Jubail Mangrove Park – Green Lagoon on the Edge of the City

On the outskirts of Abu Dhabi on Jubail Island, there is a unique nature reserve – Jubail Mangrove Park. Without going far from the capital city, you can indulge yourself by plunging into the rich and authentic life of nature.

Jubail Mangrove Park was created to preserve a rich population of mangrove trees. A unique feature of the park, which opened for visits in January 2020, is a wooden boardwalk. On a complex trajectory, this path invites park visitors for a walk between the mangrove trees above the water surface. On the way, visitors will enjoy viewing platforms with stunning views and the opportunity to hide from the heat and relax on the way. A great addition to it is a platform in the form of a stretched net, which will allow you to admire the marine inhabitants in the vicinity.

Mangroves are a unique type of evergreen shrubs and trees that do not grow on solid land, but in watery muddy areas. The most common place for mangroves is the tidal strip near the coast of tropical and sub-tropical regions. Mangroves grow in wetlands and therefore have learned to replenish the nutrients they need from the air, not from the soil. That is why these trees have aerial roots that are clearly visible when approaching and create root systems of bizarre shapes.

Thanks to their unusual way of life, mangroves create their own complete ecosystem. This oasis gives dozens of species of birds a place to live including rare species of flamingos and herons. And also mangroves have become home to many species of fish, crabs, turtles, sea snakes and other creatures. In this place, unique species of flora and fauna are protected. Conservationists and scientists value mangroves for their highest level of biodiversity. 

Mangroves are also valuable because they protect the coastal landscape from the damaging effects of waves. They also help cleanse water and the surrounding air, helping to reduce carbon dioxide levels. Maintaining mangrove trees is one of the important tasks facing the authorities of Abu Dhabi. The development of the ecosystem of these unusual plants is  crucial in formation of local ecology, gradual improvement of the ecological condition of Abu Dhabi, as well as protection of its coastal line.

Entrance to the park is free, but the organizers warn that due to a large number of comers, guests may have to wait in line. Also, when planning a visit to the park, it is worth remembering that you can catch the most beautiful views during high tide.

But Jubail Mangrove Park is not the only place in Abu Dhabi where you can come to admire the mangroves. You can also visit the Mangrove National Park, located nearby. The park unites about 75 percent of the total area of mangroves in UAE. It covers an area of about 19 square kilometers. The park is one of the protected areas in UAE that together create the Sheikh Zayed Protected Areas Network. The protected areas are managed by The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD). Access to the park is free, but visitors have the opportunity to participate in paid excursions along the canals in kayaks. In addition to kayaking on the waterways, guests can enjoy other water activities. 

Mangrove parks can be a terrific place to discover the delicate balance of nature. And of course, families with children will receive the most positive experience, and kids will be able to learn to respect and love wildlife in all its splendor. They will also have the opportunity to learn about ecology, to think about the diversity and unity of marine life, as well as to get acquainted with living beings and plants, characteristic of Abu Dhabi.

Did you like this story? Check an article about Top 10 Nature destinations of UAE, there’s a lot to discover!