Abu Dhabi Island

The main Abu Dhabi island has always been punctuated by numerous green spaces, which have slowly changed shape and purpose over the decades. Keeping up with community demand, popularity of recreational pursuits, and advancing technologies, we have seen many changes in the use of these parks over the years.

Here, we share the best parks in Abu Dhabi worth a visit, especially travelling with children.

The Abu Dhabi Corniche

The city’s famous eight km-long waterfront runs all the way along the north-western end of Abu Dhabi Island.  A beautiful white coral sand beach flanks one side of the road, the other a string of green parks and picnic areas.

Some of the popular parks and attractions along the Corniche include:

• The Corniche Beach Playground (immediately adjacent to the Beach Plaza) – this includes a pirate ship and other wooden play apparatus.
• The Family Park (in fact, several small playgrounds for different age groups here, including the popular ‘pirate ship playground’)
• The Family water park, skate park, and basketball courts
• Urban Park – this includes water features and a cafe, but not so much for children
• Lake Park – a couple of playgrounds and an exercise area, as well as the lake from which the park takes its name
• Formal Park (including the Corniche Labyrinth)
• Heritage Park (towards the Mina Port end)
• A’l Bahar dining and entertainment area – a variety of food and beverage outlets and pop-up shops with multi-use sports courts and a well-designed covered playground.
• Bike hire along the corniche

Umm al Emarat Park (previously known as Mushrif Park – map)

Situated in the centre of Abu Dhabi Island, in the Al Mushrif area, this huge formal park is a highlight of any Abu Dhabi Itinerary. The park includes beautiful water features, botanical gardens, and open spaces for sports and relaxation.

There’s even a separate children’s park with a splash pad, wadi splash area, and a petting zoo. There are also several play areas within the main park, as well as a large outdoor cinema screen that screens films on weekend evenings.

You don’t need to worry about packing a picnic for this park; in fact, large picnics are not allowed (small snacks for children are permitted), but there are plenty of places to buy snacks and larger meals around the park. During the cooler months, you will also find winter markets and food trucks.

Cost & Opening Hours: 10 AED per person aged 3 and over. Train rides, pony rides, and animal feed all incur additional costs.  The park opens at 8.00 am and closes at midnight (last entry 11.00 pm).

See our complete guide to Umm Al Emarat Park here

Khalidiya Park (map)

This is the newest park in Abu Dhabi to reopen after some significant refurbishments. The key feature of the park 62,000 square metre park is a semi enclosed walkway that circumnavigates the park, allowing for a shaded stroll at any time of year.

The park also has a brand new shaded adventure playground for kids (among five playground areas you’ll find in the park), multisport courts, a sunken garden, and plenty of lawned areas for picnicking.

Cost & Opening Hours: The park is free to enter and is open 24 hours

Yas Bay (map)

Yas Bay Waterfront is one of Abu Dhabi’s premier leisure and entertainment venues, with a range of Al Fresco dining options and a high-end beach club (Cafe Del Mar). There will soon be two new beach parks here to explore (one for families and one adults only – more to come on these soon!)

The area is now also home to Abu Dhabi’s biggest skate park (referred to as South Yas Skate Park). Located a short walk from the Yas Bay development, the shaded park has a range of ramps and obstacles for skaters of all ages.

Fairly close by, there is also a lovely shaded play park (known as Crest Park) suitable for younger children and a waterside promenade, known as The Waves Park, which is great for a Sunday morning stroll or bike ride.

Costs and opening times: The parks are free to enter and open from 8:00 am until 11:00 pm.

You can find out more about what Yas Bay has to offer here.

Yas Marina Circuit (map)

Want to pretend you’re a Grand Prix legend? Open nights at the Yas Marina Circuit are a great way to get out and exercise. It’s not quite the same greenery as some of the parks on our list, but it is a brilliant spot to walk, run, or cycle either the 5.5 km complete circuit or the shortened 3 km North Circuit.

Cost and opening times: Free! Visitors must register and attend a safety briefing on their first visit to the track.

The track is open to all on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6:00 pm until 10:00 pm.  Tuesdays are reserved for ladies only from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm on a modified 3 km track. TrainAM cycling only sessions are also held Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays, 6:00 am to 8:00 am

There are limited bikes available to hire for free, as well as several outlets stocking professional bikes for hire (Top Tip: if you come after about 8:00 pm, there is better availability of the free bikes as the early birds finish up).

Click here to find out more about Yas Marina Circuit fitness sessions and check out @ymcofficial for the monthly events calendar

If you’re looking for more places to grab a bike and see the city on two wheels, check out our guide to cycling in Abu Dhabi

It is also great to walk around the Yas Marina Promenade. Here you’ll find water sprinklers on weekends as well as restaurants and leisure facilities (unfortunately, the small and convenient playground here was replaced with padel courts). Most weekdays, you’ll have this gorgeous little spot to yourself, but weekend evenings can get very busy.

Reem Island

Reem is a growing high-rise residential community off the northeastern coast of the main Abu Dhabi island. Spotted amongst the skyscrapers, however, are some of the city’s best urban parks.

Reem Central Park (map)

This extensive urban park serves the growing community on Al Reem Island, but is great for visitors too. The waterfront park covers 1 million square feet and includes children’s play areas, basketball and volleyball courts, and a skate park.

There are also local art installations and a canal walk offering stunning sunset views of the city. There are plenty of places to have a picnic and multiple food trucks on site, should you be looking for a tasty local bite.

Cost and opening times: Free. Open from 6:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m.

Al Fay Park (map)

Located on Reem Island, this small park is awe-inspiring for its design, which focuses on biodiversity and microclimate optimization. The park is home to 2000 different types of local flora, and the high density of trees and modern irrigation system make the Al Fay Park a particularly cool and tranquil place to spend some time.

There is still an impressive array of recreational opportunities available, including a children’s playground, sand volleyball courts, badminton courts, and table tennis tables.

Cost and opening times: Free. Open from 6:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m.

Hudayriyat Island

An outdoor active paradise… (map)

Hudayriyat Island is a sporting and outdoor hub, featuring multiple sports facilities, playgrounds, splash parks, and beach access.

At the centre of the island is the new Abu Dhabi Velodrome, offering a venue for a variety of sports and events as well as cycling tracks. Cyclists might also enjoy Trail X, a rough terrain mountain bike trail, just a stone’s throw from downtown Abu Dhabi.

