One of the Middle East’s largest and most beautiful natural islands, Saadiyat Island has already gained global recognition as a leading destination for tourism and culture since its transformation began in 2006. A flagship project of Abu Dhabi’s Tourism Development Investment Company (TDIC) and one of the emirates’ most ambitious developments to date, Saadiyat Island is envisaged as a centre for luxury experiences for visitors and residents alike. Located just 500m from the mainland, the island, which at 27 square kilometres is around half the size of Bermuda, boasts some 30km of waterfront and 19km of unspoiled white sandy beaches. The masterplan for its development includes six districts encompassing the best of culture, hospitality, leisure, retail, education and more.

Saadiyat Island is already home to golf courses, luxury resorts, restaurants, boutiques, marinas, pristine beaches, private villas and high-end apartments, with more to come. The development of the island has been mapped out according to an environmentally-sensitive philosophy. This not only meant enforcing a low-density master plan, but preserving indigenous wildlife, primarily the endangered Hawksbill Turtles that nest on Saadiyat’s sweeping beaches. The island’s original ‘guests’ are now well protected thanks to TDIC’s Hawksbill Turtle Conservation Programme, the only initiative of its kind in the Arabian Gulf.

On neighbouring islands such as Yas Island, guests can discover theme parks such as Yas Waterworld, Ferrari World, Warner Bros and Sea World. As well as Abu Dhabi's largest mall Yas Mall and the famous Yas Marina Circuit, home to the F1 Grand Prix

But perhaps Saadiyat Island’s most striking current and upcoming features are its architectural landmarks that span museums, a concert hall, art gallery and other major cultural centres. The UAE Pavilion hosts some of the UAE’s most important cultural functions including Abu Dhabi Art, and Manarat Al Saadiyat is an arts and culture centre housing exhibitions and collections from around the globe and not to mention the famous Louvre Abu Dhabi. The best is yet to come with two world-class museums set to open their doors soon – Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, and Zayed National Museum. Designed by globally-renowned architects, these museums are set for icon status and will establish Saadiyat Island as a cultural destination like no other.