Wasit Wetland Centre
Discover Sharjah's vibrant birdlife and serene wetlands at Wasit Wetland Centre, an eco-tourism gem offering conservation and wildlife viewing.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for migratory birds
Wasit Wetland Centre
Best Time
Best for migratory birds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Sharjah's vibrant birdlife and serene wetlands at Wasit Wetland Centre, an eco-tourism gem offering conservation and wildlife viewing.
"A perfect family escape into nature with an incredible variety of birds and a peaceful, well-maintained environment."
Check Opening Hours
Timings can vary, so always check before you go to avoid disappointment.
Bring Binoculars
Enhance your birdwatching experience with binoculars for closer views of distant species. :binoculars:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Birdwatching Galleries
Indoor viewing areas
Observe a diverse array of resident and migratory birds in their natural habitat from comfortable, indoor viewing spaces.
Golf Cart Safari
Outdoor reserve
Enjoy a guided golf cart ride through the wetlands and dunes to spot Arabian oryx, gazelles, and various bird species.
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Flamingo Spotting
Wetland pools
Keep an eye out for the stunning pink flamingos, a favorite among visitors and a beautiful sight in their natural environment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Visit for Birdwatching
Affordable Family Fun
+2Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Opening Hours
Timings can vary, so always check before you go to avoid disappointment.
Bring Binoculars
Enhance your birdwatching experience with binoculars for closer views of distant species. :binoculars:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You might do some walking, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the trails. :athletic_shoe:
Buggy Ride Included
The 15 AED entry includes a complimentary buggy ride around the outdoor areas.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Opening Hours
Timings can vary, so always check before you go to avoid disappointment.
Bring Binoculars
Enhance your birdwatching experience with binoculars for closer views of distant species. :binoculars:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You might do some walking, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the trails. :athletic_shoe:
Buggy Ride Included
The 15 AED entry includes a complimentary buggy ride around the outdoor areas.
Kid-Friendly Fun
Children under 12 enter for free, making it an excellent educational outing for families.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Wasit Wetland Centre for its natural beauty, cleanliness, and family-friendly atmosphere. The affordable entry fee and the engaging golf cart ride are frequently highlighted as major positives. While some visitors hoped for more bird sightings, the overall experience is described as peaceful, educational, and a great escape into nature.
"⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A Perfect Family Escape into Nature!
I visited the Wasit Wetland Centre with my family today, and it was an absolutely wonderful experience!
The highlight was, without a doubt, the incredible variety of birds. We saw so many different species, each more beautiful than the last. It's a true paradise for birdwatchers and a fantastic way to introduce children to the beauty of nature."
Rajan Varughese
"I visited this center last week and was pleasantly surprised by how exceptionally clean and well-maintained it is. I saw several bird species I had never encountered before—especially the beautiful flamingos 🦩. The buggy ride through the gazelle area was a wonderful experience; the gazelles were calmly resting, making it a peaceful and memorable sight. This place is highly recommended for families, especially with children, as it’s both educational and enjoyable. A great opportunity to learn about birds and wildlife in a serene environment!"
Irfan khan
"I visited Waist Wetland over the weekend and had a pleasant experience. The place was clean and well-maintained, making for a peaceful outing. The scenery was beautiful, with lush greenery and a calm atmosphere.
One of the highlights was the buggy ride, which was smooth and enjoyable, allowing us to take in the scenic surroundings comfortably. However, while we did spot some local birds there weren’t as many as we had hoped to see.
Overall, it’s a nice place for a relaxed visit, especially for nature lovers, but birdwatchers might want to check the best seasons before planning a trip."
Heena khan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wasit Wetland Centre is located about 30 minutes from Downtown Dubai. You can drive there via Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311) and then follow signs for the centre. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available from Dubai.
Yes, ample parking is available at the Wasit Wetland Centre, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
The centre offers a complimentary golf cart ride to explore the outdoor areas, which is a highlight for many visitors. Walking paths are also available for those who prefer to explore on foot.
While direct public transport routes might be limited, you can take a bus from Dubai to Sharjah and then a local taxi to reach the centre. It's generally easier to reach by car or taxi.
