Abu Dhabi's Mangrove National Park covers 19 sq km of protected coastal mangrove forests. A critical link in the coastal ecosystem, mangroves protect against tidal surges and promote biodiversity by providing a home to fish, small coastal critters and birds. More than 60 bird species can be spotted here, including the greater flamingo and western reef heron. Both are easiest seen in the breeding season from April to July.

To experience the mangroves close up, you can head out by kayak, stand-up paddleboard or boat using one of the operators stationed at the marina on the Eastern Mangrove Promenade. Noukhada's kayak tours are particularly recommended.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Eastern Mangroves Promenade

0.8 MILES

The seaward side of Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan St has been developed into a promenade to rival Abu Dhabi's original downtown Corniche, with a series of…

2. Capital Gate

2 MILES

Look out the window from many points in Abu Dhabi at night and you could be forgiven for thinking you've had one too many at the bar: reaching skyward in…

3. Miraj – the Museum

2.1 MILES

Showcasing beautiful objects from around the Islamic world, including Persian carpets, calligraphy, ceramics and textiles, this private gallery shop–cum…

4. Khalifa Park

2.45 MILES

This large and leafy park, not far from the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, has a number of attractions, including a football playing area, fountains, ponds…

5. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

3.24 MILES

Rising majestically from manicured gardens and visible from the bridges joining Abu Dhabi Island to the mainland, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is an…

7. Sheikh Zayed Bridge

3.32 MILES

Said to symbolise the flow of energy into the capital, this 842m-long modern bridge designed by the late Zaha Hadid is one of three gateways to Abu Dhabi…

8. Wahat Al Karama

3.43 MILES

This memorial, opposite the eastern side of the Grand Mosque, was inaugurated in 2016 in memory of Emiratis who have given their lives in service to the…