UAE’s Saadiyat Island Named ‘Middle East’s Leading Beach Destination’

There’s no shortage of breathtaking beaches across the MENA region – from Egypt’s North Coast and Tunisia’s Djerba to Oman’s Salalah Beach and Jordan’s Dead Sea. Naturally, crowning just one of these coastal havens as the ‘Middle East’s Leading Beach Destination’ is by no means an easy feat. Thankfully, it’s up to The World Travel Awards, famed for acknowledging excellence in travel and tourism, and not us.

Announcing the winners for the Middle East in 2024, The World Travel Awards once again awarded Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Island the prestigious regional title, marking its 13th consecutive win.

With its pristine white sandy beaches, calming views of the azure waters, collection of five-star resorts and crave-inducing culinary establishments, it seems like Saadiyat Island really has earned the title. However, if that’s not enough to convince you of the winner’s credentials, here are some more.

A protected haven for wildlife and marine life, Saadiyat Island is also home to a Culture District, where you can explore creative spaces, roam around interactive exhibitions and partake in art classes at Manarat Al Saadiyat, or marvel at some of the world’s most iconic art at the Louvre Abu Dhabi.

Not only that, but Saadiyat Island has recently started to evolve into a wellness destination, with various world-class spas – such as SPA at Jumeirah Saadiyat Island and Iridium Spa at the St. Regis Saadiyat Island – and state-of-the-art  fitness facilities that would satisfy even the most agile of critics.

Nature, culture, fitness and wellness – whether you believe this win is well-deserved or you’re adamant that your local beach is far superior, you have to at least recognize that Saadiyat Island is doing its best to be the best.