WHERE TO GO
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So you’ve got itchy feet and want to get out and discover what the Emirates have to offer? Unfortunately there are no marked or established trails, but half the fun is scouting out new routes and places on your own. The following list contains good starting points to begin your explorations of the UAE’s world of natural history.
Be safe. Always take a minimum of 3 litres of water with you when exploring the UAE outdoors. You will become very dehydrated even if it is cool. Wear sensible walking shoes as the terrain is often rocky or sandy. Carry a GPS with you in case you get lost, there is often no mobile phone signal and there is no UAE search and rescue. Always check the weather before heading out in case of flash floods (they do happen). Check the surrounding area on google maps and tell someone where you are planning your adventure before heading off. Please only take photos and your rubbish with you when you leave, to preserve the natural beauty of the environment for the local fauna and flora and for other inquisitive explorers. |
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NATURE RESERVES
As the UAE is becoming increasingly aware of the importance of maintaining and protecting the local environment, more and more nature reserves are being developed. Many of them have restricted access or are closed to the public in the interest of protecting the native wildlife, so please check their status before embarking on your adventure. As a DNHG member, you may gain occasional access to some of these restricted sites through one of our many field trips.
DUBAI
Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
Covering an area of 225 square kilometers the DDCR was created for the protection of endangered desert species and the natural desert habitat and heritage. Established in 2003, access to the park is through organized tours.
http://www.ddcr.org/en/
Jebel Ali Wildlife Sanctuary
Run by the Emirates Marine Environmental Group (EMEG), the Jebel Ali Wildlife Sanctuary covers the coastline between Jebel Ali and Ghantoot. Access is currently closed to the public, but periodic beach clean ups, mangrove plantings and BBQs are held at their discovery centre on Jebel Ali Beach. Check their facebook page for upcoming events.
www.facebook.com/emeg.jebel.ali
Mushrif National Park
Located next to Mirdiff, Mushrif National Park is a natural ghaf forest that has been developed for day visitors with modern facilities, including a gardens, theme park and BBQ facilities. Substantial areas have been left in their natural state. The park has a healthy population of Bruce’s Scops Owl and the Ethiopian Hedgehog. Open every day and entry for vehicles costs 10 Dhs.
http://www.uaebirding.com/sites/dubai/mushrifnationalp.html
Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
The nation’s first Ramsar wetland site, Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary lies at the head of Dubai Creek and covers an area of 620 hectares including sabkhas, mudflats, mangroves and small lagoons. It is home to many wading birds including large groups of flamingoes. Access to the site is prohibited, but the area can be viewed from birdwatching hides on the Dubai-Al AIn highway and the Awir Road, open during normal business hours.
http://www.wildlife.ae/en/
Seih Al-Salem Nature Reserve/ Al Qudra Lakes
The Seih Al-Salem Nature Reserve (sometimes referred to as Al Qudra lakes) is a modified desert area consisting of manmade lakes and extensive tree plantations near Endurance Village and the Al Qudra Bike Track. It is home to many released exotic and native bird species. The area is open and accessible any time of the day.
http://www.uaebirding.com/sites/dubai/saihalsalam.html
Covering an area of 225 square kilometers the DDCR was created for the protection of endangered desert species and the natural desert habitat and heritage. Established in 2003, access to the park is through organized tours.
http://www.ddcr.org/en/
Jebel Ali Wildlife Sanctuary
Run by the Emirates Marine Environmental Group (EMEG), the Jebel Ali Wildlife Sanctuary covers the coastline between Jebel Ali and Ghantoot. Access is currently closed to the public, but periodic beach clean ups, mangrove plantings and BBQs are held at their discovery centre on Jebel Ali Beach. Check their facebook page for upcoming events.
www.facebook.com/emeg.jebel.ali
Mushrif National Park
Located next to Mirdiff, Mushrif National Park is a natural ghaf forest that has been developed for day visitors with modern facilities, including a gardens, theme park and BBQ facilities. Substantial areas have been left in their natural state. The park has a healthy population of Bruce’s Scops Owl and the Ethiopian Hedgehog. Open every day and entry for vehicles costs 10 Dhs.
