There are thousands of flamingos hidden in the middle of Dubai. The Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, not so far from downtown Dubai, is home to these fascinating birds during the winter months.

Even as we pull up to the car park we can see just how many birds are here today. We park and head down the path to the hide.

Flamingo Hide
It really is an incredible sight and feeling, to be surrounded by so many birds that are seemingly unaware of our presence. The majority are perched, one legged in the water or on the sand, head tucked under a wing seemingly oblivious to the spectacular day. Others filter through the shallows with their beaks. As omnivorous filter-feeders they fill their beaks with water and sift out whatever is edible – plants, insects, shrimp and, if lucky, fish.

The hides are open from 7:30am to 5:30pm during the winter season, and from 6am to 6pm between April to September. Regardless of the season, the flamingoes are around for their feeding time between 10am and 4pm.

You can get to Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary using the following transportation options:

Dubai Metro: While there is no metro station close to the sanctuary, you can travel partway there via the metro. Hop on to the Green Line and alight at the Al Jadaf or Creek metro stations, then take a taxi for the short journey to Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary.

Please visit rta.ae for detailed public transportation schedules.

Alternatively, if you are driving, say from Mall of the Emirates, follow Sheikh Zayed Rd/E11 to Al Meydan Rd/D69. Take exit 47 from Sheikh Zayed Rd/E11 and get on Al Khail Rd/E44 and continue until you reach the sanctuary.

Get a full preview of your trip on Google Maps https://maps.app.goo.gl/ikenfMpJwoDdpRn98