Marine protected areas

Marine protected areas

Explore Abu Dhabi's coast

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coral reefs and fish in Ras Ghanadah Protected Area, Abu Dhabi

Ras Ghanadah Protected Area

The largest coral reef in the UAE and Gulf region, and one of the most important coral reefs in Abu Dhabi, the 55-square-kilometre Ras Ghanadah Protected Area is situated near Ghantoot, about 90km from the capital. Snorkelling fanatics and divers will delight in the treasure trove of coral species found in the magical underwater world at Ras Ghanadah. In fact, 40% of all coral species in the Arabian Gulf can be found here. You’re also very likely to spot turtles, dugongs, sea snakes and clownfish.

Saadiyat Marine National Park: lush oasis and water activities in Abu Dhabi's pristine waterscape

Saadiyat Marine National Park

Spanning a total area of 59 square kilometres, the protected Saadiyat Marine National Park can be found in the adjoining marine area of Abu Dhabi’s pristine Saadiyat Island. Marine life enthusiasts will love the abundance of beautiful animals, particularly the endangered Hawksbill turtles that nest on the island. Keep an eye out for dolphins, and make sure you don’t forget your phone because this spot showcases some of the UAE’s most beautiful sunsets. The Saadiyat Marine National Park is a haven for non-motorised water activities such as snorkelling, diving, kayaking and fishing.

Marine ecosystem with green plants and water in Abu Dhabi's Marawah Marine Biosphere Reserve

Marawah Marine Biosphere Reserve

Named the first marine biosphere reserve in the UAE and covering 63% of Abu Dhabi’s marine protected areas, the incredible Marawah Marine boasts 120km of immaculate coastline and over ten islands. The 4,255-square-kilometre reserve is home to essential marine ecosystems, including seagrass beds, coral reefs, macroalgae outcrops and mangrove forests. Marawah is also teeming with abundant wildlife, including the world’s second-largest dugong community, 70% of the UAE’s migratory birds and over 150 species of fish.

Tortoise in water at Al Yasat marine protected area, Abu Dhabi

Al Yasat Protected Area

The breathtaking Al Yasat marine protected area is located in the western region of Abu Dhabi in Al Dhafra and is a nature lover’s paradise. From recreational fishing to diving, kayak adventures to snorkelling and dolphin to turtle watching, the list of exciting outdoor activities is endless. Al Yasat is also a heritage and cultural attraction. It is made up of a group of islands of historical importance – including Al Ghagha Island, Al Qaffay Island and Al Yasat Island – and boasts several species of thriving coral reefs that play a vital role in the abundance of bountiful marine life.

Unique experiences in MPAs

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tortoise in water near coral reefs in marine protected area
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Marine Protected Areas Visitor Guidelines

Download Abu Dhabi Maritime's official brochure for more detailed information about exploring the emirate's protected waters.
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FAQs about marine protected areas in Abu Dhabi

Yes, Abu Dhabi is home to significant coral reef ecosystems across the Arabian Gulf. Major reef areas include the Ras Ghanadah Marine Protected Area – which harbours the largest and most resilient coral reef system in the UAE – alongside reefs around Sir Bani Yas Island, Saadiyat Marine National Park, and the Al Yasat Protected Area.

Yes, swimming in Abu Dhabi's designated coastal areas is very safe. Major public and resort beaches (like Corniche Beach and Saadiyat Beach) hold Blue Flag status, with calm waters, designated safety zones, clear signage, and professional lifeguards. Swimmers should always follow flag safety warnings regarding currents or weather.

Abu Dhabi manages several Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) under the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) network:

  • Saadiyat Marine National Park: Open to visitors for eco-friendly, non-motorised activities like kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and snorkelling while protecting nesting hawksbill turtles.
  • Marawah Marine Biosphere Reserve: The UAE’s first UNESCO-recognised marine biosphere, home to seagrass beds and significant dugong populations (accessible via specialised eco-tours).
  • Al Yasat Protected Area: Located in Al Dhafra, offering regulated boat tours, coastal fishing, and snorkelling around historic islands.
  • Mangrove Marine National Park Abu Dhabi: Situated along the Eastern Mangroves, accessible via boardwalks, kayaks, and eco-boats.

Yes. Popular snorkelling spots include the clear waters off Saadiyat Beach and Sir Bani Yas Island. Boat charters and eco-tours also run snorkelling trips to offshore reefs and marine reserves where you can spot reef fish, sea turtles, and rays.

In-water swimming programs with dolphins are not widely offered in Abu Dhabi's wild waters due to conservation regulations protecting wild marine mammals. However, wild Indo-Pacific humpback and bottlenose dolphins are frequently spotted from boat tours, kayak trips, or coastal viewpoints around Saadiyat Island and Sir Bani Yas. For close-up indoor marine encounters, SeaWorld Yas Island offers educational dolphin experiences.