Al Yasat Island

Isolated and undeveloped, Al Yasat Island plays a critical role in safeguarding Abu Dhabi’s western marine ecosystems and native species.

Remote waters, rare encounters

Tucked into the far western reaches of Abu Dhabi’s coastline, Al Yasat Island is a remote archipelago made up of two main islands, Higher Yasat and Lower Yasat – both part of the ecologically significant Al Yasat Marine Protected Area. This conservation zone in the Al Dhafra region spans both land and sea, safeguarding delicate coral reefs and a rich variety of fish and marine mammals like Indian Ocean humpback dolphins and endangered dugongs.

While the island itself is inaccessible to visitors to protect its fragile habitats and nesting grounds, the surrounding marine protected area is open to those exploring by sea. Private boats and yachts can moor at approved buoys just off the island’s shore for a front-row seat to this untouched stretch of the UAE’s waters and its important coastal ecosystems.

From the water, carefully regulated activities like snorkelling, scuba diving and line-and-rod fishing are permitted in designated zones. In fact, Al Yasat diving sites have earned a reputation among seasoned divers for their clear waters and abundant marine life, making it one of the best-kept secrets in the region. This is a precious window into a protected world beneath the surface – are you ready to dive in and see it for yourself?

Al Yasat Island map

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Where to stay

While Al Yasat Island itself doesn’t offer accommodation, you’ll find several places to stay in the Corniche and Al Bateen, two popular waterfront areas in Abu Dhabi City. From either of these bases, you can explore the city's top sights and take a private charter to Al Yasat with one of the many operators in the area.

Accommodation options in these neighbourhoods are abundant, ranging from budget-friendly hotels to five-star resorts. Le Royal Méridien and Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche are ideal bases for a luxurious escape, while the Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi in Al Bateen offers equally lavish hotel accommodation as well as fully furnished residences for longer stays.

Getting to Al Yasat

Located near the UAE’s maritime border with Saudi Arabia, Al Yasat Island lies deep in the western reaches of Abu Dhabi’s coastline, around 210 kilometres from the city centre. As part of the Al Yasat Marine Protected Area, the island itself is closed to visitors to safeguard sensitive habitats, but the surrounding waters are accessible by private vessel for permitted activities.

Most journeys to Al Yasat begin from marinas in Al Bateen or the Corniche, where licensed yacht charters and private boat operators can arrange the long-range voyage. The trip typically takes 4 to 5 hours by sea.

While landing on the island is not allowed, the surrounding marine zone is open for eco-friendly activities like snorkelling and scuba diving, provided you have the necessary permits (organised through your charter company) and use designated mooring buoys within the reserve. It’s a longer journey than most, but for those interested in marine conservation and underwater exploration, Al Yasat Island is among the UAE’s best destinations.

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FAQs about Al Yasat Island

The Al Yasat Islands are located in the far western waters of Abu Dhabi, near the maritime border with Saudi Arabia. The archipelago includes Higher Yasat and Lower Yasat, both of which are part of the Al Yasat Marine Protected Area.

While the islands themselves are off-limits to protect fragile habitats, the surrounding Al Yasat Marine Protected Area is open for low-impact sea activities. Visitors with the necessary permits can enjoy Al Yasat diving sites, snorkelling and line-and-rod fishing in designated zones.

Yes, the Al Yasat Islands Abu Dhabi are fully protected under the UAE’s marine conservation framework. They form part of the Al Yasat Marine Protected Area, which enforces strict regulations to safeguard coral reefs, marine mammals and native fish populations. Access is limited, and all activities must comply with conservation guidelines to preserve the natural environment.

Yes, the Al Yasat Islands Abu Dhabi are fully protected under the UAE’s marine conservation framework. They form part of the Al Yasat Marine Protected Area, which enforces strict regulations to safeguard coral reefs, marine mammals and native fish populations. Access is limited, and all activities must comply with conservation guidelines to preserve the natural environment.