Al Wathba Wetland Reserve is home to thousands of flamingos (both adults and their young), along with other animal species (mammals, invertebrates, aquatic life and reptiles) and a vast number of plant species.
These wetlands were once a coastal salt flat but have now flourished into natural and man-made lakes that enable these flamingos to thrive and breed.
How To Book
There is no need to book tickets for these wetlands, as entry is free to the public.
When To Go
Entry to these wetlands is from Tuesdays to Saturdays between 8am to 6pm, but these times may vary throughout the year.
Costs Involved
Entry is free for the public.
How To Get There
This stunning wetland reserve is located in Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi.
It is approximately a 30mins drive from Abu Dhabi city centre.
Tips For Your Visit
Everyone is welcome at these wetlands, so there is no minimum age restriction for entry.
There is a carpark located at the start of these wetlands and there are a few shady areas along both walking tracks, but it's still best to bring your own hats and sunscreen.
There are no cafes available on site, so best to bring your own water, but they do provide toilet facilities near the carpark.
During the longer walking track, there can be quite a lot of mosquitoes and other insects flying around, so it’s a good idea to bring insect repellent too.
It’s also best to visit in the morning or late afternoon, to avoid the heat in the middle of the day.
What To Expect
There are 2 walking tracks at Al Wathba Wetland Reserve.
The first track is much shorter at 1.5kms long and will take you approximately 25-30 minutes to walk, but it's unlikely that you'll see any flamingos on this track.
Should you choose to complete the longer walking track at 3kms long, this will take you approximately 45 minutes – 1 hour and you’ll be able to see the flamingos (either from the viewing area or from a distance).
Note that their purpose-built flamingo viewing area may be closed for maintenance during your visit.
What's Unique
This is the only site in the Arabian Gulf where flamingos have been regularly breeding since 2011.
In 2013, these wetlands was officially recognised as an important Ramsar site under UNESCO.
Then in 2018, Al Wathba Wetland Reserve was the first site in the region to be placed on the IUCN Green List of Protected and Conserved Areas.
The Verdict
There are more plants and animal species to see on the longer walking track.
It was amazing to see so many flamingos in the one place, so that made for some great photo opportunities!
These wetlands really are a great place for families and children to connect with nature!
Sounds like fun? Don’t just take our word for it, experience it for yourself.
Be inspired to start or add to your very own bucket lists.
You can also click here for more unique bucket list ideas in the UAE!
Above prices & information correct as of February 2022.
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