All about Al Wasit Wetland Nature Reserve in Sharjah
The Al Wasit Wetland Centre in Sharjah is a tranquil location popular among locals and tourists. You can discover some fantastic native flora and fauna at this conservation centre. The wetland is a conservation area that houses various local and migratory birds. Let’s find out more about this natural wetland in Sharjah.
HISTORY OF AL WASIT WETLAND CENTRE SHARJAH
Before it became a lush green nature reserve, the area was used for waste disposal. In 2007, it was declared a “protected area” by the Emiri Decree No. (7) issued by His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. The decree was the first step towards conservation efforts in the area, and over time, it turned the 20-acre wasteland into a nature reserve and haven for migratory and local birds.
The rehabilitation work began in 2010 and was completed in 2015. In 2012, X-Architects, a well-known design company in Dubai, started working on a building that seamlessly integrated into the natural outlook of the reserve. The final product has a transparent viewing gallery and eight bird observation structures. In 2019, the Wasit Wetland Centre received the Aga Khan Award for Architecture. It is one of the first projects in the UAE to be shortlisted for the award.
WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE AL WASIT WETLAND NATURE RESERVE SHARJAH?
Nestled on the meeting point between the sea and land, this hidden gem of Sharjah features mudflats, salty lagoons, coastal dunes and freshwater pools. For anyone who loves nature and its wonders, there’s plenty to explore in Wasit Wetland in Sharjah.
AN ECOSYSTEM FOR REGIONAL WILDLIFE
The Al Wasit Wetland Nature Reserve in Sharjah is perfect for learning about local wildlife. The centre is home to rare species of insects, birds, and plants. Budding biologists would love to explore the ecosystem that sustains wildlife by providing natural reserves of food and shelter to various animals and plants.
BIRD WATCHER’S PARADISE
The Wasit Wetland Centre Sharjah is home to over 198 bird species, including migratory and resident birds. Massive aviaries allow visitors to see various bird species, including heron, purple swamphen and white ibises. The guides and experts provide learning opportunities by sharing detailed information about these birds and offering various exciting activities for kids at the centre.
SPOT THE ARABIAN ORYX
Another major attraction at the Al Wasit Sharjah is the massive coastal dunes, besides the lush-green vegetation. This is the perfect area for visitors to spot the endangered Arabian Oryx in its natural habitat.
If you’re lucky, it is possible to witness the majestic Oryx prancing through the green wetland in search of food. There are golf carts for families to explore the different parts of the nature reserve in Sharjah.
ECO-TOURISM HOTSPOT
The Al Wasit Nature Reserve in Sharjah is an eco-tourism hotspot where visitors can find rare small mammals, insects, reptiles, birds and vegetation. The centre is part of an expansive rehabilitation project by Sharjah’s Environment and Protected Areas Agency. The agency aims to clean up and rehabilitate the ancient chain of wetlands along the Arabian Gulf coast.
FAQS ABOUT AL WASIT WETLAND SHARJAH
WHAT ARE THE AL WASIT WETLAND TIMINGS?
The opening hours for the Al Wasit Wetland Nature Reserve Centre in Sharjah are 09:00 am to 06:30 pm, except for Tuesday and Friday. On Fridays, the centre’s timings are from 02:00 pm to 06:00 pm, whereas the centre is closed on Tuesdays.
WHAT IS THE AL WASIT WETLAND ENTRY FEE?
The Wasit Wetland Reserve Centre Sharjah entrance fee is AED 15 for adults, while children below 12 can enter for free.
WHAT IS THE WASIT WETLAND LOCATION?
It is located in the Ramtha area near Al Wasit in Sharjah.
That’s all for our guide to Al Wasit Wetland Centre. Visiting the place would allow you to witness the natural habitat of rare animals, reptiles and birds. You can also visit the various eco-tourism sites in Dubai to see multiple species of mammals, birds, flora and fauna.
The Mleiha Archaeological Centre in Sharjah is a good choice for more historical and nature visits. At the Mleiha Centre, you can explore the region’s history and discover what the relics from the past have to offer in terms of life in ancient Arabia.
Nature buffs would also love to explore the Kalba Bird of Prey Centre. To discover the secrets of marine life, you can visit the Sharjah Aquarium, home to over 150 species.
