Sir Bani Yas Island, the dedicated nature reserve that is being developed into a nature based touristic destination by the Abu Dhabi Tourism Development & Investment Company, has won the title of World’s Leading Sustainable Tourism Destination at the World Travel Awards.

The announcement took place during a special Grand Final Gala Ceremony at the CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa, in the presence of international tourism industry leaders, including senior officials of principal travel companies and tourist board chiefs.

The World Travel Awards is acknowledged around the world as one of the highest recognition for a travel product, celebrating excellence in the global and travel tourism industry.

His Excellency Ali Majed Al Mansoori, TDIC chairman, said: “We are very pleased and proud that Sir Bani Yas has won World’s Leading Sustainable Tourism Destination.

“This esteemed award re-affirms all of our efforts to maintain the Island’s ecological and conservation legacy even as we develop it into a globally-recongised touristic destination that offers luxurious and unique experiences for both visitors and guests.”

Views over the Sir Bani Yas Island nature reserve

An 87-square kilometre island located off the coast of Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas features three high-end resorts managed by Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas, the prominent Thai-hospitality group.

Guests can choose between staying at the Desert Islands Resort and Spa by Anantara, Anantara Sir Bani Yas Al Yamm Villa Resort and Anantara Sir Bani Yas Al Sahel Villa Resort.

Initially developed into a wildlife reserve by the late president of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Sir Bani Yas is now home to over free-roaming 13,000 animals and birds as a result of dedicated environmental and conservation efforts.

Guests can see the Island’s diverse wildlife by participating in various activities that take them around the 4,100 hectare Arabian wildlife park, such as nature and wildlife drives.

They can also enjoy a wide range of activities that include kayaking, land sailing, horseback riding and archery.

Those interested in visiting or staying on Sir Bani Yas can enjoy short direct flights from Abu Dhabi and Dubai or can avail of boat transfers from Jebel Dhanna in the Western Region.