All about the Jebel Ali Wildlife Sanctuary
The Jebel Ali Wildlife Sanctuary runs from the coastline between Ghantoot and Jebel Ali. For tourists and residents alike, it is a fascinating place of wonder and discovery. People come to the Jebel Ali Wildlife Sanctuary to observe the hundreds of unique animals and plants. While entry in the sanctuary is restricted due to conservation efforts, one can visit the place as members of campaigns led by Emirates Marine Environmental Group (EMEG).
ALL ABOUT THE JEBEL ALI WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
In 2018, Jebel Ali Wildlife Sanctuary was added to the Ramsar List of Wetlands of International Importance making it a place of global significance. The sanctuary is also the eight protected wetland in the UAE as an Ecologically or Biologically Significant Marine Area (EBSA). This title is awarded by the Convention on Biological Diversity.
The sanctuary also includes the Ghantoot Marine Reserve featuring coral reefs, mangroves, sea-grass beds and sandy beaches. It is easily accessible for those living in rental flats in Discovery Gardens and other areas near Jebel Ali.
WHY VISIT THE JEBEL ALI WILDLIFE SANCTUARY?
For those interested in marine life, this place is a haven. Spread across 2,000 hectares, the wetland is situated between the Dubai-Abu Dhabi border and the Palm Jebel Ali area. The venue seems vast but when the migratory marine species arrive, it becomes quite densely populated.
The Jebel Ali Wildlife Sanctuary provides shelter, food and a breeding ground to a variety of endangered species including hawksbill turtles, green turtles, Arabian gazelles and water birds. The coverage of seabed and hard coral provides a natural habitat to a host of marine creatures such as the endangered mottled eagle rays.
EMIRATES MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL GROUP EVENTS
The Emirates Marine Environmental Group (EMEG) organises community-based events which you can be part of. Nature enthusiasts can be a part of turtle releases, beach clean-up drives, BBQs and mangrove planting.
Visit the EMEG Facebook page to know more about the upcoming events as well as the Jebel Ali Wildlife Sanctuary opening hours. The Emirates Marine Environmental Group also organises special trips for larger groups including schools.
MARINE HABITATS
In the year 2017, the Dubai Municipality identified this main marine habitat for conservation. The coral reef provides a high relief ‘hard bottom’ home to various fish. The sandy beaches at Ghantoot are also a breeding ground for hawksbill turtles. The extensive coverage of seagrass beds serves as a nursery for fish and feeding grounds for dugongs and green turtles. Seasonal brown macro-algae populations and sparse colonies of faviid hard corals are also found here.
FAUNA AND FLORA
It is estimated that Jebel Ali Wildlife Sanctuary is home to 539 unique marine creatures as well as other fauna and flora. Thirty-four species of coral have been recorded in Ghantoot out of which around 40% are endangered. Close to 150 species of fish, 124 birds and 34 corals have also been spotted in the area.
Among these spectacular creatures, the dugong and humpback dolphins attract a lot of interest. Similarly, orange-spotted groupers are also found here. Shark species such as the Arabian carpet shark, black-tipped reef shark and whale shark also find a home at the Jebel Ali Wildlife Sanctuary. The most prominent reptiles living here include the protected hawksbill and green turtles. When you visit the Jebel Ali Wildlife Sanctuary, you might encounter these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.
Local and migratory birds are also attracted to the wetland.
FAQs
Those interested in Jebel Ali Wildlife Sanctuary information would want to know more about how to plan a perfect trip to the venue.
HOW TO PREPARE FOR A VISIT TO JEBEL ALI WILDLIFE SANCTUARY?
The priority at the sanctuary is the protection of marine life, hence, everything has been kept in its natural state. There aren’t many facilities here for visitors but this means there are no places to stay here for long periods. You also have to follow the EMEG guidelines when attending any particular event.
WHAT IS THE JEBEL ALI WILDLIFE SANCTUARY ENTRY FEE?
There is no entry free.
WHAT ARE THE JEBEL ALI WILDLIFE SANCTUARY TIMINGS?
Jebel Ali Wildlife Sanctuary timings would depend on the activity you are planning to be part of with the EMEG. For Jebel Ali wildlife sanctuary information, you can get in touch with EMEG representatives.
Jebel Ali Wildlife Sanctuary is a wonderful place to explore the natural ecosystems that exist in the UAE. As stated earlier, it is a natural habitat for various types of animals and a shining example of how with some effort on our part, we can do so much for biodiversity. Visit the sanctuary to do your part and contribute positively towards society.
There are also other places in the UAE which are spearheading conservation efforts. For example, you can go to the Al Wasit Wetland or Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary for a fascinating peek into the local ecosystem and migratory habits in the animal kingdom. Other similar tourist attractions include the Dubai Safari and Al Ain Zoo.
Keep following MyBayut to learn about all the natural wetlands and conservation spots in the UAE.
