Another fabulous day excursion is to the Wildlife reserve of Sir Bani Yas Island, where indigenous wildlife like the gazelles and endangered Arabian Oryx roam free alongside giraffes, ostrich and leopards, over 17,000 free-roaming animals.  You will also learn about turtle conservation, among other local traditions. Step up on the park’s purpose-built viewing platforms, made entirely from recycled materials, to get up close and personal (at eye-level) with the giraffes; visit the island’s state-of-the-art stables for a variety of equestrian activities and guests of the boutique Desert Islands Resort and Spa by Anantara can enjoy 4x4 nature drives, accompanied by expert guides.