http://www.uaebirding.com/sites/dubai/mushrifnationalp.html
Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
The nation’s first Ramsar wetland site, Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary lies at the head of Dubai Creek and covers an area of 620 hectares including sabkhas, mudflats, mangroves and small lagoons. It is home to many wading birds including large groups of flamingoes. Access to the site is prohibited, but the area can be viewed from birdwatching hides on the Dubai-Al AIn highway and the Awir Road, open during normal business hours.
http://www.wildlife.ae/en/
Seih Al-Salem Nature Reserve/ Al Qudra Lakes
The Seih Al-Salem Nature Reserve (sometimes referred to as Al Qudra lakes) is a modified desert area consisting of manmade lakes and extensive tree plantations near Endurance Village and the Al Qudra Bike Track. It is home to many released exotic and native bird species. The area is open and accessible any time of the day.
http://www.uaebirding.com/sites/dubai/saihalsalam.html
ABU DHABI
Al Wathba Wetland Reserve
Recently re-opened to the public the 5 square kilometer Al Wathba Wetland Reserve is situated just past Mussfah, 40km southeast of central Abu Dhabi. It houses bird hides and short nature trails through the wetlands, sabkhas and dunes. Open Thursday and Saturday mornings from 8.00am to 2.00pm.
http://www.ead.ae/al-wathba-wetland-2/
Eastern Mangrove Lagoon National Park
Along Abu Dhabi’s eastern ring road lies the Eastern Mangrove Lagoon National Park. There are no roads through the park and the best way to explore the area is via canoe which can be arranged by many tour operators.
https://www.abudhabi.ae/portal/public/en/citizens/safety_and_environment/environment/gen_info27?docName=ADEGP_DF_151944_EN&_adf.ctrl-state=xparow4wc_4&_afrLoop=12173378198630927
Jebel Hafit
The emirate of Abu Dhabi’s tallest mountain, Jebel Hafit is located out the outskirts of Al Ain. Jebel Hafit has an extensive system of natural caves and is home to a wide range of animals including bats, foxes and snakes.
http://www.adias-uae.com/jebelhafit.html
Sir Bani Yas Island
Established as a nature reserve in 1971, Sir Bani Yas Island is home to several million planted trees, countless animals including Giraffe, Cheetah and the endangered Oryx, as well as a 5 star resort.
http://www.sirbaniyasisland.com/
A map of other protected areas in the emirate of Abu Dhabi can be found here:
http://www.ead.ae/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/TM-Protected-Areas-ENG-resized.jpg
Recently re-opened to the public the 5 square kilometer Al Wathba Wetland Reserve is situated just past Mussfah, 40km southeast of central Abu Dhabi. It houses bird hides and short nature trails through the wetlands, sabkhas and dunes. Open Thursday and Saturday mornings from 8.00am to 2.00pm.
http://www.ead.ae/al-wathba-wetland-2/
Eastern Mangrove Lagoon National Park
Along Abu Dhabi’s eastern ring road lies the Eastern Mangrove Lagoon National Park. There are no roads through the park and the best way to explore the area is via canoe which can be arranged by many tour operators.
https://www.abudhabi.ae/portal/public/en/citizens/safety_and_environment/environment/gen_info27?docName=ADEGP_DF_151944_EN&_adf.ctrl-state=xparow4wc_4&_afrLoop=12173378198630927
Jebel Hafit
The emirate of Abu Dhabi’s tallest mountain, Jebel Hafit is located out the outskirts of Al Ain. Jebel Hafit has an extensive system of natural caves and is home to a wide range of animals including bats, foxes and snakes.
http://www.adias-uae.com/jebelhafit.html
Sir Bani Yas Island
Established as a nature reserve in 1971, Sir Bani Yas Island is home to several million planted trees, countless animals including Giraffe, Cheetah and the endangered Oryx, as well as a 5 star resort.
