Al Fahid Island

Tucked between mangroves and open water, Al Fahid Island is an eco escape just minutes from the city, with big plans for the future.

Abu Dhabi's next great island escape

Al Fahid Island in Abu Dhabi brings together the very best of the city’s coastal character. Mix the mangrove forests of neighbouring Jubail Island with Saadiyat’s unspoilt shorelines and Yas Island’s beach clubs and water sports, and you’ve got several standout reasons to visit Al Fahid Island. It’s also a sanctuary for birds and marine life, giving you a front-row seat to some of the most breathtaking views in the region.

Today, the island’s energy comes to life at Kite Beach and Fahid Beach Club by Barbossa, a vibey entertainment hub where DJs and daybeds seemingly sprout from the sand. Book a villa or beachfront bungalow to make the most of sun-soaked afternoons. Feeling a little warm? The things to do in Al Fahid out on the water include wakeboarding, waterskiing and kayaking experiences to help you cool right off.

Al Fahid Island might not be the emirate’s most well-known destination yet, but watch this space – this is just the beginning of its story. The island aims to redefine coastal living, with a master plan currently in motion to transform this natural wonder into a luxury waterfront attraction with high-end resorts, restaurants, parks, cycling tracks and contemporary, eco-conscious residences. For now, it’s a hidden gem; but it’s well on its way to being the crown jewel.

Coastal experiences on Al Fahid Island

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Where to stay near Al Fahid Island

Getting to Al Fahid Island

Al Fahid Island is easily accessible and connected to the mainland via Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Road (E12), which links major areas like Yas Island and Saadiyat Island. Because there is no direct bus route serving Al Fahid, visitors typically reach the island by private car, taxi or ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem – it's just 15 minutes from Yas Island and 25 minutes from Saadiyat.

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FAQs about Al Fahid Island

Al Fahid Island is located just off the coast of Abu Dhabi, between Saadiyat Island and Yas Island. It’s easily accessible via Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Road (E12), and is around 15 minutes from Yas, 25 minutes from Saadiyat and 20 minutes from Zayed International Airport by car.

Al Fahid Island is set to undergo a major transformation led by Aldar, with a world-class master plan that includes luxury waterfront resorts, boutique hotels, dining destinations, parks, walking and cycling paths, marinas, and eco-conscious residential communities. The island aims to become one of Abu Dhabi’s premier coastal destinations for leisure and living.

Yes, visitors can currently access parts of Al Fahid Island, especially during the cooler months when seasonal experiences like Fahid Beach Club by Barbossa are activated.

Water sports like kayaking, wakeboarding and waterskiing are also available to the public. However, development is ongoing, so some areas remain under construction.

At present, there are no permanent hotels or resorts operating on Al Fahid Island. However, several luxury accommodations are in the pipeline as part of the island's future development plans.

Until then, nearby Saadiyat Island and Yas Island offer a wide range of upscale hotels just a short drive away.