Al Wasit Wetland Nature Reserve Sharjah
A Travel Guide

Al Wasit Wetland

In the middle of Dubai lies a special place called the Al Wasit Wetland Nature Reserve. It’s a big area, about 4.2 square kilometers, filled with nature. You can find many different kinds of birds here, especially during the winter when some birds come from far away.

People who come here can enjoy looking at the pretty mangrove trees, calm water pools, and amazing views of Dubai’s tall buildings. Whether you love nature, watching birds, or want a break from the busy city, Al Wasit Wetland Nature Centre is a wonderful place to visit.

History of al Wasit Wetland Centre Sharjah

Before, the Wasit Wetland was just where people threw away their trash. But in 2007, Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, a very important person in Sharjah, said it would be a protected area. Can you believe it? 

They turned 20 acres of trash into a place tourists love! This made Sharjah famous worldwide. It worked out well because now it’s a safe place for birds, both local ones and ones that come from far away. They started changing the wasteland in 2010, and in 2015, they were done. 

A famous company from Dubai called X-Architects came up with ideas for how it should look. Now, you can see a cool glass gallery where you can watch birds. In 2019, the Wasit Wasteland Reserve got an award for its amazing design called the Aga Khan Award. It was one of the first projects in the Emirates to be nominated for this award.

Things to See at the Al Wasit Wetland Nature Reserve

The Wasit Wetland is a beautiful place between the sea and the land in Sharjah. It’s like a treasure for Sharjah. When you visit, you’ll see salty pools, freshwater spots, and lots of other amazing sights. It’s a must-visit for anyone who loves nature. Here’s what you can expect to see there:

1. Migratory Birds

The wetland is a crucial stopover for birds traveling between Europe, Asia, and Africa. Some of these birds are the Greater Flamingo, the Common Sandpiper, and the Black-tailed Godwit.

2. Resident Birds

The wetland is also home to birds that live there all the time, like the Osprey, the Western Reef Heron, and the Greater Spotted Eagle.

3. Waterfowl

Various waterfowl species, such as the Common Teal, the Northern Shoveler, and the Garganey, call the wetland home.

4. Waders

The wetland is an important breeding ground for birds like the Kentish Plover, the Common Redshank, and the Little Stint, which spend time walking in the shallow water.

5. Seeing Arabian Oryx

One of the best sights here is the Arabian Oryx, a rare animal and the national symbol of the UAE. You might get lucky and see them jumping around looking for food in the wetlands.

6. A Hotspot for Eco-Tourism

The Wasit Nature Reserve is an important place for the environment in Sharjah. Here, you’ll find many small animals like birds, mammals, and reptiles. The Environment and Protected Areas Agency in Sharjah looks after it, working hard to keep the wetlands safe and healthy.

Experience the Buggy Tours and Nature Walks

You can take a free ride around the lake in a buggy. If you use a wheelchair, there’s a special golf cart available that can fit your wheelchair without you needing to transfer. There are eight spots called “hides” located around the lake. 

Each hide has binoculars and signs with information about birds in the area, so be sure to stop by. You can see lots of different birds here, like Marsh Harriers and kingfishers. Keep an eye out for colorful butterflies and moths among the plants. 

you might see gazelles while riding around the lake, so be careful. They might be out in the open or hidden in the bushes. Even on hot days, the buggy ride is nice because of the breeze from the water, especially in the late afternoon.

Discover the Wasit Wetlands While Walking

The walk around the lake is about 5.6 km long, but it’s only for adults. First, go to the visitor center to sign a form and leave your phone number in case of emergencies. If you’re worried about losing the paper, you can also take a photo of the emergency center’s number.

Walking around Wasit Wetlands is much easier now than before. You have to choose between walking or taking the buggy ride, though. Since the path is flat and worn, you don’t need hiking boots, so wear comfy shoes. Bring plenty of water, your camera, and binoculars if you have them. Wear a hat and sunscreen too.

The last time to start walking is 4 pm, so try to get there by 3:30 pm to have enough time. The path starts at the car park and splits after a short distance. If it’s morning, go right; if it’s afternoon, go straight. Going right at the fork is better if you have trouble hearing because you’ll be facing the traffic and can see the golf carts coming your way.

