The Al Lulu Island also known as Lulu Island is a man-made island four kilometers away from the city of Abu Dhabi. The ten square kilometers area is referred to as a man-made paradise. So, if you are looking to find a respite from the humdrums of city life, the Al Lulu Island is ever ready to welcome you with open arms. The scenic grandeur of the island is captivating; so, a family friendly day out is on the cards if you have planned a trip there.
The island is a long stretch from Abu Dhabi to the Zayed Port. The island is a fun place to set up a barbecue, have a sun massage and fun bath, taking part in various watersports and enjoy a hearty meal at the cafes and restaurants that sell lip smacking delicacies. The cabanas on the beach may fill out fast so it is best to reach the place and occupy your space. Photography and video shots are allowed on the island, so that there is a great scope to enhance your social media presence! However, the island is never too overcrowded and you have the longing always to go back a second time to this mesmeric haunt.
History
The 1050 acres of land where the Lulu Island is located now was thought to be made more fruitful to tourists by the authorities in 1988. The reclamation was completed in 1992. Al Lulu Island was a Disney Theme Park and a great craze to tourists. Later plans were made to turn this place into a tourist spot and measures were taken up by a real estate group. Finally in the year 2007, the Lulu Island was opened to the tourists and there was no looking back. It has always been a favourite tourist hub since then. It is one of the most sought-after destinations in Abu Dhabi.
Timings
- The Al Lulu Island opens at 8 am and closes at 8 pm.
Ticket Price
- The Al Lulu Island ticket price is AED 15 per head. It is free for children.
- Whereas the Lulu Island Tour in an open train costs DH 5 per person.
This ticket includes the fare of the trip to the island. It is an air-conditioned vessel that can take in 60 people. This boat sails from the Heritage Village, Abu Dhabi.
How to reach Al Lulu Island
You can reach the Al Lulu Island by boat once you come from Abu Dhabi. The boats charge a very reasonable fare and they are generally always available. Actually, the nearest airport to Lulu Island is Abu Dhabi. You may also take a bus from Abu Dhabi to Sultan Zayed Street and the journey is 59 minutes. There are quite a few stations close to the island called Khalifa Street, Hamdan Street (nearest bus stop to Lulu Island, five-minutes-walk) and of course, Sultan Zayed Street.
The buses that stop near Al Lulu Island are 54, 56,405, 32, 162, 155, 130 and 101.
Best Time to Visit
Summer months are not suitable for visiting the Al Lulu Island due to the scorching heat. Winter months are great as can enjoy all activities in the open, in the pleasant winter climate. Anytime of the day and evening is suitable
Things to do at Al Lulu Island
If you have never been on an island and yet have a craving to go there and spend a couple of days free from the hustle and bustle of a crowded city, Al Lulu Island is the best destination in Abu Dhabi.
- Riding a boat to the island is a marvellous option. Private boats are available.
- The water sports and activities are a great adrenaline rush for anyone seeking to undertake a thrill. You can jet ski in the waters. If you own a jet ski it is fine but there are many companies that rent them out.
- Since this is a great place to unwind why not set up barbecues here. The beach has areas where you can barbecue and hold a party.
- Swimming is a wonderful activity that you can enjoy. The beach provides you with the accessories you need.
- The place has many sports spaces, public beaches, freshwater lakes, marinas, botanical gardens and children play zones as well to entertain the kids.
- There is a train service that you can avail of for free. The train takes you around throughout the island.
- Simply enjoy a leisurely stroll on the front shore for three kilometres and the back shore for a stretch of four kilometres.
- You may rent a chalet on the beach although these are not properly maintained. You may look for some decent lodging place.
- The island has many cafes, restaurants and coffee shops where you can grab a bite.
- This place is a great one for a romantic holiday for couples.
- Tourists can take boats from the Emirates Heritage Village to the Lulu Island and they can see around in buses and trains.
- The Al Lulu Island has two fresh water lakes developed artificially with paddle boats for a captivating ride.
- The Lulu Island also offers horse and camel rides much to the thrill and enjoyment of the children.
Top Activities to try at Al Lulu Island
So how about a luxury yacht dinner cruise with friends and family, this winter holiday, at Al Lulu Island? The duration of the cruise is two hours. If you are looking forward to guided tours, here are a few options you can avail of.
A guided sightseeing tour from Abu Dhabi can take you 45 to 75 minutes and there is yet another guided tour that will take an hour. You get a chance to look at the Abu Dhabi skyline as you traverse the water on the yellow boat. It is a thrilling trip while you look at the architecture of Abu Dhabi and also a view of Lulu Island, Emirates Palace and the Corniche. Get to hear stories and facts from the Guide as you travel on the water.
Conclusion
Al Lulu Island is a man-made haven for a tourist looking to find solace amidst the beaches, parks, sanctuaries and favourite haunts on the island. It is not only the mesmerising natural beauty but also a touch of the friendly atmosphere, where you get to meet the local island people and enjoy a cordial tete a tete with them, enjoy some excellent Emirati cuisine or visit the local market or souk for a unique piece of jewellery or house décor item!
Lulu island is there to provide you with the peace and serenity you have been looking for and an opportunity to bask in the usual happiness in Nature.
