Where the desert meets the sea’, Al Gharbia makes up over two thirds of Abu Dhabi emirate. Along its hundreds of kilometres of coastline are stunning beaches and islands, which are gradually being developed for visitors.
Al Gharbia is home to Liwa, a historic oasis town that sits at the entry to the Rub Al Khali (Empty Quarter) - the world’s largest sand desert. Prepare for the UAE’s most adventurous off-road driving and some of its most incredible scenery.
Don’t miss Al Gharbia’s annual heritage festivals
Al Gharbia Watersports Festival
A 10-day family festival held on the stunning Al Mirfa coastline, 120 kms from Abu Dhabi city. The festival gathers together champions from across the globe and enthusiasts keen to take part in adrenaline-inducing competitions such as kite-boarding, wake-boarding and surf-ski kayaking.
Liwa Date Festival
An incredible way for non-locals to experience Emirati culture up close is the July Liwa Date Festival which promotes and celebrates the symbolic and historic role that the date palm plays in Emirati life. The festival revolves around the date competition, in which Emirati farms vie for the title of best date grower. Prizes are given away for the top dates in each category and there is a live date auction where some dates sell for over AED 6000 (US$ 1650) per kilo.
www.algharbiafestivals.ae
Al Dhafra Camel Festival
Featuring nearly 24,000 camels and attracting several thousand spectators every December, this is one of the world’s largest desert heritage events. Camel breeders come from throughout the region to compete in this massive camel beauty pageant that celebrates local culture. The event takes place on a huge, barren plain that transforms into a lively city of tents, four-wheel drives, handicraft shops and, of course, camels.
Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara
On the former Royal nature reserve of Sir Bani Yas Island this boutique property boasts luxurious rooms and full access to the Arabian Wildlife Park, which is home to several thousand free-roaming animals and birds. A secluded adventure getaway, the hotel offers a range of activities, including 4WD safaris, hiking, snorkelling, mountain biking, archery and kayaking through mangroves. A two and a half hours’ drive from Abu Dhabi city, the resort can also be reached by a scheduled sea plane service from Abu Dhabi International Airport.
www.Desertislands.anantara.com
Arabian Wildlife Park
On Sir Bani Yas Island, 240 kilometres west of Abu Dhabi, lies the Arabian Wildlife Park, which is home to more than 10,000 free roaming animals, and takes up approximately half of the island. There are many Arabian Oryx, gazelles and giraffes, along with the newest arrivals, hyenas and cheetahs. Guests at the boutique Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara can take 4x4 Nature & Wildlife Drives of the park in specially made vehicles accompanied by expert island staff.
Archeological Site on Sir Bani Yas Island
Open to the public, this is the UAE's only discovered Christian monastery. Believed to have been built around 600 AD, it was initially discovered on the island during excavations in 1992. Almost two decades since its discovery, and more than a thousand years since it was built, the public can visit the site and experience another piece of the rich tapestry that makes up the UAE's fascinating history. A new phase of work is currently underway by archaeologists, and treasures are still being unearthed, making the site a significant focal point for history enthusiasts worldwide.
Sir Bani Yas Island, Jebel Dhanna
+971 2 406 1400
A luxurious retreat set amid Liwa’s imposing desert landscape in the Empty Quarter, with contemporary Arabian-style rooms, inviting swimming pools, and dining options. The resort boosts a range of leisure activities as well such as archery, camel trekking, and desert walk.