Features of Wasit Wetland Centre

  1. Birdwatching Haven: You can spot over 300 types of birds, including those that migrate.
  2. Home to Wildlife: You’ll find mammals, reptiles, and other creatures like the Arabian red fox and desert hedgehog.
  3. Saving Habitats: Experts work to restore the wetland’s habitats and keep them healthy.
  4. Learning Opportunities: People of all ages can learn about wetlands and how to protect them through educational programs.
  5. Flamingo Spot: Visitors can watch graceful flamingos in the water or flying overhead.
  6. Tower Viewing: The Tower Hide offers a great view of birds and other wildlife.
  7. Nature Walks: Trails let you explore different parts of the wetland.
  8. Exhibits: Displays help you understand why wetlands are important.
  9. Guided Tours: Experts lead tours to teach about the wetland and conservation.
  10. Hands-On Workshops: Workshops let you get involved in conservation efforts.
  11. Eco-Friendly Buildings: The center uses renewable energy and eco-friendly materials to reduce its impact.
  12. Awareness Campaigns: Events and workshops aim to spread awareness about environmental issues and sustainability.

Timings

Opening & Closing Timing

  1. Monday, Wednesday & Thursday: 9:00 am-6:30 pm
  2. Saturday & Sunday: 11:00 am-6:30 pm
  3. Friday: 2:00 pm-6:30 pm
  4. Tuesday: Closed

Ticket Price & Contact Info

It’s a good idea to either get a taxi or rent a car, which you can drive yourself. Wasit Wetlands are about 40 kilometers away from Dubai if you take the Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311). It’s also just a 10-minute drive from Ajman or Sharjah city center.

Ticket Price

This pricing plan is set up to welcome families and ensure everyone can visit the reserve.

  1. Adult(12+): 15 AED
  2. Kids( under 12):  free

Online Ticket

When they arrive at the center, visitors must pay the appropriate entrance fee, depending on their age.

Contact Info

For contact here is phone no: +971 6 552 6646

Location

Sheikh Salem Bin Sultan Al Qasimi St – Al Homah,Sharjah, UAE

Tips for visiting Al Wasit Nature Reserve

  1. Check when the reserve is open and if there are any special events before you go.
  2. Bring binoculars for better birdwatching.
  3. Wear light, comfy clothes and good shoes for walking.
  4. Carry lots of water, especially if you’ll be walking around.
  5. Don’t get too close to animals or bother them.
  6. Follow the signs and rules to keep the place safe for animals.
  7. Take your time to enjoy the reserve’s beauty.
  8. Consider joining a guided tour for more information.
  9. Use your camera, but don’t disturb the animals for photos.
  10. Keep the reserve clean by taking your trash with you when you leave.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Al Wasit Wetland Nature Centre in Sharjah, UAE, used to be a dumping site. But now, it’s a lovely place full of animals and plants. You can see many birds and animals there. 

The reserve also offers tours and workshops on protecting the environment. Whether you enjoy nature or need a break from the city, you’ll enjoy your time at Al Wasit Wetland Nature Reserve.

Frequently Asked Question(FAQ's)

Q1:What is Al Wasit Wetland Nature Reserve?

The Al Wasit Wetland Nature Reserve is a protected area located in Sharjah, UAE. It is a nature reserve that is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including many species of birds.

Q2: Where is the Al Wasit Wetland Nature Reserve located?

The Al Wasit Wetland Nature is situated in Sharjah city, in the United Arab Emirates. It is known for its beautiful coastal sand dunes and lagoons.

Q3: What can visitors expect to see at Al Wasit Wetland Nature?

Visitors to the reserve can expect to see a diverse range of bird species, including flamingos, herons, and many more. The reserve is also known for its unique vegetation and coastal landscapes.

Q4: What recognition has Al Wasit Wetland Nature center received?

Al Wasit Wetland Nature center has received awards such as the Aga Khan Award for Architecture for its sustainable design and contribution to environmental conservation.

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