Where You Can Meet Wildlife In the UAE: Jubail Mangrove Park

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by Iffat Nawaz

Where You Can Meet Wildlife In the UAE: Jubail Mangrove Park and Beyond

18 Jul 2024

Photo: Ralph Mayhew

Think the UAE is all about skyscrapers and shopping malls? Think again! From the majestic turtles gliding through the waters to the mighty lions ruling the savannah, The Sandy Times is about to take you on a journey that will get you up close and personal with the wild beauty of this wonderful country.

Deep in the heart of the UAE's stunning Jubail Mangrove Park, a tranquil oasis on the picturesque Jubail Island, lies a haven for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. Take a step into this natural wonderland, and you might spot a:

— Giraffe roaming freely, its long neck bobbing up and down as it searches for leaves to munch on.

— Turtle gliding gracefully through the waters, its shell glistening in the sunlight.

— Lion lazing in the shade, its majestic mane a testament to its royal status.

These incredible creatures, along with many others, call the UAE home. Jubail Mangrove Park and beyond offer the perfect opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat. So come and explore the wild side of the UAE — you never know what wonders you might discover.

Wildlife wonderland: Jubail Mangrove Park

Imagine strolling along sprawling boardwalks, surrounded by lush mangroves and the sounds of birds chirping, Jubail Mangrove Park is a serene haven. Keep a sharp eye out for the park's friendly inhabitants, like turtles, herons, and gazelles. You will feel like you are in a whole new world, just 30 minutes from Abu Dhabi.

Birdwatchers, nature enthusiasts, and photographers — this is your paradise. As you explore this wonderland, you will spot majestic turtles gliding through the waters and discover over 150 bird species, including flamingos, ospreys, crabs, fish, and more.

To make the most of your adventure, schedule your visit for early morning or late afternoon, when wildlife is most active. Dress for comfort and exploration, and remember your binoculars, sunscreen, water, and camera to capture the magic.

Take it to the next level by joining a guided kayak tour on Jubail Island to explore hidden waterways, visiting the education centre to learn about conservation efforts, and enjoying a picnic or BBQ in designated areas — because adventure is always better with snacks.

Get ready to disconnect from the city and reconnect with nature in Jubail Mangrove Park.

Instagram: @jubail_mangrove_park

A day of roars, trumpets, and chirps: Al Ain Zoo

Get ready to roar with excitement at Al Ain Zoo, a 400-hectare park home to over 4,000 animals worldwide. In 1968 Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan established this zoo as one of the largest in the Middle East. It features incredible creatures like gorillas, lions, cheetahs, giraffes, jaguars, lemurs, hippos, chimpanzees, wolves, and crocodiles.

More importantly — you can also experience the thrill of feeding lions, riding camels, and petting adorable animals at the Elezba petting zoo. For the adventurous types, there is even a mountain biking experience and a chance to take a safari tour and spot the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo) from the safety of an SUV or safari truck.

With transparent enclosures that let you observe these pulse-pounding animals up close, Al Ain Zoo is a must-visit destination. So, head to Al Ain Zoo in Abu Dhabi and prepare for a roaring good time.

Instagram: @alainzoouae

Wild adventure at Emirates Park Zoo

Famous just like Jubail Mangrove Park, the Emirates Park Zoo is home to over 1,400 animals from around the world, including majestic wildcats like lions, tigers, and leopards, gentle herbivores like giraffes and zebras, playful primates like capuchins, and a stunning array of birds, reptiles, and more.

But it is not just about observing these incredible creatures — Emirates Park Zoo offers unforgettable experiences. Do you want to dine with a leopard or breakfast with a giraffe? You can do that here. Take a thrilling zipline tour, feed the hungry hippos, or enjoy a private expert-led tour. And when you need a break, relax in the resort's chalets or zoo-view rooms or dip in the pool.

Whether you are an animal lover, a thrill-seeker, or just looking for a unique day out, Emirates Park Zoo has something for everyone. Plan a visit and go wild.

Instagram: @emiratesparkzoo

History and adventure: Sir Bani Yas island

Ready for an adventure of a lifetime? Imagine an island paradise just off the coast of Abu Dhabi, teeming with over 11,000 animals, including 30 endangered species. Welcome to Sir Bani Yas, Abu Dhabi's very own wildlife sanctuary.

Getting there may take some time (a 2-hour drive from downtown Abu Dhabi and a 25-minute boat ride from Jebel Dhanna), but trust me, it is worth it. With giraffes, ostriches, cheetahs, and more, this protected Royal Nature Reserve is a real-life Jurassic Park minus the dinosaurs.

Imagine going on a cage-free safari adventure in the wild, spotting incredible creatures up close.

Relax in luxurious resorts with romantic vistas. Escape to Sir Bani Yas, your castaway paradise.

Instagram: @anantarasirbaniyas

Adventure at the massive Sharjah Safari Park

Located in the Al Bridi Reserve, Al Dhaid, this 16-square-kilometre wonderland is the largest safari project outside of Africa, housing over 50,000 animals from 120 species. Imagine exploring 12 different environments, each mimicking a unique African region, and getting up close and personal with incredible creatures like giraffes, lions, elephants, flamingos and rhinos (including the rare black rhino).

But wait, there is more. The park also has a stunning natural lake, 100,000 African trees, restaurants, cafes, and a conference hall.

But what sets Sharjah Safari Park apart is its commitment to conservation. With the help of the UN and the Environment and Protected Areas Authority, the park is dedicated to breeding and protecting African native species. Meet Wuhaida, the first female southern white rhino born in Sharjah Safari, and Bridi, the first African female giraffe born in the park.

With its unique blend of mangroves, wetlands, and desert landscapes, UAE is a wildlife lover's paradise. As you explore the Jubail Mangrove Park and the wilds beyond, remember to cherish and protect this precious heritage for generations to come.

Photo: Sarah Kilian

by Iffat Nawaz