For those wanting a gentler cycling option, there is a network of cycling paths around the island that you can enjoy at a leisurely pace. Bikes can be hired from Yas Mena Cycles or Wolfis.

As well as Trail X, you’ll find Circuit X offering a high ropes course, a skatepark, a BMX park, and so much more. A great spot if you’re travelling with older children and teenagers.

The main attraction for many visitors to Hudayriyat is the long sandy beach, which is split into sections. At Marsana West, you’ll find simple sun-loungers and sun shades, as well as an on-demand food and beverage service, for just AED 50 at weekends and AED 25 on weekdays.

Marsana East offers a slightly more luxurious setting, with complimentary towels and water included in the price of AED 50 on weekdays and AED 100 on weekends and public holidays. Marsana East is also open until 10.00 pm in summer, as Abu Dhabi’s first night beach.

Adjacent to the beach is the Marsana waterfront leisure and entertainment area. Here you’ll find a splash park, play area, pool, and outdoor gym, as well as a small marina with water leisure crafts in varying sizes for hire.

Surfers can also find fun on Hudayriyat Island at the new Surf Abu Dhabi world-class artificial wave pool – among the best in the world!

If you’re staying in Abu Dhabi long term or travelling with a big group, 321 Sports, a state-of-the-art sports village, offers a variety of health and fitness opportunities, including indoor and outdoor basketball courts and a football pitch, as well as an Olympic-length running track.

Not just a sporting hub…

In addition to offering a variety of land- and water-based sports, Hudayriyat Island provides opportunities to connect with UAE culture.

The Hudayriyat Heritage Trail was established to protect significant archaeological remains (shell middens) on the island, which provide insight into the activities of fishermen and pearl divers who previously lived there. Guided tours are available for a small fee.

The island also provides the opportunity for overnight camping in the Bab Al Nojoum campsite, and more luxurious stays at the Bab Al Nojoum Villas.

You can read our complete guide to everything there is to enjoy on Hudayriyat Island here

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Saadiyat Island

Abu Dhabi’s most beautiful beach

Home to Abu Dhabi’s most beautiful beach, access to the sand and sea is via 5* hotel day pass, or paying to enter one of the 8 km stretch’s beach clubs. You can find out more about how to enjoy Saadiyat beach by reading our extended article, available here.

Mamsha Promenade (map)

You can enjoy views of the beach from the waterfront lifestyle destination of Mamsha. With a range of cafes and restaurants, all with outdoor seating, this is a great place to start or end the day outdoors.

The paved promenade is ideal for walking or scooting, offering a chance to enjoy the sea without getting sandy feet!

If you want to take a splash, there is a paid beach here, Mamsha Beach (previously Soul Beach), where you can pull up a parasol and sun lounger for the day.

Other Abu Dhabi Parks & Outdoor Spaces

Jubail Mangrove Park (map)

A slightly different park space, Jubail Mangrove Park offers a unique environment for enjoying nature. A network of wooden walkways leads through a mangrove forest that supports a wide variety of birds and marine wildlife.

There is an entry fee, but you’ll find some play features along the boardwalk walk, seating areas, kayaking, and paddleboard options, as well as the option for guided tours. There is also an on-site cafe, toilets, and a selection of food trucks in the car park.

Cost and opening times: From AED 10 for the boardwalk walk, with additional tours and activities available. Open daily from 7:00 am until 9:00 pm (last entry 8.00 pm). NB, well worth checking tide times for best photos at high tide!

You can find our complete guide to Jubail Mangrove Park here

Eastern Mangroves & The Al Gurm Corniche (map)

Flanking the E10 freeway, the Al Gurm Corniche and Mangrove National Park form an enhanced area of outstanding natural beauty. The Mangrove National Park covers approximately 5,000 hectares and supports 74 bird species, as well as a variety of juvenile fish and crustaceans.

The 3.5 km stretch of parkland known as the Al Gurm Corniche runs adjacent to the mangroves. It contains lots of little playgrounds, gym equipment, and picnic nooks to keep everyone happy, whilst taking a stroll in the Abu Dhabi sunshine, and provides the perfect opportunity for spotting flamingos between September and April.

Learn more about Al Gurm Corniche here, and if you’d like to continue you journey into the water, learn more about the Mangroves National Park here.

Cost & opening times: Free. Open 24/7.

Al Bahia Park (map)

Located in the Al Bahia Area close to Deerfields Mall, this beautifully manicured park boasts a variety of play and picnic areas, as well as a library. Usually quiet during the day, the park comes alive after sunset when local families convene in large groups to picnic together.

Restrooms are available on site, but they can be a bit of a hike depending on your location within the park. They’re not the most glamorous in Abu Dhabi! All up, its probably not a park we’d make a trip to from all the way in town, but it serves as an excellent recreation area for residents living much further out of town in the Al Bahia and Al Shahama areas of the city.

Cost and opening times: Free to enter, but note restricted opening times 3:00 pm til 10:00 pm. The library opening hours are advertised as 8:00 am – 8:00 pm, Sunday to Thursday, and 4:00 pm-8:00 pm, Saturday.

The Desert

When discussing parks and open spaces in Abu Dhabi, it’s impossible to overlook the fact that the city is surrounded by desert. The desert is itself one huge playground!

From desert safaris to camping, sandboarding, or dune biking, the desert offers a wide range of fun activities for the whole family.  Far from being “just a big pile of sand”, it is a truly magical place for the whole family to run wild.

In addition to the rolling dunes so frequently seen in Hollywood blockbusters, you’ll find surprises like the Al Wathba Nature Reserve and Salt Lake, and Abu Dhabi’s famous Fossil Dunes.

If you’d like to explore deeper into the UAE desert, we have a detailed guide on how to get out and enjoy desert camping in the UAE here.

If camping isn’t your thing, though, how about trying some of these luxury desert resort options instead? They include extensive outdoor sports options, swimming pools, cultural activities such as camel riding and nature treks, and, most importantly, wide-open spaces and tranquillity away from the city.

Note, any trip to the desert needs to be well planned. Always carry water and a sunshade in case you break down, check weather forecasts, and don’t go off the beaten track without a guide.

This list is certainly not exhaustive, and there are plenty of new (and old, but still very loved) patches of green space, play parks, and cycle track areas all over the city to be explored. If there’s anything you think we’ve missed that deserves to be on our list, email abudhabitravelplanner@gmail.com and we’ll see if we can get it added.

