Anantara's New Villa Resort on Abu Dhabi's Sir Bani Yas Island

Anantara Al Sahel Villa Resort, Abu Dhabi

Bangkok-based Anantara has been on a hotel opening spree, with new properties in Mozambique, Phuket, and outside the ancient temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia. As we await the highly anticipated Doha resort—located on an island off the coast of Doha in the Arabian Gulf-- we have news of another new resort from the brand: Anantara Al Sahel Villa Resort. This is the third Anantara property on Sir Bani Yas Island, a protected island in Abu Dhabi that’s been set aside as a nature reserve called the Arabian Wildlife Park. Anantara is the exclusive hotel operator on the island, and now visitors can choose from a trio of different hotel experiences. (The two other resorts are Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara and Anantara Al Yamm Villa Resort.)

Anantara Al Sahel Villa Resort

For visitors seeking a thrilling “glamping” adventure, the Anantara Al Sahel Villa Resort has 30 rustic-chic villas located in the middle of the park, inhabited by 10,000 animals, including endangered species like Arabian oryx. The villas are designed with local materials, traditional furniture, and some have private plunge pools. Note that the resort was designed for couples, and only kids over aged 12 are welcomed.

You arrive by 4X4 land-cruiser, and the adventure doesn’t stop there. Activities include guided safari walks and drives to see the wildlife; kayaking through flamingo-dotted mangroves; flights by sea-plane; and snorkeling in the Arabian Gulf. Neary, the Sir Bani Yas Stables offers opportunities for horse-back riding. For more information, visit al-sahel.anantara.com

Anantara El Sahel resort, Abu Dhabi