Al Lulu Island Abu Dhabi: Is It Open? History, Access & Future Plans
Al Lulu Island is the long man-made island you see from the Abu Dhabi Corniche. Many older guides still describe ferries, tickets and camel rides there, but that information is years out of date. This guide explains whether you can visit Al Lulu Island today, its history and what is planned next.
In short: there is no regular public access to the island right now, and a major redevelopment has been confirmed for the coming years.
Is Al Lulu Island Open to the Public?
No regular public access is available at the moment. The public ferry to Al Lulu Island stopped in January 2009, and the island can only be reached by boat. It opened to daily visitors for a while in 2023 during the Public Art Abu Dhabi exhibition, but there is no regular ferry, ticket or opening timetable today.
In August 2026, The National reported that boats are now carrying construction workers to the island as redevelopment gets under way. Do not try to land on the island without permission, and check Visit Abu Dhabi for any future public access.
Where Is Al Lulu Island?
Al Lulu Island lies just off the Abu Dhabi Corniche and stretches from the Breakwater area to Zayed Port (Mina Zayed). It covers about 4.2 sq km (around 1,050 acres) and was built from reclaimed sand.
Al Lulu Island History
| Year | What Happened |
|---|---|
| 1986 | Work starts on the island using reclaimed sand |
| 1992 | Construction of the island is completed |
| 2007 | The island opens to the public with restaurants, cafés, riding tracks, artificial lakes and a ferry |
| 2008 | The global financial crisis halts development |
| January 2009 | The public ferry service stops |
| 2013 | Developer Sorouh merges with Aldar Properties |
| 2023 | The island opens to daily visitors during Public Art Abu Dhabi |
| August 2026 | Eagle Hills Properties confirms it will develop the island |
Who Is Developing Al Lulu Island?
Eagle Hills Properties, headed by Mohamed Alabbar, confirmed in August 2026 that it will develop Al Lulu Island. Full plans have not been officially announced yet, but reports point to:
- A low-rise residential community for up to about 20,000 residents
- Beaches and green spaces
- A canal running through the middle of the island
- Possible bridges linking the island to Abu Dhabi, such as the Corniche and Mina Zayed
Official details are expected through the developer’s own channels, so treat these as early indications.
How to See Al Lulu Island Today
- Walk or cycle along the Abu Dhabi Corniche for the best views across the water.
- Book a licensed boat tour or private charter that sails around the island (without landing).
- Watch for official announcements of public events on the island.
Places to Visit Instead
- Abu Dhabi Corniche beaches and promenade
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
- Saadiyat Island public beaches
- Dalma Island for a quieter island trip in Al Dhafra (note that the private Nurai Island resort is also closed for renovation)
FAQs
Is Al Lulu Island open now?
No regular public access is available. The public ferry stopped in 2009, and the island is being prepared for redevelopment.
Is there a ferry to Al Lulu Island?
No. The public ferry from the Corniche stopped in January 2009.
Is Lulu Island man-made?
Yes. It was built from reclaimed sand between 1986 and 1992.
Who owns or is developing Al Lulu Island?
Eagle Hills Properties confirmed in August 2026 that it will develop the island.
Conclusion
Al Lulu Island is not a place you can visit like a normal attraction today, despite what many older guides say. Enjoy the views from the Corniche for now, and keep an eye on Eagle Hills and Visit Abu Dhabi for news on the island’s future and any public access.
