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From390US$ /night
Check-in
23Dec2025Select date
Check-out
24Dec2025Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Al Ruwais, Zahr, United Arab Emirates
-
Near Sir Bani Yas Reserve
Great
8.1
9.3
/10
4.6
4.7
/5

Anantara Desert Islands Resort & Spa is a 5-star luxury resort located on Sir Bani Yas Island, offering lavish comfort, spectacular views, and access to a wildlife sanctuary. Highlights include an infinity pool, spa services, and multiple dining options.

Rooms & Amenities

Rooms at Anantara Desert Islands Resort & Spa feature private terraced balconies with sea views and direct access to the beach. Each villa includes a living area and amenities such as air conditioning, a mini-bar, a flat-screen TV, and a private splash pool.

Dining Options

Dining at the resort encompasses a range of options, including international cuisine at Al Shams, offering candle-lit dinners, alongside poolside Arab snacks and grilled seafood. Additionally, a lounge bar overlooks the sea for casual drinks.

Leisure & Activities

Leisure facilities include a wildlife reserve, an infinity pool, and a fitness center. The Anantara Spa offers treatments including sauna and hot tub access, while guests can partake in activities like archery and wildlife drives.

Services & Local Area

Anantara Desert Islands Resort & Spa includes a 24-hour front desk, a children's club, and a shop selling local fabrics and books. Sir Bani Yas Reserve is located 4 km from the property.

“Set beside a wildlife sanctuary, this resort on Sir Bani Yas Island places you in a tranquil world. Beachfront accommodations come with terraces and direct pool access. I think that the blend of Arabian design and sustainable practices here creates a unique sense of place.”
Hotel logo
Sophia TurnerEditorial Director at Spahotels
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Choose your room type

The hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Deluxe Room Sea View
2 persons
52 m² 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
Premier Sea View
2 persons
52 m² 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
Deluxe Garden Room
2 persons
52 m² 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
Anantara Suite
2 persons
80 m² 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
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Price and Room Availability

Check availability and prices for your dates now!

Facilities

The hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

General

  • Non-smoking rooms
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • VIP check-in/ -out
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • No pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • 24-hour security
  • Luggage storage
  • Locker room
  • Private beach
  • Lift
  • Currency exchange
  • ATM/Cash machine
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access
  • Key access

Sports & Fitness

  • Fitness centre
  • Snorkelling
  • Canoeing
  • Hiking
  • Horseback riding
  • Cycling
  • Tennis court
  • Badminton
  • Table tennis

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle
  • Dryer

Services

  • Paid airport shuttle
  • Room service
  • Housekeeping
  • Car hire
  • Laundry
  • Dry cleaning
  • Tours/Ticket assistance
  • Welcome drink
  • Happy hour

Dining

  • In-room breakfast
  • Restaurant
  • Poolside snack bar
  • Snack bar
  • Outdoor dining area
  • Dinner

Business

  • Business centre
  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots
  • Babysitting/Child services
  • Children's buffet
  • Board games
  • Children's pool
  • Children's play area
  • Kids club
  • Game room

Spa & Leisure

  • Infinity pool
  • Heated swimming pool
  • Beach access
  • Beach umbrellas
  • Sun loungers
  • Entertainment
  • Sun terrace
  • Garden area
  • Leisure/ TV room
  • Spa & wellness centre
  • Massage
  • Pool with view

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Mini-bar
  • Soundproofed rooms
  • Sitting area
  • Patio
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Dining table
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle
  • Dryer

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite

Anantara Desert Islands Resort & Spa offers a delightful selection of dining experiences, each with its own unique flair. From a family-friendly vibe with international flavors to authentic Middle Eastern cuisine, guests can indulge in culinary delights surrounded by the resort's serene beauty.
Anantara Desert Islands Resort & Spa Zahr Restaurant photo
Anantara Desert Islands Resort & Spa Zahr Restaurant photo

The Palm

International
Ambiance
Family-friendly atmosphere with serene garden views.
Key Offerings
A diverse menu that caters to various tastes, perfect for family meals or leisurely breakfasts.
Reservation
No
Open daily from 07:00 - 10:30 for breakfast.

Al Shams

Middle Eastern
Ambiance
A welcoming space that captures the essence of Middle Eastern hospitality.
Key Offerings
A rich selection of traditional dishes, perfect for lunch and dinner, making it ideal for indulging in authentic flavors.
Reservation
No
Open daily from 11:00 - 23:00.

