Situated just on the outskirts of the capital city, Abu Dhabi, the flourishing Mangrove National Park offers a perfect outdoor activity for families, wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, bird watchers, and every person who desires to witness the beauty and rhythm of nature's beautiful flora and fauna.
The park is one the most precious assets of the Emirate, and thus, is cared for and managed by the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi. One can feel the freshness in the park and spend a relaxing time amidst nature away from all the city chaos and hustle.
The Mangrove National Park comprises the mangrove forests, mudflats, algal communities, and marshes, offering you ample options to explore and experience. With more than 75 percent of the total area of mangrove forest in UAE, the National park is a wonderful biodiversity hotspot for the locals as well as tourists.
The forest not only has diverse flora but also inhabits a large variety of animals including flamingos, herons, foxes, fishes, crabs, turtles, and other marine animals. The park also allows its visitors to experience kayaking and create some unforgettable moments. The picturesque lush greenery of the forests is refreshing and pleasant to look at.
• The Mangrove National Park Abu Dhabi is spread over an area of 768 square kilometers of coastal mangrove forests, protected by the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi.
• The Mangrove National Park is home to more than 60 species of Birds and thus, a great spot for bird watchers.
• Located on the coastline of Abu Dhabi, the park is on the mission to enhance the awareness, understanding, and appreciation among the people for the ecological function of the flourishing Mangrove habitats.
• The Mangrove National Park offers protection to the extremely rare manatee population found at the Congo River. The Manatee population falls under the list of endangered species.
• The famous fauna that you may see in the park are Crocodiles, Snakes, Southern Reedbuck, bushbuck, Hippopotamuses, foxes, flamingos, and many other exotic species.
The Mangrove Walk is the new attraction added on the Jubail Mangrove Park, located on Jubail Island which is between Yas Island and Saadiyat Island. One can get to the location either from Dubai or Yas island or Saadiyat Island and Abu Dhabi. Once you reach Jubail Island, follow the signs to reach Mangrove Park.
The best time to visit the Mangrove National Park is between April to July. It is because the summer months are good for spotting rare species like western reef heron and greater flamingos. In the summers the animals often come on the shores to drink water so you can witness and capture them on your visit. Also, if you are looking for a specific time in a day, visiting the park in the morning is a great choice as you get enough time to explore it.
Here are some tips for Visiting Mangrove National Park
- The open water bodies are accessed by the park, however, there are no lifeguards assigned for them.
- The park does not allow pets, therefore, avoid bringing them.
- The park prohibits littering, smoking, and outside food and beverages. Make sure that you follow all the rules obediently.
- You must wear respectful clothing when visiting the park as it is a family-friendly destination. Avoid wearing tight-fitted and revealing dresses.
- The children less than 12 years of age should be accompanied by an adult during the visit and at all times.
Get a chance to experience walking with one of the park rangers and explore the park's boardwalk. The informative walk will add a great experience to your trip. The walk includes stops like Salt Collector and Viewing Tower, where you can stop and admire the sight in front of your eyes. The activity is done with a shared group of 10 people. The rangers make sure that you have the most fun and enjoyable experience.
Sunrise Kayaking is a 1.5-hour activity that allows the participants to explore Mangrove Park by using Kayaks that are available in two options; the single and double Kayaks. While kayaking, you get to explore the magnificent Jubail island and come closer to the wildlife, trees, and atmosphere from the vantage point.
Experience kayaking at the park and capture the ultimate view of the sunset that you would have never experienced. This 1-hour experience is relaxing and rejuvenating for the participants. The couples can experience kayaking with their partner by opting for double kayaks. To use single kayaks, you must be more than 16 years of age.
Enjoy the unique and soothing kayaking experience with your loved one at night and explore the Park with Watersports. The double and single sit on top Kayaks glow beautifully at night, making the experience more beautiful and memorable. Even if you are a first-timer, you are allowed to participate. You will be given all the basic information about the activity before it starts.