The Dubai Municipality has recently announced the awarding of the contract for the first phase of the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary Development Project at a cost of approximately AED100 million ($27.23 million), with the overall cost across two phases of the project estimated at AED650 million ($176.97 million).
The project falls in line with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to develop Dubai’s natural reserves in alignment with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. It aims to enhance biodiversity, preserve the sustainability of natural habitats and reinforce the sanctuary’s position as a premier sustainable eco-tourism destination offering a unique and integrated experience that further enriches the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.
“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,” said His Excellency Eng. Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, director general of Dubai Municipality.
Phase set for completion by end-2026
The Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary Development Project aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, especially its objective of placing Dubai among the world’s top three destinations for tourism, with the city’s exceptional quality of life and new investment opportunities that promise to boost the sanctuary’s direct economic returns offering added impetus for the initiative.
The sanctuary has been planned and designed based on the needs of both residents and tourists, aiming to deliver the best recreational and tourism experience that promotes a sense of connection with the environment while preserving the sanctuary’s natural elements.
The Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary Development Project, which is to be executed in two main phases, will bring about a qualitative shift in environmental sustainability in the emirate. Phase one will cover approximately 6.4 square kilometers of the sanctuary and is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
“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,” added bin Ghalita.
Dubai Municipality seeks 144 percent increase in water bodies
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 the creation of 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 of the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary Development Project 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.
“The project, which Dubai Municipality is implementing in two main phases, will lead to significant environmental advancements that enhance sustainability and preserve natural habitats across the emirate. It also aims to achieve a range of social goals, most notably raising environmental awareness among the community about biodiversity issues, supporting the strategic objectives of Dubai and the UAE for eco-tourism, and creating investment opportunities and environmentally themed tourist destinations,” said Bader Anwahi, CEO of the public facilities agency at Dubai Municipality.
Upon completion, the project is expected to multiply the number of visitors to the sanctuary six-fold, reaching between 250,000 and 300,000 annually, added Anwahi.
Read: How is UAE balancing oil production growth with renewable energy ambitions
5.6 kilometers of cycling tracks to be completed in phase 2
The second phase of the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary Development Project 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 meters, taking into account the specific requirements of the ecosystem.
This phase will include a uniquely designed visitor center 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 centers.
The second phase will also include the completion of 5.6 kilometers of cycling tracks and three kilometers of walking trails through natural landscapes. Moreover, 23 hectares of landscaping are 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 kilometers. 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 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.