Amwaj

Seafood, Grill/BBQ
Ambiance
Intimate setting that complements evening dining beneath the stars.
Key Offerings
Savor expertly grilled seafood and BBQ specialties in a charming atmosphere.
Reservation
Yes
Open Saturday from 18:30 - 22:30.

Location

Al Ruwais, Zahr, United Arab Emirates
Map view
Al Ruwais, Zahr, United Arab Emirates
Nearby
Spa Centre
Anantara Spa
40 m
Restaurants
Amwaj
450 m
Anantara Desert Islands Resort & Spa
Explore Zahr
Explore Sir Bani Yas Island
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Anantara Spa
15 minutes' walk
A serene retreat offering various treatments, a relaxation area, and wellness experiences, perfect for rejuvenation.
Sir Bani Yas Reserve
10 minutes' drive
A nature reserve home to diverse wildlife and opportunities for guided tours and safari experiences in a stunning environment.
Kayaking
10 minutes' drive
Enjoy kayaking in the crystal-clear waters, available for rent near the reserve. Perfect for both thrill-seekers and nature lovers.
Wellness Yoga
15 minutes' walk
Participate in calming yoga sessions offered at the resort's spa, focusing on relaxation and mindfulness amidst beautiful surroundings.
Amwaj
Amwaj
5 minutes' walk
A vibrant restaurant featuring international cuisine with local influences. Signature dishes include grilled seafood and vegetarian options.
Desert Island Beach Bar
10 minutes' drive
A lively bar on the beach offering live music, themed nights, and an ideal spot for cocktails at sunset with friends or family.

Getting around
City Centre
Zahr2 min  ·  100 m
Airports
Sir Bani Yas Island Airport (XSB)18 min  ·  11.9 km

Reviews and Ratings

Reviews from guests about their experience.
Guest reviews
5.0/10
based on 5 reviews
8.1
8.1/10 based on 229 reviews
Benjamin
United Kingdom, March  2025
8.0/10

We had a great family vacation at this resort with plenty of activities for everyone. The rooms were clean and had a stunning view of the sea, making our stay comfortable. The service was exceptional, and we appreciated the staff accommodating our needs. However, the safari experience felt somewhat artificial and could be improved by timing the tours when the animals are more active. All in all, the resort offered good value, but there were some aspects that could use enhancement.

Rooms
9.0
The room was clean and well-maintained, with a comfortable layout and a nice view of the sea.
Service
10.0
The service was incredible, with staff being exceptionally helpful and attentive to our dietary preferences.
Location
6.0
While the location was beautiful and peaceful, the overall feel had a bit of a work-in-progress vibe due to construction.
Dining
8.0
Dining was a highlight; the food was delicious with various cuisines, although some restaurants had limited options.
Facilities
7.0
The facilities, including the pool and beach, were pleasant and inviting, but could use more lounging spaces.
Joshua
United Kingdom, November  2024
6.6/10

I was excited for a relaxing getaway at this hotel, but it ended up being quite the opposite due to noise from families with children. The setting is beautiful, but the dining options felt quite limited for the price. The experience could be better with improved service and a more relaxing ambiance. The activities offered were engaging, but the high cost made me think twice about the overall value for money.

Rooms
7.0
The room we stayed in was spacious with a huge balcony, making it great for watching kids play outside. However, it did feel a bit dated and had some malfunctions with the toilet flush.
Service
6.0
While the reception staff were generally friendly, the wait staff at the restaurants seemed overworked, which took away from the overall experience.
Location
7.0
The hotel is situated on a beautiful island, and getting there via the boat ride feels like an adventure that helps you disconnect from city life. However, the beach area was quite limited in size.
Dining
7.0
The food was decent, especially at the beach BBQ dinner, but I was disappointed by the limited choices available even for full board guests. Breakfast offered a good selection though.
Facilities
6.0
The facilities included a nice pool with a lifeguard on duty, but I'd hoped for more options and larger spaces to enjoy various activities.
Bob
United Kingdom, October  2024
9.0/10

I had an incredible stay at the hotel, where the overall experience truly exceeded my expectations. The rooms were exquisite and offered a lot of space, while the warm and accommodating staff added a personal touch to our visit. However, the dining options were somewhat limited, and the family atmosphere at the pool could be quite noisy, which took away from the relaxation vibe we were seeking. Overall, it's great value for the unique experience it offers.

