Joanna James
While the capital city of the United Arab Emirates might be famed for its visually stunning skyscrapers, thriving business hubs and the cosmopolitan lifestyle it offers, Abu Dhabi also happens to be home to some beautiful natural attractions that one should take time out to visit during their time there.
Hands down one of the most beautiful places in the Emirates coastal repertoire, Sir Bani Yas Island offers pristine beaches while also being the sanctuary of protected Arabian wildlife. Additionally, the island also offers some fantastic facilities to treat oneself to a relaxing beach holiday. The isle also offers a whole list of fun things to do including horse riding, mountain biking, kayaking through a dense mangrove forest, snorkelling and pearl diving. Apart from the gorgeous beaches, one can also take in the Emirate's wildlife such as gazelles, ostriches, rare oryxes and cheetahs.
A unique, fascinating and scenic ecosystem, that one will have the best time exploring, the Jubail Mangrove Park happens to be the city's first-ever self-contained natural, educational and leisure destination. Here one can explore lush mangrove forests and serene lagoons, home to various kinds of wildlife including pink flamingos, turtles, herons and various species of fish, all while strolling along a winding boardwalk that runs strategically in and around the park. Aside from the mangrove forests that span over 2.6 km, the park also includes various other ecosystems such as intertidal mudflats, salt marshes and sandstone geological formations. If you consider yourself to be a nature lover, photographer or avid bird water, you should definitely make time to visit this park. The attraction can be easily reached by many a hotel in Dubai including the likes of Anantara Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi Hotel with ease.
Having been featured in many popular movies, visiting Al Wathba Fossil Dune Protected Area is among the top things to do in Abu Dhabi. A truly unique place, the park showcases over 1,7000 rare and natural moulded fossil structures and dunes.
The tallest mountain peak in Abu Dhabi, Jebel Hefeet looms majestically over Al Ain while bordering UAE's neighbour – Oman. A craggy limestone mountain, Jebel Hefeet has weathered the centuries and remains a treasure trove of fascinating fossil deposits. If you plan of climbing the mountain, the best time to do so is either before sunset or sunrise, when you can take in some mesmerising views! Alternatively, one can reach the summit via a bike, motorbike or even by car. Jebel Hefeet also forms a notable park of Al Ain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A point of interest includes the 5,000-year-old tombs and other remnants dating back to the Neolithic period.
A popular resting area for colourful flamingos during spring and Fall, Al Wathba Wetland Reserve is also known as Flamingo City. Here, one can take in dunes, freshwater and saline lakes. The reserve is especially popular with bird waters, as it sees a variety of migratory bird species in addition to the endemic variety.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
