Overview
Mangrove National Park, officially known as the Eastern Mangrove Lagoon National Park, is one of Abu Dhabi's most unique natural attractions. Sitting just off Al Salam Street on the eastern edge of the city, it's a sprawling network of mangrove forests and calm tidal channels, home to roughly 75% of the UAE's total mangrove cover.
Unlike a typical landscaped city park, this is a genuine ecological reserve, protected and managed by the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD). Visitors come here to walk the boardwalk, kayak through the waterways, and spot everything from herons and flamingos to crabs, turtles, and even the occasional dolphin.
Mangrove National Park Timings 2026
The boardwalk and promenade are accessible throughout the day, while kayak tours and rentals run on set daily slots through the operators based near the Anantara Eastern Mangroves Hotel. Sunrise and sunset are widely considered the best times to be on the water, both for the light and the cooler temperatures.
Entry Fee & Kayaking Prices
Walking the boardwalk and taking in the mangroves costs nothing. Getting out onto the water is where the fees come in, whether you're renting your own kayak or joining a guided tour with an instructor. Guided tours typically include the kayak set, a safety vest, water, and sometimes a light snack.
Wildlife & Ecology
Mangrove forests play a major role in Abu Dhabi's environment, often described as the city's "green lungs." They absorb carbon dioxide, protect the coastline from tidal surges, and provide a nursery habitat for young fish and marine life.
Paddling through the channels, it's common to spot herons, flamingos, and other coastal birds, along with crabs, small fish, and turtles in the shallow, crystal-clear water. Dolphins are occasionally seen further out, and while the water is home to plenty of marine life, there's nothing dangerous lurking here, no crocodiles or anything similar.
Things to Do
- Walk the boardwalk: A peaceful, free walking path that winds through the mangroves, with cafes and restaurants along the promenade.
- Kayak rental: Head out independently on a single or double kayak to explore the waterways at your own pace.
- Guided day kayak tour: A roughly two-hour guided paddle, including a 15-minute break for photos or a swim.
- Guided night kayak tour: A sunset-start tour with flashlights included, offering a completely different atmosphere after dark.
- Birdwatching: A popular activity for photographers and nature enthusiasts, thanks to the variety of species that call the mangroves home.
- Dining along the promenade: Several cafes and restaurants overlook the mangroves, good for a relaxed meal after your visit.
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Location & Getting There
Mangrove National Park is located just off Al Salam Street, on the eastern edge of Abu Dhabi city, close to the Anantara Eastern Mangroves Hotel.
- By car: Follow Corniche Road along the coast, then join the E10, following signs for the airport. The park sits along this route, roughly 20 minutes from Abu Dhabi Airport and about 30 minutes from Saadiyat Island via the E12 and E10.
- By bus and taxi: Take a bus to Abu Dhabi Mall station, then a short taxi ride to reach the park.
- By taxi or rideshare: The simplest way to get there directly from anywhere in the city.
What Visitors Say
First-time kayakers often mention how surprisingly calm and beginner-friendly the water is, describing the guided tour as a stress-free way to try it for the first time.
Wildlife enthusiasts frequently highlight the number of birds spotted during a single paddle, with several visitors mentioning flamingo sightings as a definite highlight.
Sunset tour visitors often describe the light over the mangroves as one of the most photogenic moments in Abu Dhabi, with the skyline visible in the distance.
Visitors sticking to the boardwalk note that it's a genuinely relaxing, free way to enjoy the mangroves without needing to book or pay for a kayak.
Insider Tips for Your Visit
- Book kayak tours in advance, especially for sunrise or sunset slots, since these fill up quickly.
- Wear clothing you don't mind getting wet, and bring a change of clothes and a towel.
- Apply sunscreen and bring water, even for shorter tours; there's little shade once you're out on the channels.
- Go for the guided tour if you've never kayaked before; it includes proper instruction and safety gear.
- Visit the boardwalk for free if you just want to see the mangroves without committing to a paid activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mangrove National Park free to visit?
Yes, walking the boardwalk and promenade is completely free. Only kayaking and guided tours come with a separate charge.
How much does kayaking cost at Mangrove National Park?
Kayak rental starts around AED 110 for a single kayak, with guided day tours priced at roughly AED 160 for adults and AED 130 for children.
Is kayaking suitable for beginners?
Yes. The water is calm and shallow, and guided tours include full instruction, a life jacket, and a guide, making it accessible even for first-timers.
What wildlife can I see at Mangrove National Park?
Visitors commonly spot herons, flamingos, and other coastal birds, along with crabs, fish, and turtles. Dolphins are occasionally seen further out.
Are there dangerous animals in the mangroves?
No, there are no crocodiles or dangerous predators in the mangroves; the most notable wildlife you'll encounter are crabs and small fish.
How do I get to Mangrove National Park?
It's located off Al Salam Street, near the Anantara Eastern Mangroves Hotel, reachable by car via the E10, or by taxi and rideshare from anywhere in Abu Dhabi.