Roland Lefevre
The name Abu Dhabi, intriguingly means, the Father of the Gazelle, and its surroundings certainly live up to the aura it evokes. Home to a number of indigenous and endangered species, the capital city of Abu Dhabi is a thriving bed of wildlife.
Located in the vicinity of the capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas is an island home to a diverse array of wildlife including Gazelles and the Arabian Oryx, which was extinct in the wild, but roams freely on the island. Sir Bani Yas is also home to around thirty different species making it one of the best places to visit to see Wildlife roaming freely in Abu Dhabi and is a convenient activity for tourists residing in Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara.
The Arabian Wildlife Park is located with Sir Bani Yas Island and takes up around half of the surface area of the isle. This Park is the best place to observe certain species of wildlife such as the Sand Gazelle, cheetahs and hyenas and a tour can be arranged with the assistance of your Sir Bani Yas hotel. The Park actively promotes conservation and preservation efforts and has relocated a number of species such as Emu and Eland as well as developing the eco-system to sustain wildlife.
Though tourists will not be able to witness wildlife species in their natural habitat, at the Abu Dhabi Wildlife Centre tourists can witness a number of endangered species who have been rescued. The Centre also engages in efforts to preserve and breed species such as cheetahs and jaguars.
Founded in 1968, the Al Ain Zoo is unlike any ordinary zoological endeavour. This particular destination is designed to allow its animals to roam freely. Home to over four thousand inhabitants, the Al Ain Zoo is a beloved destination for families visiting Abu Dhabi.
Ideal for tourists who wish to observe a unique practice, the Camel Market in Al Ain provides visitors with the opportunities to witness an intriguing Middle Eastern tradition of camel trading. Though camels do not constitute wildlife, they indeed are an iconic species in the Middle East.
Complete with two enclosures titled 'Predators' and 'Wild Animals', the Emirates Park Zoo is one of the best places to visit for a family travelling with children. Located in the city of Al Bahia, the Emirates Park zoo is home to white tigers, lions, zebras and a Siberian bear.
A pleasing alternative to the Arabian Wildlife Park located on Sir Bani Yas Island, the Al Ain Wildlife Park is home to around one hundred and eighty species that are on the verge of extinction. The Park is also home to the Nubian giraffe, a species that is considered to be extremely uncommon.
Enjoying the privileged status of being a private reserve, the Bu Tinah Island is a small island home to a rich biodiversity. Reported to be extremely panoramic, Bu Tinah is a hotbed of wildlife both on land and below the ocean waters. However, the island is restricted in terms of access and can be visited only for purposes of scientific research.