The Wasit Wetland Centre is conveniently located within Sharjah, typically taking around 15-20 minutes to reach from the city centre by car or taxi.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry fee is 15 AED for adults. Children under 12 years old get free admission, making it a great value for families.
Information on group or student discounts is not widely publicized, but the standard adult fee is quite affordable. It's always worth inquiring at the ticket counter.
Currently, tickets are typically purchased at the entrance upon arrival. It's advisable to check their official website or social media for any updates on online booking options.
Opening hours can vary, but generally, the centre is open from 9 AM to 6 PM or 7 PM. It's crucial to check the latest timings before your visit as they can change seasonally.
The centre is usually open daily, but it's always best to confirm operating days, especially around public holidays.
🎫 🐦 Onsite Experience
The centre is home to around 350 species of birds, including resident and migratory birds. You might spot flamingos, herons, egrets, and various waterfowl.
While there isn't a formal guided tour, the staff are knowledgeable and friendly. The complimentary golf cart ride offers an informal guided experience of the outdoor areas.
The centre features indoor birdwatching galleries, outdoor viewing areas, walking paths, and a visitor centre with educational displays.
Yes, it's a fantastic spot for nature and wildlife photography, especially for bird photography. The natural light and diverse species offer great opportunities.
A visit typically takes 2-3 hours to fully explore the indoor and outdoor areas, including the buggy ride.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Currently, there are no on-site food and beverage facilities. It's recommended to bring your own snacks and water or dine before or after your visit.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy during their visit, especially for a picnic.
There are several restaurants and cafes located a short drive away in Sharjah city centre, offering a variety of cuisines.
📸 📸 Photography
The bird hides, the indoor galleries with large windows, and the outdoor paths offer excellent vantage points for capturing birds and the wetland landscape. The golf cart ride also provides unique photo opportunities.
Yes, flamingos are often spotted here, and they make for stunning photographic subjects. Be patient and try to capture them in their natural behaviour.
A telephoto lens is highly recommended for bird photography. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the expansive wetland scenery.
Drone usage is generally restricted in protected natural areas like wetlands to avoid disturbing wildlife. It's best to check the centre's specific regulations.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for photography. The 'golden hours' can provide beautiful lighting for both wildlife and landscapes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+3Bring snacks and drinks, as there are no food facilities on-site. The clean and safe environment makes it a stress-free outing for parents. The chance to see animals like gazelles and various bird species, including flamingos, will surely captivate young minds.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Birdwatchers
While the golf cart ride is enjoyable, consider visiting during the cooler months and at dawn or dusk for the most active birdlife. Bringing binoculars will significantly enhance your viewing experience. The diverse wetland habitats ensure a rich variety of species to discover.
📸 Photographers
+1Focus on capturing the birds in their natural behaviour, from flight to feeding. The golf cart safari provides opportunities to photograph animals like gazelles and oryx in their habitat. Remember to be patient and respectful of the wildlife to get the best shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Importance of Conservation
+1The wetlands themselves are a carefully managed ecosystem, comprising salt flats, lakes, and ponds, designed to mimic natural environments. This careful planning ensures that the centre can support a wide variety of species, from small waders to larger birds like flamingos and even birds of prey. The ongoing efforts in habitat restoration and maintenance are key to the centre's success in preserving biodiversity.
Visitors can learn about these conservation efforts through the informative displays in the visitor centre and by observing the wildlife in its natural setting. Understanding the importance of these wetlands can foster a deeper appreciation for nature and inspire responsible tourism practices.
Experiencing the Wetlands: What to Expect
+1The highlight for many is the complimentary golf cart ride that takes you on a tour of the outdoor reserve. This guided journey allows you to explore the salt flats, dunes, and water bodies where you might spot Arabian oryx, gazelles, and a multitude of bird species. The ride is informative and offers fantastic opportunities for photography and simply enjoying the serene natural beauty.
+3For those who prefer a more active exploration, walking paths are available, allowing you to immerse yourself further in the environment. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. The peaceful atmosphere and the chance to see wildlife up close make for a truly memorable experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit