Abu Dhabi: Al Wathba Fossil Dunes Opens to the Public on This Day

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD), inaugurated the Al Wathba Fossil Dunes Protected Area, which is the first of its kind in the country, and one of the first in West Asia.

The Protected Area located 45 kilometres to the East of Abu Dhabi city and comprising more than 1,700 fossil dunes, is spread over 7 square kilometres.

The main visitor centre includes several facilities such as the viewing area and the gallery corner, as well as benches and several scenic areas to soak in the beauty of the wonderful site.

There's also well-lit trails, which were equipped within the eco-tourism programme, as they offer a unique and distinct opportunity to enjoy the scenic landscapes and practice several activities. These include the opportunity to stroll along illuminated paths of up to 3 km in length back and forth with several umbrellas and seats for rest and recreation.

 

At the end of the tour, Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed watched an introductory film about Al Wathba Fossil Dunes Protected Area.

Visitors can also enjoy music and light shows which will take place throughout opening hours and can be viewed from the amphitheatre area, which holds up to 200 visitors. The site will also feature various food and beverage trucks in dedicated areas.

Fossil dunes are outcrops of lightly cemented, cross-bedded dune sands, formed by the deposits of calcium carbonate and other salts from ground water during the glacial period. The formations in Al Wathba area derive their shape from the interaction between wind force and sediment supply.

The Protected Area will receive its visitors starting from Saturday, February 5th throughout the week, from 8:00 until 22:00 and on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and official holidays, the site will be open until 23:00 in the evening granting free entry and a unique model of eco-tourism.