Make your next trip to the UAE an eco-friendly one. From world heritage sites to pearl farms that pioneer eco-friendly methods and striking natural settings for outdoor activities, Top Spots Dubai shares the UAE’s top eco-tourism destinations.
1. Suwaidi Pearl Farm, Ras Al Khaimah
The Suwaidi Pearl Farm is a pearl farm situated in Ras Al Khaimah. The farm is committed to the cultivation of high-quality pearls via sustainable and eco-friendly methods and is known for producing some of the finest pearls in the region using traditional pearl farming techniques. Suwaidi Pearl Farm aims to preserve the environment by minimising its carbon footprint and working with renewable energy sources. Now open to the public, visitors can discover the history and processes associated with pearl diving and traditional farming techniques here.
2. Al Ain Oasis, Al Ain
Al Ain Oasis is a natural oasis situated close to the city of Al Ain. Al Ain Oasis is a UNESCO World Heritage site spread across more than 3,000 acres. The oasis’ greenery is a contrast to the surrounding desert landscape making it a must-visit spot for tourists and locals alike.
The oasis is home to over 100 different varieties of crops. Here, visitors can walk through palm groves and discover the centuries-old Falaj irrigation system. Around the oasis, visitors can take in traditional Emirati buildings like the Al Ain Palace Museum, which was formerly the residence of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The oasis is home to the Hili Archaeological Park.
3. Al Wathba Fossil Dune Protected Area
The Al Wathba Fossil Dune Protected Area is a natural reserve and the best place to encounter the UAE’s natural history. Al Wathba Fossil Dune Protected Area draws in visitors keen to discover the fossilised remains of prehistoric animals found here. Fossils span elephants, horses, and turtles that have been preserved for over 5,000 years. There is also a diverse range of flora and fauna to be encountered here including rare and endangered species. The reserve is open throughout the year and visitors can access the site via guided tours or private vehicles.
Guests can combine their visit with outdoor activities in this natural setting that spans hiking, bird watching, and wildlife spotting.
4. Al Sinniyah Island, Umm Al Quwain
Al Sinniyah Island is a natural island located off the coast of Umm Al Quwain. Visitors head here to discover the area’s pristine beaches, clear waters, and abundant marine life. The island takes up approximately 15 square kilometres and is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including rare species of birds, fish, and other marine animals. Visitors to the island can enjoy a range of water-based activities, including swimming, snorkelling, diving, fishing, and the island’s trails.
5. Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island
This beachside all-villa retreat takes its visual inspiration from Emirati fishing villages. Gaze out towards the mangroves and the surrounding sea or relax by the pool. This resort offers a unique opportunity to experience nature thanks to its location on Sir Bani Yas Island which serves as a wildlife sanctuary. The island, which is just off the coast of Abu Dhabi, is home to a wildlife reserve that boasts over 13,000 animals, including Arabian oryx, cheetahs, and giraffes. Other activities include kayaking, horse riding and snorkelling.
6. Mangroves, Abu Dhabi
Located in Abu Dhabi, the Mangroves are fundamental to the UAE’s ecosystem and a site for conservation research. The mangroves populate Abu Dhabi’s coastline and are made up of trees that grow in saltwater. The Abu Dhabi mangroves are home to a range of flora and fauna including birds, crabs, and fish. The mangroves play a crucial role in protecting the coastline from erosion and storm damage and act as a filter for pollutants from the water. The Abu Dhabi mangroves are a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Visitors can explore the mangroves by boat or kayak, or take a guided tour to discover the natural ecosystem.
7. Fossil Rock, Sharjah
Fossil Rock is located in Sharjah and is a natural rock formation estimated to be over 65 million years old. Fossil Rock is popular with both tourists and locals alike who visit there to hike, camp, rock climb and explore the natural terrain. Fossil Rock is composed of layers of sandstone and shale and interestingly, there are marine fossils embedded within it. We recommend visiting at sunrise or sunset or for the most impressive views.
8. Liwa Oasis, Empty Quarter
Liwa Oasis is located around 220 kilometres south-west of Abu Dhabi. The oasis is set within the Rub’ al Khali desert (also known as the Empty Quarter). Visitors head here to discover the striking natural scenery which includes vibrant dunes, palm plantations, and desert flora and fauna. This particular oasis is known to be home to traditional Emirati settlements including Bedouin camps. Head here during the date harvesting season (late summer and early autumn) and experience traditional methods of harvesting and processing dates.
9. Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah
Jebel Jais is the UAE’s highest mountain peak, located in Ras Al Khaimah. At 1,934 metres tall, the mountain is popular with tourists and a favourite spot for adventurers. Head to the summit to take in striking views of the surrounding landscape. There’s a host of activities to do here including hiking, camping, and zip-lining. Jebel Jais is home to the world’s longest zipline!
10. Snoopy Island, Fujairah
A top spot for nature lovers, Snoopy Island is a natural landmark situated in Fujairah. Snoopy is a rocky island that resembles the famous comic character, Snoopy. Visitors head here to go snorkelling and scuba diving thanks to the clear waters and diverse marine life that can be found here. Several species of fish as well as sea turtles, rays and even sharks can be encountered close to Snoopy Island. The island is also home to a range of seabirds such as ospreys and cormorants. Snoopy Island is surrounded by sandy beaches and there are several hotels close by with restaurants making it an ideal spot to head to with the family for the day. Snoopy Island is easily accessible by boat from the nearby Sandy Beach Hotel & Resort.
