Beautiful natural places in the UAE you should definitely visit!

• Natural Places in Dubai
• Natural Places in Abu Dhabi
• Natural Places in Sharjah
• Natural Places in RAK
• Natural Places in Ajman
• Natural Places in Fujairah
• Natural Places in Umm Al Quwain

Mother Nature has been immensely kind to the UAE, blessing it with a natural landscape so diverse that it often leaves you in awe. From sandy beaches and wetlands to desert dunes and beautiful wadis, there’s plenty to explore and experience here. Love to spend time outdoors? These amazing natural places in the UAE should definitely be on your list of escapades from the country’s bustling cities and busy skylines. 

BEST NATURAL PLACES IN DUBAI

Let’s kick off this list of best natural places in the UAE with Dubai. Away from the hustle and bustle, you’ll be amazed to see the natural wonders Dubai has to offer. 

RAS AL KHOR WILDLIFE SANCTUARY 

Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is a natural wetland reserve in Dubai. Commonly known by its acronym RAKWS, the wetland is an ecological sanctuary with mangroves, bird species, mammals, crustaceans and reptiles inhabiting it.

The sanctuary protects numerous species of flora and fauna. This biodiverse region has a balanced ecosystem that includes several native wildlife species and plants, alongside the visiting migrant species.

Visitors can spot Ferruginous ducks, pink-beaked flamingos, common kingfishers, the Eurasian teal duck and Agama lizards. You can also catch a glimpse of reef herons, sandpipers, kingfisher and black-tailed godwit.

While you’re there, beware of the sand racers and horned vipers gliding in the area. The wetland waters also house tigerfish and the blue swimming crab – you’d be lucking to get a glimpse of the latter wandering out of the water.

But the star of the show is the flamingo population. And the best part is, you don’t have to pay any Ras Al Khor Wildlife sanctuary entry fee – it’s open to everyone! 

• Location: Baniyas 20, Baniyas Road Deira 
• Contact: 800-900  

AL MARMOOM DESERT CONSERVATION RESERVE

Next on our list of the most stunning natural places to visit in the UAE is Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve in Dubai. It’s one of the largest unfenced nature reserves in the UAE and home to over 200 species of native birds and 150 species of migratory birds. The reserve also features Arabian oryx, reptiles and flamingos.  Al Qudra Lake is also nearby if you wish to explore other parts of this expansive natural reserve. 

• Location: Saih Al Salam

FOSSIL ROCK 

Fossil Rock in Al Awir is another surreal natural place to visit in the UAE. Here, you can explore the fossils in the area that date back 80 million years! Conveniently located on the Dubai-Hatta Road (E44), the Fossil Rock area is set amid rocky hills and desert sand that form the perfect backdrop for some impressive nature-inspired Insta-worthy shots. 

• Location: Duba-Hatta Road (E44), Al Awir

HATTA

Hatta is one of the most impressive natural attractions in Dubai, UAE. This idyllic location is home to beautiful mountain ranges that surround a sparkling blue lake. Adventure buffs can go trekking in the mountains or explore the beauty of the lake while kayaking. There is an array of exciting activities in Hatta, such as mountain biking and visiting the historic Hatta Fort.

BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN ABU DHABI

Lets explore what the capital of the UAE has to offer for nature lovers. From mangroves to wetlands and ancient fossils, there’s so many natural wonders to experience in Abu Dhabi. 

Al Wathba Wetland Reserve

Al Wathba Wetland Reserve is next on our list of the top natural places to visit in the UAE. Located a 45-minute drive from Abu Dhabi’s main city centre, this destination in Al Wathba is home to numerous endangered birds and wildlife species.

The region was initially recognised as sabkhas or coastal salt flats, but now it features numerous natural and artificial lakes. Visitors can experience over 250 bird species at Al Wathba Reserve, including the popular flamingos that number more than 4,000. The ecosystem at the reserve is diverse and is home to reptiles, invertebrates and other animals. 

Al Wathba Wetland Reserve is perfect for weekend trips with children. There are two self-guided trails at the reserve where you’ll get the opportunity to immerse yourself in the area’s stunning natural beauty. The site also has an air-conditioned visitor centre to facilitate guests.

• Location: Abu Dhabi

Mangrove National Park

Located near the Anantara Eastern Mangroves Hotel, Mangrove National Park in Abu Dhabi is another popular natural attraction in the United Arab Emirates.

From regional species of hundreds of birds and dazzling schools of fish, to mottled crab and marine mammals, Mangrove National Park has so much for nature lovers.

