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The Ras Al Khor wildlife sanctuary in Dubai
The Ras Al Khor wildlife sanctuary in Dubai is UAE’s first and Dubai's only real desert wetland site. Aptly named as Ras Al Khor, which in Arabic means ‘head of the creek’, this natural expanse occupies about 2.4 square miles on the banks of Dubai Creek and comprises of mudflats, lagoons, pools, mangroves and long stretches of Sabkha, the saline flats commonly found along the coastline.
The Ras Al Khor wildlife sanctuary is extremely significant as it is the last refuge for many native species of flora and fauna in a part of the world focused on commerciality. A visit to the sanctuary offers a rare glimpse of Dubai which is quite different to the glamourous side of the Emirate. The Ras Al Khor wildlife sanctuary supports as many as 20,000 water birds belonging to many different species and according to scientists this is probably the only area in which quite a few species are present in sizeable numbers. During the winter months between October and March, this area is home to as many as 30,000 migratory birds which fly in from East African and West Asian countries with flamingos occupying a special place. If you like birds, you'll love the Ras Al Khow Wildlife Sanctuary.
With 500 species of plants and animals, the Ras Al Khor wildlife sanctuary is an ideal spot for eco-friendly tourists and has grown in importance ever since it has been placed under preservation. An ecosystem in action at the Ras Al Khor reveals the thriving coexistence of plants, animals, birds, reptiles and mammals with the lazing flamingos encircling the dark mangrove forests being the main highlights of the trip.
The responsibility of protecting and preserving the Ras Al Khor wildlife sanctuary lies with Dubai Municipality and one of the first steps taken by this governing body to ensure safety of the habitat entails fencing of the area to prevent stray visitors. Further steps include establishment of bird hides within the wetland and equipping the centre with elaborate education facilities for visitors.
Points of note –
With 500 species of plants and animals, the Ras Al Khor wildlife sanctuary is an ideal spot for eco-friendly tourists and has grown in importance ever since it has been placed under preservation. An ecosystem in action at the Ras Al Khor reveals the thriving coexistence of plants, animals, birds, reptiles and mammals with the lazing flamingos encircling the dark mangrove forests being the main highlights of the trip.
The responsibility of protecting and preserving the Ras Al Khor wildlife sanctuary lies with Dubai Municipality and one of the first steps taken by this governing body to ensure safety of the habitat entails fencing of the area to prevent stray visitors. Further steps include establishment of bird hides within the wetland and equipping the centre with elaborate education facilities for visitors.
Points of note –
- Telescopes and binoculars are provided to tourists within the Ras Al Khor wildlife sanctuary at the three hides, camouflaged very well against the green back-drop.
- This is one of few venues in Dubai where you don't have to worry about parking as all the shelters have their own car parks and are manned at all times.
- While small parties can visit the area unannounced, groups consisting of more than 10 need to acquire permits from the Environment Department of Dubai Municipality.
When – The Ras Al Khor wildlife sanctuary can be visited on any day from Saturday to Thursday between 9 A.M. to 4 P.M.
How Long - One trip lasting a day around the area is sufficient and nature lovers can come back for more every time they wish to immerse themselves in natural surroundings.
Location – Any of the three shelters, one of which is at Ras Al Khor Road and the other two are located off Oud Metha Road so mentioning this to the cab driver would take you there.
Cost – Entry to this nature park is free for everyone.
More info - http://www.wildlife.ae/.
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