http://www.sirbaniyasisland.com/
A map of other protected areas in the emirate of Abu Dhabi can be found here:
http://www.ead.ae/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/TM-Protected-Areas-ENG-resized.jpg
SHARJAH
Khor Kalba
Officially known as Al Gorm and Al Hafiye, the 5km green belt of Khor Kalba is home to UAE’s oldest natural mangrove forest and many unique species including the Arabian-collared Kingfisher. To aid conservation efforts the area is currently closed to the public with the intention of re-opening in 2017 by limited entry through guided tours.
http://www.enhg.org/field/kalba/kalba.htm
Sharjah Desert Park and Breeding Centre
The Sharjah Desert Park is approximately 25km east of the city of Sharjah on the E88. The park incorporates a Botantical Garden, Natural History Museum, Petting Zoo and the Arabian Wildlife Centre, which houses the largest collection of Arabian animals in the world. The park is open year round and costs 15Dhs to enter.The Arabian Wildlife Centre is completely indoors making it a perfect day out, regardless of the weather.
http://www.breedingcentresharjah.com/Wildlife%20Centre.html
Wasit Nature Reserve
Declared a nature reserve in 2007 the site located in Sharjah’s Al Ramtha area is currently under development to make the habitat safer for local wildlife and birds, with the construction of bird hides and board walks. Access to the site is currently limited due to this construction work.
http://www.uaebirding.com/sites/north/wasitnaturereser.html
A full listing of other protected areas in Sharjah can be found here:
http://sharjahmydestination.ae/en-us/Explore-Sharjah/Nature-Reserves
Officially known as Al Gorm and Al Hafiye, the 5km green belt of Khor Kalba is home to UAE’s oldest natural mangrove forest and many unique species including the Arabian-collared Kingfisher. To aid conservation efforts the area is currently closed to the public with the intention of re-opening in 2017 by limited entry through guided tours.
http://www.enhg.org/field/kalba/kalba.htm
Sharjah Desert Park and Breeding Centre
The Sharjah Desert Park is approximately 25km east of the city of Sharjah on the E88. The park incorporates a Botantical Garden, Natural History Museum, Petting Zoo and the Arabian Wildlife Centre, which houses the largest collection of Arabian animals in the world. The park is open year round and costs 15Dhs to enter.The Arabian Wildlife Centre is completely indoors making it a perfect day out, regardless of the weather.
http://www.breedingcentresharjah.com/Wildlife%20Centre.html
Wasit Nature Reserve
Declared a nature reserve in 2007 the site located in Sharjah’s Al Ramtha area is currently under development to make the habitat safer for local wildlife and birds, with the construction of bird hides and board walks. Access to the site is currently limited due to this construction work.
http://www.uaebirding.com/sites/north/wasitnaturereser.html
A full listing of other protected areas in Sharjah can be found here:
http://sharjahmydestination.ae/en-us/Explore-Sharjah/Nature-Reserves
FUJAIRAH
Wadi Wurrayah
UAE’s first protected mountain area; Wadi Wurrayah is home to many different species of mammals, birds, reptiles and plants and has permanent pools and a small waterfall. Once a popular picnic and camping spot the area is now closed to the public to help regenerate the area.
http://uae.panda.org/what_we_do/conserving_biodiversity/2j/
UAE’s first protected mountain area; Wadi Wurrayah is home to many different species of mammals, birds, reptiles and plants and has permanent pools and a small waterfall. Once a popular picnic and camping spot the area is now closed to the public to help regenerate the area.
http://uae.panda.org/what_we_do/conserving_biodiversity/2j/
DAMS & WADIS
UAE dams found in the Hajar Mountains are a good starting point if you want to plan your own natural history adventure. They are a sign of water which attracts native wildlife and promotes the growth of plants. Plus they usually have onsite parking, so driving a 4x4 isn't always necessary. Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon and meander up the wadi that leads into the dam, keeping your eyes open for many types of birds, lizards, mammals, insects, fish and if you are lucky, you may stumble on small abandoned stone villages.
