected natural beauty beautifully co-exist. The island’s protected beaches are nesting sites for the endangered Hawksbill turtles. You must admire the art at the magnificent Louvre Abu Dhabi and visit the prestigious NYU Abu Dhabi campus. For an unforgettable holiday, enjoy upscale dining and relaxation at the Saadiyat Beach Club.
Distance From Airport: 30.5 km
Nearest Airport: Abu Dhabi International Airport
Best Time To Visit: November to March
4. Bluewaters Island
Photo: DestinationFearFan / Wikimedia Commons
Located just off the vibrant Jumeirah Beach Residence coastline, Bluewaters Island is a contemporary lifestyle destination that blends urban chic with beachside charm. It has a lively atmosphere with multiple entertainment and dining options, all with stunning views of the Dubai Marina skyline. The island features Madame Tussauds Dubai and its pedestrian-friendly promenades are dotted with chic restaurants and boutiques.
Distance From Airport: 36.9 km
Nearest Airport: Dubai International Airport
Best Time To Visit: October to April
5. Sir Bani Yas Island
Photo: Salimapur0 / Wikimedia Commons
Sir Bani Yas Island is a remarkable natural island located off the coast of Abu Dhabi’s Al Dhafra region, which has been transformed into a massive Arabian Wildlife Park. It’s the UAE’s premier wildlife and conservation haven, where you can go on thrilling wildlife safaris to spot free-roaming giraffes, cheetahs, gazelles, and the indigenous Arabian Oryx. You should explore the ancient historical sites, including an important ancient monastery, and enjoy water sports and horse riding.
Distance From Airport: 250 km
Nearest Airport: Abu Dhabi International Airport
Best Time To Visit: October to April
6. Zaya Nurai Island
Photo: Adman Payne / Wikimedia Commons
If you want an ultra-exclusive and secluded escape, Zaya Nurai Island is the perfect destination. A short boat ride from Saadiyat Island, it is a pristine, ultra-luxury boutique resort often dubbed “The Maldives of the UAE.” It has private villas, each with its own swimming pool, where you can enjoy gourmet dining experiences, relax on pristine beaches, and experience wellness treatments in an environment of complete tranquility.
Distance From Airport: 25 km
Nearest Airport: Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH)
Best Time To Visit: November to April
Modes Of transport: Taxi, resort-provided speedboat
7. Al Marjan Island
Photo: almarjanisland.com / Wikimedia Commons
Located in the northern emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, Al Marjan Island is a cluster of four man-made coral-shaped islands that are rapidly developing into a major leisure and hospitality hub. It’s a rising star offering a growing number of luxury resorts and residential properties, and provides a different, often more tranquil, emirate experience compared to Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
Distance From Airport: 36.2 km
Nearest Airport: Ras Al Khaimah International Airport
Best Time To Visit: October to April
8. Al Hudayriat Island
Photo: Slywire / Wikimedia Commons
A massive recreational and leisure destination in Abu Dhabi, Al Hudayriat Island is a go-to spot for outdoor enthusiasts, blending sports, nature, and family fun. It’s Abu Dhabi’s new epicenter for active recreation, and offers extensive facilities for fitness and family entertainment. You can enjoy cycling on the extensive cycling tracks, relax at the popular Marsana Beach, experience glamping at Bab Al Nojoum, challenge yourself at the OCR Park (obstacle course), and look forward to future world-class facilities like Surf Abu Dhabi and Velodrome Abu Dhabi.
Distance From Airport: 39.5 km
Nearest Airport: Abu Dhabi International Airport
Best Time To Visit: November to March
Modes Of transport: Car, taxi, bus, bicycle
9. Jubail Island
Photo: Aaiq2005 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Nestled between Saadiyat Island and Yas Island, Jubail Island is a natural island dedicated to mangrove conservation and sustainable living, where you can connect with the UAE’s indigenous ecosystems. It provides a unique eco-tourism experience and a peaceful escape into nature. You must explore the Jubail Mangrove Park, featuring boardwalks that wind through the dense mangrove forests, ideal for birdwatching and kayaking.
Distance From Airport: 27.9 km
Nearest Airport: Zayed International Airport
Best Time To Visit: October to April
10. The World Islands
Photo: Mo Eid / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
An iconic testament to Dubai’s ambitious vision, The World Islands is an archipelago of small artificial islands constructed in the shape of a world map, located off the coast of Dubai. While still under construction, it represents the pinnacle of private island luxury and bespoke themed experiences, with projects like “The Heart of Europe” creating unique, climate-controlled environments and “floating seahorses.
Distance From Airport: 20 km
Nearest Airport: Dubai International Airport
Best Time To Visit: November to April
The best Islands in UAE offer unparalleled experiences for every visitor, regardless of whether they are drawn to the audacious engineering of man-made marvels or the serene beauty of natural sanctuaries. The UAE’s islands are a testament to innovation, luxury, and a deep appreciation for both natural beauty and sophisticated design. Each island tells its own story, whether it’s a family adventure, a romantic escape, a cultural deep-dive, or a rendezvous with nature. Explore TripXL’s packages to the UAE and discover your very own slice of paradise.
Cover Photo: ELPHNT / Wikimedia Commons
