Bab Al Nojoum resort opens overwater villas on Hudayriyat Island

The property offers 14 Maldives-style villas plus 17 beachfront units on Abu Dhabi shore

Bab Al Nojoum has expanded its resort on Hudayriyat Island to include overwater villas. All photos: Victor Besa / The National

The property houses 14 of the villas, as well as 17 beachfront units

Guests can choose between a one or two-bedroom option for the beachfront units

In the overwater villas, guests can opt for a studio or a two-bedroom unit

Beachfront units have private swimming pools

The ample outdoor spaces also include cabanas and sunbeds

La Cocina serves European cuisine with a focus on Spanish dishes and excellent service

Bab Al Nojoum beach

Outdoor hangout spots are scattered across the area

Bab Al Nojoum, known for its luxurious campground on Abu Dhabi's Hudayriyat Island, is now looking to attract beach babies and island hunters.

Though it is merely 10 minutes from downtown Abu Dhabi, one step on the new wooden deck and I feel instantly transported to a tranquil tropical island, overwater villas and all.

The property has added 31 premium units, 17 of which are on the beach, while the rest are over the water. All are connected via the snaking deck that protrudes beyond the shore.

Standing here, you won't see a bustling city skyline as the shore faces two other private islands, further adding to the illusion of a beach getaway.

Guests can choose between one or two-bedroom beachfront units. These come with private swimming pools, cabanas and sunbeds. Some units are connected via doors in the pool area, ideal for big groups and families.

Those looking for a more Maldivian-inspired affair can opt for the overwater villas that sit above Hudayriyat's tranquil waters. The duplexes come with terraces, private pools, sunbeds and a dining table.

Most of the overwater villas are studios, while two come with two bedrooms.

The expansion also includes a new restaurant, La Cocina, which serves European-inspired cuisine. There is a wood-fired oven and grills for meat.

While there is an extensive a la carte menu, guests can also opt for a community dining meal that is usually served at sunset.

Rates start at Dh2,500 per night for standard villas; though prices depend on the season. More information is available at babalnojoum.com