By 2026, Abu Dhabi’s development will extend to Jubail Island, now the capital’s top destination for nature, leisure, and holistic living, just a short drive from the city.
The island is a sustainable reality, blending modern living with a protected ecosystem where life is paced by the tides. It offers a unique escape for residents of its six villages and visitors alike.
Central to this is the Mangrove Park, the emirate’s “green lung,” which is more vibrant than ever in 2026, offering expanded eco-adventures to explore the UAE’s stunning biodiversity.
The Heart of the Island: Jubail Island Mangrove Park
Jubail Island Mangrove Park isn’t just a tourist attraction; it is a statement of intent. Our mission has always been to enhance awareness of the vital ecological function that mangroves play in protecting our coastline and supporting biodiversity. In 2026, this mission is thriving.
The park serves as a gateway to the ancient Jubail Island mangroves, offering a rare opportunity to walk above the tides and paddle through the winding channels. It is designed to be low-impact, ensuring that while visitors can witness the beauty of nature up close, the ecosystem remains undisturbed. From educational boardwalks to immersive water activities, the park is the beating heart of our eco-tourism in Abu Dhabi.
Kayaking Adventures: Exploring the Tidal Channels
There is no better way to understand the magnitude of the mangroves than from the water level. Kayaking in Jubail Island remains the most popular activity for visitors, offering an immersive perspective that you simply cannot get from land. Paddling through the serene channels allows you to view the complex root systems up close and access areas of the forest that are otherwise unreachable.
We offer several distinct kayaking experiences tailored to different skill levels and preferences.
- Regular Kayaking: Perfect for families and first-timers, this one-hour guided tour takes you through the calmest channels. It is suitable for ages three and up, making it an ideal family outing. Prices start at AED 110.
- Sunrise & Sunset Kayaking: For photographers and nature lovers, these 90-minute tours are the ultimate choice. The cooler temperatures and softer light create a magical atmosphere, painting the water in hues of gold and orange. Prices start at AED 120.
- Night Glow Kayak: This is perhaps our most unique offering. Equipped with underwater LED lights, these kayaks illuminate the water beneath you as you paddle through the darkness. It offers a rare perspective of the marine environment at night and is a must-do for thrill-seekers. This 2-hour tour starts at AED 120 for a single kayak and AED 175 for a double.
Whether you are looking for a morning workout or a romantic evening paddle, our Abu Dhabi mangrove tours provide an unforgettable connection to nature.
Wildlife Encounters in a Thriving Ecosystem
The mangrove forests are a haven for biodiversity, and our conservation efforts have ensured that wildlife populations are flourishing in 2026. As you explore the boardwalks or paddle through the water, you are entering a busy habitat teeming with life.
Wildlife in Jubail Island is diverse and often visible to the patient observer. The park has become a hotspot for birdwatchers, particularly between November and March when migratory species visit the region.
- Avian Life: Keep your eyes peeled for the striking Greater Flamingo, the Western Reef Egret, and various species of herons that nest in the dense foliage.
- Marine Life: The clear, tide-washed waters frequently offer glimpses of green turtles, rays, and shimmering schools of fish weaving through the protective maze of mangrove roots.
- Land Animals: It is not uncommon to spot gazelles navigating the shallow waters or resting on the salt flats surrounding the mangroves.
To get the most out of your visit, we recommend timing your trip with the high tide. This ensures the best conditions for kayaking and offers the most scenic views of the water meeting the trees.
Beyond the Water: New Experiences for 2026
While the water activities are a highlight, the terrestrial experiences on Jubail Island have expanded significantly this year. The 2km boardwalk remains a staple, winding through the trees with educational stops like the Viewing Tower for panoramic vistas, the Salt Collectors, which demonstrate tidal rhythms, and the Floating Platform for close-up marine observation.
However, 2026 brings new energy to the island. The completion of the Marsa Al Jubail marina has added a nautical luxury element to our coastline. Visitors can now enjoy the Public Arts Programme, which integrates striking installations into the natural landscape, further bridging the gap between culture and environment.
As you explore the island, you will notice the seamless integration of residential areas. Our stunning waterfront villas in Abu Dhabi are now fully established, providing a scenic backdrop that proves luxury living can exist in harmony with nature.
Sustainable Luxury Living
The maturation of our “villages” in 2026 has transformed the visitor experience into a holistic lifestyle journey. We have successfully launched unparalleled nature-integrated luxury communities that prioritize wellness and sustainability.
- Community Hubs: Nad Al Jubail and Seef Al Jubail community centers opened in Q1 of this year, offering family-friendly amenities and social spaces that are buzzing with activity.
- Active Lifestyle: For those who want to combine eco-adventures with sport, the newly completed Skate Park, Paddle Pro courts, and Bounce Park in Nad Al Jubail offer high-energy alternatives to the calm of the mangroves.
- Retail & Dining: Souk Al Jubail is coming to life, with F&B pavilions and retail spaces opening throughout the year. It’s the perfect spot to grab a healthy meal after a morning of kayaking.
For a more relaxed pace, visitors can participate in sunrise Yoga and Qi Gong sessions on the boardwalk decks, surrounded by the tranquility of the mangrove forest Abu Dhabi is famous for.
Planning Your Visit
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, a little planning goes a long way. As a premier destination for sustainable tourism in the UAE, we have specific guidelines to protect our delicate ecosystem.
Essential Tips
- Timing: The park welcomes visitors every day from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM. For the best chance to see the wildlife, aim for the months between November and March; the weather is quite nice then, with temperatures hovering between a very comfortable 19°C and 26°C.
- Booking: Popular activities like the Night Glow Kayak sell out quickly. We highly recommend you book your adventure online in advance.
- What to Wear: Comfortable shoes are a must for the boardwalk. If you are kayaking, opt for lightweight, quick-drying clothing.
- Rules: To maintain the pristine nature of the park, food and beverages are not allowed on the boardwalk, and visitors must not touch or remove any plants or wildlife.
Experience the Balance
Jubail Island in 2026 is more than just a destination; it is a testament to what is possible when we respect and integrate with the natural world. From the thrill of a night kayak to the peace of a sunrise walk, we invite you to disconnect from the noise and reconnect with nature.
