Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary set for AED 650 million makeover

Dubai's Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is set for a major AED 650 million facelift aimed at transforming it into a world-class eco-tourism destination.

Dubai Municipality has awarded the contract for phase one of the project, valued at AED 100 million.

The redevelopment will boost biodiversity, expand mangrove coverage by 60 per cent, and increase water bodies by 144 per cent, helping absorb more carbon dioxide and support wildlife habitats.

Additionally, 10 hectares of mudflats (salt flats) will be added, contributing to the sanctuary’s ecosystem and biodiversity.

Phase one, covering 6.4 square kilometres, is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.

Officials expect annual visitor numbers to rise to nearly 300,000 once the sanctuary is fully developed.

Phase two will add recreational infrastructure, including 3 km of walking trails, 5.6 km of cycling tracks, a visitor centre, and educational facilities.

Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary was the first site in the UAE to be listed under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance in 2007 and is classified under the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) guidelines.

It hosts nearly 450 species of flora and fauna, including 47 hectares of mangroves, welcoming around 20,000 migratory birds annually.

Dubai Municipality awards contract for first phase of AED650 million Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary Development Project. The initial phase of the project is expected to be completed by the end of 2026. The project is expected to multiply the number of visitors to the sanctuary… pic.twitter.com/iVsg5Qqq0p

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) June 30, 2025