Al Wathba Fossil Dunes & Wetland

You’re going to want to take photographs of this striking landscape, so have your camera ready. Located in the UAE’s capital, Abu Dhabi, the Al Wathba Fossil Dunes showcase weather-beaten towers of rock and abstract, naturally formed desert sculptures crafted from wind-swept, calcium-carbonate-infused sand. The strange formations look so much like they belong on another planet that they even had a starring role in Star Wars: The Force Awakens. Visit the dunes during the cooler months between October and April and explore on foot, or sleep under the stars on a camping trip.

Find larger, more artistic formations near the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve, a lusher but no less mesmerising spot. Despite its smaller size, the area’s wetland teems with life. Discover incredible diversity, including endangered species and more than 250 species of birds, an abundance of aquatic life, 37 plant species, dragonflies, damselflies, and the spiny-tailed lizard. Its most spectacular attraction, however, is the flamingo. These migratory birds arrive in the autumn and stay until spring, with a resident population calling the area home throughout the year.

You’ll find a visitor experience centre, washrooms, and self-guided 1.5km and 3km trails here, but there are no cafes or restaurants, so please bring your own water and sun protection.