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Ayim Dam
Hatta Dam Nehaila Dam Shawker Dam Tawain Dam Wadi Bih Wadi Hiluw Wadi Siji Wadi Shi Wadi Wurrayah |
24°46'59.2"N 56°06'51.2"E 25°47'50.3"N 56°03'02.2"E 25°23'34.0"N 56°16'10.4"E |
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DESERT AREAS
Many believe the desert is just a barren wasteland, but it is teaming with life. You can stop almost anywhere outside the cities and wonder the sands where you'll encounter a variety of plant life, animals, lizards and insects. Many of the fences along the roads are to help keep wildlife from crossing the roads. Early in the morning or with a torch late at night are often good times to catch a glimpse of the creatures. But remember to be safe, don't wonder too far without the appropriate equipment and keep on the look out for dune bashers!
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Al Qudra Lakes
Al Rashidiya Ghaf Groves Fossil Rock Liwa Desert |
MOUNTAIN HIKES
If you are looking for more strenuous hikes we recommend a visit to fellow DNHG Member Christine Verreydt's website: www.dubaihiking.org Here you'll find many plotted hikes, GPS coordinates, tips and advice as well as information on various geology, fossils and wildlife around the UAE.
ARCHAEOLOGICAL & HISTORIC SITES
So you thought the UAE didn't have any history? Evidence to the existence of man in the UAE dates back almost 125,000 years. Many sites are closed to the public, but can be accessed with permission through the local museums. Sites can found all across the Emirates from Christian churches on far off Abu Dhabi islands, forts and palaces in the mountains around Ras Al-Khaimah, sun god temples in mangrove estuaries and even ancient ruins in the heart of Dubai's suburbs Jumeriah and Al Sufouh. To find out more please visit: http://www.uaeinteract.com/culture/archaeological.asp
BIRD SIGHTS
If you are an avid 'twitcher' we recommend a visit to Tommy Pedersen's website www.uaebirding.com which is a valuable resource for all native and migratory birds, up-to-date bird sightings as well as directions and information on many popular bird sites across the UAE.
SNORKELING
With the Arabian Gulf on the west coast and the Indian Ocean to the east, there are plenty of interesting snorkeling sites in the warm waters of the UAE.
Due to all the off shore construction snorkeling in the Arabian Gulf can be hit or miss as to visibility, but if you snorkel off shore any beach and stick close to the manmade rocky breakwaters you can encounter many fish, scattered coral, cuttlefish and if you are lucky the odd sea snake. The change to the underwater environment has also promoted the growth of sea grass, which can be observed off the northern end of Jumeriah Beach Park.
The east coast and Musandam provides more pristine waters and a better chance of seeing moray eels, sharks and turtles, where many boat operators can take you to nearby islands. Off shore snorkeling is also possible if you stick to the rocky outcrops. Be careful of currents and tides while snorkeling on the east coast.
Please see the following article for more information and locations:
http://www.alshindagah.com/shindagah77/En/Snorkeling.htm
Due to all the off shore construction snorkeling in the Arabian Gulf can be hit or miss as to visibility, but if you snorkel off shore any beach and stick close to the manmade rocky breakwaters you can encounter many fish, scattered coral, cuttlefish and if you are lucky the odd sea snake. The change to the underwater environment has also promoted the growth of sea grass, which can be observed off the northern end of Jumeriah Beach Park.
The east coast and Musandam provides more pristine waters and a better chance of seeing moray eels, sharks and turtles, where many boat operators can take you to nearby islands. Off shore snorkeling is also possible if you stick to the rocky outcrops. Be careful of currents and tides while snorkeling on the east coast.
Please see the following article for more information and locations:
http://www.alshindagah.com/shindagah77/En/Snorkeling.htm
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WHAT YOU'LL SEEThe Environmental Agency Abu Dhabi have put together a comprehensive guide to the natural history of the United Arab Emirates, with detailed information on the many different environments and local fauna and flora you may encounter while exploring the Emirates. Remember to write to us if you spot anything out of the ordinary
- We'd love to hear from you! To view the publication please visit the following link: Emirates: A Natural History http://viewer.zmags.co.uk/showmag.php?mid=srthf&preview=1&_x=1#/page0/ |