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Description
Established by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Al Wathba Wetland Reserve is the first area in the Emirate designated for protection by law and was declared a Ramsar site in 2013. Once a coastal salt flat (sabkha), it has now flourished into natural and man-made lakes that enable many of Abu Dhabi's species to thrive. In 2018, the reserve was placed on the IUCN Green List of Protected and Conserved Areas making it the first site in the region to receive this recognition.
The reserve is particularly known for its large population of (Ευρωπαϊκό) Φοινικόπτερο – with as many as 4,000 living there during autumn and spring – but the area also hosts more than 250 species of birds, 37 plant species and a wide range of aquatic life. There are two self-guided walking trails (1.5 km or 3 km) for visitors to explore and a bird-watching hide to observe the flamingos.
Details
Access
Al Wathba Wetland Reserve is a 30-minute drive from Abu Dhabi city centre. Take the E22 Abu Dhabi-Al Ain road and connect with the E30 Abu Dhabi-Al Ain Truck Road, then follow signs for the reserve. Click on the P in the map for directions or coordinates.
Terrain and Habitat
Wetland , Desert , Lake , Mud flatsConditions
No shadow , Dry , Open landscapeCircular trail
YesIs a telescope useful?
YesGood birding season
All year roundBest time to visit
Spring migration , Autumn migrationRoute
Wide pathDifficulty walking trail
Average walkAccessible by
FootBirdwatching hide / platform
YesExtra info
Don't forget to take enough water with you to stay hydrated in the desert!