UNESCO declares UAE's Wadi Wurayah natural reserve a World Heritage site

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has declared the Wadi Wurayah natural reserve in the United Arab Emirates a World Heritage site. The decision came after a lengthy debate during the annual assembly held in Busan, South Korea.

The Emirati delegation emphasized that the designation serves as a bridge between cultural heritage and local communities, reflecting the UAE's strong commitment to natural preservation. This inscription also brings recognition to unique ecosystems that have historically been underrepresented on the World Heritage list.

Spanning 225 square kilometers, Wadi Wurayah encompasses diverse landscapes, including the Hajar Mountains, floodplains, and coastal habitats. It represents over 20% of Fujairah's territory and is its sole protected terrestrial area. The park is a vital sanctuary for biodiversity, housing approximately 30% of the UAE's recorded terrestrial plants, 42% of its land mammals, 30% of its land reptiles, and 26% of its birds, along with the country's two notified amphibian species.

“

This achievement reflects the UAE's strong commitment to preserving natural heritage. Through this inscription, it also grants recognition to unique ecosystems that have long been underrepresented in the World Heritage.