The United Arab Emirates is globally famous for its spectacular skylines, world-class constructions, and high-end shopping malls.
Yet, beyond the Dubai skyscrapers and Abu Dhabi cultural monuments, there exists an undiscovered beauty — Dalma Island.
Located about 42 km off the coast of Abu Dhabi’s Al Dhafra region, Dalma Island is one of the oldest continuously inhabited islands in the Arabian Gulf.
It is not just a destination for serene beaches and nature; it’s also a living museum of Emirati heritage, with a history that stretches back thousands of years.
Here’s everything you should know-from its history to ferry timetables, prices, attractions, and insider secrets-to plan the holiday of a lifetime.
Historical Significance of Dalma Island
Dalma Island is not a tranquil sanctuary in isolation — it’s an adventure that introduces explorers to the true nature of Emirati existence.
Trenches from excavations show Dalma had residents as over 7,000 years ago, and it’s one of the oldest towns in the area.
1. Pearl Diving Heritage
The island was, for centuries, a hub of pearl diving. Relatives of generations employed the sea for sustenance.
Diving deep into the sea without the technology of today to haul up natural pearls to be sold throughout the world. This pearl trade put Dalma at the hub of trade for the Arabian Gulf.
2. Archaeological Finds
The archeological excavation revealed stone tools, ceramics, and remains of ancient dwelling places.
The artifacts affirm that Dalma was not just a pearl diving and fishing settlement but also an ancient settlement and trading post with an ancient agricultural sector.
3. Cultural Significance
Dalma is still a peaceful, traditional village today. To get there by car is to turn back the clock to UAE’s history before the era of oil riches turned the emirates into what we see today, a high-tech country.
Culture and history fans will love untarnished access to Emirati heritage that cannot be found anywhere else.
How to arrive on Dalma Island from Abu Dhabi?
The journey to Dalma Island is also part of the adventure. People can take a ferry boat across the Gulf or a domestic speed flight.
By Ferry
- The Dalma ferry takes off from Jebel Dhanna Port, close to Ruwais, 3-hour drive (250 km) west of Abu Dhabi city.
- After boarding the ferry, it takes around 90 minutes to 2 hours to reach the island.
Ferry Schedule
- Operates daily, with morning and afternoon services.
- Standard timetable:
- Morning service: 10:00 AM
- Afternoon service: 2:00 PM
- Dalma return boats also follow the same time tables.
- The timings will change according to the weather and season, and always best to book in advance with the Abu Dhabi Ports Authority.
Ferry Ticket Prices
- Passenger ticket: Approximately AED 20–40.
- Car ticket: AED 100–200 based on car size and model.
- Children below 5 years old usually travel for free.
How to Book Ferry Tickets?
- Bookings can also be done on the Abu Dhabi Ports website, or locally at ticketing offices, or the Jebel Dhanna terminal.
- Tickets get booked very quickly during holidays, and therefore early booking is strongly advised.
By Air
For the fast-travel-over-scenic-route crowd, Dalma Island actually has an airport.
- Flight Time: 40-45 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport.
- Carriers: Occasional Etihad Airways and local carrier flights.
- Airport Facilities: Small but functional with limited facilities such as seating, refreshment, and island town center transport.
Ticket Prices
- Ferry ticket: AED 20–40 (bargain).
- Flight ticket: AED 200–400 one way (faster, more convenient).
Dalma Island Ticket Sales Points
- Ferry tickets: Obtain from Jebel Dhanna Port counter offices or online from Abu Dhabi Ports booking system.
- Flight tickets: Obtain from websites of airlines, travel websites, or airport terminals.
Tip: In the case of road travel or during peak holiday periods, book your onward and return ticket in advance.
What are the Best Activities on Dalma Island?
Although it is a peaceful place, Dalma is anything but inactive for nature lovers, culture fans, and adventure sports enthusiasts.
