Nurai, derived from the Arabic word ‘nur’, meaning ‘light,’ Zaya Nurai Island was conceived as an ultra-luxury private island resort, redefining hospitality and exclusivity in the UAE. Launched in 2008 for residential sales, Nurai Island set a new standard for real estate in Abu Dhabi, with property sales reaching 3,000 AED per square foot—double the market average at the time. Officially opening as a resort in 2014, Nurai Island quickly became a sanctuary of serenity and elegance, just a 15-minute boat ride from Abu Dhabi. The island’s 65 private villas were thoughtfully designed to blend into the natural landscape, each offering a private pool, beachfront access, and personalized services like in-villa dining and dedicated butler service. Guests could immerse themselves in luxury with world-class amenities, including an oceanfront spa, a beach club, and five fine and casual dining outlets. The award-winning Nurai Spa, with its standalone treatment pavilions, yoga pavilion, and cutting-edge wellness facilities, became a hallmark of the island’s appeal, solidifying its reputation for delivering barefoot luxury.