Rooms
10.0
The rooms were amazing and very spacious, with a lovely design that made our stay very comfortable.
Service
10.0
The service was above-and-beyond expectations; the staff was always friendly and helped us with everything from information about the island to transfers.
Location
10.0
The location is absolutely beautiful, perfect for observing the unique wildlife nearby.
Dining
7.0
While the food at Boma was delicious, I wished there were broader menu options for full board guests.
Facilities
8.0
The hotel facilities were great; however, the atmosphere around the pool area was often noisy.
Isaac
United Kingdom, October  2024
8.6/10

Our stay was absolutely enjoyable, offering a wonderful blend of nature and relaxation. The rooms were clean and provided the most comfortable beds, perfect for unwinding after a long day of activities. We appreciated the friendly and attentive service throughout the hotel. However, the dining experience was a bit on the pricey side, and some meals didn't quite meet the expectations for a fine dining establishment. Overall, this destination is fantastic for families looking to escape the hectic city life.

Rooms
9.0
The rooms were incredibly clean and the beds were the comfiest I've ever slept in.
Service
9.0
The staff were very friendly and helpful, providing excellent service during our stay.
Location
9.0
The location was superb, being on a secluded island that felt like a true getaway.
Dining
7.0
The dining experience was a bit pricey and could have had better options, especially for dinner.
Facilities
9.0
The pool and beach facilities were fantastic, contributing to a wonderful relaxation experience.
Comfortable beds
High dining prices
Elliot
United Kingdom, September  2024
8.0/10

Our stay on Sir Ban Yas Island was nothing short of magical! The hotel had a lovely, intimate feel that made it feel exclusive rather than overcrowded. The beach was stunning, and the activities offered were fantastic, including the wildlife safari which was a highlight. On the downside, the dining options were sometimes not as plentiful as one would expect for a five-star resort, and a few of our meals were disappointing in terms of taste. Overall, the experience was wonderful, and I can't wait to return!

Rooms
8.0
The rooms were spacious with an incredible sea view from the terrace. However, they felt a little outdated compared to another hotel we stayed at.
Service
9.0
Service was exceptional, with staff being ever so courteous, helpful, and attentive to our needs, though better communication about dining prices would have been appreciated.
Location
9.0
The location on the secluded island was beautiful and peaceful, providing a great escape from the city. Just keep in mind that transportation can take some time.
Dining
6.0
Dining could use some improvement as options were limited, and a couple of meals didn't meet our expectations.
Facilities
8.0
The facilities were great with a wonderful beach, infinity pool, and a variety of activities available, although some were affected by the heat.
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:59
Check-out
until 12 pm
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible at a location nearby for free.
Internet
is available in for free.
Breakfast
A american breakfast is served at affordable prices. 
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room.  There are no extra beds provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Languages
English, German, Italian, Romanian, Japanese, Greek, Arabic, Hindi, Bahasa Indonesian, Tagalog / Filipino, Vietnamese
Number of floors:
4
Number of rooms:
64
Former name
Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara
FAQs
About Anantara Desert Islands Resort & Spa
What is the check-in and check-out policy at Anantara Desert Islands Resort & Spa?
Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is by 12:00.
What dining options are available at Anantara Desert Islands Resort & Spa?
The resort features three dining establishments serving international, Middle Eastern, and halal cuisines.
What are the notable facilities at Anantara Desert Islands Resort & Spa?
Highlights include an infinity pool, on-site restaurants, a spa with sauna and hot tub, a children's club, and a fitness center.
Is there a private beach at Anantara Desert Islands Resort & Spa?
Yes, the hotel features a private beach and beachfront dining options.
How far is Anantara Desert Islands Resort & Spa from the nearest airport?
The hotel is approximately 16 km from Sir Bani Yas Island Airport.
What room amenities are available at Anantara Desert Islands Resort & Spa?
Rooms include air conditioning, flat-screen TV, minibar, and coffee/tea making facilities.
What recreational activities are offered at Anantara Desert Islands Resort & Spa?
Guests can enjoy tennis, kayaking, snorkeling, hiking, and cycling among other activities.
Is parking available at Anantara Desert Islands Resort & Spa?
Private parking is available nearby for free, and reservation is not needed.
Does Anantara Desert Islands Resort & Spa provide breakfast options?
Breakfast is available for an additional charge of 130 AED.
What age groups does the kids' club at Anantara Desert Islands Resort & Spa cater to?
The kids' club offers supervised activities for children.
What other services does Anantara Desert Islands Resort & Spa offer?
Other services include a business center, laundry services, and a 24-hour reception.

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Check-in
23Dec2025Select date
Check-out
24Dec2025Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room

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Anantara Desert Islands Resort & Spa Zahr Exterior photo

Anantara Desert Islands Resort & Spa

8.1
Great229 reviews
100 m from center
351 US$
390 US$
per night
Mobile-only price