Disclosures: This post was originally published on ourglobetrotters.com in 2016 and has been reproduced and edited with the author’s permission.

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Just outside the hustle and bustle of central Abu Dhabi is a verdant natural paradise. Flanking the Sheikh Zayed Road (also known as the E10) and made up of a network of channels and coastal lagoons, the Mangrove National Park is a haven for wildlife and those looking to get closer to nature.

Covering an area of 19 square kilometres, the park includes salt marshes, mudflats, and algal communities as well as towering mangrove plants. It is home to a variety of fish, crabs, and turtles, and over 60 different species of bird, including herons and flamingoes. Dugongs and dolphins also frequent the area, making it the ideal place for marine wildlife lovers.

Whether you choose to explore the parks and promenade along the Al Gurm Corniche by foot or take to the water in a kayak or canoe, the Mangrove National Park is the perfect place to visit early the morning, late in the evening or on cooler winter days.*

*Note: Greater Flamingoes and Western Reef Herons are both easiest seen during the breeding season, which runs from April until July.

Mangrove National Park vs Jubail Mangrove Park

Note that the Mangrove National Park Abu Dhabi is different from Jubail Mangrove Park. The former is the subject of this article. The latter is where you will find the iconic walkway over the water providing stunning picture-perfect views over the Arabian Gulf coast – You can learn more about Jubail Mangrove Park here.

Importance of Mangrove National Park

Mangroves are a vital part of the UAE’s ecosystem. Not only do they provide a habitat for a wide variety of creatures, but they also help protect against tidal surges, purify the surrounding water, and remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

Abu Dhabi’s Mangrove National Park makes up almost 75% of the total mangrove area of the UAE and is crucial in battling the effects of climate change and maintaining biodiversity in the region.

The Mangrove National Park is also an important leisure facility, offering people the chance to escape from the heat of the city and enjoy being at one with nature.

How to Get to Mangrove National Park

Found off the E10 freeway, the area is often referred to as the ‘Eastern Mangroves’ or the ‘Al Gurm Corniche’.

Free parking is available at the Eastern Mangroves development and along the Al Gurm Corniche. Access to boats and kayaks is via the Eastern Mangroves development, where you will also find the Anantara Eastern Mangroves Hotel and a variety of cafes and restaurants.

Exploring Mangrove National Park from the Water

The Mangrove National Park can only be explored up close by taking a watercraft – there are a few options, depending on how much physical effort you’re willing to put in!

Hire an Eco Donut boat

Donut boats are a great way to explore the area as part of a family or group of friends. They are powered by small eco-friendly, solar-powered engines. Each boat can accommodate up to 6 people (depending on size).

There is no age restriction, although children should be potty trained or in nappies as there are no bathroom facilities on board. We recommend booking in advance, although it is possible to turn up after 2 pm daily if you don’t mind taking a risk on availability.

Learn more about hiring an Eco donut boat here or WhatsApp +971 56 480 0427

Kayaking the Eastern Mangroves

This is a great active option that gives you a good workout as well as the chance to explore all of the little nooks and crannies, inlets and islands of the mangrove area.

One and two-person kayaks are available, making this a great option for couples or people who want to explore the water on their own. You can go it alone, or join a bigger tour group with a guide. Life jackets and dry bags are usually provided, and many providers also offer complimentary bottled water – just be sure to dispose of your bottle responsibly when you get back to the pier!

• Read about our first-hand experience of kayaking the mangroves in this review

A number of companies offer kayak hire and kayaking tours around the Mangroves. You can learn more about them by clicking the links below.

• Husaak Adventure (formerly Sea Hawk)
• Noukhada
• Mangrove Adventures

Other Ways to Enjoy Mangrove National Park Abu Dhabi

Take a stroll

The reopened Al Gurm Corniche stretches along the eastern coast of Abu Dhabi Island. It affords visitors an incredible view overlooking the Mangrove National Park. Granted, the busy hum of traffic will join you as it sits parallel to the busy E10 road that connects Dubai to Abu Dhabi but fear not, it’s still a really pleasant walkway with lots of fun features and educational attractions along the way.

Stay the night at Anantara Resort & Spa Eastern Mangroves.

One of Abu Dhabi’s premier 5-star hotels, this is the perfect spot to stay to visit the mangroves in Abu Dhabi.

More Frequently Asked Questions About Mangrove National Park Abu Dhabi

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Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our hotel or tour recommendation links.

Abu Dhabi Travel Planner

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A serene sanctuary on the outskirts of the capital

A fabulous addition to Abu Dhabi’s outdoor attraction lineup, the 19-square-kilometre nature park on the outskirts of the city provides visitors with a unique opportunity to engage with the city’s vital mangrove habitats.

From a series of raised boardwalk paths, visitors are invited to spot a wide array of marine wildlife, from turtles to herons and gazelles, which are called the mangroves home.

What to Expect At Jubail Mangrove Park

This unique, family-oriented mangrove park is designed to increase awareness, appreciation, and knowledge of the crucial ecological role played by the city’s mangrove ecosystems.

These habitats are vital for supporting biodiversity and safeguarding the Abu Dhabi coastline, in addition to their role in combating climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases, which are then stored in their waterlogged soils for thousands of years.

Jubail Mangrove Park is privately owned rather than a national park but is open to the public year-round for a small fee. It stands as the emirate’s premier destination combining education, nature, and leisure in one place.

Jubail Boardwalk

This serene urban escape offers visitors three different boardwalk routes through the mangroves; the shortest loop is just 1 kilometre, ideal for little legs.

For those wanting a longer stroll, you can opt for the 1.6-kilometre and 2-kilometre loops. Depending on how much you want to look at and stop along the way, the longer route takes 30 minutes to 90 minutes to complete.

Several rest nodes are conveniently placed along each route, along with viewing platforms and informational signage. An experience not to be rushed; take your time, relax and enjoy one of Abu Dhabi’s most unique new experiences.

We encourage visitors to explore the park at both high and low tide. Whilst it does look much prettier when the tide is high, and the azure waters are flowing beneath your feet, low tide provides many interesting opportunities, too. Discover the crustaceans and marine life living beneath the mangroves, which often prove to be more fascinating experiences for the little ones.

• You can check Abu Dhabi tide times here.

