Nurai Island

While Nurai Island is set apart from the mainland, it is closely linked to some of Abu Dhabi’s most prestigious neighbourhoods and leisure destinations. The main access point is Saadiyat Island, which itself is a hub for culture, luxury living, and recreation. Other key areas are within easy reach by car from the Saadiyat Island Welcome Centre.

• Saadiyat Island – 10 minutes by boat

• Yas Island – 17 minutes by car from Saadiyat Island

• Al Reem Island – 20 minutes by car from Saadiyat Island

Nurai Island is surrounded by some of Abu Dhabi’s most iconic attractions, making it an ideal base for exploring the city’s cultural and entertainment highlights. The island itself is a destination, but nearby areas offer even more to discover.

• Jubail Mangrove Park

• Manarat Al Saadiyat

• Louvre Abu Dhabi

• Saadiyat Beach Golf Club

• Yas Marina Circuit

The only way to reach Nurai Island is by boat, with private speedboats and scheduled ferry services operating from the Saadiyat Island Welcome Center, just a short drive from central Abu Dhabi. The scenic ride takes about 15 minutes, and many resorts arrange transfers directly for their guests. In addition, visitors can use the island’s helipads for quick travel to the Abu Dhabi mainland or nearby islands, offering a faster and more exclusive option.

Nurai Island is packed with memorable experiences and iconic spots, from its luxury resort to its vibrant dining venues and wellness facilities.

• Zaya Nurai Island Resort

• Smokin’ Pineapple Beach Club

• Children Playground

• Hooked Seafood Restaurant

There are no shopping malls on Nurai Island itself, as the island is dedicated to resort living and leisure. However, residents and guests can access several major malls on the Abu Dhabi mainland and Saadiyat Island, just a short boat and car ride away.

• The Galleria Al Maryah Island

• Abu Dhabi Mall

• Yas Mall

Dining on Nurai Island is a highlight, with a range of upscale restaurants and casual beachside cafes offering global flavours and fresh, local ingredients. The island’s venues are known for their stunning sea views and relaxed, elegant settings.

• Frangipani

• Hooked

• Dusk Lounge

• Smokin’ Pineapple

The main accommodation on Nurai Island is the Zaya Nurai Island Resort, which offers a selection of private villas and suites for short and long stays. The resort caters to couples, families, and groups, with options ranging from beachfront villas to overwater retreats.

• Zaya Nurai Island Resort (5-star)

• Private Villa Rentals

• Boutique Guest Suites

Nurai Island is designed for active living, with a well-equipped gym, yoga studios in Nurai Island Resort and a wide range of outdoor activities. Residents and guests can enjoy water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing, and snorkeling, as well as tennis courts, cycling paths, and jogging trails. The island’s spa and wellness centre offers holistic treatments and fitness classes, making it easy to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

The entire island is surrounded by pristine beaches, with soft white sand and clear blue waters. Each villa has direct beach access, and there are several public and private beach areas for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The beaches are well maintained, with attentive service and a peaceful atmosphere, making them ideal for relaxation and family fun.

Nurai Island is a tourist destination and best suited for those who value privacy, luxury, and a close connection to nature during their vacation. It appeals to couples seeking a romantic retreat, families looking for a safe and exclusive environment, and expats or retirees who want a unique holiday experience away from the city’s crowds. The island’s limited number of residences ensures a sense of community while maintaining personal space and tranquillity during one’s stay on the Island.

There are no schools or nurseries on Nurai Island itself, as the island is primarily a resort and residential retreat. However, several prestigious international schools and nurseries are located nearby on Saadiyat Island and the Abu Dhabi mainland, offering a range of curricula and education levels.

Schools near Nurai Island, Abu Dhabi

• Cranleigh Abu Dhabi - Saadiyat Island

• Théodore Monod International French School - Saadiyat Island

Nurseries near Nurai Island, Abu Dhabi

• Cranleigh Pre-Prep School - Saadiyat Island

• Odyssey Nursery - Saadiyat Island

Nurai Island does not have a hospital, but residents and guests have access to on-call medical services and first aid facilities as part of the resort’s amenities. For more comprehensive healthcare, several top hospitals and clinics are located within a short drive on Saadiyat Island and in central Abu Dhabi.

• Burjeel by the Beach Clinic - Saadiyat Island

• HealthPlus Family Clinic - Saadiyat Island

• Tamara Polyclinics - Saadiyat Island

There are no large supermarkets on Nurai Island, but the resort provides a convenience store for basic groceries and essentials. For a wider selection, residents and guests can shop at major supermarkets on Saadiyat Island and the Abu Dhabi mainland.

• Lulu Express - Saadiyat Island

• Delice Supermarket - Saadiyat Island

Nurai Island does not have dedicated places of worship, but nearby Saadiyat Island and Abu Dhabi city offer a variety of mosques, churches, and temples to serve the spiritual needs of residents and visitors.

Mosques near Nurai Island, Abu Dhabi

• Sheikh Saeed bin Zayed Al Nahyan Mosque - Saadiyat Island

Church near Nurai Island, Abu Dhabi

• St. Francis Church - Saadiyat Island

Beauty and wellness services are available at the island’s resort spa and salon, offering hair, nail, and skincare treatments in a luxurious setting. Further facilities, catering to both men and women, with personalised services and premium products can be found on Saadiyat Island.

• Twinkle Beauty Spa - Saadiyat Island

• Tips and Toes Saadiyat