NATIONAL PARK OF MANGROVES

Located in the heart of Abu Dhabi, this lush 74 square kilometer natural forest provides the perfect backdrop for bird watching, flamingos, herons, turtles, sea snakes, marine mammals such as dugongs and dolphins, and a wide variety of fish. The green lung of Abu Dhabi, it represents a natural barrier against erosion and is a unique biodiversity spot in the city center. Historically, the Grey Mangrove played an economic role: its rot-proof wood was ideal for building houses and boats.

Today, this maritime forest is an idyllic getaway for all nature lovers: walk from the Anantara hotel at the water's edge, paddle and kayak for a sporty version or take a boat ride, chicha from one of the restaurants that border it for a more tranquil version. Far from having regressed in size since the city's expansion, Abu Dhabi's environmental agency has contributed to its growth by planting an additional 2,000 trees in recent years. However, to access the heart of the forest, no motorboats are allowed. You will have to go to the service providers installed along the Mangrove to discover its secrets either by kayak or paddle and preferably at high tide. Tours are also organized to contemplate more closely the migratory birds that come to nest in the heart of the mangroves thanks to small huts installed in the middle of this forest.