Trained rangers will be on hand to assist you on your journey around the park with history and wildlife information, or better yet, join a guided tour to learn more about marine life.

Jubail Mangrove Park Tickets

Originally free to the public when it first opened in January 2020, there is now a small service charge to enter the park and use the boardwalk. Tickets can be purchased online here or at the venue.

• Adults (12 years+) 20AED
• Children 5 to 11 years old 10 AED
• Under 3’s and People of Determination Free
• The boardwalk fee is waived when taking part in other activities (see more below!)

Enquiries can be directed to 056 303 2423.

Jubail Mangrove Park Timing

The park is open daily from 7:00 am to 9:00 pm, year-round.

Sunset can be an excellent time of day to enjoy the park as the day cools.

We would strongly advise against tackling the boardwalk during daytime in the hottest summer months, roughly from May to October.

Other Activities At Jubail Mangrove Park

In addition to the boardwalk, you will also find a coffee shop, information centre, and washroom facilities at Jubail Mangrove Park.

New additions to Jubail Mangrove Park since opening (which we would recommend pre-booking) include;

• A 20-minute scenic tour of the mangroves by an eco-friendly electric car (AED 40 – includes your boardwalk entrance)
• Jubail Boardwalk Experience with a Ranger (Kids AED 40/ Adults AED 50)
• Sunset Cycling – a spinning exercise class beside the Mangroves (AED 136 per person)
• Kayak Tours – Daytime, sunrise, and special night glow options (Starting from AED 80 to AED 175, depending on time of day and length of experience)
• Electric Dragonboat tours – hop aboard for a 1-hour experience through the Mangroves, suitable for children three and up (Kids 3-12 AED 88/Adults AED 120)
• Sunrise Yoga sessions on the first Sunday of each month (AED 135)

You can learn more about these additional activities and book them online here (noting some require a minimum number of participants before the activity will go ahead).

There was also a glamping site, Pura Eco Retreat located adjacent to the Mangrove Park on Jubail Island. This looks to have closed as of Winter 2023/24 without a new operator taking over the site as yet.

Where to Find Jubail Mangrove Park

You will find the park on Al Jubail Island, just off the E12 Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Highway. Coming from the Dubai direction, the exit is signposted, after Yas Island and just before Saadiyat Island; it is around a 60-minute journey from Dubai Marina.

From Abu Dhabi city, Jubail Island is just after you pass Saadiyat Island. Look for a small slip lane on your right that will take you back under the freeway to where the park is located on the island’s northeast.

There is free parking and an electric vehicle charging station.

You can also use the free Visit Abu Dhabi shuttle bus (Route D: Yas to Saadiyat) to access the park, though be mindful of the infrequent timing of services; you may need a taxi or ride share to pick you up later.

It is important to note that Jubail Mangrove Park is different from the Mangrove National Park Abu Dhabi. The latter is found off the eastern coast of Abu Dhabi island, adjacent to the area known as Eastern Mangroves – as marked on the map above.

You will find no boardwalk in the national park, but the mangroves are accessible by kayak and small motorised eco crafts.

Both are fascinating places to connect with nature close to the city.

More FAQs and Things to Know Visiting Jubail Mangrove Park

Learn more about parks and outdoor recreation spaces in Abu Dhabi here!

Before you go… Important Things to Consider When Planning a Trip to Abu Dhabi

• Pop into our essential planning information page; it includes everything you need to know about getting around Abu Dhabi, a handy guide on what to pack, as well as top tips for first-timers on the dos and don’ts, laws, and customs in the UAE.

• Start planning your itinerary around the 60+ top places to visit in Abu Dhabi

• Don’t forget to pack your travel insurance!

• Discover the best places to stay in Abu Dhabi, or bag a bargain on your accommodation here:

Take me back to the best attractions in Abu Dhabi

Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a commission if you click on any of our hotel or tour recommendation links.

Abu Dhabi Travel Planner

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Kayaking in Abu Dhabi and the mangroves explained

An unmissable stop in Abu Dhabi for nature and outdoor enthusiasts is kayaking in the Mangroves National Park.

A designated national park and protected area on the eastern side of Abu Dhabi island, you’ll find several tour boat operators along the promenade in front of Anantara Eastern Mangroves, including kayaks for hire.

What are the Eastern Mangroves in Abu Dhabi?

The Eastern Mangroves are the gateway to the Mangroves National Park. A truly unique part of the inner city of Abu Dhabi, this protected area makes up around 75% of the total Mangrove area found in the UAE.

A biodiversity hotspot, the mangrove forest is home to many species of marine wildlife, including crabs, herons, flamingos and many fish species. The Environment Agency Abu Dhabi (EAD) protects the area, so no jet skis, fishing or other sports are permitted in these waters.

Let’s take a detailed look now at how you can explore deep inside the Mangroves.

Kayaking Tour Operators at Eastern Mangroves

Several local tour operators are licensed to provide guided kayak tours in Abu Dhabi and hire kayaks and other water equipment by the hour.

• Husaak (formerly Sea Hawk)
• Noukhada
• Mangrove Adventures
• Captain Tony’s

What Does Eastern Mangroves Kayaking Cost?

This will vary a little by operator and what sort of equipment you want to hire.

Generally speaking, a 2-hour kayak tour costs around 160 AED for adults and 130 AED for kids. You’ll want to allow 2-hours to get into the heart of the mangroves and explore some of the smaller channels.

There are plenty of options, though, for kayaking from Eastern Mangroves. The price will vary depending on the time you want to hire the kayaks, whether you are hiring a single or a double kayak, and the time of day you are heading out.

You may also find some deals paired with meal vouchers from the restaurants around the Eastern Mangroves Promenade.

Night tours and sunset spots tend to go at a premium to day-hire spots. The cost with/without a tour guide is pretty negligible, so we suggest if it’s your first trip, go with the guided tour.

If you really want to learn more about the mangroves, choose a designated eco-tour where you can hear your guide speak more about the native species on your Abu Dhabi kayaking experience.

As a rough guide, these are the prices for Mangrove tours (as of March 2022).

All tour operators will include life jackets.

What Should You Take With You Kayaking in the Eastern Mangroves?

You should wear something you don’t mind getting wet in.

Although it’s unlikely you will fall out of your kayak, do expect that the seat can get wet and splashed from your paddle. You will also have an opportunity to stop for a swim.

You can take anything you want with you on the kayak in a wet bag, though note your tour operator will provide you with water bottles, so there’s really not much you need to take with you.

