Latest news with #GreaterFlamingo
What's On
2 days ago
- What's On
No summer travel plans? These are the best spots to escape UAE, within UAE
For many in the UAE, summer is a time of transit. Residents look to escape the extreme heat, take advantage of the slowing season and lock in some downtime. This is a chance to explore the world, travel to places never-before-seen and ride out the weather, and if you're looking for inspiration, you can check out our travel guides here, here and here. But for everyone out there who has no plans to witness the inside of the airport this season, fret not, for we have something for you as well. This list of UAE escapes will make you feel like you went on a whole holiday, without ever getting on a plane. Anantara Santorini, Abu Dhabi It's in the name. Anantara Santorini is perched on the edge of the Arabian Gulf's pristine blue waters, and will take you away to Grecian lanes drenched in white, blue and stone. It's a stunning crossover between raw Aegean beauty and refined Emirati elegance, and is truly an escape – a secluded spot ideally situated halfway between Abu Dhabi and Dubai in Ghantoot. This adults-only beachfront address features just 22 sumptuous rooms and suites, sun-drenched terraces, and each coming with their own 24/7 butler. Getting there: You can drive straight to Ghantoot in about an hour and a half @anantarasantorini Kingfisher Retreat, Sharjah Consider this your beachfront safari retreat nestled in the arms of nature. The Kingfisher Retreat by the Sharjah Collection is no less than a sanctuary, located among the mangroves opening into the stunning waters of the Indian Ocean. The site has a conservation hub that shelters exotic birds, gazelles, turtles, and crabs. It's smack dab in the midst of some of the UAE's most exotic wildlife and a great break from the typical desert staycations that are so popular here. Opulent tents with private pools and bespoke dining – it's as luxurious as it gets. Getting there: You can drive to the resort's pick-up point in Kalba, from where a short private boat ride will bring you to the island. @kingfisherretreat Al Zorah Natural Reserve This lesser-known ecosystem in Ajman is made up of a tidal creek and a lush mangrove forest home to a rich variety of birdlife. Natural greenery is not much of a common sight in the UAE, but you'll find that here. Mangroves are an important element of the coastline in this part of the world and you can spot nearly 60 species of birds, including the Greater Flamingo and a number of egrets and herons. If serene waters aren't quite enough for you, and some adrenaline is the fix, you can also participate in water sports like windsurfing and kayaking. Getting there: The drive to the reserve takes about an hour. @ajman Jubail Mangrove Park, Abu Dhabi Mangorves are lush and a-plenty, being a unique brand of UAE escapes, and this spot will take you away from the sand and the skyscrapers into lush greenery and blue waters. The stunning Jubail Mangrove Park in Abu Dhabi is an absolute must-visit for nature-seekers. A huge boardwalk will take visitors on a nature trail through the natural landscape of mangroves near Yas Island and, take it from us, it's amazing. As well as the stunning nature walk, there's loads of activities for the whole family to get involved in such as guided boardwalk tours, kayak trips, and e-canoe tours of the mangroves. Getting there: The drive will take you about an hour. Al Wathba Salt Lakes, Abu Dhabi This awe-inspiring locale, which was once a salt flat, has been developed into lakes that are now home to many of Abu Dhabi's natural species, most famously the 4,000-odd flamingoes, over 250 species of birds and 37 plant varieties that have travellers and families driving down from far and wide to photograph these relics of a bygone world. The Al Wathba Lakes are designated for protection by law, and also include self-guided walking trails for you to explore. They're a unique formation of nature, and not seen anywhere else in the country, which is why the visit is worth it. Anantara World Islands This Anantara property brings a slice of the Maldives. Be whisked away on a 15-minute boat ride to an inspiring escape that pays homage to Anantara's Thai roots. This 70-villa resort has a barefoot luxury feel with curated experiences all happening on island whole island oozes tropical allure: swaying palm trees surround the lagoon-sized swimming pool, a growing garden spills down to the sugar-white sandy beach, and thatched roof villas all make the most of their outdoor areas, many of which have a private pool. Getting there: Drive to the resort's welcome centre in J4 Marina, Umm Suqeim and then take a private 15-minute boat ride. @anantaraworldislandsdubai Anantara Sir Bani Yas, Abu Dhabi Head over to Sir Bani Yas Island and for one of the few UAE escapes to Africa. There's three Anantara resorts to choose from on the island, but luxurious beach escapes can be found at Anantara Al Yamm resort, a 30-villa sanctuary designed like a sleeping village. For a touch of African safari life, the recently reimagined Al Sahel resort with its pool villas overlooking local wildlife offers a unique staycation experience. The wildlife drive is a must for an out-of-Africa experience of spotting cheetah, giraffes, ostriches, Arabian Oryx and the rest of the 14,000 animals as part of the island's nature reserve. Getting there: It's a 25-minute boat ride from Jebel Dhanna, which itself is a 3-hour drive from Dubai. @anantarasirbaniyas Casa Mikoko, Umm Al Quwain Another one of African-inspired UAE escapes, this one brings a touch of Zanzibar. Part of the rustic, Zanzibar-inspired Kite Beach Centre is Casa Mikoko, a glamping experience of five chalets nestled within the Umm Al Quwain mangroves. Three of the five come with their own plunge pools, serving as a delightful spot to start the day. And all boast an African-inspired aesthetic and views over the calm waters that gives staycationers a tropical and instant on-holiday feel. Book one of the chalets with private pools and live like you're staying in the Maldives with an Instagrammable floating breakfast. Getting there: The drive to the resort takes about an hour and 10 minutes. @ Images: Socials
