The hype
Reviewers are obsessed with the peace, the wildlife, and the staff (especially the safari guides), but many feel the food is overpriced for the quality.
Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Yamm Villa Resort
$450-1000+/ night
Book this if You want a Maldivian-style castaway experience without leaving the UAE, complete with gazelles grazing by your private pool.
Why People Love It
- The 'Barasti' style villas feel authentic and blend perfectly into the nature reserve
- It's the quietest of the three island resorts, making it a haven for couples
- Free-roaming wildlife (oryx, gazelles, peacocks) right on your doorstep
Quick Take: It's a stunning nature escape, but be ready for a 3-hour drive, a boat ride, and prices that will make your wallet weep.
Reviewed by @flosessentia: I stayed in the Al Yamm Villa and it was unreal. Waking up and walking straight out to my own pool on the sand was the highlight of the trip. It's super private and quiet—perfect if you want to disconnect. The ocean view is literally endless.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The private pools are fantastic, but some 'Mangrove' view villas lack privacy and the 'Beach' villas are worth the upgrade.
- You crave silence and don't need a massive resort pool scene
- You are a nature lover who doesn't mind a few bugs for the sake of seeing giraffes
- You want a romantic, secluded villa with a private plunge pool
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.8
- Housekeeping: Generally excellent twice-daily service, though sometimes slow to respond to requests.
- Bathroom hygiene: Immaculate, with deep soaking tubs and rainfall showers.
- Maintenance: Good, but the harsh island environment means occasional wear on outdoor furniture.
- Linens & towels: High quality, plush, and plentiful.
- Odors & scents: Fresh sea air, occasionally interrupted by mangrove scents or 'nature' smells.
Sleepability™
9SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Waves crashing (if beachfront)
- Birds/Wildlife in the early morning
Before you book
Good to know
- The water taxi from Jebel Dhanna Jetty is free for guests but MUST be booked 24 hours in advance.
- You can use the facilities (pools, spa, restaurants) at the other two Anantara resorts on the island; free shuttles run constantly.
- The on-site gym is tiny; serious fitness buffs should take the shuttle to the Desert Islands Resort for the full gym.
What to pack
- Closed-toe shoes for the safari/nature walks (sandals won't cut it)
- Binoculars for spotting wildlife from your terrace
- A light jacket for the boat ride and breezy evenings, even in warmer months
Room Genie
Best picks
- One Bedroom Beach Pool Villa – The upgrade is essential for the direct ocean views and sunrise watching.
- Villas 20-30 tend to be quieter and have better unobstructed beach access.
Rooms to avoid
- Mangrove View Villas – Often lack privacy from the path and miss out on the stunning sea vistas.
- Villas near the main restaurant (Olio) if you are sensitive to cart traffic noise.
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am celebrating a special occasion and would love a One Bedroom Beach Pool Villa, ideally in the 20-30 block for maximum privacy and unobstructed sea views. Please ensure the pool heater is functional prior to arrival.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is it adults-only?
Not officially. Kids are allowed, but the resort is designed for couples. Families often prefer the Desert Islands Resort which has the kids' club.
How do I get there?
Drive ~3 hours from Abu Dhabi (or 4 from Dubai) to Jebel Dhanna Jetty, then take the 20-minute complimentary speed boat.
Is the food good?
It's decent but expensive. Olio (Italian) is on-site and solid. The Savannah Grill at Al Sahel (African steakhouse) is often rated higher.
Can I swim in the sea?
Yes, but it can be rocky. Bring water shoes. The water is generally clean and clear.
Are there hidden fees?
Yes. Besides the tourism fee (AED 10/night), watch out for the mandatory New Year's Eve Gala Dinner (AED 1,299/adult).
Is it all-inclusive?
No. You can book half-board or full-board packages, which is highly recommended given the high à la carte prices.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Book the 'Nature & Wildlife Drive' for the early morning (6:30 AM) – the animals are most active and it's cooler.
- ✨
If you want a change of scenery, take the shuttle to Al Sahel for lunch to see the savannah environment, then return to your beach villa.
- ✨
Ask for 'local filtered water' at restaurants to avoid paying premium prices for imported bottles.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'Mangrove' view villas can sometimes smell a bit swampy at low tide.
💡You might wake up to a peacock screaming on your patio.
💡The pool heaters can be temperamental – check yours immediately upon check-in.
💡Room service can take 45+ minutes because the kitchens are spread out across the island.
💡The drive to the jetty is long, boring, and dark at night – try to arrive during daylight.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Yamm Villa Resort is located and what's nearby.