Sila

Set along Al Dhafra's old trade routes, Sila is a living ode to traditional life in Abu Dhabi.

The home of maritime heritage

Tucked into the western edge of the Al Dhafra region, Sila is a coastal community shaped by its connection to the sea. The Sila Community Harbour serves as its hub, with traditional dhows and modern fishing vessels moored side by side. Sila’s rich fishing traditions and warm community spirit give visitors a slower, more peaceful slice of Abu Dhabi life, where the region's maritime heritage is still perfectly preserved.

This spirit comes to life each year at the Al Sila Marine Festival, a multi-day celebration of boat races, fishing contests, falconry championships and traditional Emirati games and folk art performances. At the bustling heritage market, local families share handmade crafts and time-honoured recipes.

Beyond festival season, Sila offers an inviting coastal retreat. Al Sila Beach is the ideal setting for relaxing activities like kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and snorkelling, and you’ll likely see locals reeling in big catches along the shoreline's popular fishing spots.

The Abu Dhabi of today is known for modern marvels, but Sila goes back to its authentic roots. Why not swap the skyline for open skies, and experience the magic of the past for yourself?

Coastal experiences in Sila

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Where to stay near Sila

At around four hours from central Abu Dhabi, Sila is a little too remote for a day trip, which is why many visitors opt to stay somewhere closer. One of the most convenient bases is the Danat Jebel Dhanna Resort, a beachfront property just over an hour’s drive from Sila.

It’s ideally positioned for exploring the western coastline and also sits just a short boat ride from Sir Bani Yas Island, home to the Arabian Wildlife Park. Many travellers choose to combine both destinations for a well-rounded coastal escape that blends heritage, nature and relaxation.

Getting to Sila

Located in the far western region of the emirate near the Saudi border, Sila is a relatively remote coastal town known for its rich maritime heritage and proximity to the UAE’s edge. It might be far from the bustle of central Abu Dhabi, but reaching Sila is straightforward with the right transport.

The most direct way to travel is by car or taxi: Sila lies approximately 350 kilometres west of Abu Dhabi city, and the journey takes about 3.5 to 4 hours via the E11 highway. The route is smooth and well-signposted, passing through desert landscapes and small towns.

Given its distance from the city, ride-hailing services like Careem or Uber may not cover Al Sila, but taxis can be arranged in advance for long-distance trips. If you're planning a visit, especially to explore the surrounding natural reserves or beaches, consider hiring a car for flexibility and ease of movement once you arrive.

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FAQs about Sila

Sila is located in the Al Dhafra Region, on the far western edge of Abu Dhabi, near the border with Saudi Arabia. It’s one of the UAE’s westernmost coastal towns, overlooking the Arabian Gulf.

Sila is known for its deep-rooted maritime heritage and quiet coastal charm. It hosts the Al Sila Marine Festival, a five-day celebration of Emirati sea culture, featuring dhow races, fishing contests, traditional games and local crafts. The town is also known for its fishing spots and community harbour.

Yes, Sila has several public beaches that are open to visitors, including a Ladies Beach. The area’s shoreline is peaceful and uncrowded, ideal for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, snorkelling or simply relaxing by the water.

Because Sila is about four hours by car from central Abu Dhabi, it’s not ideal for a day trip. However, it’s well worth visiting as part of a longer stay in the Al Dhafra Region. Many travellers choose to base themselves at the nearby Danat Jebel Dhanna Resort, which is just over an hour from Sila and also provides access to Sir Bani Yas Island.