Get Close to Nature: 4 Ecotourism Spots to Visit in the UAE

Would you like to commune with nature? How about taking a vacation surrounded by nature’s wonders? Do you want to combine leisure and environmental awareness in one enjoyable experience?

You can do all of the above and more with an exciting seaplane tour. Take in the sights aboard a plush jet with premium window seats that give you an expansive view of what nature has to offer.

On the Wings of Wonder

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is known around the world for its man-made wonders. Sky-piercing towers, mammoth theme parks, and other amazing feats of art, architecture, and engineering. Aside from world record-breaking wonders and attractions, there are also natural marvels that the UAE can offer.

Typically regarded as a vast and arid land with a sweeping desert all around, the UAE is actually land that displays a rare assortment of topographical zones. This region in the Middle East boasts a number of beaches, mangroves, mountains, oases, salt plains, sand dunes, and valleys.

Such diversity has naturally given birth to a variety of flora and fauna that make this gem in the Arabian Peninsula a truly diverse place. Marine biodiversity can also be witnessed under its crystalline waters. With over 5,036.24 square kilometers of protected areas, there are various natural attractions that draw in both local and international crowds.

Because of this, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) has launched “The UAE’s Natural Wonders”, a three-phased project aimed at promoting ecotourism across the seven emirates and beyond. Its goal is to make the UAE a major ecotourism hub while protecting and enriching its natural treasures.

If you’re interested in spending some time in nature, it’s so easy to book a private jet tour from a reputable seaplane company. Enjoy traveling by land, water, and air onboard an amphibious plane and explore the inherent beauty of the UAE.

Here are some of the ecotourism spots that you can view from up above or up close:

1. Fujairah

Nestled in the east coast of the UAE, Fujairah is the fifth-largest emirate whose coastline is the only one that sits on the Gulf of Oman. It is a popular beach destination, with its marine wildlife beckoning aqua lovers near and far. Its clear waters are also top spots for diving, fishing, and other watersports.

2. Ras Al Khaimah

Renowned for its flawless pearls and flourishing port, Ras Al Khaimah or RAK has gained ground as a major tourism hub. The fourth largest emirate in the UAE, RAK stands out as having a diverse set of attractions ranging from charming coastal strips, mangroves, and mountains.

Enjoy the best of both worlds as you tour around Ras Al-Khaimah’s airspace. Feast your eyes on undulating desert dunes or the aquamarine coastline. Even more exciting is when you dock at Al Marjan Island and go to Jebel Jais where you can experience an exhilarating time on the world’s longest zipline.

3. Sir Bani Yas Island

Take off to one of Abu Dhabi’s treasures, Sir Bani Yas Island, a rugged isle with spectacular beaches, a salt dome, and mesmerizing mangroves. The largest natural island in the UAE is home to a variety of plants and animals including thousands of free-roaming wildlife and a million trees and plants.

Vulnerable or critically endangered animals such as the Arabian oryx, Arabian tahr, Barbary sheep, sand gazelles, sea turtles, and Urial sheep find refuge in this natural reserve.

Aside from hosting over a hundred species of wild birds, this sanctuary is also home to about 30 mammal species including deer, dolphins, gazelles, reticulated giraffes, and Somali ostriches. Wild animals, predators, and scavengers like the Sudan cheetah and the striped hyena also roam freely around the reserve.

Part of the development of this island offers adventure and wildlife activities such as game drives, mountain biking, nature trails, and outdoor dining.

4. Zaya Nurai Island

If you want to have a romantic interlude or simply escape the chaos of the city, you can surely book an avian tour to one of Abu Dhabi’s most luxurious island hideaways. Zaya Nurai Island is a gem just off the coast of the UAE capital and merely ten minutes away by boat from Saadiyat Island.

Arrive in style for your lavish getaway by taking a seaplane ride to the island. Stroll in the white sands or simply soak up the sun as you let the soothing magic of nature lull you to sleep.

You can also get a dose of physical activity with water sports such as banana boat rides, jet-skiing, paddle boarding, sea kayaking, snorkeling or sunset beach boot camp sessions. If relaxing is more your thing, then a yoga session or movie marathon at their outdoor cinema are some of your options.

Better for You, Better for the Earth

Ecotourism tours are not just good for the economy. It is ultimately a good way to balance your enjoyment with the need to care for the environment.

Being aware of nature’s wonders through exposure trips to these natural attractions and sanctuaries can awaken in you the desire to be more eco-conscious. This awareness can spur people to be more vigilant in their efforts to be kinder to Mother Nature and its inhabitants.

Seeing nature up close can also be a real treat for the mind, soul, and body. More importantly, it is a great opportunity for people to connect with nature and learn how to appreciate and care for it.