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Wasit Nature Reserve

Sharjah  >  United Arab Emirates

One of the UAE’s top wetland birding sites, protecting 86 hectares of mudflats, salt lagoons, ponds, and a large lake.

Added* by Wesley Smith
Most recent update 13 siječnja 2026

Description

Wasit Nature Reserve is a complex of natural inland lake and wetland habitats with a total area of 86 hectares. It is a unique lake which represents a part of the remaining endangered coastal habitats. The site supports a rich diversity of wetland species. Its mudflats, lakes, dunes, reed beds and woody thickets support a range of plants, and more than 170 bird species have been recorded including many migratory birds on their way to or from Africa, Asia, and Europe. There are several bird hides around the lake. The reserve also hosts various small mammals, reptiles and insects. Many visitors particularly come here to spot the endangered Arabian oryx, the national animal of the UAE.

Details

Access

Wasit Nature Reserve is the only reserve within the boundaries of Sharjah city. It’s situated in the Ramtha area in the northeast of the city. Press P on the map for directions. Opening hours: Sunday–Thursday: 09:00–18:30, Saturday: 11:00–18:30, Friday: 14:30–18:30. Closed on Tuesdays. The reserve has a glass‑walled visitor centre overlooking the wetlands and several bird hides. Entrance fee AED 15 per person (2025). The walk around the lake is about 6 km.

Terrain and Habitat

Wetland

Conditions

Flat , Open landscape

Circular trail

Yes

Is a telescope useful?

No

Good birding season

All year round

Best time to visit

Spring migration , Autumn migration

Route

Wide path

Difficulty walking trail

Easy

Accessible by

Foot

Birdwatching hide / platform

Yes

Links

View other birding spots in the area that are published on Birdingplaces

Map

Top 5 birds

Other birds you can see here

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