Sir Bani Yas Island Abu Dhabi - Arab Today Sir Bani Yas Island has been selected among the world's Top 40 Holiday Hotspots for 2014 in The Guardian, a leading UK newspaper, making it the only destination in the gulf to be featured on the list. The list was compiled by experienced travel writers for the newspaper. Sir Bani Yas has become a popular destination for discerning travellers featuring three five-star resorts, managed by Anantara, and a variety of nature-based and wildlife activities. The latest addition to the Island's offerings was Anantara Al Sahel Villa Resort, which was launched in December 2013. Anantara Al Sahel is located within the celebrated Arabian Wildlife Park, offering guests a luxury island-stay experience in any of its 30 villas that offer an incomparable glimpse of natural beauty up close. Furthermore, in summer 2013 another stunning 5 stars resort was revealed, the Anantara Al Yamm Villa Resort where guests may choose between a relaxing sea view or a view of the island's lush green mangroves - either of which are located just beyond their private villas. "We are pleased that Sir Bani Yas was selected as one of the must-visit destinations for 2014. This not only reflects the island's growing reputation for travellers searching for a location that offers a harmonious blend of luxury and a return to nature, but also Abu Dhabi's growing appeal as an international destination," said Wael Soueid Area General Manager Abu Dhabi. The island is also home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, including cheetahs, giraffes, ostriches and flamingos as well as the rare Arabian Oryx, one of the world's most endangered Oryx species. Guests on the island can view them up close during any of the activities offered on the island, whether the Arabian Wildlife Drive, horseback riding, kayaking, snorkelling, and more. Source: WAM