Dubai announces Dhs650m Ras Al Khor project
Known for its incredible wildlife and nature, the project will transform the area, preserving it as a natural habitat.
Split into two main phases, a contract worth Dhs100m has been awarded to begin the first phase, which will cover 6.4 square km and is due to be completed by the end of 2026.
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Planting a selection of new mangroves and increasing the coverage by 60 percent, there will also be a new mangrove lake, North Edge lake and reed ponds.
A 'green spine' will be constructed, 74 hectares of water bodies will be introduced and even new mudflats will be added to encourage a local ecosystem.
Dubai Municipality awards contract for first phase of AED650 million Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary Development Project. pic.twitter.com/cCDMDdkvEh
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) June 30, 2025
The second phase will introduce a local visitor centre, birdwatching towers, restaurants and kiosks as well as local education centres.
In addition, you'll also be able to pedal through the area, with 5.6km of cycle tracks to be constructed as well as 3km of walking trails.
Aiming to boost sustainable eco-tourism, the nature reserve project comes under the Dubai 2040 Urban Masterplan.
Speaking about the project, His Excellency Eng. Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality said:
'The Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary Development Project is one of the most prominent environmental infrastructure initiatives being undertaken by Dubai Municipality.
'It enhances the appeal of Dubai's nature reserves as unique and diverse destinations, supporting the goals of the eco-tourism sector and reinforcing Dubai's position as the best city in the world to live, work and visit, and a global model for sustainable future cities.'
Expecting to see some incredible visitor numbers once finished, Bader Anwahi, CEO of the Public Facilities Agency at Dubai Municipality added:
'Upon completion, the project is expected to multiply the number of visitors to the sanctuary six-fold, reaching between 250,000 and 300,000 annually.'
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