Al Wathba Fossil Dunes
Discover the beauty of Al Wathba Long Salt Lake in Abu Dhabi, a natural wonder that offers visitors stunning views and rich biodiversity. Al Wathba Fossil Dunes Protected Area, 45 kilometres east of Abu Dhabi, the lake is a unique attraction that is not to be missed. It has approximately 1,700 dunes spread out across 7 square kilometres, making it one of the emirate’s biggest concentrations of fossil dunes.
Geologists estimate that the fossil deposits in the protected region are more than four million years old. At the reserve, you can stroll along the well-lit pathways that are 3 kilometres long in each direction and lined with seats and shady spots to enjoy the area’s natural treasures.
Today, Al Wathba Salt Lake Abu Dhabi is home to a variety of unique flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature lovers. The lake is surrounded by desert vegetation, including ghaf trees, and is home to a range of birds, including flamingos, herons, and plovers.
Visitors to the Al Wathba lake can engage in a range of activities, including birdwatching, nature walks, and photography. The lake is also a popular spot for camping, with a designated camping area that offers basic facilities.
Al Wathba Wetland Reserve
The Al Wathba Wetland Reserve is the first location in Abu Dhabi to be given official legal protection. It was once a coastal salt flat (sabkha), but it has since developed into lakes, both natural and artificial, that support a variety of species unique to Abu Dhabi. The reserve became the first site in the area to be recognised when it was added to the IUCN Green List of Protected and Conserved Areas in 2018.
The reserve is well-known for having a sizable population of Greater Flamingos, which average 4,000 there in the spring and autumn. Additionally, it supports 37 plant species, a large variety of water life, and more than 250 bird species. Visitors to the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve can experience two self-guided walking routes and a bird-watching area.
Al Wathba Long Salt Lake
Cancellation Policy:
Cancellation or changes should be made 24 hours before the tour. Otherwise, payment will be non-refundable. For no show and last-minute cancellation, payment will also be non-refundable.
Al Wathba Salt Lake in Abu Dhabi is man-made, with pipes from underground feeding it. The salt comes from the salt flats called ‘sabkha’ that are a by-product of the arid coastal climate of the area.
The giant pads of salt that form an aesthetic stepping stone feature in the lake generally take years to develop naturally. The only possible explanation for their mysterious existence is that the artificially fed water somehow cuts its way through the already existing salt and mineral deposits underneath the surface sand – creating these gorgeous crystalline salt pads.
Additional Information
One of the top inbound travel companies in the UAE, Aladdin Adventure has a mission to develop Abu Dhabi and the best desert tourism in Abu Dhabi. We provide you the greatest mangrove kayaking tour, self-drive desert safari, shopping tour, Yas water world tour, and romantic dune dining experience.