Al Wathba Fossil Dunes Protected Area, Abu Dhabi
The Al Wathba Fossil Dunes Protected Area is located 45 kilometers to the east of Abu Dhabi city. It is close to the Al Dhafra Military Air Base. It is home to one of the largest concentrations of fossil dunes in the emirate. It offers visitors a chance to explore and appreciate these natural wonders. This article provides detailed information on Al Wathba Fossil Dunes.
What are Fossil Dunes?
Fossil dunes are sand formations created by the continuous action of wind in a specific direction. The dunes were made over thousands of years when sand mixed with calcium carbonate and hardened, forming natural sculptures that rise up from the sand. The fossil dunes are estimated to be between 120,000 and 150,000 years old and were created by a cycle of ice ages and thaws that occurred when ocean levels dropped and sand blew in from the drained Arabian Gulf. When the ice melted, leading to a more humid environment, the sand was shaped by erosion over many thousands of years. In very simple words, fossil dunes are like sculptures made by wind,and they have been preserved for millions of years.
Al Wathba Fossil Dunes:
The Al Wathba Fossil Dunes in Abu Dhabi have a significant historical background. The Al Wathba Fossil Dunes Protected Area comprises more than 1,700 fossil dunes, spread over 7 square kilometers. Geologists estimate the age of fossil formations within the protected location at over four million years. These dunes have been classified by the Environment Agency of Abu Dhabi (EAD) as an important habitat for various species.
When you visit the Al Wathba Fossil Dunes, you can enjoy many interesting activities. You can walk on the well-lit trails that extend to 3km both ways and are surrounded by beaches. This place is a great spot for a picnic and camping. There are also food trucks where you can enjoy various refreshments.
The Al Wathba Fossil Dunes Protected Area is the first such protected area in the country. The Al Wathba Fossil Dunes Protected Area was inaugurated in 2022 to protect the natural heritage of the emirate. The area is listed in the third category of natural reserves (geological features) according to the International Union of Conservation of Nature’s criteria and is also nominated to be listed in UNESCO’s Global List of Geoparks.
What is the cost?
The dunes are open to the public free of charge, and there are no entrance fees.
How to Get There?
The Al Wathba Fossil Dunes Protected Area is located 45 kilometers to the east of Abu Dhabi city. You can reach the site by car or taxi. The distance between Abu Dhabi and the Al Wathba
Fossil Dunes is 45 kilometers.
Is it Family-Friendly?
Yes, the Al Wathba Fossil Dunes Protected Area is family-friendly, making it a perfect place for visitors of all ages.
Nearby Attractions:
In addition to Al Wathba Fossil Dunes, there are several nearby attractions to explore, including
- Al Wathba Salt Lake
- Al Wathba Wetland Reserve
- Al Wathba Camel Track
- Bedouin Camp
- Bawabat Al Sharq Mall
- Saraya Spa
The Al Wathba Fossil Dunes Protected Area offers a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors and is an important part of the natural heritage of the emirate of Abu Dhabi.