Animals that can be spotted at the nature reserve include the reef heron, the greater flamingo, turtles, dolphins and foraging foxes.

Aside from observing the stunning natural landscape, there’s loads of other things to do at the Mangrove National Park. Available activities include kayaking and paddle-boarding.

In fact, the park is considered to be one of the best kayaking spots in Abu Dhabi. Visitors can also enjoy bird watching as the mangrove is home to thousands of beautiful birds. 

• Location: Abu Dhabi

AL BATHA NATURE RESERVE

The Al Batha Nature Reserve in Al Ain is an ecotourism project aimed to protect the local wildlife. The serene nature reserve features kids playgrounds, a lake and a shaded seating area. Enjoy the stunning desert dunes and the lush-green ghaf trees. The reserve is only open from 09:00 am to 10:00 pm every day.

• Location: Al Ain, Dubai Road, Al Nabbag, Abu Dhabi

NATURAL PLACES TO VISIT IN SHARJAH

The cultural capital of the UAE is popular for its musuems and historical sites, but Sharjah also has some noteworthy entries on our list of the best natural places in the UAE.

AL HEFAIYAH MOUNTAIN CONSERVATION CENTRE

Kalba in Sharjah has several natural places that you could visit. Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre is all about preserving the rich biodiversity of the region. Located at the base of the Hajar Mountains outside of Kalba, the centre has large landscape enclosures where visitors can take a look at pristine mountain landscape and chance upon a glimpse of the 30 animal species that inhabit the area, including the Arabian leopard. 

AL WASIT WETLAND RESERVE

Discover the native flora and fauna of the region at the Al Wasit Wetland Nature Reserve in Sharjah. The wetland is a conservation area that houses various local and migratory birds.

An eco-tourism hotspot in Sharjah, Al Wasit Nature Reserve is a where visitors can find rare small mammals, reptiles, birds and vegetation. The centre is a part of an expansive rehabilitation project by Sharjah’s Environment and Protected Areas Agency. 

The reserve is a bird-watchers paradise. It’s one of the handful of natural landscapes in the UAE. The sanctuary is home to 198 bird species that include native and migratory birds. Massive aviaries bring visitors up close to a range of bird species including heron, purple swamphen, white ibises and more. The centre also houses rare species of insects and plants that were never seen in the UAE before. 

• Entry fee: AED 15 for adults | Children below 12 years of age can enter for free.
• Location: Ramtha area near Al Wasit in Sharjah

NATURAL PLACES TO VISIT IN RAS AL KHAIMAH

If you’ve never visited Ras Al Khaimah, what are you waiting for?! Why not start your adventures with these best natural places in RAK.

Wadi Bih

Often referred to as Wadi Biyah or Wadi Bia, Wadi Bih is one of the most popular natural attractions near Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah. This wadi is a haven for tourists who enjoy watching exotic birds. The region welcomes various beautiful birds during summers including Barbary falcons, the European robin, desert lark and Lichtenstein’s sandgrouse. Visitors can also spot different local breeds of camels and goats in the Bih Valley. Other activities that can be enjoyed in the valley include hiking, running and mountain biking.

• Location: Ras Al Khaimah

Hajar Mountains

The Hajar Mountains is the highest mountain range on the Arabian Peninsula. The range also houses the highest peak in the UAE, Jebel Jais, a popular weekend attraction for climbers and thrill-seekers. The Hajar Mountains and its valleys are amongst the best natural places in the UAE.

Tourists and residents can contact different tour companies to organise Hajar mountain tours. Aside from stunning views of the majestic mountains, visitors can also enjoy zip-lining, mountain biking and other fun activities. 

• Location: Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah

NATURAL PLACES TO VISIT IN AJMAN

Ajman is one of the smallest emirates in the UAE but you’ll also find plenty of natural wonders here.

AL ZORAH NATURE RESERVE AJMAN

Al Zorah Nature Reserve Ajman is one of the best natural attractions in the UAE that you can visit. This wildlife reserve has serene beaches, a dense mangrove ecosystem and a pygmy zoo.

The Al Zorah Nature Reserve is home to 58 species of native and migrating birds making it one of the top ecotourism destinations in UAE. The Al Zorah Nature Reserve Ajman also has the Al Zorah Golf Club, a sandy beach and watersports activities.

