In recent years, the UAE has been working to position itself as a global leader in conservation. The country has made great strides in protecting its wildlife and is now home to several world-class wildlife sanctuaries. These sanctuaries allow visitors to see rare and endangered species in their natural habitat. From the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve to the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, there are plenty of opportunities to get up close and personal with the amazing wildlife that calls UAE home. In this article, we will explore the best places to experience UAE wildlife adventure!
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Best places to experience wildlife in UAE
1. Al Wathba Wetland Reserve
Open: Monday to Saturday, from 8:00 am until 5:30 pm (the last entry at 4 pm).
Location: approximately 40 km southeast of Abu Dhabi
Al Wathba wetlands are one of the many natural miracles of the United Arab Emirates. It is home to a great number of animals and plant species, many of which are endangered. The reserve was created to protect these species and their habitat.
The reserve is best known for its large population of Greater Flamingos, which can number up to 4,000 in autumn and spring, but it also has over 250 bird species, 37 plant species, and a diverse range of aquatic life.
You can explore two self-guided walking trails (1.5 km and 3 km) as well as a bird-watching hike to observe the flamingos.
The Al Wathba wetlands are an important part of the UAE’s natural heritage. They are a key part of the country’s efforts to conserve its biodiversity and protect its endangered species.
2. Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital
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Open: Monday to Friday, from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm
Location: Near the Abu Dhabi International Airport
The Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital is a one-of-a-kind facility that is dedicated to the health and welfare of falcons. The hospital sees over 4,000 patients each year and offers a variety of services, from medical care to falconry training.
One of the most unique aspects of the hospital is its education and outreach program. The hospital offers programs for all ages, from school field trips to Falconry Experience Days. These programs provide an up-close and personal look at these amazing animals and the work that goes into caring for them.
For those interested in UAE wildlife, the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital is a must-visit. Not only will you get to see these beautiful birds up close, but you’ll also learn about the important work that goes into protecting them.
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3. Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Dubai
Open: Monday to Sunday, all-day
Location: north-east of Dubai
The Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve is home to some of the most beautiful and majestic desert landscapes in the world. This reserve is stretched over an area of 225 square kilometers and offers a chance to experience the desert in all its glory. Plus, it forms 5% of the emirate of Dubai.
The reserve is home to a variety of different desert animals, including gazelles, oryx, sand cats, and spiny-tailed lizards. Visitors can also see the beautiful Arabian bustard, which is the national bird of the UAE.
Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, and experience the beauty of the desert.
4. Arabian Wildlife Park (Sir Bani Yas Island)
Open: Monday to Sunday, from 02:00 pm to 06:00 pm (except Fridays)
Location: off the shore of the western region of Abu Dhabi
The Arabian Wildlife Park is located on Sir Bani Yas Island, which is situated off the coast of Abu Dhabi. The park is home to a variety of indigenous animals, including the Arabian Oryx, the world’s largest herd of gazelles, and the Arabian tahr. It also has several aviaries, which house a variety of birds, such as the critically endangered Socotra cormorant.
The park is open all year round and offers a variety of activities, such as safari drives, wildlife walks, and bird watching. Visitors can also stay overnight in one of the park’s luxury lodges.
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5. Dubai Safari Park
Open: Opens in September
Location: Al Warqa 5 – Dubai
The Dubai Safari Park is home to over 2,500 animals from all over the world, stretched over an area of 12.8 million square feet. Making it the perfect place to go if you want to see some of the world’s most amazing wildlife up close. The park also has several educational exhibits and programs, making it a great place to learn about the animals and their habitats.
If you’re looking for an exciting way to spend a day, the Dubai Safari Park is the perfect place to go. You’ll see some of the most magnificent animals on the planet and learn all about them at the same time.
6. AL Ain Zoo
Open: Monday to Sunday, from 3 pm to 10 pm
Location: foothills of Jebel Hafeet in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi
AL Ain Zoo is a wildlife park in the UAE. It was the first wildlife park in the country and it was inaugurated by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai on 30 April 1996. It has a total of 13 animal species, including giraffes, zebras, ostriches, and others.
The AL Ain Zoo is home to some endangered species like Black Rhino, Humpback Whale, and White Bengal Tiger. The zoo also houses animals from Arabian Peninsula such as Arabian Tahr, Arabian Oryx, and Sand Cat
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7. The Green Planet
Open: Monday to Sunday, from 10:00 am until 6:00 pm
Location: Al Wasl Road and Safa Road, Dubai.
Looking to get up close and personal with some of the most amazing wildlife on the planet? Then you need to head to Green Planet Dubai!
This incredible nature park is home to over 3,000 plants and animals, all living in harmony in a lush, green environment. You’ll get to meet species from all over the world, including some endangered ones, and learn all about the efforts being made to protect them.
And what better place to do it than Dubai? This city is already renowned for its luxury and excess, so why not add a little bit of eco-friendly fun to the mix? Green Planet Dubai is the perfect way to get close to wildlife without having to leave the city of Dubai.
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8. Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
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Open: Monday to Sunday, from 09:00 am – 04:00 pm
Location: the very end of Dubai creek
Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is a National Protected Area located at the end of the 14 km-long Dubai Creek, within the northern region of Dubai, UAE.
Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for all those who are eager to explore the world of wild animals and plants. It offers an excellent opportunity for eco-tourism and wildlife viewing. The wildlife sanctuary has been named after its location at Ras Al Khor, which means “End of the Creek”.
Located at Ras Al Khor on the border with Oman, this protected area is home to more than 450 species of fauna and 47 species of flora. During the winter, it is home to over 20,000 waterbirds from 67 different species of waterbirds that migrate along the East African-West Asian Flyway.
9. Emirates Park Zoo
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Open: Tuesday to Thursday, from 09:00 am – 08:00 pm | Friday to Monday, from 08:00 am – 09:00 pm
Location: 12th Street, Al Bahyah, Abu Dhabi
Emirates Park Zoo is located in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The zoo opened in 2007 and is home to over 3,000 animals from all over the world. The zoo covers an area of 36 hectares and is one of the largest zoos in the Middle East.
Emirates Park Zoo is committed to animal welfare and conservation. The zoo has a breeding program for endangered species, and many of the animals at the zoo are involved in international conservation efforts. The zoo also has a veterinary hospital on site, which provides care for the animals and treats sick and injured wildlife.
If you’re ever in Abu Dhabi, be sure to check out Emirates Park Zoo!
10. Sharjah Safari Park
Open: Monday to Sunday, from 8.30 am to 6.30 pm
Location: 30 km east of Sharjah city
Sharjah Safari Park is a world-class zoo and safari park located in the emirate of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. The park is home to more than 3,000 animals from over 300 species, making it one of the largest zoos in the Middle East.
Sharjah Safari Park is more than just a zoo, it is a place where visitors can connect with nature and learn about the importance of protecting our planet and its animal inhabitants. By providing a safe and enriching environment for animals, the park helps to instill a love and respect for nature in all who visit.
The park offers a variety of attractions and activities, including safari tours, animal encounters, and educational programs.
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UAE is a great place for wildlife enthusiasts. There are many places where you can see different kinds of animals in their natural habitat. To make the most of your experience, book your tickets with TicketsToDo.