Dalma Island Camping
- Campers enjoy camping at Dalma virgin beaches.
- The night sky is crystal clear and hence great place for stargazing.
- Don’t forget to carry your own tents, equipment, and camping accessories as rentals are limited.
Beach Relaxation
- Dalma beaches are untouched with blue water and white sand. Swim and have picnic with the family on the eastern beach, the favorite beach.
Fishing trips by local boat tour operators can be arranged. Pre-historic dhows will occasionally make short incursions, providing an idea of what life could have been like among islanders in the past.
Wildlife Watching
For birdwatchers and nature lovers, Dalma is a paradise, and migratory birds visit its mangrove cover.
What are the Places to Visit in Dalma Island?
There are a few places that you can visit in Dalma Island, and they are as follows;
1. Dalma Lake
- Freshwater lake, an island novelty.
- Ideal place for birdwatching and photography.
2. Dalma Island Museum
- Cultural treasure documenting pearl diving, Bedouin life, and excavations.
- The galleries are filled with pearl diving equipment, antiques, and black-and-white photographs.
3. Mangrove Forests
- Delma’s mangroves are biodiversitrons-filled and ideal for nature explorers.
- They can be trekked or walked through on guided tours.
4. Old Villages & Heritage Sites
- Some of the ancient coral stone houses remain, a glimpse of bygone buildings.
Dalma Island Hotels and Resorts
While not as commercially built as Abu Dhabi city, Dalma does have accommodation available:
- Dalma Hotel – The largest hotel on the island with up-to-date facilities, restaurants, and an acceptable distance from areas.
- Guesthouses – Family-run home-stay hotels, giving a taste of ordinary Emirati life.
- Resorts nearby (on the mainland close to Jebel Dhanna): Luxury resorts such as Danat Jebel Dhanna Resort offer 5-star amenities prior to or subsequent to your visit to the island.
What are the Weather Conditions and Best Time to Visit?
- Summer (June–September): Extremely hot, at times over 40°C, with very high humidity.
- Winter (November–March): Comfortable temperatures between 18°C to 28°C. The best time for outdoor activities.
- Spring & Autumn: Temperate but acceptable, suitable for seashore tourism.
- Best Time to Visit: November to March to enjoy good weather, beach outings, and cultural tours.
Travel Hints about Travelling to Dalma Island
- Pre-book: Pre-book ferry or flight tickets in advance.
- Essentials: Take cash with you, as there are no ATMs around. Take sunscreen, hats, and water for drinking.
- Local Manners: Wear conservative clothes and do not be inconsiderate of local tradition.
- Transportation: Buses and taxis but fewer — it would be more comfortable to have a rented vehicle.
- Medical Facilities: A general medicine on the island, a pharmacy, and a clinic, but it is always safe to have some basic medicines.
Reviews & Visitor Feedback
Overall, travelers would be more than happy to talk about Dalma Island as:
- Calm & Genuine: Serene refuge from busy mainland UAE.
- Abundant Heritage: Museum and pearl diving heritage is always welcome with history buffs.
- Nature in its Finest: Mangroves and beaches are usually the top attraction.
- Less Facilities: Luxury seekers can have less to pick from, but that’s the cost of its beauty.
A tourist put it best to comment: Dalma isn’t night life and luxury resorts — it’s about taking it easy, experiencing Emirati culture, and living off nature in its rawest form.“
Dalma Island: UAE’s Best Kept Secret
Dalma Island is the UAE’s best-kept secret — a historical, cultural, and natural island. It’s ideal for those looking for true character, peaceful beaches, and a hint of history” eleri.
From its archaeological remains dating back to the Stone Age to its pearl diving heritage, from the picturesque ferry ride to serene campsites, Dalma Island is an experience that’s light years away from the urban chaos of the UAE.
If you’re planning a trip, think of Dalma not just as a quick visit but as a chance to step back in time and discover the roots of Emirati culture.