The Hindu
05-06-2025
- The Hindu
Tamil Nadu notifies Greater Flamingo Sanctuary at Dhanushkodi
The Tamil Nadu government has officially declared a Greater Flamingo sanctuary at Dhanushkodi in Ramanathapuram district. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin inaugurated the sanctuary via video conferencing on the occasion of the World Environment Day event organised by the Departments of Environment, Climate Change and Forests in Chennai on Thursday (June 5, 2025). Thangam Thenarasu, holding additional charge as Minister for Environment, R.S. Rajakannapan, Minister for Forests, and Supriya Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary to Departments of Environment, Climate Change, and Forests, participated in the event. The move aims to preserve a critical stopover point along the Central Asian Flyway for thousands of migratory wetland birds. The sanctuary spans 524.7 hectares and encompasses both revenue and forest lands within Rameshwaram taluk. The designated area, part of the ecologically sensitive Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve, is home to a variety of ecosystems, including mangroves, sand dunes, mudflats, and marshes. These unique features support a rich biodiversity, from migratory birds and marine life to nesting sea turtles. A Government Order (G.O.) issued on June 4, 2025, by Ms. Sahu, noted that according to the recent 2023-2024 wetland bird survey, the Dhanushkodi region recorded over 10,700 wetland birds, representing 128 species including herons, egrets, sandpipers, and both Greater and Lesser Flamingos. Mangrove species such as Avicennia and Rhizophora dominate the Dhanushkodi lagoon, providing essential breeding grounds and natural defenses against coastal erosion. The sanctuary status is expected to encourage responsible ecotourism, generate local employment, and raise public awareness about wetland conservation, the G.O. said. T.M. Anbarasan, Minister for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Srinivas Reddy, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Head of Forest Force), Rakesh Kumar Dogra, Chief Wildlife Warden, also participated.
The Hindu
22-05-2025
- General
- The Hindu
Tamil Nadu records 397 wetland bird species, 401 terrestrial bird species in synchronised survey
A total of 397 bird species were recorded in the wetland bird survey, while 401 species were identified in the terrestrial bird survey this year, according to the synchronised bird survey report released by Forests Minister R.S. Rajakannappan during the inaugural of International Biodiversity Day events on Thursday. The wetland survey revealed that 397 species are directly or indirectly associated with wetlands. Notably, 136 long-distance migratory species were observed, making up 34% of the total species recorded. Key bird species observed in wetlands include the Greylag Goose, Greater Flamingo, Eurasian Curlew, Pied Avocet, and Lesser Crested Tern. Surveys were conducted across 934 wetland sites, with all forest divisions instructed to cover approximately 20 locations per district. In terms of species richness, the districts of Coimbatore, Erode, and Dindigul recorded more than 200 species each. 1,093 locations covered The terrestrial survey covered 1,093 locations across urban, rural, and protected areas, again aiming for around 20 spots per forest division. The survey identified 401 bird species associated with terrestrial habitats, with 2,32,519 individual birds directly counted. Of the birds identified, 41% are long-distance migrants, and 6% are either partial migrants or local migrants. Noteworthy species recorded include the Ashambu Laughingthrush, Indian Nightjar, Black and Orange Flycatcher, Lesser Fish-Eagle, Nilgiri Pipit, Brown Fish-Owl, and the Nilgiri Wood-Pigeon. Speaking about the importance of biodiversity conservation, Supriya Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary to the Departments of Environment, Climate Change, and Forests, stressed that it must be addressed in conjunction with climate change, human impact, and habitat preservation. She noted that in the past four years, over two lakh hectares of forest areas have now been brought under legal protection. 7,000 hectares of new forest areas have been created, which contributes significantly to the protection of both habitats and species, she said. During the event, the Minister also distributed awards to forest officials and divisions, along with non-governmental organisations, for their significant contributions. Headmasters of tribal schools managed by the Forest Department were honoured for achieving the highest pass percentages. The event was attended by senior forest officials including Srinivas R. Reddy (PCCF & Head of Forest Force), Mita Banerjee (PCCF, Research & Education), Rakesh Kumar Dogra (PCCF & Chief Wildlife Warden), Debasis Jana (PCCF, Administration), and I. Anwardeen (PCCF & Chief Project Director).
