See the pink flamingos in the Ras Al Khor reserve

Dubai never ceases to surprise. While the futuristic, modern feel of the city is often the image we retain, we mustn't forget that just a few decades ago the city was still a fishing village. If you are captivated by its traditional districts, you are even more so when you discover the unspoilt nature of the desert, its mountains and its nature reserves, home to wild and endemic animals. The city protects the living spaces of certain species, such as the pink flamingos. To see them, head to the Ras al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, considered to be a paradise for birdwatchers in Dubai. This nature reserve, located just a few kilometres from the city, gives you the impression of being in the middle of nature. Free-roaming pink flamingos are the highlight of the show, in a peaceful atmosphere. In order to respect nature, there is an observatory where you can observe the animals from a safe distance, with the Dubai skyline as a backdrop.

Ras Al Khor Reserve

Ras Al Khor reserve

- © Aleksandra Tokarz / Shutterstock

Watch migratory birds and pink flamingos

Between the desert and the city, this amazing spot is revealed before the astonished eyes of visitors. The Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected wetland area where thousands of migratory birds gather every year. The landscape is made up of marshes and mangroves, lagoons and salt pans, with the skyscrapers of the bustling city looming in the distance. It's a stunning backdrop that leaves you breathless when the pink flamingos come into view.

This piece of nature close to the city also attracts grey herons, black-winged stilts, reef herons and egrets. A total of 180 bird species have been recorded in the refuge. To observe them, binoculars are available in a hut that allows you to get a bit of height and spot the three zones where the animals live.

Pink flamingos at the Ras Al Khor sanctuary

The pink flamingos of the Ras Al Khor sanctuary

- © Abrar Sharif / Shutterstock

A refuge for mammals and marine animals

The sanctuary is not only home to birds, but also to numerous wild animals, mammals, invertebrates, reptiles and fish. For example, several types of viper have been spotted, as well as lizards and the Blue-headed Agama. There are also Arabian red foxes and desert hedgehogs, which are often black. As for the marine fauna, the waters of the reserve are also home to king bream, tiger fish and short-nosed tripod fish. An astonishing diversity just a stone's throw from the city!

Where to stay nearby?

Vida Creek Harbour

Located just 2.5 km from the sanctuary, the Vida Creek Harbour Hotel is the ideal place to stay, close to both nature and the bustling life of the city. Guest rooms are spacious and decorated in a clean, modern style. They offer views of Dubai Creek, the marina and the Dubai skyline. An outdoor swimming pool, a gym and 2 restaurants make it easy to have a good time at the hotel.

Vida Creek Harbour Dubai

Vida Creek Harbour

Comfortable rooms with balcony, pool and views of the Dubai skyline.
8.9 Superb
From
£103 / night
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Practical information

Times: the shrine is open from 7.30am to 2.30pm from Sunday to Thursday and from 9am to 2pm during Ramadan.

Admission: admission is free. Allow between 30 and 45 minutes for the tour.

Editor's tip :

The perimeter is fenced off to protect the animals in a natural environment. You'll be able to see them from a distance, so bring binoculars or use those available on site.

by Editorial Team
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