Wadi Wurayah is one of the most ecologically important protected areas. This place highlights Fujairah Mountain, and it is home to some of the rarest endangered wildlife. This reserve as a global model when it comes to biodiversity conservation. And now, the UAE has stepped up its effort. After all, it is looking to secure the UNESCO World Heritage status for Wadi Wurayah.
Wadi Wurayah Is Looking To Secure UNESCO World Heritage
Wadi Wurayah is situated in the Hajar Mountains, and it is about 45 km from Fujairah city and is basically 220 km² of protected landscape. Famous for its perennial springs, waterfalls, and rich wildlife, this reserve supports over 1,099 recorded species. It is one of the most biologically diverse natural habitats in the UAE and is home to 216 plant species. There are 114 bird species, 20 mammal species, and 30 reptile and amphibian species here.
Why Is Wadi Wurayah Ecologically Important?
Wadi Wurayah is home to some of the rarest and most endangered wildlife, including Arabian tahr, Blanford’s fox and the elusive caracal. This shows how important the area is. With permanent freshwater springs and natural waterfalls, the rugged mountains have been sustaining life for centuries. It is worth mentioning that the area is also the only known habitat in the UAE for the wild orchid.
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Cultural Significance Of The Area
Besides the important environmental value, there is a deep cultural and historical significance to the place as well. It has been intertwined with the local communities. The area is situated quite close to the Al Bidyah Mosque. For the unversed, this is the oldest standing mosque in the UAE. Now the area has been nominated for inscription on the UNESCO World Heritage Site as a natural site of outstanding universal value. This nomination is based on the UNESCO criterion (ix). This recognises the site on the basis of the significant ongoing ecological and biological processes.
The nature reserve nomination builds on the series of international recognitions, which have been earned by Wadi Wurayah over the past decade. This place was declared, as a protected area reserve in 2009. It was designated a wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention in 2010. It became the first national park in the UAE in 2013.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/ZambeziShark from Getty Images (Cover image is for representative purposes only)
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FAQs
Where is Wadi Wurayah?
Wadi Wurayah is nestled in the Hajar Mountains, and it is about 45 km from Fujairah city.
Why is Wadi Wurayah a famous ecological site?
Wadi Wurayah is a famous ecological site as it is home to several plant species, bird species, mammal species, and reptile & amphibian species.