A luxury savannah retreat in the heart of nature.

Anantara Al Sahel Villa Resort offers just 30 secluded villas set within a lush savannah surrounded by free-roaming wildlife. With elegant thatched-roof villas, intimate privacy, and tailored five-star experiences, Al Sahel provides an authentic blend of safari-style adventure and Arabian luxury. Perfect for couples and families seeking meaningful connection with nature, it promises an unforgettable stay on one of the UAE’s most protected and biodiverse islands.

LOCATION:

• Distance from Abu Dhabi International Airport: ~250 km (approx. 3.5-hour drive + 20–30-minute boat ride from Jebel Dhanna Jetty)
• Setting: In the heart of the Arabian Wildlife Park on Sir Bani Yas Island, a conservation sanctuary home to over 15,000 free-roaming animals
• Surroundings: Set amid acacia trees, golden grasses, and gently sloping savannah terrain, with views of gazelles, oryx, cheetahs, giraffes, and flamingos
• Transfers: Complimentary water taxi from Jebel Dhanna Jetty; limousine transfers available upon request

ACCOMMODATION: All villas include outdoor rain showers, soaking bathtubs, high ceilings, and authentic African-inspired décor combined with modern Anantara amenities.

• Savannah Pool Villa (315 sqm): Each of our villas are standalone and surrounded by savannah, a true escape from the world. Slide open your bedroom doors to the great outdoors, and enjoy a fresh espresso by your plunge pool in the cool morning breeze. Inside your pool villa in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, unwinding takes the form of sinking into your copper bathtub and soaking the day’s adventures away.
• Wilderness Pool Villa (415 sqm): The Wilderness Pool Villa offers luxurious living both inside and out. Enjoy breakfast in your airy dining room before sunbathing by the pool. Escape the afternoon heat in the cool of your living room, your favourite movie on the big screen. As the stars come out, dine al fresco, surrounded by the sounds of the savannah, enjoying each and every moment in our villas in the west of Abu Dhabi.
• Anantara Two Bedroom Family Pool Villa (573 sqm): Spacious in design, the family pool villa has two bedrooms, each ensuite, that open onto a central living room. Spend quality time here together on the lookout for gazelle, as well as out on your sunny terrace where you can splash in the pool, play, and share meals to your heart’s content. No comfort is spared for your stay at the best family hotel in Abu Dhabi.

DINING EXPERIENCES:

• Savannah Grill & Lounge – The signature dining venue at Al Sahel offering African-inspired dishes including grilled meats, slow-cooked specialties, and curated African wines. Set under a rustic open-air structure overlooking the bushland.
• Dining by Design – A bespoke private dining experience with options to dine under the stars in the savannah, by your villa, or at secluded island spots, complete with a personal chef and butler.
• Access to Nearby Resort Dining: Guests of Al Sahel can also enjoy the restaurants at sister resorts.

- Olio (Italian-Mediterranean, at Al Yamm)

- Amwaj (Beach BBQ, at Desert Islands Resort)

- Al Shams (Poolside global cuisine & shisha lounge)

- In-Villa Dining – 24-hour à la carte room service, offering international and regional favourites delivered to your private terrace.

EXPERIENCES & ACTIVITIES:

• Nature & Wildlife Drives – Join guided 4x4 safaris through the Arabian Wildlife Park to encounter cheetahs, giraffes, gazelles, and rare Arabian oryx in their natural habitat.
• Kayaking & Snorkeling – Paddle through coastal mangroves or explore coral-rich waters teeming with marine life.
• Horse Riding – Ride Arabian horses through forested trails or along the coastline, guided by professional equestrians.
• Anantara Spa – Pamper yourself with signature therapies and massages at the spa cabanas, or access the full-service Anantara Spa at Desert Islands Resort.
• Cycling Trails & Archery – Explore the island on well-marked cycling paths or test your aim at the outdoor archery range.
• Cultural & Historical Tours – Discover 7,000 years of history with guided visits to archaeological sites, ancient Christian monasteries, and fossil-filled cliffs.