Al Hayer Forest is like the hidden garden you never knew existed in the UAE, where we usually marvel at buzzing cities and vast deserts. Strategically located between Dubai and Al Ain, a forest which is like an oasis in the middle of urban chaos with its treasure trove of nature’s beauty mixed with rich variety of species from wildlife to birds grounds blending into perfection for people seeking peace. For those wishing to connect with nature through birdwatching, hiking, or star gazing at night should head towards Al Hayer Forest.
Overview of Al Hayer Forest
The thick stands of Ghaf trees that grow on its grounds make Al Hayer Forest a treasure trove for bio diversity and one of the UAE’s natural jewels. This woodland offers the perfect escape as temperatures soar above 100º and incredible desert reports; cool respite. Posing a vital habitat for plant and animal life with high bio diversity value, it is an important conservation area.
How to Get There
The Al Hayer Forest is near about 1.5 hours far away from Dubai and you can reach here by a car also. The trip of the E66 and E55 highways, which are in excellent condition so that you can drive without any inconvenience. It can be even more highly recommended that you get a 4WD should your significant lifestyle way is with the woodland or if you are going check out off-road locations. You also want to make sure that your vehicle is well-fueled; as you move off the main roads, there are few places for services.
For those using a GPS, enter Al Hayer Forest (24.(enum ) 5966-3:04.(emun) 8641). Because it is so deep in the woods, you need to plan ahead before heading here as there are no alternate routes.
Is It a Full-Day Activity?
Pro Tip: With a range of options, the forest is perfect for those with half-days or full days to fill in their schedule.
Half-Day Visit:
You can enjoy the serenity of being surrounded by trees, birding and have a picnic over an hour or two if you just want to stop for a while when short on time. This is the perfect option if you want to spend some time in nature but not an entire day.
Full Day Visit:
This option allowed us to get a more in-depth look at the forest. You can opt for a hike with some wildlife observation and picnicking or go all out, camping in nature. For the surrounding forest, in a peaceful ambiance away from downtown strain is provided by tranquility and peace.
What to Do at Al Hayer Forest
1. Picnicking
Al Hayer Forest is a popular place for picnics, with cool dark places under the ghaf trees. It is a tranquil and scenic setting which may also make for an excellent day out fete-kind place. A picnic in this forest is your opportunity to relax and appreciate the wonders of nature, with family, friends or by yourself. Ensure you take all waste with you to protect the incredible surroundings.
2. Birding and Wildlife Viewing
Al Hayer Forest Area (Photo courtesy of his majesty King Abdulaziz for Science and Technology) The forest draws in countless species of birds that take residency or follow their migratory instincts. You might spot:
Desert Larks:
These are known for their “tuneful songs,” suited to screeching the desert.
Barn Owls:
Most commonly seen resting on the branches of Ghaf trees, they are characterized by their unique heart-shaped faces.
Falcons and Eagles
Two beautiful birds of prey that frequent the top of the trees hunting for food.
Grey Francolin:
An endemic bird that is frequently heard calling than seen flying which prefers to walk on the ground.
Apart from birds the forest is also home to other animals like
Desert Foxes
These are rarely seen but some how they manage to run every morning and late in evening.
Arabian Oryx
You rarely see them, but sometimes you get lucky to spot their gazelle-like form in those isolated wooded zones.
Hares and Desert Hedgehogs
Small mammals that can often be seen running through the understory.
The wide variety of creatures makes Al Hayer Forest one of the best sites for wildlife photography and observations. For the dedicated bird-watcher or casual wanderer, these forests provide a great nursery for seeing wildlife up close and personal.
3. Hiking and Nature Walks
All through the forest you will find several trails that are great for hiking and nature walks. They skywalks are quite mild, perfect for anyone walking with little to moderate difficulty in mobility. Walking through the woods we listen to birds and rustling leaves, there is a kitt-like noise monitors prodding critters into their territories. In areas where there was no trail, I confess that part of me wanted to bushwhack my way through aimlessly until passing out in the wilds and never be found again.
4. Off-Roading
The undulating sand lines of Al Hayer Forest are another treat for off-road enthusiasts. Input is perfect for exploring the desert trails, offering a pleasant driving experience that promises to be fun and rewarding. New to the off-roading community, join a group and hire an experienced guide. The natural beauty in which to drive is unforgettable, and the camaraderie of traveling overland with off-road enthusiasts ensures friendship.
5. Camping and Bonfires
Living in atmosphere of nature around, surely sight which you have never see same., camping at Al Hayer Road Forest Being located in the depths of a forest it means you can sleep under stars untouched by city lights. The weather in the region differs according to the season:
Winter from October to April Winter makes out the best time for camping with chilling nights and daytime temperatures being perfect. The following is the peak season of outdoor sport in U.A.E.
May to September otherwise known as summer, temperatures can soar and camping is unenjoyable. Be prepared for a safe escape if you happen to be camping around this time — make sure that your shelter is secure, have enough water and cooling measures in place!
Al Hayer Forest public camping restrictions and guidelines utilisation when for activities. This is possibly as good a backcountry campsite as could be created…Campfires are allowed, but you must bring your own wood (otherwise they will cut branches from the trees) Have all fires completely put out before your departure.
In the evening, you can have a bonfire as nights in desert are cold and roast marshmallows around it all this while listening to hush ful voice of chirping forest. The poker and betting is the anchor of this story, but equally delightful. Please dress warmly, as temperatures can plunge after dark.
6. Photography
It does not matter what you are photographing, whether it is the huge landscape white life or even starry night sky Al Hayer Forest has everything that a photographer would wish for. These dramatic compositions with the verdant forest juxtaposed against the arid surrounding desert are stunning. Wild Life Photography: It is important that if you love wildlife photography, use with zoom lens as it permits less disturbance at a distance of birds or animals.
Visiting Al Hayer Forest
When to go there?
The best time is from the end of October until April, which are the cooler months in UAE. So you can continue performing outdoor activities with a hotness that does not feel until extreme.
Thing’s to Carry with You:
Water, snacks, sunscreen/ hat and tennis shoes Bring camping gear, extra food and warm clothing for overnight stays. Also, a first aid kit is recommended especially if you are going off the grid.
Respect For Nature:
It is immensely important to respect nature as this place comes under the protection area. Refrain from bothering any wildlife and always leave the place clean. It helps to keep the forest clean for future visitors, as contributes to leaving no trace.
Safety:
Watch your step as the forest may be home to snakes and scorpions. Make sure you have a map or GPS is going off road, hiking etc. and let someone know where you are going if it’s remote area privacy policy
Conclusion
Obviously, no one is told about the presence of this beautiful natural paradise (Al Hayer Forest) in UAE which makes it a hidden treasure for peace as well as adventure! You can visit this forest for bird-watching, photography, camping or just to spend a quiet day with your loved ones. It has a wide range of rich wildlife and serene environment which allows you to relax in the lap of nature instead of spending hours trapped within urban walls.
