Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary Dubai

Overview of Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary (Rakws) and Its Significance in Dubai

• Dubai has all the different terrains covered under protected zones, be it Coastal, Marine, Desert, and Mountains. These topographies are home for eight protected areas which support a rich assemblage of wildlife including mammals, amphibians, reptiles, corals, birds, insects, and plants. Dubai safeguards a variety of ecosystems through its protected areas, such as Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, Jabal Nazwa, Jebel Ali Wildlife Sanctuary, Ghaf Nazwa, Hatta Mountain Reserve, Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, and Al Wahoosh Desert Conservation Reserve.
• Al Marmoom Desert conservation reserve and Ras Al khor Wildlife Sanctuary are open to the public throughout the year, giving the green appreciators a perfect opportunity to connect with nature.
• Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary (RAKWS) is a premier wetland reserve established in 1985, located in Dubai Creek, about 10 km from the center of Dubai. It spans over 6.2 square km and is a haven for wildlife amidst the city's expansion into the surrounding areas. The sanctuary is internationally recognized under the "Ramsar Convention" for wetlands marking the global significance.
• The migratory birds along the East African-West Asian Flyway glide past thousands of kilometers to Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, making it a critical habitat for them.

Who Looks After Emirate’s Nature Reserves -

The health and functionality of the Emirate's nature reserves are looked after by Dubai Municipality. It applies a rigorous science based research and management approach to make sure everything is operational in a streamlined manner. Nature oriented educational activities, workshops, and awareness lectures are regularly offered by Dubai Municipality. It makes sure Nature Education remains at its heart and celebrations like World Migratory Day and World Wetlands Day are tossed in to engage not just visitors but students as well.

Why It’s a Must-Visit Destination for Nature Enthusiasts and Tourists -

• To all the nature enthusiasts and tourists in quest of connecting themselves with the natural beauty, Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is truly an undiscovered treasure in Dubai.
• The sanctuary reflects a diverse ecosystem right in the heart of the bustling city, shouldering Eco-Friendly Tourism and convenient accessibility provide all the ideal setups for quiet observation and photography without disturbing the animals.

An Ecological Gem Amidst Dubai’s Urban Skyline

• Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary (RAKWS) stands as a shining testament to the harmonious coexistence of nature and urban development in one of the world’s most dynamic cities. The unparalleled biodiversity and commitment to environmental conservation makes this protected wetland an "Ecological Gem".
• Dubai is full of futuristic skyline, but under the shimmering façade roots in a surprising, and increasingly ambitious commitment to sustainability. It showcases how urbanization can coexist with ecological stewardship, redefining the future of responsible luxury.

History and Establishment

WHEN AND WHY THE SANCTUARY WAS ESTABLISHED: It is one of the first protected areas in the UAE, officially established in 1985 with the objectives of pushing  the idea that Luxury and Eco-consciousness can seamlessly co-exist. The sanctuary was created with the following key objectives: 

• Conservation of Biodiversity: Mangroves, Lagoons, Sabkhas (Salt Flats), and Mudflats, which provide a diverse ecosystem in the area, are protected and preserved with the establishment of Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Protection of Migratory Birds: By serving as a critical habitat for wildlife, the sanctuary is a crucial route for birds. Many rare species come here as it's a safe stopover for them, supplying the perfect breeding ground for species such as iconic "Great Flamingos" and other such migratory birds.
• Designated Ramsar Wetland: In 2007, the sanctuary was recognized under the "Ramsar Convention" for its global significance as a wetland. The is being preserved for both local and migratory birds, further propelling its international recognition and importance.
• Environmental Sustainability in Urban Growth: The sanctuary aims to raise awareness about the importance of wetlands and biodiversity, along with showcasing the model of sustainable development and conservation of natural habitats.

Geographic and Ecological Significance

Location and proximity to major landmarks in Dubai.

1. Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary (RAKWS) is situated at the head of Dubai Creek, arguably the birthplace of Dubai. It serves as a source of economic growth and urban development by being just 15 km away from the buzzing city center. Dubai Creek is not just a waterway but Dubai's past, present, and future are reflected through it.
2. The RAKWS is a remarkable example of how urban areas can coexist with thriving natural ecosystems. Here's a breakdown of its geographical and ecological significance:

• Geographical Significance: Stationed in the heart of Dubai, the sanctuary is one of the few urban protected areas globally, showcasing the possibility of conservation amidst rapid development making it an Oasis in an Urban Setup. Being situated at the tip of Dubai Creek, it becomes a coastal wetland and enclosing a diverse range of coastal habitats. Its position is also pretty strategic as it junctures a heterogeneity of migratory birds for both breeding and as a resting ground.
• Ecological Significance: On the ecological grounds, it's a biodiversity hotspot with a total of 472 species, making it a haven for not just birdwatchers and a vital site for conducting research by Avian Researchers (Ornithologist). As we know that Mangroves are important to coastal ecosystems because they help mitigate climate change through carbon sequestration, protect shorelines and provide food, thus the mangrove ecosystem is a haven for threatened wildlife species.

