Just 42 kilometers off the coast of Abu Dhabi, you’ll discover Delma Island, a one-of-a-kind archeological and historical repository that presents a unique allure for cultural tourists. Explore the wonders of the Abu Dhabi landscape from one of the fabulous Abu Dhabi beach hotels that dot this elegant coastline of the Gulf region, and the Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara provides a choice option for an Abu Dhabi resort to host your stay. Making up one of the emirate’s Desert Islands is Delma Island, which boasts an archeological history that spans almost 7,500 years. A survey carried out by the Abu Dhabi Islands Archaeological Survey revealed the remnants of an ancient cultural centre of nautical trade carried out between Arabia and Iraq. Travel descriptions dating back to the 17th centre have pinpointed the significance of Delma Island in the pearling industry, which lost its significance in the early twentieth century due to the emergence of artificially cultured pearls. In addition, Delma Island is also home to more than 200 natural water wells, which served as the emirate’s primary water supply until the 1950s. Fishing and farming are the primary industries that sustain the island’s 10,000-strong population, and a variety of African, European, and Asian crops are being cultivated here for local as well as international consumption. The island is easily accessible via a short flight from Abu Dhabi proper. Historical buffs will enjoy a visit to the island, as it contains some of the best preserved examples of early twentieth century architecture, which has largely been erased from the rest of the emirate.
Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and intends to visit them all someday.
