Thanks for the Yas Waterworld suggestion last week, Time Out. Talk about fun in the sun.
Well, we’ve got another unique Abu Dhabi experience for you this time. And you’ll need your swimsuit again.
Just what I’m looking for! Where are you taking me this week?
We’re going to board a jetty behind Emirates Palace and head over to Al Maya Island.
Another island? How many has Abu Dhabi got?
Loads! Al Maya is approximately six miles southwest of Abu Dhabi Island and you get there by taking a ten-minute boat trip. The ferry will set you back Dhs100 per person.
What’s on the island?
The short cruise to Al Maya is an adventure in itself, allowing you to take in the surrounding private islands of Abu Dhabi, the magnificent unspoiled beaches and the rich marine life of the UAE. Al Maya Island & Resort is the perfect getaway destination for residents and tourists in need of an escape from the bustling city and looking to enjoy a unique day trip within the capital. It has a hotel with one, two and three-bedroom packages, water sports, a restaurant, gorgeous beaches and an enormous pool.
I should swing by the hotel sometime then.
You’ll have to book in advance! There are only six tranquil and exclusive five-star chalet villas on offer. It’s very exclusive.
Sounds very relaxing.
Yes, except for Fridays…
What do you mean?
The island is famous for its Maya Fridays parties, which happen every week between 11am and 9pm. They are legendary.
I’ll keep that in mind. You mentioned water sports, too.
Indeed. You can have a go at wakeboarding, kite surfing, banana boat riding, kayaking, kneeboarding, parasailing, scuba diving and loads more.
That sounds like my kind of sun-soaked day out.
Just be sure to take your swimwear with you. You’re guaranteed to get wet.
www.almayauae.com.
Only on Al Maya Island
Maya Fridays parties
Al Maya Island’s Maya Fridays parties are an experience like no other in Abu Dhabi. They are some of the best pool and beach parties in the city, with top DJs on the decks each week.
The Dhs100 entrance fee for the jetty gets you in, and you have to be over 21 to attend. You can chill on the beach, dance in the pool, play volleyball or just soak up the sun.
It really is pretty amazing.
