Dubai’s Ras Al Khor wildlife sanctuary to undergo Dh650 million facelift

Dubai Municipality has awarded a contract for the first phase of the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary Development Project at a cost of approximately Dh100 million, with the overall cost across two phases of the project estimated at Dh650 million.

The project aims to enhance biodiversity, preserve the sustainability of natural habitats and reinforce the sanctuary’s position as a premier sustainable eco-tourism destination.

The development aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, especially its objective of placing Dubai among the world’s top three destinations for tourism.

Phase one of the project will cover approximately 6.4 square kilometres of the sanctuary and is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.

Dubai Municipality seeks to rehabilitate and improve mangrove habitats by planting new mangroves and increasing mangrove coverage by 60 percent, from 40 to 65 hectares. This will include the provision of new irrigation channels, rehabilitation of mangrove forests and creating new habitats such as the mangrove lake, North Edge Lake and reed ponds. A Green Spine will also be developed, and post-rehabilitation monitoring will be conducted regularly.

Phase one also envisions a 144 percent increase in water bodies within the reserve, expanding their total area to 74 hectares, helping achieve major environmental benefits such as a 60 percent increase in carbon dioxide absorption. Additionally, 10 hectares of mudflats (salt flats) will be added, contributing to the sanctuary’s ecosystem and biodiversity.

Eng. Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality, said: “The Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary Development Project is one of the most prominent environmental infrastructure initiatives being undertaken by Dubai Municipality. It enhances the appeal of Dubai’s nature reserves as unique and diverse destinations, supporting the goals of the eco-tourism sector and reinforcing Dubai’s position as the best city in the world to live, work and visit, and a global model for sustainable future cities.”

“With its unique design, the project marks a major milestone in the development and preservation of natural reserves. It reflects Dubai Municipality’s commitment to protecting biodiversity and natural habitats through innovative practices that support sustainable growth and ecological balance. This project is part of our broader effort to make Dubai a leading global, attractive, sustainable and high-quality city through the initiatives and services we offer to the community,” he added.

The second phase, to be implemented at a later stage, will focus on establishing and enhancing the main infrastructure and recreational services. This will support the hosting of various events and activities within a total area of 20,000 square metres, taking into account the specific requirements of the ecosystem.

This phase will include a uniquely designed visitor centre showcasing the sanctuary’s diverse flora and fauna, birdwatching towers, and various commercial and recreational facilities such as restaurants and kiosks, as well as environmental awareness and education centres.

The second phase will also include the completion of 5.6 kilometres of cycling tracks and three kilometres of walking trails through natural landscapes. Moreover, 23 hectares of landscaping is also part of the makeover.

Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the largest and most significant nature reserves in Dubai, covering approximately 6.4 square kilometres. 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.

The sanctuary is counted among the most biodiversity-rich natural reserves in the region, hosting nearly 450 species of flora and fauna, including 47 hectares of mangroves. It welcomes around 20,000 migratory birds annually, including the iconic flamingo.