Dubai Municipality has announced an ambitious Dh650 million project to develop the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, aiming to solidify its position as a premier eco-tourism destination and boost biodiversity. The initiative, set to be completed in two phases, seeks to place Dubai among the top three global tourism destinations.
The initial phase, costing Dh100 million, is slated for completion by the end of 2026. This phase will significantly expand the sanctuary’s water bodies by 144%, reaching a total area of 74 hectares. This expansion is expected to increase carbon dioxide absorption by 60%. Additionally, 10 hectares of new mudflats will be added, and extensive efforts will be made to plant new mangroves, increasing coverage by 60%, and rehabilitate existing mangrove forests to create new habitats and irrigation channels.
The second phase, to be implemented later, will focus on enhancing the sanctuary’s main infrastructure and recreational offerings. This includes constructing a visitor center, 5.6 km of cycling tracks, and 3 km of walking trails to support various events and activities. The entire project is a collaborative effort between Dubai Municipality and the Dubai Environment and Climate Change Authority.
The Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, spanning approximately 6.4 square kilometers, is a crucial natural reserve in Dubai. It was the first site in the UAE to be listed under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance in 2007 and is classified under the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) guidelines. This biodiversity-rich reserve hosts nearly 450 species of flora and fauna, including 47 hectares of mangroves, and welcomes around 20,000 migratory birds annually, famously including flamingos. Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality, emphasized that the project’s unique design reflects the Municipality’s commitment to protecting biodiversity and natural habitats through sustainable and innovative practices.