Types of ecosystems within the sanctuary: wetlands, mudflats, lagoons, and mangroves.

• ECOSYSTEM: An ecosystem is a system formed by the interaction of organisms with their environment. "Eco" refers to a part of the world and "system" reflects the coordinating units. There is a complex interconnection of two components which frame up the entire ecosystems, biotic and abiotic. The biotic components consist of all living organisms, including plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms. These organisms are further categorized as producers (autotrophs) that synthesize their own food through photosynthesis, consumers (heterotrophs) that obtain energy by consuming other organisms, and decomposers that break down dead organic matter, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem. In contrast with the biotic components, the abiotic components consist of the non-living elements such as sunlight, temperature, water, soil, air, and nutrients. All these elements combinedly influence the survival and interaction of living organisms within the ecosystem.
• The biotic and abiotic components are linked through the nutrient cycle and the energy flow. Let's dive a bit into these two concepts briefly.

• ENERGY FLOW: The energy flows through an ecosystem unidirectionally, sun being the starting point. Plants being the producers capture sunlight and via photosynthesis they convert it into chemical energy. The herbivores (primary consumers) eat plants, thereby transferring the energy up the food chain. Energy moves through various trophic levels in the following manner  (producers → primary consumers → secondary consumers → tertiary consumers). This energy doesn't remain contained in the similar volumes and dissipates as it moves from one trophic level to another, and at each trophic level, energy is lost as heat due to metabolic processes, which follows the 10% rule of energy transfer (only 10% of energy is transferred to the next level)

• NUTRIENT CYCLE: The nutrients like carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus navigate through ecosystems in the following ways -

1. Carbon Cycle: Carbon dioxide is absorbed by the plants for photosynthesis, the same is released by the animals through respiration, and decomposers return carbon to the soil and atmosphere.
2. Nitrogen cycle: Atmospheric nitrogen is converted by Nitrogen-fixing bacteria into usable forms for plants. These are then passed into the food chain.
3. Water cycle: Life is sustained when water evaporates, forms clouds, and returns as precipitation.

• Sanctuaries often harbor a variety of ecosystems that contribute to their rich biodiversity. The various ecosystems that contribute to making a sanctuary suitable for a rich assemblage of wildlife are listed in the below table, along with their characteristics and importance.

Fauna: a Birdwatchers Paradise

• Dubai is not just for skyscrapers and modern living filled with unparalleled lifestyles, rather the city's commitment towards growth with sustainability ensures that nature lovers are also not left behind. As discussed above, Dubai has a diverse chain of topographies where natural ecosystems that are habitat for a variety of native wildlife species and migratory birds are kept under Dubai Municipality's watch. That's where the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary comes into the picture for being one of the protected areas.
• If you're a nature and wildlife appreciator, Pink flamingos that are Sanctuary's major highlight are waiting to fill your adventure diaries with a lifetime experience. As the sanctuary is mostly famous for being a safehouse for the migratory birds, around 20000 different species of birds come here either to lay eggs or simply to take a time-out from their flying business as it also serves as a resting and refueling ground for them.

• The principal attraction for the visitors are the flamingos, but the sanctuary also anchors a pretty substantial population of mallards, common teals, pintails, some duck species, songbirds, and raptors. The overall physical geography and location of Dubai makes it an apt option for all these nature colleagues. It is also the reason why many endangered and threatened species of birds, which are hunted down in other parts of the world, are kept in close watch by the authorities. This includes Socotra Cormorant, Ferruginous Ducks and Social Lapwing, each of which are listed on the IUCN Red List of Endangered Species.

Role in the migratory route for birds

Key Migratory Route: Birds have a migratory nature depending on the climate and seasons that suits them the best. They fly across the globe to different locations in a flock, marching past countries, oceans and even continents in many cases, for the ones which fly between Asia, Africa, and Europe, Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary plays a significant role in their migratory route. It serves as a vital link in the global bird migration network, thereby supporting the survival of numerous bird species during their long journey. Dubai lies on migratory routes, including the East African-West Asian Flyway and the Red Sea-Arabian Sea Flyway. These routes connect breeding grounds in Europe and Asia with wintering grounds in Africa.