Taking a smartphone/camera? We recommend buying an easy, waterproof pouch to keep it dry around your neck.

If you want to take a change of clothing and a towel for afterwards, these can be left securely in a water-tight bin at the entrance to the kayaking jetty. You can securely leave your handbags and shoes behind, too.

Don’t forget the obvious, like sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat while you’re out on the water. For the most part, it’s pretty exposed, and you’ll want that extra sun protection.

When should you go kayaking on the Eastern Mangroves?

Although most companies operate year-round, in summer, you will only want to take your kayaks out early morning or late afternoon.

Most operators will take you throughout the day at set times during the cooler winter months.

• See more about the best times to visit Abu Dhabi here.

Another newer option to consider is night tours of the Mangroves for a unique Abu Dhabi experience; you’ll see the marine life in a completely new way.

You can visit the mangroves at both high and low tide, though at low tide, some of the narrow pathways through the thickest of the mangroves will become too shallow.

How to Get to the Kayaking at Eastern Mangroves

From Dubai direction, or anywhere “off island” such as Yas Island, you will take the E10 over the Sheikh Zayed Bridge, then after just a few kilometres on Abu Dhabi island, take the second exit ramp that will be marked to Anantara Eastern Mangroves. Depending on your departure point, it should take just over an hour to get here from Dubai.

If you’re coming from downtown Abu Dhabi, you take Al Salam St. and exit for Eastern Mangroves. Depending on your location and traffic, this can take 15 to 30 minutes.

• Find the Google Map location here.

Plentiful free car parking can be found during the day, though evenings can be a little more congested, especially in the winter peak you may prefer to take a taxi.

Dining & Entertainment in Eastern Mangroves

Eastern Mangroves is a beautiful, laid-back area of town to enjoy before or after your journey out onto the water.

Some favourite dining spots on the waterfront to try:

• Amano (Italian)
• Ba:TE (Japanese)
• Flooka (Seafood)
• Starbucks (Cafe)

Where to Stay Visiting the Eastern Mangroves

If you’d like to stay overlooking the serene Eastern Mangroves, then the only waterfront hotel here is Anantara Eastern Mangroves, a beautiful and surprisingly affordable 5-star luxury offering.

They also have a beautiful spa here, great if you need a rub down after all that hard work out on the water!

More to Explore Along the Eastern Mangroves

If you’re not feeling too confident on the water, or perhaps you wish to extend your trip to the Eastern Mangroves a little longer, you can head to the Al Gurm Corniche.

Stretching 4 kilometres from Anantara Eastern Mangroves all the way down to Dolphin Park (19th Street), the newly redeveloped Corniche offers a safe promenade adjacent to the main freeway into the city.

From here, you’ll get a bird’s eye view of the Mangroves National Park, with several little nooks, rest stops, educational sign boards and restrooms along the way.

More Frequently Asked Questions about Kayaking in Abu Dhabi

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No trip to Abu Dhabi is complete without a trip to the desert, and there is no better way to experience the desert than on a desert safari.

From thrill-seeking, high adrenaline dune bashing rides to more eco-friendly nature and heritage safaris, a desert safari offers you the chance to get out of the city and into the UAE’s true heartland.

Here’s our guide to all things Abu Dhabi Safari related, as well as some of the best safaris on offer.

What activities do you do on an Abu Dhabi Desert Safari?

Experience the thrills of dune bashing

Not for the faint-hearted, dune bashing – literally driving up and down sand dunes at speed – is something that many desert safaris offer as part of their itinerary. While many tourists find it appealing in recent years, dune bashing has come under fire for its negative impact on the delicate desert ecosystem.

Is dune bashing safe? Dune bashing is usually done in specially adapted four-wheel drive vehicles fitted with seat belts. Drivers are usually highly skilled and trained and stick to designated routes through the desert – if you book with a reputable company.

Dune bashing is not recommended for pregnant women, children or anyone with any sort of medical problem.

Surf the great sand sea on a sandboard

Grab your board and let the dunes take you! Sandboarding is an extreme sport similar to snowboarding and demands some skill and a good sense of balance. Participants can stand, sit, lie on their boards, and move across or directly down the dunes.

Closed-toed trainers and socks are recommended for this activity.

Speed across the desert on a quad bike

Another way to get to grips with the desert is by quad bike. Some packages include this, whilst some will charge extra when you get out into the desert. Remember to check your itinerary closely before booking if this is something that you really want to do, as it’s not an automatic inclusion.

Have a henna tattoo

Henna tattoos have been worn by the woman of the region for centuries and are offered to visitors at most desert camps and on many desert safaris. Tattoos are traditionally painted on brides’ hands, arms and feet and are thought to bring good fortune.

In the past, designs would differ from tribe to tribe, but nowadays, henna artists usually carry a portfolio of designs for customers to choose from. The henna will last about two weeks before fading – always a fun souvenir of your time in Abu Dhabi.

Not recommended for sensitive skin or people with G6PD deficiency.

Enjoy a Camel Ride

Riding into the desert sunset on a camel is a dream for many, whilst for others, it can be a complete nightmare! Remember to follow your guide’s instructions and lean backwards when the camel stands up or sits down to avoid injuries.

Most desert safaris offer short camel treks of 10-20 minutes as well as longer treks for the more adventurous, often for an additional fee.

Camel riding is not for everyone and is not recommended for pregnant women or people with serious musculoskeletal injuries as well as very young children.

You are bound to get plenty of opportunities to interact with the camels and take some photos, even if you’re not too keen on taking a ride.

Indulge in some belly dancing

Some camps and desert safaris offer belly dancing as entertainment. Belly dancing has its origins in ancient Egypt but was practised widely throughout the Middle East until the rise of Islam.

Nowadays, belly dancing is performed for tourists in the UAE, but many conservative Muslims still consider it haram (against the teachings of Islam).

Be mesmerized by a Tanoura Dance

Sometimes as an alternative to belly dancing and sometimes to complement it, a captivating tanoura dance might be offered. Another dance originating in Egypt, tanoura gets its name from the characteristic skirt worn by the dancer. Dancers are uniquely, always male, and spin around, allowing their elaborate skirts to extend outwards like a hypnotic parachute.

Note that if you book your safari to coincide with a religious holiday, including the holy month of Ramadan, no entertainment will be provided.

