Birds of Ras Al Khor: Stunning wildlife photography in the heart of Dubai

Binoi Varkey captures breathtaking shots of flamingos, herons, and more at Ras Al Khor

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3 MIN READ
From flamingos gliding through shimmering wetlands to herons mid-flight, Binoi Varkey's gallery reveals why this urban sanctuary is a bird lover’s paradise.
From flamingos gliding through shimmering wetlands to herons mid-flight, Binoi Varkey's gallery reveals why this urban sanctuary is a bird lover’s paradise.
Binoi Varkey/Gulf News reader

Dubai: Are you mesmerized by the sight of birds in flight, gliding freely against a golden sky? Do you love the calm of nature and the thrill of spotting rare birds just meters away? Then Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is your dream come true—an oasis of wings and wonder tucked right into the heart of Dubai.

For Binoi Varkey, a 50-year-old architectural draughtsman from India and longtime Dubai resident, photography isn’t just a hobby—it’s a passion. Especially when it involves birds.

On a recent visit to Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, Varkey trained his lens on one of the UAE’s most captivating natural escapes, capturing moments of quiet grace and striking beauty. From flamingos gliding through shimmering wetlands to herons mid-flight, his gallery reveals why this urban sanctuary is a bird lover’s paradise.

Located in the heart of Dubai, Ras Al Khor offers a rare glimpse into raw biodiversity, where golden hour light transforms each frame into a work of art. Whether shot from the well-placed bird hides or along the edge of the sanctuary’s wetlands, Varkey's photos highlight not just the wildlife—but the peace and poetry of nature within the city’s hustle.

Scroll through the gallery to witness nature in motion—from flamingos wading to cormorants in flight—each photo a tribute to Dubai’s wild, winged residents.

"Grace in Pink" - A lone flamingo glides effortlessly through the waters of Ras Al Khor — the true diva of Dubai’s wetlands.
This eager bird is on the hunt for its next fish feast at the Ras Al Khor Sanctuary!
"A good catch" - This heron’s catching fish mirrors perfectly in the water below, showcasing the sanctuary’s dreamlike beauty.
"What a stunning landing!" These graceful birds glide effortlessly through the waters of Ras Al Khor Sanctuary.
A sleek white bird soars through the sky, scouting for the perfect landing spot or hunting for its next meal at Ras Al Khor Sanctuary—nature's aerial acrobat in action!
Are there one or two birds mesmerized by their reflection, sipping from the tranquil waters of Ras Al Khor Sanctuary? The mystery unfolds as nature's beauty is mirrored in perfect harmony!
This vibrant blue-green bird perches on a tree branch, seemingly lost and searching for her family amidst the stunning serenity of Ras Al Khor Sanctuary. Will she find her flock in this beautiful haven of nature?
This sleek grey bird with a long beak captures a small fish from the shimmering waters of Ras Al Khor Sanctuary. A perfect moment in the wild, where nature’s hunters thrive!
A grey bird about to soar through the sky, wings in full swing, embracing the perfect breeze at Ras Al Khor Sanctuary. It's a stunning display of freedom and grace in the heart of nature!
A flock of small birds rests peacefully at the edge of the tranquil waters, their delicate reflections mirroring them perfectly at Ras Al Khor Sanctuary. A serene moment of harmony in nature!

Share your best captures of the UAE’s landscapes with us and be part of this exciting visual journey. Send your photos to readers@gulfnews.com and let’s celebrate the beauty of the Emirates together!

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