.png "Interview With Expat Saanika Gandhi, Author of Children's Book 'The Yellow Kite'")
Take a walk on the wild side of the UAE; here's where you can find free-roaming animals in the country
20 August 2024
| Last updated on 23 August 2024
The wonders of the wild, right here in the UAE.
Escape the city's hustle and bustle, and discover the UAE's wildlife sanctuaries and open-air reserves where you have the chance to encounter animals in the wild. And no - we're not talking about zoos or animal parks, we're referring to nature preserves where animals are free-roaming.
From majestic Arabian oryxes at the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve to the pink-hued flamingo wildlife sanctuary of Ras Al Khor, nature's wonders are closer than you think! In this guide, we list out where to see wildlife in the UAE, so be sure to add these to your bucket list.
1. Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
The Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (DDCR) is one of the best locations in the UAE to see animals in the wild.
The conservation reserve is a protected space for Dubai's last desert wilderness and its native animals and plant life, and offers sustainable outdoor experiences for tourists and UAE residents.
Here, visitors can encounter indigenous desert species such as the Arabian oryx, and enjoy nature-based heritage activities such falconry, camel-riding, and more.
Pictured: Arabian oryx.
2. Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, Dubai
Check out Dubai's vibrantly pink feathered friends at the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, where visitors can see one of nature's most fabulous bird species - the flamingos!
Pictured: Flamingos at Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, Dubai.
3. Al Qudra Lakes, Dubai
If you want to see some of the UAE's wildlife, expect to head away from the city. Birdwatchers can find wild birds at Al Qudra Lakes, located about a 40-minute drive from Dubai.
You can spot an estimated 130 bird species here, including flamingos, ducks, and swans.
Pictured: Flamingos at Al Qudra Lakes, Dubai.
4. Mangrove National Park, Abu Dhabi
If you're in the UAE's capital, add the Mangrove National Park in Abu Dhabi to your bucket list! This lush stretch of greenery is home to around 60 bird species, including the western reef heron and greater spotted eagles, as well as marine animals such as fish, shrimps, and crabs.
On top of seeing wildlife, visitors can sail along the waters on an abra boat tour, try paddle-boarding, and go kayaking to enjoy more of the scenery. Abu Dhabi's mangroves park is located near the Eastern Mangroves Hotel and Spa by Anantara.
Pictured: Western reef heron at Mangroves National Park, Abu Dhabi.
5. Al Wathba Wetland Reserve, Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi's Al Wathba Wetland Reserve is an incredible spot to see some wildlife in the UAE, just hit the walking trails or enjoy the sights from the viewing platform.
The wetlands feature over 200 kinds of birds, including greater spotted eagles and flamingos. You might also chance upon any of the 11 types of mammals and ten reptile species, such as the desert red foxes and Ethiopian hedgehogs.
UAE residents and tourists can check out the dedicated visitor's centre or, if you'd prefer a more informative experience, check out any of the guided walks and special events that takes place year-round.
Pictured: Arabian red fox.
6. Turtle Rehabilitation Sanctuary, Dubai
Located in Jumeirah Al Naseem in Dubai, the Turtle Rehabilitation Sanctuary dedicates their efforts towards rescuing turtles, nurturing them back to health, and eventually releasing them back into their natural habitat.
The Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project has released over 1,600 turtles back into the wild within the last 20 years.
.png?itok=EH_x0Pha "Experience Extended Stays and Special Savings at Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort UAE")