Smoke shisha

Many visitors to the Middle East like to try smoking shisha, and on a desert safari, you can do this in the unique setting under desert stars.

Whilst shisha does contain fewer chemicals than cigars and cigarettes, it is still harmful and can affect blood pressure and cause heart disease and lung cancer if smoked regularly.

Let your taste buds be tantalized by an Arabic BBQ

Many desert safaris include what is known as an Arabic barbecue meal. The barbecue often contains a selection of delicious meze style starters such as hummus (chickpea dip), moutabal (aubergine dip), fattoush salad (lettuce, cucumber, tomato, radishes, onion, pomegranate and molasses), olives, mixed pickles and Arabic bread.

Main dishes at an Arabic BBQ include various grilled meats and kebabs; this often includes the very popular ‘shish tawook’ (chicken marinated in garlic sauce and grilled on skewers). Sitting around the campfire, talking about the day’s activities whilst indulging in this tasty feast, is the perfect way to end the day.

Note that some camps and safaris will provide alcohol at an additional cost, but this is obviously not part of the traditional Arabic meal.

Morning, Afternoon or Overnight safari?

Whether to spend just a few hours in the desert or stay overnight is really up to you as there are a variety of options on offer. Afternoon desert safaris tend to take off after the day’s heat has gone and can easily be fitted into a one-day Abu Dhabi itinerary. In contrast, morning safaris focus more on the desert itself than on entertainment. 

If you have time within your schedule, an overnight stay is highly recommended as you get to see the desert in all of its glory at sunset and sunrise; it also gives you a greater chance of encountering wildlife as the creatures of the desert are more active during the night time and the twilight hours.

An overnight safari also offers the chance to stargaze and take in majestic and unpolluted night sky views.

How can I book an Abu Dhbai desert safari?

There are a number of desert safari operators with an online presence, but we recommend booking through ‘Get Your Guide’ as there is a simple and easy booking system; you receive an instant confirmation text and can cancel for free up to 24 hours before your planned excursion – giving you just that extra bit of peace of mind, especially with current uncertainty around travel plans.

We’ve included some of our top recommended tours here but read on for more options:

Note that most tours are conducted in English, but some providers can offer alternative languages, be sure to check the language you want when booking! Whether you book through ‘Get Your Guide’ or independently, here’s Abu Dhabi Travel Planner’s round-up of some of the best desert safari in the UAE’s biggest Emirate.

A morning safari option with OceanAir Travels

OceanAir Travels offer a good value morning safari with pick-up from your hotel. After the 45-minute drive to the desert, the package includes dune bashing, sand-boarding, a camel ride and a visit to a camel farm where you can feed the camels. Complementary water is also included.  This package does not include quad biking, nor does it include any snacks, but you will be back in the city by lunchtime.

Note that whilst pregnant women and children under three are prohibited from dune bashing, for this tour, a private driver can be arranged to drive at control level so that nobody misses out on the experience.

Afternoon/evening desert safaris

There are many similar afternoon/evening safaris to choose from, but Offroad Adventure Tours offers one of the best. You will be picked up from your hotel and transferred to the desert, where you can enjoy dune bashing, camel rides and sandboarding. There is also the opportunity for exploring the desert on quad bikes and dune buggies for an additional fee.

Once the action is over, you will head to the desert camp, which offers the chance to get henna tattoos and meet a falcon, as well as a mini photo shoot in traditional dress. The evening is rounded off with a tanoura show and belly dancing to accompany your Arabic buffet-style dinner.

Alcohol is available at an additional cost, although shisha is included in the price.

Another highly recommended evening safari is through Desert Rose Tourism. In addition to the more standard safari packages, Desert Rose can also organise private romantic sunset dinners amongst the dunes.

If you want to forego the high-adrenaline sports, there are camel trekking and desert camp options that are at a slower pace, such as the evening camel trek offered by OceanAir travels.

Like most other desert safari options, you will be picked up from your hotel and driven to the desert, where you will take a 50-minute camel ride before being treated to an Arabic buffet and traditional entertainment, including tanoura and belly dancing.

Note this excursion is not suitable for pregnant women or children under 5.

Overnight safari & desert camps

There’s nothing like camping under the stars to truly appreciate the vastness of the empty quarter. Don’t worry though; it’s not all tents and improvised campfires. There are numerous permanent camps, glamping spots or desert hotels with camping options to suit even the most reluctant camper.

Best Overnight Desert Camping for Families

One of our favourite glamping options can be found at Arabian Nights Village, where you can stay in a variety of traditionally built Emirati homes. When you arrive, you will be able to walk the dunes, sand-board, go for a short camel ride, have a henna tattoo or opt to take out a dune buggy for an additional fee.

There’s a lovely swimming pool and al fresco dining area, where you can enjoy an Arabian buffet-style dinner whilst listening to the dulcet tones of the Arabian Oud as the sun goes down. You might even join the belly dancers up on stage after your meal!

The entertainment finishes around 9:00 PM as many day visitors return to Abu Dhabi, leaving overnight guests with the opportunity to sit around the bonfires and while away the evening observing the night sky. A buffet breakfast is served in the indoor restaurant in the morning, and there is time for more sand boarding, swimming, or an extended sunrise camel ride.

Best overnight desert camping in Abu Dhabi for adventurers

A slightly more rough and tumble option is provided by Capital Gate Tourism, who will pick you up around 3-4 pm from the city and take you into the desert, where you will experience; dune bashing, a visit to a camel farm and a camel ride. There are also the options of having a henna tattoo and smoking shisha.

The evening is rounded off with an Arabic BBQ, tanoura show and belly dancing around the campfire. All camping gear, including tents and sleeping bags, is provided, and staff stay overnight at the campsite with you, and breakfast is provided the next morning.

Alcohol is available at an extra charge. You will arrive back in the city around 9 am.

Best luxury desert glamping

At the top end of the scale, the beautiful 5-star Qasr al Sarab Hotel in Liwa, now offers their own luxury camping experience at Camp Nujum for guests staying at the resort.

You can find our complete guide to desert glamping options in Abu Dhabi here.

What about Dubai Desert Safari Options?

There are quite simply LOADS of companies that operate desert safaris from Dubai. The formula for most is very similar to what we have set out above in Abu Dhabi – we have a thorough comparison of Dubai Desert Safari’s over here.

A consistent top performer for visitors looking for a more nature-based experience in Dubai are Platinum Heritage.

