Imagine trees being able to protect the region against tidal surges, purify the surrounding water and remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. That’s the essential role mangroves play in Mother Nature and why this area is significant to the city and the region.

With stalks reaching up to 15 feet in height, the forest is home to a colourful community of crabs, turtles, herons, flamingos and fish living alongside larger creatures like foxes, dugongs and dolphins - what a wonder the Earth is!

If bird-watching is your passion, charge your phones or cameras because there are over 60 bird species you could stumble upon. From the greater flamingos to western reef herons, these creatures tend to pop in and out depending on the season so capturing them through your lens is a sure delight.

To get closer to this wonder of nature, how about trekking into the water with some help? To protect the sensitivity of the waters, select from stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking or hopping on a private boat tour led by licensed and ecologically responsible tour operators such as Seahawk Water Sports, Noukhada and Al Mahara Diving.

Decide whether you would traverse the mangroves with a tour guide or on your own, perhaps for some extended quiet time in the lap of seclusion. Be careful though as it may be difficult to manoeuvre during some seasons so if you aren’t too sure, follow the guide. The best time to kayak is when there is a high tide, so check before venturing out.