Al Sinniyah Island

Al Sinniyah lies across the lagoon from Umm Al Quwain town, low and sandy with mangrove creeks on its landward side, and it holds one of the largest breeding colonies of Socotra cormorant in the Gulf along with gazelle and turtles. In 2022 excavation confirmed a Christian monastery on it, built between about 534 and 656, with a church, cells and a refectory, one of only a handful known on the Arabian side of the Gulf. Parts of the island are closed to protect the birds.

What you actually see

• The monastery - an early Christian church and cells excavated and dated to the sixth century.
• The cormorant colony - one of the Gulf's largest Socotra cormorant breeding sites.
• The mangrove creeks - the tidal channels between the island and the mainland.
• The pre-Islamic settlement - the pearling town excavated alongside the monastery.

When to go

October to April; the cormorants breed in winter and disturbance is a real concern. Boat access depends on tides and weather. Summer heat and humidity make the island uncomfortable.

Honest expectations

Much of the island is closed to visitors and the archaeological site is not generally open. Access is by arranged boat rather than a scheduled service. Nesting seasons close further areas.

Nearby

Umm Al Quwain town is across the lagoon, and Al Zorah is southwest.