With a focus on sustainability as well as developing knowledge of Emirati heritage and culture, Platinum Heritage offers a variety of distinct tours. These include the heritage desert safari, in which you will be able to explore Dubai’s Desert Conservation Reserve in a 1950s Land Rover; the first ecotourism desert safari in Dubai, which provides the opportunity to see the Arabian Oryx and other indigenous species in their natural habitat; and Dubai’s only Mountain, Lake and Desert Safari.

More Dubai desert Safari tour options to consider:

Note that whilst we are not travel agents we made receive a commission if you book through one of our recommended affiliate partners.

What to pack for an Abu Dhabi Desert Safari

Whilst it’s a good idea to travel light, there are some items that we would recommend taking with you to make your safari as enjoyable as possible:

• Wear loose clothing made from natural fibres. Remember to observe the local dress code and not wear anything too revealing. Ladies should avoid short skirts as they are not very practical and meals are often eaten on the floor.
• Closed-toe trainers for sandboarding and a spare pair of flip-flops for other activities.
• Something to wrap around your head and face to protect you from the sand and dust -especially during quad biking and camel riding.
• A wrap, sweater or a cardigan – the evenings can get chilly in the desert, especially in the winter!
• Sunscreen and a hat if any portion of your trip is during the day.
• Take sanitiser and sanitize before eating and after touching camels.
• Take tissues and wet wipes, especially if you’re travelling with children (see advice above on travelling with children).

You can find our complete packing guide for visiting Abu Dhabi here.

Tips on taking kids on desert safaris

Whilst a desert safari might seem like great fun for the whole family, please be aware of what you are getting into if you are taking kids to the desert! Not all of the activities on a desert safari are suitable for young children and they may find times when they feel excluded.

Here are some handy tips to help keep the little ones happy so that the whole family can enjoy the experience!

1. Keep them busy:

• Encourage children to use all of their senses in the desert and pay attention to what they see, hear and feel.
• Take a notebook and pencils for them to sketch or a disposable camera or old phone for them to take photos.
• You could buy a desert guide aimed at children like this one from Greenfeet Guides.
• Warn children not to wander off or turn over stones – the desert is home to more than a few poisonous creepy crawlies!

2. Don’t forget the practical stuff:

• Apply high-factor sunscreen before you set off.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing made of natural fibres.
• Drink plenty of water throughout the excursion.
• For toilet training kids – carry a port-a-potty, and have biodegradable tissues, hand sanitiser and biodegradable wipes with you (remember to take all of your litter home or use designated bins).
• Carry snacks in case the Arabic meal is not to your little ones’ taste.
  

Other tips for a Desert Safari in Abu Dhabi

If you’re undertaking a desert safari, it’s important to feel comfortable. We recommend dressing in relatively loose-fitting clothes with long sleeves made from natural fibres to protect you from the sun and any unwanted insect bites. A wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap is also a must.

In terms of foot ware, socks and trainers are best for most activities, although you may want to carry a pair of flip-flops with you. Don’t forget to slap on the high-factor sunscreen and drink plenty on the day.

Most importantly, don’t eat anything immediately before dune bashing, as the extreme motions can make you feel very nauseous!

It may be worth checking your travel insurance policy before booking a desert safari, as some of the more extreme activities may not be covered.

The post How to Pick the Best Abu Dhabi Desert Safari in 2026 appeared first on Abu Dhabi Travel Planner.

Enter an underwater world brimming with life at the National Aquarium, Abu Dhabi.  Opened in November 2021, the National Aquarium is home to 46,000 marine creatures, making it the largest aquarium in the Middle East (for now!)

With mesmerising thematic displays, high-tech interactive elements and a range of immersive experiences, a visit to the National Aquarium should be high up on your Abu Dhabi ‘to-do list’, especially if you are travelling with family.

What to expect at the National Aquarium

Located in the Al Qana development, Abu Dhabi, the National Aquarium is an imposing building on the site’s south side, clearly visible from Khaleej Al Arabi Street. The aquarium is split into different zones you pass through on your marine journey. Here is a brief outline of what you will find in each.

UAE Natural Treasures

The first space in the National Aquarium is ‘UAE National Treasures’. Guests enter this zone via a walkway above a lagoon filled with rehabilitated sea turtles. All of the turtles on display are part of the aquarium’s rehabilitation programme, highlighting the important conservation role played by the National Aquarium.

The Red Sea Wreck

The second exhibition is the ‘Red Sea Wreck’. The space is designed as if it were a sunken ship with large holes in the ship’s walls through which the largest coral reef exhibit in the Middle East can be viewed. The tanks contain a beautiful array of colourful corals and enormous and stern-looking grouper fish.

The Atlantic Cave

Here, you travel to the depths of the ocean in a stalactite-filled cave. Here you will find the prehistoric horseshoe crab, one of the oldest creatures to inhabit the earth still.

The Sub

As you hear the radar beeps, you enter a deep-sea submarine to view giant lobsters as well as the elusive Nautilus.

The Ring of Fire

Numerous interactive displays in this Pacific-themed zone teach visitors about the formation of islands and volcanic marine environments.

Ocean Magic

This area explores more unusual sea creatures, such as ornate Sea Dragons and mesmerising jellyfish. The way the exhibits are displayed is also quite imaginative, with an old-fashioned British telephone box and a Volkswagen Beetle transformed into fish tanks.

The Frozen Ocean

As the temperature drops, you enter a zone filled with creatures from cooler climes. The star exhibit is the Middle East’s only display of puffins. You can get up close and personal by peering through the glass domes underneath their artificial habitat or take part in the animal encounters for an additional 180 AED.

The Flooded Forest

Beware! Piranhas, Poison Dart Frogs, Bird-Eating Spiders and an Electric Eel all inhabit this zone. Thankfully they’re all kept safely away from people in enclosed cases, unlike the many tropical birds that fly freely through this exhibit. This Zone also includes Bella and Rio’s playground, an interactive zone specifically for kids.

Bu Tinah Island

As you leave the flooded forest, you transition through a large exposition space with shallow pools into the longest walkthrough glass tunnel in the Middle East. Mantarays, zebra sharks and hammerhead sharks swim around you as you pass under their watery world.

Behind-the-scenes tours at the National Aquarium

In addition to the zones outlined above, there is also the opportunity to pay extra and take a behind-the-scenes tour. Guides are friendly and knowledgeable, and the behind-the-scenes tours are well worth the additional cost. 

