The UAE has a rich natural environment offering a unique mix of diverse topography. The UAE is largely an arid land with vast sand deserts but is also characterised by sand dunes, oases, mountains, valleys, beaches, mangroves and salt plains. Every characteristic provides home to varied flora and fauna. This diversity attracts visitors to the UAE.

Ecotourism

The UAE has more than 5,036.24 square kilometres of protected areas. This is equivalent to 6.02 per cent of the total area of the country. Some of these natural reserves are:

• Marawah Marine Biosphere Reserve and Al Yasat Marine Protected Area in the emirate of Abu Dhabi
• Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary and Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve in the emirate of Dubai
• Wadi Al Helou, Meliha and Wasit nature reserve in the emirate of Sharjah.

There are many ways to explore the local flora and fauna. The options are extensive; from going on desert safaris to spot the Arabian Oryx to hiking up the mountains to catch a glimpse of birds and even camping in the desert to spot the nocturnal beings.

Ecotours can be arranged through dedicated environmental groups, such as Emirates Nature -WWF and Emirates Environmental Group along with private tour operators and hotels.

A rich marine life and breathtaking underwater seascapes also attract snorkelers and scuba divers. Diving enthusiasts will particularly love Martini Rock off the coast of Fujairah.

Read about the National Ecotourism project (The UAE’s Natural Wonders).

Explore 

• Abu Dhabi Nature
• RAK nature treasures
• Nature activities in Sharjah

Useful links: 

• Protected areas in Abu Dhabi - EAD
• Protected areas in Dubai- Dubai Municipality
• Protected areas in Sharjah - Environment and Protected areas Authority
• Kalba ecotourism project - Shurooq
• Fujairah’s Wadi Wurayah National Park- WAM.