Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, Dubai Overview

With over 500 flamingos and several species of birds and fishes, Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is a wetland reserve. Perfect for tourists, environmentalists, photographers and botanists, it is a protected area and has a large number of migratory birds, fishes, crustaceans and mammals. This delicate and vast ecosystem has three birding hides which allow visitors to explore and engage in bird spotting.

The sanctuary located in Ras Al Khor area aims at conservation, protection, preservation and maintenance of eco-tourism and nature. Also known as the “Cape of the creek”, it is a perfect mix of an architectural and a natural reserve. With avid birdwatching spots and perfect breeding grounds for fishes and birds, you can also spot several lagoons, mangroves, mudflats and salt flats. Not just the flamingos but you can also witness the roosting bird catching fishes out of water or rare grey herons and snowy plovers. You can explore the flamingo or mangrove hides which take you a step closer to the beauty of nature and sets you free and open in the wild.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the space is in the months of December to March as the weather is cooler and it is the best period to spot pink flamingos and other migratory birds.

Things to Know Before Visiting

1. It is a protected area and has certain ‘no-entry’ or restricted areas beyond which nobody can enter.
2. Make sure to carry your binoculars or cameras for better views and for photographing the birds.
3. Since it is in the open and the weather is unpredictable, it is advised to travel light and wear light-coloured cotton clothes that are comfortable.
4. You should apply sunscreen to prevent any tanning or sunburn while you are on your expedition.
5. No cafeterias or restaurants can be found inside so carry your own snacks and a bottle of water.

Flora & Fauna

When in the Reserve, you can find more than 270 species of fauna, more than 50 varieties of flora and more than 20,000 kinds of water birds. Home to hundreds and thousands of creatures, some are highly famous and exclusive to this area.

You can easily spot pink-feathered birds, Asian-pied myna, Black-winged stilts, Caspian tern, Kingfisher birds, Curlew, Grey heron, Indian silverbill, Ospreys, spotted eagle, White wagtails, Pied avocet, Isabelline shrike, Malabar Lark, Purple sunbird and Yellow-billed stork among all the birds found.

How To Reach Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

The wildlife sanctuary is situated near Ras Al Khor Industrial Area in Eastern Dubai. It is situated at the mouth of Dubai Creek which is a huge stretch of land with birds in abundance. It can be easily accessed via Hatta Road from car or taxis.