As part of the guided tours, you will visit the animal hospital as well as other behind-the-scenes locations. Visitors are given an in-depth explanation of the recent rescue of a whale shark that had entered a system of canals in one of Abu Dhabi’s residential areas, and turtles are visited in the aquarium’s rehabilitation centre.

For a small additional fee, visitors can feed the fish from a glass bridge that transcends the tank above the walkthrough tunnel.

Animal Encounters at the National Aquarium

The National Aquarium offers three ‘Animal Encounters.’ The Jungle Encounter includes swimming with freshwater rays, whereas the Arctic Encounter involves feeding the puffins. You can also feed sharks in the Ocean Encounter.

Each encounter costs 180 AED, which includes general access to the National Aquarium.

More in-depth learning opportunities at the National Aquarium

In-house education is the National Aquarium’s top priority. Up to 50,000 students can be welcomed to the museums each year on school excursions or as part of the National Aquarium’s Junior Marine Biologist programme.

The after-school Marine Biologist programme is designed for children aged 5-15 years old and includes a variety of hands-on activities.

• For more details click here.

Plan your trip to the National Aquarium, Abu Dhabi

In order to get the most out of your day at Abu Dhabi’s latest family attraction opening, here are all our essential planning tips:

How to get to the National Aquarium

The National Aquarium is located in the new Al Qana development in the Khor Al Maqta area of the city. The easiest way to reach the aquarium is by private car or taxi. There is ample parking on site.

The National Aquarium is also located close to the Rabdan Khaleej Al Arabi Street Bus Interchange. It is serviced by bus number 56 from Downtown Abu Dhabi.

How much does the National Aquarium Abu Dhabi cost?

Tickets are required for all patrons 3 years and older.

• 105 AED General Admission (10 zones)
• 130 AED Beyond the Glass (General Admission + Aquarium journey, behind-the-scenes tour and glass bridge walk)
• 150 AED Bu Tinah Dhow (General Admission + Aquarium journey, glass-bottom boat tour and fish feeding)
• 200AED All access (General Admission aquarium journey, behind-the-scenes tour, glass bridge walk, glass-bottom boat tour and fish feeding)

There are also separate animal encounter experiences; these tickets include your General Admission:

• 180 AED Arctic Encounter
• 180 AED Ocean Encounter

Annual passes are also available for 399 AED.

Note that children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

National Aquarium Timings

• Open 7 days a week 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM

How long do I need to spend at the National Aquarium?

If you plan to visit the aquarium’s general access areas, you can comfortably do this in two hours. The behind-the-scenes tour takes approximately 30 minutes, with additional time needed for the dhow cruises and animal experiences.

If you are planning to visit at peak times or on a public holiday, you should allow more time, as queues for the behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters are more likely.

What visitor facilities are there at the National Aquarium?

The National Aquarium is well-designed, with toilets on every floor. As with most visitor attractions, you exit via the gift shop, which sells a variety of marine-related merchandise as well as more general Abu Dhabi-themed souvenirs.

On the first floor of the National Aquarium, there is also a small cafe selling basic snacks. Little marine explorers are sure to love the whale-shaped shortbread biscuits! 

The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi is wheelchair and stroller accessible throughout.

Learn more about all the best Aquariums in Dubai & the UAE over here, including further marine experiences

What else is there in the Al Qana development?

Al Qana is described as a lifestyle concept with social dining and wellness at its heart. Stretching 2.4 kilometres along the water’s edge, the development includes a variety of swanky cafes and restaurants and a large gym-cum-wellness centre. There is also a cinema and a state-of-the-art gaming boutique.

• For more details about Al Qana, click here.

All information was correct at the time of writing. Prices, opening times, and experiences are subject to change at short notice.

For the most up-to-date information about the National Aquarium, visit their website at www.thenationalaquarium.ae

You may also be interested to learn more about SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, newly opened in May 2023, adding to the incredible Yas Island theme park lineup.

The post What to Expect at the National Aquarium Abu Dhabi appeared first on Abu Dhabi Travel Planner.

Newly refurbished after the widening of Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Street (E10) along the Eastern Mangroves, Al Gurm Corniche is a stunning stretch of parkland running 3.5 kilometres from the Anantara Eastern Mangroves Hotel and promenade through to Dolphin Park, adjacent to Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Street (19th Street).

Doubling as an eco-tourist destination, you can spot local wildlife and stop along a heritage trail. Experience several water-themed education stations to learn about the local ecosystem, as well as a history-themed platform explaining the modern story of Abu Dhabi.

Also referred to as the Eastern Corniche or Mangrove Waterfront, the newly-named Al Gurm Corniche overlooks the Mangrove National Park in Abu Dhabi. You’ll find new seating areas, swings and viewing platforms making it the city’s new go-to family-friendly destination for a free stretch of your legs.

Old-timers might be pleased to hear that many of the park’s heritage features, including some of the concrete canopies and turret-style walls, have been retained as features of the newly-opened parkland.

Open 24 hours, there are public fitness and workout stations along the path as well as refreshment areas and small cafes. Both walking and cycling (on a dedicated track) are permitted, and you’ll also find kayak tours on offer from private providers at the end closest to Eastern Mangroves

The best part of all, it’s completely free!

Al Gurm Corniche: How do you get there?

Parking is a little limited along the Corniche as you are right next to the main freeway from Dubai into Downtown Abu Dhabi.

You are best parking and exploring from the larger 300-car parking lot just before the exit to Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Street (in old language near intersection 19th & 8th – opposite the Pineapple Towers!).

You can also park where you access the newly refurbished Dolphin Park – another of Abu Dhabi’s iconic little picnic and play spots that first opened over 30 year’s ago! (NB As of May 2023, it looks like Dolphin Park is gone too!)

Alternatively, you can park and walk from the Eastern Mangroves and Anantara Hotel, though parking can be very busy here especially evenings and weekends.

The return walk from either end will take around 90 minutes over 7 km if you allow for stops at each of the viewing platforms. It’s best enjoyed early morning and late evening as there’s limited shade from the sun. Approximately halfway along you’ll find Jarrah Cafe for a refreshment break.

Nature lovers, you may also be interested in:

• Jubail Mangrove Park – Jubail Island

Take me back to the latest Abu Dhabi tourism & attractions news here

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