Wasit Nature Reserve

The Wasit Wetland Nature Reserve in Sharjah is a tranquil location popular among both locals and tourists. You can discover some amazing native flora and fauna at Al Wasit Nature Reserve Sharjah. The wetland is a conservation area that houses various local and migratory birds. Read on to find out more about this natural wetland in Sharjah.

HISTORY OF AL WASIT WETLAND NATURE RESERVE SHARJAH

Before it became a lush-green nature reserve, the area was used to dispose of waste material. In 2007, it was declared a “protected area” by the Emiri Decree No. (7) issued by His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. The decree was the first step towards conservation efforts in the area and over time, it turned the 20-acre wasteland into a nature reserve and safe haven for migratory and local birds.

The rehabilitation work began in 2010 and was completed in 2015. In 2012, X-Architects, a well-known design company in Dubai, started working on a building that seamlessly integrated into the natural outlook of the reserve. The final product has a transparent viewing gallery and eight bird observation structures. In 2019, the Wasit Wetland Centre received the Aga Khan Award for Architecture. It is one of the first projects in the UAE to be shortlisted for the award.

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE WASIT WETLAND NATURE RESERVE SHARJAH?

Nestled on the meeting point between the sea and land, this hidden gem of Sharjah features mudflats, salty lagoons, coastal sand dunes and freshwater pools. For anyone who loves nature and its wonders, there’s plenty to explore in Wasit Wetland in Sharjah.

AN ECOSYSTEM FOR REGIONAL WILDLIFE

The Al Wasit Wetland Nature Reserve in Sharjah is a perfect place to learn about local wildlife. The centre is home to rare species of insects, birds and plants that were never seen in the UAE before. Budding biologists would love to explore the ecosystem that sustains wildlife by providing natural reserves of food and shelter to a range of animals and plants.

BIRD WATCHER’S PARADISE

The Wasit Wetland Centre Sharjah is home to over 198 bird species including migratory and resident birds. Massive aviaries bring visitors up close to a range of bird species including heron, purple swamphen, white ibises and more. The guides and experts at the centre provide learning opportunities by sharing detailed information about these birds and also offer various interesting activities for kids.

SPOT THE ARABIAN ORYX

Another major attraction at the Al Wasit Wetland Nature Reserve in Sharjah is the massive coastal sand dunes besides the lush-green vegetation. This is the perfect area for visitors to spot the endangered Arabian Oryx in its natural habitat.

If you’re lucky enough, it is possible to witness the majestic Oryx prancing through the green wet-land in search of food. There are golf carts for families so that they can explore the different parts of the nature reserve in Sharjah.