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Wadi Wurayah National Park
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Wadi Wurayah National Park in the Emirate of Fujairah is the first mountain protected area in the United Arab Emirates. Covering approximately 127 square kilometers within the Hajar Mountains, it was officially designated as a protected zone in 2009. The park hosts one of the few remaining permanent freshwater ecosystems in the UAE, featuring natural waterfalls and deep rock pools, making it a critical ecological hotspot. In 2010, it was recognized as a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance. The park's biodiversity is exceptional, providing a sanctuary for over 800 identified species, including the rare Arabian Tahr, Gordon's wildcat, and various birds of prey. Botanically, it is equally significant, home to 73 different orchid species and numerous endemic plants. Archaeological evidence, such as ancient tombs and petroglyphs, indicates that the area has been inhabited for thousands of years. To safeguard its fragile ecosystem, public access is often managed through restricted entry or guided educational tours. The national park currently functions as a vital center for scientific research and environmental conservation efforts in the Gulf region.
- Location: United Arab Emirates
- Top sights: Jibal Ghel Sammah · Jabal Ash Shahsiyyah · Jabal Idhar Mabruk
- Nearby: Khor Fakkan (10 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 20 | 21 | 24 | 28 | 33 | 35 | 35 | 34 | 33 | 30 | 26 | 22 |
| Rain mm | 29 | 10 | 17 | 6 | 1 | 6 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 3 | 10 | 15 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Access is strictly regulated for conservation, and entry is typically allowed only via official permits or guided ecological tours starting from the coastal towns of Fujairah or Khor Fakkan.
Best season
The best time to visit is during the cooler winter months between November and March, as the searing heat of the summer makes outdoor exploration dangerously exhausting and uncomfortable.
Terrain & paths
The environment is characterized by rugged, rocky mountain paths, steep ravines, and seasonal water pools, making the ground uneven, slippery, and demanding to hike across continuously.
What to bring
Bring sturdy trekking shoes with excellent grip, sun protection, a first-aid kit, and an ample supply of drinking water, as facilities are completely non-existent inside the park boundaries.
Parking
Vehicles must generally be left at designated staging areas near the park entrance, from where guided hikes commence, as off-roading within the protected eco-zones is strictly forbidden.
Safety
Flash floods are a deadly hazard in the wadi during sporadic winter rains, so always check weather forecasts. Stay strictly on marked trails to avoid disturbing the fragile local ecosystem.
Time needed
Visits are typically half-day to full-day excursions focused on wildlife observation and guided hiking, with no overnight camping permitted within the immediate protected sanctuary zones.
Geography
Facts
- Wadi Wurayah became the first mountain protected area in the UAE in 2009.
- The national park covers an area of 127 square kilometers in Fujairah.
- It was designated a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance in 2010.
- The wadi contains the UAE's only permanent waterfalls and fresh pools.
- It is home to the rare Gordon's wildcat and the Arabian tahr.
- Researchers have identified 73 different species of orchids in the park.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Wadi Wurayah National Park (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Wadi Wurayah National Park?
An important protected area with mountains, wadis, and rare wildlife.
Can you hike there?
Hiking is possible, but please follow conservation rules.
Are there waterfalls?
Yes, there are seasonal waterfalls after rainfall.
Is it difficult to reach?
A 4x4 vehicle is advisable for the last part of the route.
Can you swim there?
Swimming in the natural pools is often prohibited for conservation reasons.
Wadi Wurayah National Park: where is it located?
Wadi Wurayah National Park is located in United Arab Emirates.
Wadi Wurayah National Park: what is there to see?
Highlights include Jibal Ghel Sammah, Jabal Ash Shahsiyyah, Jabal Idhar Mabruk.
Wadi Wurayah National Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Wadi Wurayah National Park: why is it worth visiting?
Wadi Wurayah National Park in the Emirate of Fujairah is the first mountain protected area in the United Arab Emirates.
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Nearby cities
Fujairah
The only metropolis of the emirates on the east coast, captivating with its location on the Gulf of Oman.
Dibba Al-Fujairah
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Al Aqah
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Dadna
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Khor Fakkan
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Lulayyah
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Dibba
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Manama
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Rokiškis
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Jebel Jais
The UAE's highest peak, offering breathtaking mountain views and the world's longest zipline.
History & landmarks
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Sauka Ancient Mound
A prehistoric mound housing archaeological findings from the early Iron Age.
Dhayah Fort
The country's only surviving mountain fort sits majestically on a steep hill, offering sweeping panoramic views.
Biržai Castle
This Dutch-style bastion fortress was the primary residence of the Radziwiłł noble family.
Nature
Wadi Bih
Known as the Grand Canyon of the UAE, this deep gorge is a breathtaking natural wonder with spectacular rock formations.
Wadi Shawka
A popular outdoor destination in Ras Al Khaimah, known for its natural pools, dams, and scenic hiking trails.
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Wadi Khabbab
A rugged valley on the Musandam Peninsula, characterized by barren, sharp rock faces and seasonal water pools.
More places
Sakamkam Fort
A small but historically important round watchtower that once overlooked the surroundings of Fujairah.
Port of Fujairah
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Rumailah Farm
The first commercial dairy farm on the east coast of the UAE, raising Jersey cows for premium dairy products.
Al Hajar Mountains
The highest mountain range in the Arabian Peninsula, stretching through the eastern UAE.
Jebel Mebrah
One of the highest mountain peaks in the UAE, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding rugged landscape.
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Awhlah Fort
A remote mountain fort with a massive round tower that protected a strategic mountain route near the Omani border.
Wadi Asimah
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Sauka Ridge
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