Nature at its finest: All about Al Batha Nature Reserve in Al Ain
high-rise buildings, well-established infrastructure, magnificent skylines and exuberant nightlife. But it shouldn’t be forgotten that the country is also famous for its unique flora and fauna. The government has recently decided to showcase its natural reserves by establishing an eco-tourism nature reserve in Al Ain. The Al Batha Nature Reserve is a sanctuary dedicated to the preservation of wildlife and allowing an ecosystem to thrive.
Whether you want to explore the wildlife or go camping, there’s no shortage of adventure and fun at Al Batha Reserve.
AN OVERVIEW
Over the past few years, eco-tourism projects have been expanded to increase nature reserves in UAE. An extensive redevelopment was undertaken at the Al Batha Nature Reserve before it was opened to visitors.
The project is dedicated to preserving and maintaining the nature and wildlife in the reserve. It is a sanctuary for various species of birds and animals, including everything from ducks to gazelles.
This picturesque reserve hosts a serene lake, lush green Ghaf trees, a play area for kids and shaded spots for vacationers to relax amid surrounding golden dunes. To sum it up, it’s the perfect location for picnics or camping trips with friends and family.
THINGS TO DO IN AL BATHA NATURE RESERVE
The Batha Reserve is truly a stunning place for nature lovers. A retreat which allows its visitors to connect with nature and leave all their worries behind. Here’s a list of all the things you can do in Al Batha Nature Reserve.
WILDLIFE ADVENTURE
Al Batha Nature Reserve in Al Ain is a wildlife sanctuary devoted to protecting animal habitats and their surroundings from disturbance. The animals are safe from being captured or hunted.
This reserve is also hugely attractive for migratory birds which makes it a must-visit for all bird lovers. You can see birds like ducks, raptors, small passerines, grebes, egrets and waders.
Other than the stunning array of birds, you’ll also often find gazelles strolling around the golden sand dunes and Ghaf trees at the reserve. Despite the desert climate, there’s a surprisingly diverse population of wildlife species in the UAE.
PLAY AREA FOR KIDS
Al Batha Reserve in Al Ain is a great place to visit for families with children as it features a kids playground. It has a variety of play equipment for children, such as swing rides, rope climbing, etc.
PICNICS AND BARBECUE
The Al Batha Reserve features covered shelters surrounded by panoramic views of sand dunes and miniature lakes. You can set a picnic at one of the shaded spots with your family while your kids enjoy the rides in the playground.
The cooler autumnal and winter months ensure the reserve is a lovely location to enjoy a fuss-free BBQ. Is there anything better than an outdoor grill party with friends and family? Exactly! So grab your BBQ and get ready to cook up a storm!
Even if you don’t want to cook up your own food, there are several restaurants and cafes near the reserve where you can grab yourself some seriously tasty eats and refreshing beverages before or after your visit. Hili Mall with its numerous F&B outlets is only a 10-minute drive from the Al Batha Nature Reserve.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHERE IS THE AL BATHA NATURE RESERVE LOCATED?
The Al Batha Nature Reserve location is close to Hili in Al Ain, Dubai Road, Al Nabbag, Abu Dhabi. The location’s Google Plus code is as follows: 7PMG+4R Al Ain, Abu Dhabi.
WHAT ARE THE AL BATHA NATURE RESERVE TIMINGS?
The reserve is open from 09:00 am to 10:00 pm every day.
ARE THERE ANY OTHER ECOTOURISM PROJECTS IN UAE?
The UAE has been extending its eco-tourism projects for the past few years. In 2018, the National Ecotourism project was initiated by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment to rank the country as a major global player with regard to protecting the environment.
ARE THERE ANY OTHER NATURAL ATTRACTIONS IN ABU DHABI?
Nature explorers in Abu Dhabi often enjoy kayaking trips through the Mangrove National Park, located close to the city. You can also take a stroll on a boardwalk overlooking the mangroves at Jubail Mangrove Park.
WHERE CAN YOU EXPLORE MORE WILDLIFE IN AL AIN?
Established in 1968 by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nayhan, the Al Ain Zoo preserves wildlife in the UAE. It is one of the most popular attractions for tourists and residents alike.
The Al Batha Nature Reserve is undoubtedly one of the best natural attractions in Al Ain. Not only will you enjoy an exotic desert adventure, but you’ll also get to explore the UAE’s stunning landscapes and witness the country’s beautiful wildlife.
We hope you found this guide informative and insightful. If you have any questions, please do let us know in the comments section below. And if you are interested in visiting other natural attractions in the UAE, the Al Zorah Nature Reserve in Ajman should definitely be on your must-see list.