What's On
17-04-2025
- What's On
10 green spots you can visit in the UAE before summer hits
Contrary to popular opinion, there is much green to see in the UAE. Beyond the confines and stretches of the bustling cities, no doubt, but it is there and these nature spots may even surprise you. Natural beauty in the UAE has always been a question of sorts, with the primary naturally occurring landforms being the expansive desert. But we're here to tell you that there is actually much more, many nature spots. Go on – take a drive, take a break and get lost in some green. Here are 10 green natural wonders to visit in the UAE. Al Zorah Natural Reserve This lesser-known ecosystem in Ajman is made up of a tidal creek and a lush mangrove forest home to a rich variety of birdlife. Natural greenery is not that much of a common sight here, but this hidden gem of nature spots is every nature lover's dream. Mangroves are an important element of the coastline in this part of the world and you can spot nearly 60 species of birds, including the Greater Flamingo and a number of egrets and herons. If the sight of serene waters isn't quite enough for you, and some adrenaline is the fix, you can also participate in water sports like windsurfing and kayaking. @ajman Siniyah Island This island is just 19 kilometres away from Umm Al Quwain and is easily accessible by boat. If you're looking to take a break from the cityscape, Siniyah Island is the nature spot to visit. It'll be a fun, spontaneous road rip, and you'll witness beautiful rolling greens and endless blues at the end of it. Like many other of the nature spots in the country, the island is home to several species of birds like flamingos, herons, terns and plovers to be seen from the mudflats. Hatta There isn't a spot quite as naturally beautiful as Hatta in Dubai. With its stunning views and exciting experiences, it's a perfect spot to visit to be one with nature. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, it is truly a retreat, and best enjoyed when the temperatures go down. Of course, up in the mountains, it will be delightfully cooler, so you don't want to miss out on this chance. Camping under the stars, kayaking and more smashing adventures await. @ Al Qudra Lake If you're looking for the perfect picnic spot, Al Qudra Lake might just be it. These artificial lakes in the heart of Dubai's desert are best enjoyed in the cooler months when you can camp by the lakefront, take a ride down the Al Qudra Cycling track or enjoy some bites from the food trucks. It's also a great place to spot native Dubai wildlife in their natural habitat including desert foxes, oryx, and a number of bird species including some on the endangered list, such as the steppe eagle and the Asian houbara. @ Sir Baniyas Island There's more than one mode of transportation involved in this one, but it's worth it (pinky promise). Sir Baniyas Island is probably the most wildlife-dense location in the country. Home to over 11,000 animals, it's practically one giant wildlife reserve, and several endangered species such as the blackbuck antelope and Arabian oryx as well as giraffe, ostrich and cheetah call the home. It's a step into a landscape, with lush greenery and wilderness. You can take a safari tour of the island and explore the diversity as it roams free. It's a 25-minute boat ride from Jebel Dhanna, which itself is a two-hour drive from downtown Abu Dhabi. @visitabudhabi Located a two-hour drive away from Dubai, off the coast of Fujairah, Jazirat Al Ghubbah or Snoopy Island is a tiny rocky marine outcrop. The name comes from the aerial view of the island, which looks like the character of Snoopy lying on his back. It's a small little place, but just as beautiful as you would imagine. There's a beach all around for all beachy activities such as diving, snorkelling and more, and the waters are crystal clear. This wetland reserve is closer to you than you think – right by the Dubai Creek – and is the perfect spot to visit to observe some 20.000 birds, mammals, fish and exotic plants in their element, and of course, all the greenery. There is a plethora of flora and fauna for you to explore and you can bring along your binoculars to spot migratory and residents birds displaying a dazzling assortment of colors, sizes, shapes and behaviors through three bird hides for bird watching at strategic is free and there are binoculars available to borrow, too. It's an ideal escape – not too far and with exciting things to do. Another wetland reserve, the Jebel Ali wildlife sanctuary consists of stunning mangroves, 2,000 hectares of wetland including the Ghantoot Marine Reserve, a coastal and marine area of coral reefs, mangroves, seagrass beds and sandy beaches. You'll find over 300 endangered species here, including the critically endangered hawksbill turtle, the mottled eagle ray, green turtle, Arabian gazelle, foxes, lizards and a variety of water birds. To visit the reserve you can join one of their turtle releases, BBQs, mangrove plantings or clean-ups. Al Qurm Nature Reserve Another stunning UAE nature spot to marvel at a natural mangrove forest is the Al Qurm Nature Reserve, which you'll find at Kalba on the southern outskirts of Kalba village, on Sharjah's east coast. The 500-hectare park of protected mangroves is home to species such as Arabian-collared kingfishers and hawksbill and green turtles. Enjoy guided kayak tours or go paddle-boarding around the area. @visit_shj Jubail Mangrove Park The stunning Jubail Mangrove Park in Abu Dhabi is an absolute must-visit for nature-seekers. A huge boardwalk will take visitors on a nature trail through the natural landscape of mangroves near Yas Island and, take it from us, it's amazing. As well as the stunning nature walk, there's loads of activities for the whole family to get involved in such as guided boardwalk tours, kayak trips, and e-canoe tours of the mangroves. @jubail_mangrove_park Al Ain Oasis A green paradise in the middle of the desert – that is the Al Ain Oasis. This is the largest Oasis in the city of Al Ain, and dates back to more than 4,000 years. The oasis covers more than 1,200 hectares and contains more than 147,000 date palm trees producing 100 varieties of date. Perhaps the most remarkable feature of the oasis is the falaj system, an ancient genius system of irrigation that made the lives of the farmers easier. Images: Supplied/ Socials
