Are you in search of a tranquil escape from the bustling city life, where you can indulge in camping and stargazing? Look no further than Al Wathba Lake. This hidden gem on the outskirts of Abu Dhabi boasts a man-made lake, a variety of exotic birds, and safe camping grounds.
For those seeking a break from city life, this is a great spot to stargaze and soak in the silence of the desert night. So, let’s explore everything about this recreational park in Abu Dhabi!
- Location
- How to Get to the Park
- Services and Facilities
- Activities
- Nearby Attractions
- Nearby Restaurants
- Entrance Fee
- Opening Hours
- FAQs
Location
For those living in Abu Dhabi, Al Wathba Lake Park is one of the best tourist destinations in the city. It is located in Qasr Al Wathba South and features a well-designed and maintained cycle track.
How to Get to the Park
Although the park is located on the outskirts of Abu Dhabi, it provides access to various Abu Dhabi public transportation services. You can reach this adventurous destination by utilising the following means of transportation:
1. By Bus
Abu Dhabi Buses R1 and B47 have routes to Al Wathba. However, you must take a taxi to the park as the bus stops are quite far away.
2. By Taxi
You can also take a taxi directly to Al Wathba Lake Park by booking a ride online or by hailing one. For online booking, you can use various taxi apps, including the SRTA app and Careem.
3. By Car
You can take the E22 Abu Dhabi-Al Ain road if you want to get there by car. It connects with the E30 Abu Dhabi-Al Ain Truck Road, leading towards Al Wathba.
Services and Facilities
When it comes to services and facilities, Al Wathba Lake ensures its visitors get all the convenience. From providing grocery stores and camping sites to 24/7 security, this destination is perfect for family picnics and friends’ night outs. The following are the notable facilities available here:
- BBQ stands
- Camping equipment
- Ample parking
- Grocery store
- Picnic facilities
- 24/7 Security
- Toilets
Activities
Visiting Al Wathba Lake Park is always a delightful adventure due to the wide range of activities. Whether you’re a nature lover, a cycling enthusiast, or a fan of outdoor cooking, this park has something for everyone.
So, let’s discuss the different activities you can enjoy with your friends and family.
1. Bird Watching
This place is ideal for those who are nature enthusiasts and are fond of the beautiful birds of different species. Over 45 species are seen in the lands of Al Wathba due to its lush green surroundings and calm lake.
Along with that, visitors have also witnessed an exotic bird by the lake, the Muscovy Duck. Some of the native birds that you can encounter here include:
- Rock Pigeon
- Laughing Dove
- Red-wattled Lapwing
- Black-winged Stilt
- Great Cormorant
- Western Reef-Heron and Grey Heron
- White-eared Bulbul
- House Sparrow
- Common Shelduck
- Mallard
- Eurasian Collared-Dove
2. Relax by the Lake
If you are here just to relax, breathe fresh air, and absorb the serenity around you, try sitting by the lake. With all the greenery, birds chirping, kids playing, and calming waters, this place feels heavenly.
Moreover, there are multiple benches and gazebos by the lakeside, providing a comfortable sitting spot.
3. Cycling
This recreational park houses one of the best and longest cycling race tracks in Abu Dhabi. If you are a beginner cyclist, riding the 8- and 16km routes is more suitable. However, professionals can take the 20km, 22km, or full 30km routes.
Moreover, the faculty ensures the safety of all cyclists by regularly maintaining the tracks, providing a carefree cycling experience.
4. BBQ
Another fantastic feature of the site is its multiple BBQ stations with shaded seating areas. The place allows guests to bring their equipment and set up wherever there is space.
Fortunately, no strict boundaries or markings are in place, making it ideal for a personalised BBQ experience. Also, here the management prioritises cleanliness with dustbins positioned across the park and through their dedicated cleaning staff.
5. Camping
This family-friendly desert camping spot in Abu Dhabi resembles Dubai’s Al Qudra Lake area. Al Wathba offers a serene and scenic retreat in the heart of the desert. It is perfect for those seeking a peaceful way to immerse themselves in nature.
Additionally, this camping site offers essential facilities such as clean toilets and a small grocery store. The store provides many necessities, however, it is advised to bring your own supplies.
6. Desert Exploration
Along with outstanding camping spots, the park offers a leisurely early morning walk, surrounded by fresh desert air and peaceful surroundings. Adventurers can explore nearby desert dunes during the day, adding to the excitement of their stay.
7. Play Outdoor Games
The campground offers numerous kid-friendly activities for younger campers, making it an excellent choice for families seeking adventure and relaxation. The spacious, safe environment allows them to play and explore freely without any worries.
Nearby Attractions
As the destination is located in the desert area of the emirate, it is surrounded by multiple camping and hiking spots. With the various recreational parks and observatories, you can even enjoy some of the best things to do in Abu Dhabi.
Here are some picturesque attractions near Al Wathba Park:
- Salt Lake: 13 minutes’ drive away
- Wathba Desert Camp: 16 minutes’ drive away
- Wathba Artificial Hill: 18 minutes’ drive away
- Al Sadeem Observatory: 19 minutes’ drive away
Nearby Restaurants
When it comes to dining options, the area itself boasts very few restaurants and cafes in close proximity. Some of these restaurants include:
- Panache: 16 minutes’ drive away
- Steak Chef: 20 minutes’ drive away
However, there are multiple restaurants on E30 Al Wathba Road, which you can try on the way back, such as:
- Al Faya Restaurant
- Landlord Restaurant
- Let’s Pita Restaurant Branch
- Bonfood
- KFC
Entrance Fee
Al Wathba Lake Park, a well-known family destination in Abu Dhabi, welcomes visitors with free entry. Here you can enjoy a wide range of activities without additional costs, making it one of the top attractions for tourists as well.
Opening Hours
The Al Wathba Lake Park is open 24/7 for its visitors and provides them with the ultimate fun while engaging in various activities. You can visit this lush green and adventurous park away from the city centre in a calm environment, whenever you feel like it.
FAQs
Al Wathba Lake is a man-made lake in Abu Dhabi, offering a camping and recreation spot with facilities like BBQ areas. The place is known for its diverse wildlife, including the Greater Flamingo, and has designated walking paths and observation points.
Yes, the destination offers a diverse range of native and exotic birds. Nature enthusiasts can bring their binoculars and enjoy bird-watching from multiple observation decks.
Al Wathba Lake is among the hidden gems in Abu Dhabi, far from the city centre amidst the desert sands. This family-friendly destination resembles Al Qudra Lake in Dubai, featuring a man-made lake, BBQ stations, campgrounds, and cycling tracks.
Al Wathba, renowned for its stunning recreational sites, is gaining popularity among potential homeowners due to its breathtaking landscapes. So, if the lake’s beauty captivates you enough to buy a home near this stunning location, explore the on-sale properties in Al Wathba.