• Location: The Pavilion Al Zorah, Al Ittihad Road, Opposite Union Coop Jerf 1, Ajman

MASFOUT

Masfout, known for its rocky countryside and cool pollution-free climate, is a popular holiday destination for nature buffs in Ajman. Masfout also boasts bustling wildlife with a variety of local and migratory birds, reptiles, mammals and vegetation. Visitors can also be a part of exciting activities such as exploring the nearby wadis, trekking, mountain biking and hikes. 

NATURAL PLACES TO VISIT IN FUJAIRAH

Next up on our list is Fujairah, the northern emirate that has plenty to offer when it comes to exploring the natural beauty of the UAE. 

AIN AL MADHAB HOT SPRINGS

Fujairah, the scenic emirate in the UAE is home to the Ain Al Madhab Hot Springs. This fascinating destination is one of the best natural places in the UAE.

The Ain Al Madhab Hot Springs are mineral-rich freshwater springs where visitors can take a dip in the renovated pools.

Swimming is only allowed in the designated pools while other surrounding areas are off-limit. You can also visit the Madhab Spring Park in Fujairah for more fun activities for the entire family. 

• Cost: AED 5 per person (pools only) | AED 2 per adult and AED 1 per child for the same for adjoining park 
• Location: Fujairah

SNOOPY ISLAND

Known for its pristine beaches with azure waters, Snoopy Island is one of the sought-after destinations for visitors in Fujairah. Located off the Fujairah coast, Snoopy Island is a haven for divers and beach buffs alike. Shore dive, snorkelling, deep-sea coral dive and kayaking are some of the activities worth trying here. Take a dive and explore the variety of marine life including mackerel, reef fish and reef sharks inhabiting the waters around this unique Snoopy-shaped island. 

WADIS IN FUJAIRAH

Besides the gorgeous beaches, the wadis in Fujairah offer a rugged mountainous landscape that’s perfect for hiking, camping, trekking and mountain biking to name a few. Wadi Al Hayl, Wadi Siji and Wadi Sidr are some of the most popular valleys worth exploring. 

TIM’S REEF

Looking for a surfing spot in Fujairah? Tim’s Reef is the ideal destination for surfing in the UAE. Summer months are the best to visit Tim’s Reef – the only reef break in the UAE. Surf on the massive swells from the Indian Ocean at Tim’s Reef, located just over an hour away from Dubai. 

NATURAL PLACES TO VISIT IN UMM AL QUWAIN

Now, let’s explore some beautiful natural places in Umm Al Quwain.

UMM AL QUWAIN WETLANDS

The emirate of Umm Al Quwain is one of the best spots in the UAE to see how the region was hundreds of years ago. The Umm Al Quwain Wetlands are located near a bright blue lagoon surrounded by small islands bustling with wildlife. You can see birds, reptiles and other small species of fish and animals there. Nature enthusiasts can also take a kayak to discover the mangroves there.

KHOR AL BEIDAH

Another great natural place to visit in Umm Al Quwain is Khor Al Beidah. Tucked away at the Al Sinniyah Island, the spot is popular for bird watchers in particular. Khor Al Beidah is spread across 90 square kilometres and is home to several bird species. The shallow lagoons and mud areas make the perfect habitat for feeding and nesting.

FAQs

Which are the best beaches in the UAE?

Beaches are probably the most popular, prominent and easily accessible of the natural attractions in the UAE. Seashores in the UAE are a hub of fun activities that include watersports, restaurants, parks, fitness sessions and more. Some of the top beaches in the UAE include Al Hamra Beach, Jumeirah Beach, La Mer Beach and Kite Beach among others.

What are some other popular tourist destinations in the UAE?

Tourists can find numerous exciting attractions and places to visit in the UAE. All of the emirates feature attractions that attract tourists from different regions of the world. Some of the best include the Burj Khalifa, Al Noor Mosque, Ferrari World and Adventureland Sharjah.

Can I go on a road trip in the UAE? Which destinations are the best when travelling from Dubai?

There are many popular long drive destinations in UAE. The emirates of Fujairah, Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah are some of the top locations for road trips from Dubai.

That concludes our list of popular natural places to visit in the UAE. These natural hotspots offer a chance to explore the unique flora and fauna in the UAE. The plants, animals and reptiles have adapted to the harsh desert environment. You can also explore the best places for eco-tourism in Dubai for more options. One of the upcoming attractions is the Mangrove forest in Dubai.

Looking for other things to do in the UAE? How about visiting some of the best attractions in Dubai? We also have a super useful guide to the best tourist attractions in Abu Dhabi.