Wadi Wurayah National Park
Al Fujayrah
Wadi Wurayah National Park, located in the United Arab Emirates between Masafi, Khor Fakkan, and Bidiyah, spans approximately 12,700 hectares. Established as the UAE's first protected mountain area in 2009, it preserves a unique ecosystem within the Hajar Mountains. The park features a lush canyon named after the marsh plant 'warrah' that thrives in its wetlands. It hosts over 100 species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians alongside more than 300 plant species, including a wild orchid unique to the area, Epipactis veratrifolia. Notable fauna include the endangered Arabian tahr and possibly the elusive Arabian leopard, with recent sightings of species such as the Indian crested porcupine, Indian fritillary butterflies, and Arabian caracal. The park's streams and pools amid rocky outcrops culminate in a scenic waterfall, making it a vital sanctuary for wildlife and a captivating destination for nature enthusiasts.
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Tip: The best time to visit Wadi Wurayah is after rainfall, typically in the cooler months, when flora and fauna are most active and visible. Visitors are encouraged to arrange visits through official channels or guided tours to support conservation efforts and gain informative experiences. Advance booking for field trips or guided walks is recommended, especially for educational groups. Respect for the protected environment is essential, and visitors should avoid disturbing wildlife or damaging plants. No specific ticket prices are mentioned, but discounts may be available for educational visits or groups.
Interesting facts
- •Wadi Wurayah is one of the few remaining habitats where the endangered Arabian tahr roams free.
- •A footprint of the elusive Arabian leopard, not seen in the UAE since 1995, was found in the park.
- •The freshwater fish Garra barreimiae is endemic to the Hajar Mountains and found here.
- •The park is home to a wild orchid species, Epipactis veratrifolia, unique to the area.
- •In 2018, an Indian crested porcupine was sighted in the park.
- •In January 2020, Indian fritillary butterflies were observed here following heavy rainfall.
- •An Arabian caracal was spotted in the park in October 2025.
History
Wadi Wurayah was designated as the UAE's first protected mountain area on March 16, 2009, following a three-year conservation campaign led by the Emirates Wildlife Society in association with WWF and supported by HSBC Bank Middle East.
Its protection aimed to preserve the area's delicate ecosystem and biodiversity.
The wadi's name derives from the tall marsh plant 'warrah' found in its wetlands.
Over the years, camera traps and scientific surveys have documented the presence of rare and endangered species, highlighting its ecological importance.
Efforts continue to monitor and protect species such as the Arabian leopard and Arabian tahr within this unique mountainous habitat.
Contact
Phone: 056 321 8018