Al Wurayah National Park

Wadi Al Wurayah National Park is a protected mountain valley in the Hajar Mountains of Fujairah, known for freshwater streams, pools and waterfalls that are uncommon in such a dry region. It is for hikers, nature lovers and school or research groups. In 2026 UNESCO inscribed it on the World Heritage List as “Wadi Wurayah”.

Why it is protected

UNESCO’s listing describes a property of 22,000 hectares, with a 4,500-hectare buffer zone, lying entirely within the Hajar range in Fujairah. The mountains here expose ophiolite rock formed in the Late Cretaceous period. UNESCO records 1,099 species at the site, 883 animals and 216 plants, including at least ten globally threatened species. It says the wadi holds about half of the country’s recorded land mammal species and nearly half of its land reptile species.

The wadi is also a Ramsar wetland of international importance, designated in 2010. The Ramsar record explains that rainwater runs off and comes out where impermeable and permeable rock meet, forming the streams and waterfalls. It lists the Garra barreimiae fish, the Arabian tahr and 73 bird species including the Egyptian vulture. It also lists 29 heritage sites, among them Islamic graveyards, rock carvings and settlements dating back to the Iron Age.

Visiting

The park is a protected area, so it is not open like a public park. Access arrangements are set by the Fujairah authorities; check with them before planning a visit.

Good to know

• UNESCO inscribed the site under natural criterion (ix).
• The Ramsar record lists water extraction, rock extraction and poaching as threats to the site.
• The Ramsar record (2010) names the Environment Protection and Development Department of Fujairah Municipality as the managing body.

Description written from official sources, checked 24 October 2026: whc.unesco.org. Confirm details with the business before you go.