Al Dhannah

Don’t think of Al Dhannah as a place you just pass through, because you’ll want to stay longer than planned.

Al Dhannah makes the detour more than worth it

Set along the coastline of the Al Dhafra region, 250 kilometers (155 miles) from Abu Dhabi, Al Dhannah lies off the well-trodden tourist trail. For many, Al Dhannah City is best known as the gateway to Dalma Island, with the Jabal Al Dhanna Harbour & Ferry Terminal serving as a key connection point for travellers heading offshore. But for those in the know, this coastal enclave isn’t the departure point – it’s the destination.

Al Dhannah may be small, but it’s incredibly well-equipped for waterfront recreation and wellness. Locals and visitors regularly head to the ADNOC Beach Club for family-friendly facilities like children’s play areas and designated barbecue sites. Health clubs, sports courts and fitness centres are part of the daily routine, offering dozens of fun ways to stay active.

When you simply want to unwind or explore, Al Dhannah Mall is the place to go for convenient shopping and dining, while the Al Dhannah Golf Club invites players to take on nine scenic holes overlooking the coast.

The standout stay in the area is the Danat Jebel Dhanna Resort, a five-star hotel right on Al Dhannah Beach where guests can spend their days kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, wakeboarding or even skimming across the surface on high-speed banana and donut boat rides just steps from their room. One thing’s for sure: there’s a lot more to Al Dhannah than meets the eye. Why not stay and explore?

Coastal experiences in Al Dhannah

ALL LOCATIONS

Where to stay in Al Dhannah

The most direct way to reach Al Dhannah is by car or taxi. The journey from Abu Dhabi city takes around 3.5 hours via the E11 highway, a smooth and well-maintained route that traces the coast through desert landscapes and smaller towns like Al Mirfa. 

For a comfortable and cost-effective option, travellers can take the X88 express bus, which departs regularly from Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station. This service stops directly at Al Dhannah ADNOC Bus Station, the town's main public transit hub – check out the schedule to plan your trip with precision.

Getting to Al Dhannah

The most direct way to reach Al Dhannah is by car or taxi. The journey from Abu Dhabi city takes around 3.5 hours via the E11 highway, a smooth and well-maintained route that traces the coast through desert landscapes and smaller towns like Al Mirfa. 

For a comfortable and cost-effective option, travellers can take the X88 express bus, which departs regularly from Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station. This service stops directly at Al Dhannah ADNOC Bus Station, the town's main public transit hub – check out the schedule to plan your trip with precision.

Travel inspiration

Back

FAQs about Al Dhannah

Al Dhannah Beach is located in Al Dhannah City, a coastal destination in the Al Dhafra region of Abu Dhabi.

The beach is popular for its family-friendly facilities and open spaces for swimming, picnicking and barbecuing.

There are plenty of things to do in Al Dhannah, especially for those who enjoy outdoor activities and a relaxed pace. Spend time at Al Dhannah Beach, enjoy shopping and casual dining at Al Dhannah Mall or play a round at the Al Dhannah Golf Club.

Wellness is also a big part of daily life here, with various health clubs and fitness facilities available. For a more active experience, guests at the Danat Jebel Dhanna Resort can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding and other water sports right from the hotel’s private beach.

Al Dhannah Mall is approximately 250 kilometres (about 155 miles) from Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi, which translates to a drive of roughly 2.5 to 3 hours.

The mall is centrally located within Al Dhannah City, making it easily accessible to residents and visitors staying nearby.