Special Weekend Offer Marks Launch Of Flights
A new air service takes off today (Thursday, January 15th) in the UAE with twice-weekly flights linking Abu Dhabi with Sir Bani Yas Island, phase one of the Desert Islands project in the emirate's Al Gharbia western region.
The service provided by private operator Empire Aviation on behalf of Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC), the master developer of Desert Islands project, will operate return flights every Thursday and Saturday to Sir Bani Yas Island with more flight soon to be announced. The service can also be chartered on demand as part of the accommodation package offered by Desert Islands Resort and Spa.
Operating two eight-seater Cessna Caravans, the flight to Sir Bani Yas Island - home to the Arabian Wildlife Park - will take approximately 50 minutes as opposed to a two and a half hour car journey from the UAE capital.
"This service is providing greater accessibility to Sir Bani Yas Island which is an incomparable destination and presents a face of Arabia many could never imagine," said Lee Tabler, CEO, TDIC.
And to mark the launch of the service, Desert Islands Resort & Spa, the boutique 64-room operated by the award-winning Anantara Hotels, Resorts and Spas, is offering a special weekend package for two. The package includes flights and two-nights stay including breakfast and island activities for AED4,600 per couple plus service charge. The offer is valid until March 31st.
The Desert Islands Resort and Spa, which opened only three months ago, signalled the launch of Sir Bani Yas Island onto the international tourism map. Guests at the distinctive, beachfront resort can enjoy a range of adventure activities. Outdoor activities include: 4x4 tours of the Arabian Wildlife Park, which has one of the world's largest herds of Arabian Oryx; kayaking through mangrove forests; snorkelling in the protected water,s which are rich in marine life; or hiking and mountain biking across the island's ancient salt domes.
Sir Bani Yas Island, a former Royal nature reserve, is an 87 square kilometre island just off Jebel Dhanna in Al Gharbia. Guests arriving by car are provided with boat crossing to the island. Sir Bani Yas Island is the first phase of TDIC's flagship Desert Islands destination, which comprises eight islands and an onshore gate.
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About Desert Islands
Desert Islands is an escape from the ordinary where nature, wildlife and heritage blend on eight natural Arabian islands offering visitors the chance to discover, explore and unwind. The nature-based destination redefines tourism in the Middle East with its multitude of experiences including an Arabian Wildlife Park, nature reserve, rich heritage, five-star hospitality and outdoor adventures.
Desert Islands lies alongside the coast of Jebel Dhanna, a 250 kilometre drive from Abu Dhabi City. The destination comprises Sir Bani Yas Island, Dalma Island and Discovery Islands. Desert Islands is easily accessible from Abu Dhabi city and the mainland via several transportation vehicles such as sea and air transport.
The master developer of Desert Islands - Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC) - is an independent company of which Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority is the sole shareholder.
Sir Bani Yas Island
a nature-based sanctuary was originally developed as a private wildlife reserve by His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the late UAE President and Ruler of Abu Dhabi. Sir Bani Yas Island is being developed with a focus on nature and adventure, and is home to more than 23 species of free-roaming animals, including one of the world's largest herds of endangered Arabian Oryx.
Dalma Island - the cultural jewel of Desert Islands is a true symbol of UAE heritage mirroring an authentic Arabian lifestyle in a genuine environment. Currently 5,000 UAE nationals live on the island. The Desert Islands Education Centre (DIEC) provides Dalma's residents vocational education aimed at advancing career opportunities in the Islands' emerging tourism expansion.
Discovery Islands - an exclusive and luxurious retreat nestled on six natural islands, is home to a vibrant marine life and untouched animal habitats. Two islands will be developed into exclusive boutique resorts, while two others will offer camping experiences on untouched desert islands. The remaining islands harbour undisturbed breeding grounds for birds and turtles.
For more information, please contact:
George Chakar
Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC)
Tel: + 971 2 4061751
Email: gchakar@tdic.ae
Ismail Al Ghussein
TBWA/RAAD/PR Middle East
An exclusive Ketchum affiliate
T. +971 4 425 8800
Email: Ismail.alghussein@tbwaraad.com
© Press Release 2009
