Abu Dhabi Sustainable Destinations and Cultural Heritage
Explore Abu Dhabi at your own pace by enjoying unique experiences. Discover the UAE’s rich history and heritage, enjoy exquisite Emirati hospitality, and immerse yourself in a wealth of culture.
Al Wathba Wetland Reserve
Established by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Al Wathba Wetland Reserve is the first area in the Emirate designated for protection by law and was declared a Ramsar site in 2013. The reserve is particularly known for its large population of Greater Flamingos – with as many as 4,000 living there during autumn and spring – but also hosts more than 250 species of birds, 37 plant species and a wide range of aquatic life. There are two self-guided walking trails (1.5 kms or 3 kms) for visitors to explore and a bird-watching hide to observe the flamingos.
Sir Bani Yas Island
Sir Bani Yas Island is the largest island off the coast of Abu Dhabi and was the former private island of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder of the UAE. Thanks to decades of conservation work, it is now home to thousands of large free-roaming animals and several million trees and plants. There are so many activities to do on Sir Bani Yas Island! From culture and history tours to mountain biking, adventure safari and kayaking and even pearl diving! The wildlife reserve is home to many species, from Arabian Oryx, Somali ostrich, gazelle and deer, giraffes and dolphins!
Mangrove National Park
Mangroves are groups of trees and shrubs that grow in the water, creating a habitat for biodiversity – and protecting against tidal surges, purifying surrounding water and removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. You can see a vast forest of lush, green trees with intricate roots and a water channel snaking through the middle – plus hundreds of bird and plant species including the greater flamingo, western reef heron and mottled crab. For a unique view, head to a high floor of one of the nearby hotels to see the true scale of the forest. It’s even possible to get up close by taking a two-hour kayak tour through the middle of the trees.
Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre
Located inside Al Ain Zoo, the Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre is a fun educational facility that combines knowledge and learning about the UAE’s natural environment through interactive exhibits, multimedia and visual materials that are designed by world-class specialists. provide a unique experience for visitors. The centre has five interactive galleries: Sheikh Zayed Tribute Hall, Abu Dhabi Desert over Time, Abu Dhabi’s Living World, People of the Desert and Looking to the Future.
