JournalHow Can You Explore UAE Nature Without Disturbing Wildlife?
In short: Explore UAE nature by keeping your distance, staying on tracks, avoiding nesting and roosting areas and never feeding or chasing wildlife. Federal law reportedly bars disturbing wildlife in natural reserves, with jail and fines for harming protected species.
Quick facts
| Starting point | Anywhere in the UAE |
|---|---|
| Reported law | Federal Law No. 24 of 1999 bars activities that harm reserves, including disturbing wildlife |
| First-category species | At least six months in jail and Dh20,000 or more (reported) |
| Second-category species | At least three months in jail or fines from Dh10,000 (reported) |
| Good habits | Distance, silence, tracks, no feeding, no drones near animals unless permitted |
Principles
- Keep a long distance and use binoculars or a long lens.
- Do not chase, feed or handle animals.
- Stay on tracks and avoid damaging shrubs and bushes.
- Avoid nesting and roosting areas, especially at wetlands and mangroves.
- Never post exact locations of sensitive species online.
Where it matters most
Protected areas such as Wadi Wurayah, with Arabian tahr and other species, and wetlands such as Al Qudra Lakes with flamingos and many other birds, need extra care. Mangroves are covered in the Umm Al Quwain guide.
Check access first
Confirm that the area is open and what permits apply; see how to check protected areas.
Check before you go
This is a researched guide, not legal, medical or safety advice. UAE rules, permits, fees, opening hours and closures change and can differ by emirate, so confirm with the official tourism authority, municipality or police before you travel.
Frequently asked questions
Can I feed wildlife?
No. Feeding changes behaviour and can harm animals.
What are the reported penalties?
Jail and fines for harming protected species, under federal law.
How close is too close?
If an animal changes behaviour, you are too close.
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Read nextRules, closures, fees and conditions change. Confirm with the relevant authority before you travel, and treat this guide as planning help, not a substitute for local advice.