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Dalma Island Overview

Dalma Island, one of the earliest human settlements in the United Arab Emirates, was a significant pearl trading port. It served as a source of water supply to Abu Dhabi in the early 20th century and is now a thriving fishing village. An attraction for history enthusiasts, this beautiful island is known for its distinctive architecture, the mansion of a well-known pearl merchant, and the ceramics discovered during the restoration work of an ancient mosque.

Delma/Dalma Island, located nearly 26 miles from Abu Dhabi, is one of the United Arab Emirates' earliest settlements. It is a relic of the history of the United Arab Emirates and is well-known as a pearl trading center and archeological site.

With a history dating back 7,000 years, it was one of the world's oldest pearl trading centers. During various excavations, stone tools, beads, shells, and pieces of Ubaid pottery have all been discovered here, making it a particularly noteworthy historical attraction of the UAE. It's also a popular spot in Abu Dhabi for fishing, camping, and snorkeling.

Al Muhannadi Mosque, Al Dawsari Mosque, Al Muraykhi Mosque, and Al Muraykhi House are popular historical attractions that draw history and architecture enthusiasts to this beautiful island. The Delma Museum, housed in the fortified home of Muhammad Bin Jasim Al Muraykhi, houses a rare collection displaying the island's rich history and culture. The majority of the buildings on Dalma Island are century-old and reflect Emirati culture and architecture.

There is a small motel on the Island where visitors can stay. It is easily accessible by ferry and air travel. It is a two-hour scenic ferry ride from the Jebel Dhanna. Except for Friday, non-scheduled flights from Abu Dhabi International Airport to Dalma Island operate six days a week.

Boasting a rich history, Dalma Island is a beautiful paradise for those seeking peace and tranquility among nature's bounty.

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Highlights

• Delma Island has a history dating back 7,000 years, making it one of the UAE's earliest sites of human habitation.
• It was an important pearl-diving center, farming site, and fishing village.
• It carries a significant historical significance due to the discovery of over 20 archeological sites.
• The modern-day Delma Island has buildings dating from the 19th and 20th centuries, including an ancient house and three mosques.
• The Bait Al Muraykhi, the home of renowned pearl merchant Muhammad bin Jasim Al Muraykhi, now houses the Delma Museum.
• The three historic mosques on Delma Island are beautiful examples of ancient Emirati architecture, displaying a high level of craftsmanship. They now served as prayer centers for the island's residents.
• Visitors come here to learn about the area's rich past and participate in recreational activities such as snorkeling and overnight camping.
• The island's extensive fruit and vegetable orchards make it a green oasis for visitors.

How To Reach

  1. By Water: One way to get to the island is via ferry, which is big enough to take passengers and their vehicles like two and four wheelers. This 2-hour journey is itself a memorable experience.
  2. By Air: It is possible to fly to Dalma Island from Abu Dhabi International Airport six days a week, excluding Friday via non-scheduled flights.

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Best Time To Visit

The months of November through March are the best times for visiting Dalma Island (winter). Dalma's year-round climate is hot, but during this time of year, the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities such as sightseeing, beach and water sports, camping, etc.

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Other Essential Information

Tips to Visit:



  1. If you're visiting in the winter, carry a light jacket or sweater.
  2. Don't forget sunscreen, a scarf, a hat, and other sun-protection gear.
  3. Stay hydrated at all times and try local dishes.
  4. Maintain religious etiquette, such as dressing appropriately and observing the rules of conduct while going to holy sites.

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Point of Interest for Dalma Island
Al Muraikhi House
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Al Muraikhi House

One of the most significant historical sites on this charming Delma Island is the fortress-like mansion of pearl trader Muhammad bin Jasim Al Muraykhi. Its centuries-old architecture exudes old-world charm, attracting visitors and locals alike.

This location is culturally significant because it served as a trading hub for sailors and local merchants. It now houses the Delma Museum, showcasing a large collection of artifacts and pottery pieces discovered during the excavations.

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Mosques
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Mosques

Dalma Island is home to three historic mosques:

  1. Al Muraykhi Mosque: The pearl merchant Muhammad bin Jasim Al Muraykhi constructed this mosque in the late 19th century. It was made of coral and beach stone and plastered in gypsum.
  2. Al Muhannadi Mosque: Built by Saeed Ali Al Muhannadi in 1946, it is the only mosque with a Mihrab and a Minbar. 
  3. Al Dawsari Mosque: Rashid bin Fahd Al Dossari built this mosque in 1931. The prayer hall of the mosque has a flat roof made of mangrove poles, palm matting, and gypsum plaster.

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Fishing Village
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Fishing Village

Delma Island has a plentiful supply of fresh water and fertile land. Many of the locals are fishermen who work on the island's farms. The historic excavations reveal pieces of evidence of date palm cultivation as well as Mesopotamian pottery.

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Supermarkets on Delma Island
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Supermarkets on Delma Island

Dalma Island has a plethora of small shops and supermarkets. Delma Flower Grocery, Delma Cooperative Supermarket, Hamad Supermarket, and many other small stores are available to residSkylineents for grocery and other utility shopping.

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Restaurants on Delma Island
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Restaurants on Delma Island

Dalma Island is home to a number of restaurants, including Jasem Juma Ali Al Tamim Restaurant, Muhurat Kitchen, Amazon Burger, and many others. Guests can enjoy a variety of dishes ranging from traditional Emirati fare to international fare while being greeted with warm and welcoming Arab hospitality.

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Dalma Island Beach
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Dalma Island Beach

Dalma beaches are ideal for taking a dip in the clear water or simply admiring the natural beauty of the area. You can go fishing, take a small boat trip, or go on a relaxing cruise to catch the golden rays of the setting sun. You can also engage in recreational activities such as snorkeling or scuba diving.

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Camping
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Camping

Camping is one of the most popular recreational activities on Delma Island. Delma Beach is a popular spot for overnight camping in the midst of golden sand and sparkling clear waters. Visitors love to visit the island in the winter to enjoy the stunning beauty of the island while camping overnight.

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