The United Arab Emirates’ Sir Bani Yas Island is a natural island near Abu Dhabi, rich in history and heritage. The island is one of the most remarkable archaeological wonders in the entirety of the Gulf. Sir Bani Yas exhibits itself through the multitude of activities available for visitors to engage in, including adventure safaris, hiking, snorkelling and much more. For those looking for accommodation at any of the Abu Dhabi Resorts, there is a selection of unparalleled options such as the Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Resorts and others that provide luxury amidst the rocky terrain of this desert island.
The island derives its name from the Bani Yas tribe, who were in fact the initial inhabitants of Abu Dhabi. However, several significant historical sites on the island support evidence of human civilisation dating back to the Late Stone Age and Bronze Age, 5000-1200 BC. Sir Bani Yas Island is the crown of a salt dome created by natural geological forces, millions of years ago.
Founder and ruler of the UAE, the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan in 1977 called for a transformation of the island in order to preserve the endangered wildlife of the Arab region. Species ranging from the Arabian Oryx, Somali Ostrich, hyenas, cheetahs, giraffes, deer and gazelles to dolphins and sea turtles inhabit this wildlife sanctuary. The Arabian Wildlife Park spanning over 4,100 hectares, extends over half of the island for the benefit of its fauna.
Sir Bani Yas was popularised amongst the Europeans back in the 16th Century for the scores of pearls found around the island. The pearl industry boomed to its peak in the 19th Century but was later abandoned in the 1930s-1940s.In order to immerse oneself in the exquisite historical background of Sir Bani Yas Island, a culture and history tour would be ideal for travellers looking for a glimpse of the local culture and experience true Arab hospitality.
Auburn Silver is a travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+
