Eastern Mangroves, Abu Dhabi

Overview

Eastern Mangroves is a mangrove lagoon within Abu Dhabi city, adjacent to the Eastern Ring Road and just 10 minutes from the city centre. The protected reserve covers approximately 8km² of mangrove forest and tidal channels, home to herons, flamingos, sea turtles, and a wide range of migratory birds.

Its accessibility from central Abu Dhabi makes it the easiest UAE mangrove kayaking destination — no long drive required, and multiple rental operators are set up at the promenade.

Kayaking and SUP

The mangrove channels are calm, shallow, and protected from wind and swell — ideal for beginner kayakers and SUP paddlers. The main circuit through the inner channels takes approximately 90 minutes to complete at a relaxed pace.

Several operators along the Eastern Mangroves Promenade offer hourly kayak and SUP rentals, including double kayaks for families.

Kayak rental: AED 70–100/hour (single); AED 100–130/hour (double) SUP rental: AED 80–100/hour

Guided tours are also available, particularly popular for bird-spotting and sunrise paddles.

Guided tours from: AED 200/person (2 hours)

Wildlife

The reserve supports a permanent population of:

• Greater flamingo — a flock of 2,000–5,000 birds winters in the lagoon (November–March)
• Grey heron and great white egret — year-round
• Western osprey — nesting pairs on the outer islands
• Sooty falcon — breeds on the offshore islands in summer
• Sea turtle — green turtles forage in the lagoon year-round

Sailing

Several small sailing clubs operate on the outer lagoon. The sheltered water and consistent sea breezes make it suitable for dinghy sailing and RYA beginner courses. Yas Marina and the Abu Dhabi Sailing Club organise racing events on the lagoon during the October–April season.

Getting There

Eastern Mangroves is accessible from the Eastern Ring Road (E12), with the promenade entrance near the Anantara Eastern Mangroves Hotel. Free public parking is available adjacent to the promenade.

From Dubai: Approximately 1.5 hours via Abu Dhabi–Dubai Expressway (E11).

Practical Information

• The promenade has cafes, changing rooms, and equipment rental operators
• Early morning (6–9am) is the best wildlife window and coolest temperature
• The reserve is open year-round; summer (June–September) is only practical at dawn
• Photography is unrestricted in public areas of the reserve