UAE Bird Watching Spots; best 8 places to visit and enjoy the view

UAE Bird Watching Spots, the United Arab Emirates is home to a diverse range of bird species, making it a popular destination for bird watching enthusiasts. From wetlands to deserts, there are several locations across the country that offer excellent opportunities for bird watching. Explore more about UAE bird watching spots and enjoy your time in the great outdoors.

UAE bird watching spots overview

Are you a birdwatching lover tourist? If your answer is “yes” that means you are in the right place. There are a lot of bird watching destinations in the UAE to go and watch. Especially as it is a resting place between Asia and Africa for migratory birds.

About birders and birding spots, more than 442 different species have been recorded in the UAE over the past quarter century. This is due to several geographical and climatic factors. Also, we don’t forget mangrove trees that have made the UAE a beautiful home for unique and rare wild birds.

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UAE bird watching spots

Bird watching spots in the UAE are many in both wetlands like al ain oasis and deserts like dubai desert. Learn about most popular bird watching sites list for kids:

Al Wathba Wetland Reserve

Located in Abu Dhabi. The reserve is home to over 250 species of birds, including flamingos, herons, and raptors, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers. Visitors can explore the reserve on foot or by bike, following the various walking trails that wind through the wetlands.

Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve

The reserve is home to a variety of desert wildlife, including Arabian oryx, gazelles, and birds. Visitors to UAE bird watching spots can explore the reserve on guided tours, which offer the opportunity to see these animals up close in their natural habitat. The reserve also offers activities such as camel rides, falconry displays, and hot air balloon rides.

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Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

Located in the heart of Dubai. The sanctuary is home to over 20,000 migratory birds, including flamingos, herons, and egrets. Visitors can take guided tours of the sanctuary to learn more about the wetland ecosystem and its importance for biodiversity.

Sir Bani Yas Island one of UAE bird watching spots

Located off the coast of Abu Dhabi. This bird island was once the private retreat of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder of the UAE. Sir Bani Yas island is home to over 10,000 free-roaming animals, like Arabian oryx, gazelles, giraffes, cheetahs, and hyenas.

The Eastern Mangroves National Park

Located in the capital city of Abu Dhabi. The park is home to a unique ecosystem of mangrove forests, which provide a habitat for a variety of marine and bird species. Visitors can explore the park’s mangrove forests by kayak or on a guided boat tour, where they can observe wildlife like flamingos, herons, and crabs. It is an awesome place for those who look for UAE bird watching spots.

Wadi Wurayah National Park

Spotted in Fujairah, the Wadi Wurayah National Park is a protected area that spans over 129 square kilometers. This park is home to over 100 species of birds including the Arabian partridge, grey francolin, and the white-eared bulbul. Visitors can go on guided hikes to explore the park and observe its diverse birdlife.

Umm Al Quwain Wetlands

The emirate of Umm Al Quwain is one of the most UAE bird watching spots. This wetland is home to over 200 species of birds including the Eurasian spoonbill, black-winged stilt, and the common kingfisher.

Hatta Dam

One of the UAE bird watching spots its location is in Dubai, in addition to its scenic beauty and water sports activities, the Hatta Dam is also a popular spot for bird watching. The surrounding mountains and reservoir provide a habitat for a variety of bird species, including the Hume’s wheatear, desert lark, and Arabian babbler. 

Visitors can bring binoculars and bird watching guides to spot these feathered friends in their natural habitat.

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Best time for Bird watching in UAE

The best time for bird watching in the UAE is during the winter months, from Nov to Mar. This is when migratory birds from Europe, Asia, and Africa visit the region, making it a prime time for bird watching enthusiasts. The cooler weather during these days also makes it more comfortable for outdoor activities. However, there are also resident bird species that can be seen throughout the year in the UAE.

On the other hand, summer months in the United Arab Emirates, from Jun to Sep, are not considered the best time for bird watching. The hot and humid weather during the hottest parts of the day can make outdoor activities uncomfortable. Also, many bird species migrate to cooler regions during this time.

In conclusion, UAE Bird Watching Spots are many and you can choose the perfect place for you to come and watch the rarest and most beautiful bird breeds ever.