Eastern Mangrove National Park is a breathtaking natural scenery that is not only for nature lovers but also for anyone who needs a break. Located on the eastern edge of Abu Dhabi, this park plays a crucial role in combating climate change. In addition, it attracts many tourists because of its flourishing greenery and the different activities it offers.
Scroll down to learn more about Mangrove National Park, its location, contact details, and operating hours.
Overview
The Eastern Mangrove National Park is a unique ecological site on the eastern edge of Abu Dhabi. Protected by the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi (EAD), it covers nearly 75% of the UAE’s total mangrove forest area. The park is a biodiversity hotspot featuring salt marshes, mudflats, and algal communities, creating a lush habitat for wildlife.
Mangroves play a crucial ecological role by purifying water, removing carbon dioxide, and protecting the region from tidal surges. Much like the Dubai Mangroves Project, this forest is home to vibrant communities of crabs, turtles, herons, flamingos, and even larger creatures like foxes, dugongs, and dolphins.
It is one of the most important natural landmarks in the region, offering a perfect mix of urban proximity and tranquil nature.
Location
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Operating Hours
Monday to Sunday: 10:00 am to 12:00 am
Things to Do At Mangrove National Park
Mangrove National Park offers visitors excitement and adventures by providing them with several activities, including boat tours and bird watching. In addition to that, this trip can teach you a lot about preserving nature and maintaining ecological balance. This place perfectly combines education and enjoyment, making it a must-visit.
1. Kayaking
Mangrove National Park offers its tourists the exciting experience of kayaking. In this water sport, you paddle a small, narrow boat with a double-bladed paddle on various water bodies. Additionally, visitors can rent various equipment for outdoor activities at this park.
2. Bird Watching
This park, home to tranquil waters and deep forests, is the perfect spot for bird enthusiasts. With over 60 species of birds, including greater flamingos and western reef herons, it is a paradise for bird lovers. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, from click beetles and cockroaches to dink frogs and red-eye tree snakes.
3. Eco-Boat Tours
Mangrove National Park offers private boat tours with up to one hour on the water. These trips are often led by knowledgeable guides, allowing visitors to explore the park’s ecosystem by boat.
These guides share insights about the park and the importance of mangrove ecosystems in combating climate change. If you are looking for an educational experience, eco-boat tours are the thing for you.
4. Paddleboarding
For those looking for more adventure, paddleboarding is a good option. Mangrove National Park lets its tourists paddleboard on calmer waters and experience something new. This opportunity is for both beginners and experienced paddleboarders.
Some of the things that you can encounter while paddleboarding include:
- Scenic beauty
- Wildlife viewing
- Calm waters
- Physical and mental peace
5. Photography
What makes this park unique is its ability to have something for everyone, especially for photographers. Whether you’re enjoying the boat tours or exploring the wildlife, Mangrove National Park will never fail a photographer. With its lush greenery and almost mystic atmosphere, this park is a sanctuary of natural beauty.
6. Yoga and Meditation
One thing that is not talked about enough is how a trip to this park can be excellent for yoga. Mangrove National Park’s atmosphere helps create a calming ambience for meditation and mindfulness. In addition to this, spending time in greener areas automatically improves our mental health. Hence, being the perfect spot for yoga enthusiasts.
7. Stay in the Mangroves
For an extended escape, stay at the Anantara Eastern Mangroves Hotel. This luxury retreat offers stunning views of the mangroves and an Arabian-inspired ambience. Guests can also relax at the Impressions Lounge, where the sunsets are nothing short of magical.
Nearby Restaurants
After a day of exploration, treat yourself to a meal at nearby restaurants, such as:
- Bombay Corner Restaurant – 10 minutes drive away
- Shrimp Pot – 12 minutes drive away
- Nusr-Et Steakhouse – 16 minutes drive away
- COYA – 16 minutes drive away
- Li Jiang – 17 minutes drive away
- Giornotte – 17 minutes drive away
Nearby Attractions
Done exploring the park? Here are some other attractions you can visit after a short drive:
- Dolphin Park – 4 minutes
- The Walk at Al Seef – 8 minutes
- Khalifa Park – 10 minutes
- Umm Al Emarat Park – 15 minutes
- Qasr Al Hosn – 20 minutes
Nearby Communities
Residents living in the following nearby communities can easily reach the park for a fun day of exploration:
- Al Sa’adah – 7 minutes drive away
- Qasr Al Bahar – 8 minutes drive away
- Al Mushrif – 10 minutes drive away
- Al Rawdah – 10 minutes drive away
- Al Nahyan – 11 minutes drive away
FAQs
The mangroves are entirely free to visit. However, private operators charge for activities like kayaking, paddleboarding and more. A two-hour kayak tour costs AED 160.
Mangrove National Park is located in Abu Dhabi. This park is a sanctuary for some of the country’s brightest birds and marine life.
Mangrove National Park offers visitors a mangrove walk of about 2 km. The walk includes several paths of different lengths to suit all fitness levels and viewing platforms.
Taking a boat cruise is a great way to teach the little ones about the biodiversity in the park. Remember to keep sunscreen and hydration for longer trips.
That is all about the mangrove national park, offering an excellent example of how ecosystems thrive when protected and cherished. Ready to plan a visit and connect with nature? Pack your curiosity and get ready for Mangrove National Park to inspire you in unexpected ways!
For more places to visit in Abu Dhabi, stay connected with the Property Finder blog.
