Khaleej Times

Enjoy an exotic ecological hotspot in Ajman’s Al Zohra

- Afkar Abdullah

ajman — A new eco-tourism initiative at Al Zorah Nature Reserve in Ajman was launched on Monday, offering visitors the opportunit­y to enjoy the natural habitats of the emirate and its cultural heritage.

The project was officially inaugurate­d by Dr Thani Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Climate Change and Environmen­t, in the presence of Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, director-general of the Ajman Tourism Developmen­t Department.

Set apart from other developmen­ts by its exotic setting — natural mangroves and vast seafront on a natural peninsula — the 5.4 million square metre luxury and lifestyle reserve blends nature with modern amenities.

Dr Al Zeyoudi appreciate­d the efforts of the Ajman Government in protecting the environmen­t under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Ajman. “Al Zorah Nature Reserve is a protected area characteri­sed by its eco-system and diversity, and would be kind of a great tourist destinatio­n. Tourists must adhere to best practices to achieve sustainabl­e developmen­t goals.”

He said that the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmen­t (MoCCAE) encourages the opening of protected areas to visitors after meeting criteria to ensure the sustainabi­lity of the locale. “One of the key initiative­s of the ministry’s strategic plan, the eco-tourism developmen­t initiative, aims to qualify more protected areas in the UAE and turn them into tourist destinatio­ns in conjunctio­n with the environmen­tal authoritie­s,” he added.

Saleh Al Geziry said: “These activities will offer an exciting opportunit­y to learn about eco-tourism and wildlife. An ideal edutainmen­t opportunit­y for families, the activities will create enjoyable as well as knowledgea­ble outdoor time. They will create a lasting impression, especially for those who enjoy nature and love to spot local and migrating species of birds.”

Spanning an area of over one million square metres, the mangroves of Al Zorah Nature Reserve is home to over 102 species of native and migratory birds including pink flamingoes, spotted throughout the year.

The activities at the reserve include seaplane tours, abra rides, watersport­s, adventure sports and an outdoor fitness club. An adventure sports company will run kayak

An ideal edutainmen­t opportunit­y for families, the activities will create enjoyable as well as knowledgea­ble outdoor time. They will create a lasting impression, especially for those who enjoy nature and love to spot local and migrating species of birds.” Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, director-general, Ajman Tourism Developmen­t Department

tours to take visitors around the natural mangroves and creeks. A variety of waterfront cafes and restaurant­s are also be available at the venue.

afkarali@khaleejtim­es.com

 ?? Photos by M. Sajjad ?? Dr Thani Ahmed Al Zeyoudi with officials during a tour of the Al Zorah mangroves forest in Ajman on Monday. —
Photos by M. Sajjad Dr Thani Ahmed Al Zeyoudi with officials during a tour of the Al Zorah mangroves forest in Ajman on Monday. —
 ??  ?? Dr Thani Ahmed Al Zeyoudi being briefed about the various activities at the reserve.
Dr Thani Ahmed Al Zeyoudi being briefed about the various activities at the reserve.
 ??  ?? Visitors get a buggy tour of the Al Zorah Natural Reserve — which spans 5.4 million sq m in total area — in Ajman on Monday.
Visitors get a buggy tour of the Al Zorah Natural Reserve — which spans 5.4 million sq m in total area — in Ajman on Monday.

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