Flora and Biodiversity:

Types of vegetation and their role in the ecosystem.

• Vegetation includes various types like forests, grasslands, wetlands, deserts, tundras, aquatic plants, shrublands, and urban greenery, each playing a vital role in maintaining ecological balance.
• To support biodiversity, forests act as carbon sinks, produce oxygen, and thus support biodiversity. The herbivores get food from grasslands and enrich the soil fertility. Wetlands filter water, control floods, while deserts and tundras support specially adapted species to regulate carbon storage. The coastlines are protected by the aquatic vegetation to sustain marine life, and shrublands prevent erosion to foster nutrient recycling.
• The city's temperature is monitored and kept in check by the urban vegetation which cools them down by filtering air, and enhances well being. As a whole, these ecosystems regulate climate, support life, and thus ensure Earth's sustainability. 

Interaction between flora and fauna.

Visitor Experience:

IMPORTANT REMINDERS:  "Leave no trace" is the key to responsible birdwatching. Take only photos and memories. Bring binoculars, a camera, and a guidebook to help you identify birds. Inside the bird hide, be quiet and respectful. Put away your phone, leave pets at home, and avoid eating, drinking, or smoking.

Best time to visit: Seasons and timing to spot migratory birds.

Do’s & Don’t:

BIRD HIDE ETIQUETTE:

• Limited capacity - Only 15 people allowed at one time
• Safety first - No smoking and sharp objects are also prohibited
• Respect the space - Do not sit on the window planks
• Stay comfortable - Keep hydrated
• Maintain Order - No rushing or pushing
• Protect your belongings - Mind your personal items
• Accessibility - Priority is given to the people with disability

BEFORE YOU GO:

Check the weather - Consider Dubai’s climate and weather

Role in Conservation and Sustainability:

Efforts by the UAE government to protect the sanctuary - The UAE government has taken significant steps to protect the sanctuary mentioned under 

• Legal protection - Declared a protected area in 1998 and later as a Ramsar wetland of international importance in 2007, providing it with international recognition and legal safeguards.
• Monitoring and Research - Continuous monitoring programs and biodiversity surveys are conducted to assess the health of the ecosystem, track the wildlife population, water quality, mangrove afforestation, and pest eradication which helps in more informed decision making.

Collaborations with International wildlife conservation organization - The UAE actively collaborates with several international wildlife conservation organisation which are presented through the below table 

Future Prospects

The UAE’s vision for wildlife protection and sustainability aligns with its broader commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development as outlined in its long-term strategy, UAE Vision 2021 and UAE Centennial 2071. 

UAE’s vision for wildlife protection and sustainability: Key Components are as follows

Conservation of Biodiversity - Protected area: The UAE has established several nature reserves and protected areas to conserve endangered species and their habitats. Examples include - Al Wathba Wetland Reserve, Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, and the Hatta Nature Reserve.

Combating climate change -

• Renewable energy initiatives: Projects like Masdar city and the Mohammed Bin Rashid AL Maktoum solar park aim to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and lower carbon emissions.
• Carbon Sequestration Programs: Mangrove restoration projects are actively promoted for their dual role in biodiversity conservation and carbon absorption.

Sustainable fishing and marine ecosystem protection - 

• Fishing Regulations: Strict fishing quotas and seasonal bans on catching certain species protect marine life and ensure sustainable fish stocks.
• Marine Conservation Zones: These zones, like the Marawah Biosphere Reserve, protect coral reefs, seagrass beds, and marine biodiversity.

Reforestation and Afforestation -

• The UAE Net Zero 2050 Initiatives: Aims to reduce desertification and promote sustainable land use practices.

Legislation and Policy Framework -

• Federal Law No. 24 of 1999 on the protection and development of the environment establishes stringent rules for conserving natural habitats and species.
• Penalties for illegal wildlife trade are enforced under CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora).

Conclusion

Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary-Dubai stands as a testament to the remarkable coexistence of urban development and thriving nature. This unique sanctuary is a haven for birdlife, showcasing UAE’s commitment to environmental conservation. By prioritising the protection of this vital ecosystem, Dubai has set an inspiring example for other urban centers worldwide.

We encourage you to visit Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary-Dubai and experience its wonders firsthand. Remember to adhere to the sanctuary’s guidelines and be a part of responsible ecotourism. Let us work together to protect this precious natural gem and ensure its continued flourishing for generations to come.