Zaya Nurai Island Resort Abu Dhabi - Review

I would like to recount one of the most memorable hotel experiences I have ever had. Collaborating with the Nurai Island Resort was a dream come true, beyond anything I could have imagined. The resort graciously hosted me for two days, creating an unforgettable experience.

The Nurai Island Resort, established in January 2015, is situated on an island opposite Abu Dhabi, offering a breathtaking view of Al Reem Island’s skyline in the distance. One of the striking features of Abu Dhabi is the captivating hue of its sea. The water shimmers in various shades of blue, culminating in a radiant turquoise, evoking a sense of being in the Maldives. The resort exclusively consists of villas, starting at approximately 700 euros per night.

Nurai Islad Resort, Abu Dhabi

To get to Nurai Island, you have to take a boat shuttle. This starts on Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi near the Saadiyat Beach Club. Very easy to find as described on the Nurai Island Resort website. Dates and drinks are still waiting for you in the departure lounge and you complete all the check-in formalities before boarding the speedboat. The drive to the island takes about 15 to 20 minutes.

On the island you are greeted by the staff in a friendly manner and I first went on a tour of the island in a buggy. While the check-in area is relatively unspectacular, the area in front of the outside check-in area is very nice. The library in particular is very successful and offers free drinks all the time.

The island is - although the resort is still very new - already quite green and spacious. The resort is perfect if you are looking for privacy. It also offers a large selection of villa types. It is also perfect, or maybe especially for families. There is a very nice **kids club. **The standard villas have their own pool and beach.

The Villa at Nurai Island

The villa is large and bright and has a central bedroom that flows into the bathroom on one side and the living room on the other. On the terrace there is a nice pool with a small fire pit in front of the beach. Here you can enjoy perfect tranquillity, which is one of the great advantages of the resort.

I could not stop admiring this room and the private pool. It all came with a private cabana, sun lounges, some other seating options, a private beach section, and a great view of the Persian Gulf. The beach was very beautiful: white and sandy – and quiet.

The room had a huge bathtub which I did not even use since I had my own private pool. I did not even get to sit on the couch to watch TV shows on Netflix – which I normally don’t enjoy doing. Instead sat on my bed outside, just enjoying the great view.

The best part of the stay was the sunset, I cannot believe I had the chance to live such a beautiful sunset. As you can see bellow, the scenery is just outstanding… your private villa with your private pool and enjoying those views…. there is no price for that.

Nurai Islad Resort, Abu Dhabi

The pools

There are 2 pool areas at Zaya Nurai private island that day guests can choose from – the one with the larger pool, 1 minute walk from the reception building, located to the right, and the ‘Smoking Pineapple’ which is accessible via buggy and located on the other side of the island.

The beach at Nurai Island

First, there is a beach directly at the villas. If that’s not enough, you can either go to the main pool (see below) or to the beach at the Smokin ’Pineapple Restaurant. It’s very loungy there and everything is very stylish. It starts with the pool, then all the cushions, the covered cabanas on the beach and the swings in the sea.t

Nurai Islad Resort, Abu Dhabi

Food and service

Nurai Island private island has various restaurants, but I wanted to try the fish one, which is called Hooked. And I have to tell you – it was not only gorgeous… it was delicious. You can pick your fresh fish and let them know how you’d like it cooked. I loved the Lebanese-inspired menu.

The Nurai Island Resort comes in first of all Abu Dhabi resorts for me. It offers fantastic villas, great pool areas and a lot of privacy. The city of Abu Dhabi can be seen and thanks to the good boat transfer you can get there relatively quickly. Nevertheless, it is very idyllic and quiet on the island.

Address: Nurai Island - Nourai Island - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates

Website: https://www.nuraiisland.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zayanuraiisland/

About Saadiyat Island

The boat transfer to Nurai leaves from Saadiyat Island, one of Abu Dhabi’s main leisure and cultural areas. It is well worth spending some time there before or after your stay:

Louvre Abu Dhabi: A landmark museum designed by Jean Nouvel, famous for its huge latticed dome that creates a “rain of light” inside.
Saadiyat Cultural District: An area developed around the Louvre, with further major museums planned or opening in phases.
Saadiyat Public Beach: A long stretch of white sand, known for its natural dunes.

Other Highlights in Abu Dhabi

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: One of the largest mosques in the world, with white marble, gold details and huge chandeliers. Visitors must follow a strict dress code.
Qasr Al Watan: The presidential palace, open to visitors, with impressive halls and exhibitions.
Yas Island: Home to Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World, Yas Waterworld and the Formula 1 circuit.

Best Time to Visit

The most pleasant time to visit Abu Dhabi is from November to March, when daytime temperatures are warm but comfortable. From June to September it is extremely hot and humid, with temperatures often above 40°C. Island resorts can still be enjoyable in summer, but outdoor activities are best planned for early morning and evening.

How to Get There

Airport: Zayed International Airport (AUH) is roughly 30-40 minutes by car from Saadiyat Island.
Boat transfer: The resort’s boat leaves from its own lounge on Saadiyat Island. Check the transfer schedule when you book.

Tips for Your Stay

Check current details before you go. Resort facilities, restaurant names and day-pass options can change.
Plan your meals. On a private island all dining is on-site, so it helps to look at restaurant options and reservations in advance.
Sun protection is essential, even in winter.
Respect local customs when visiting the mainland: dress modestly in public places and religious sites, and avoid public displays of affection.