Qatar’s natural reserves tell a beautiful story about the country’s land, wildlife, and care for the environment.
Across the deserts, coasts, and green mangrove forests, each reserve protects a special part of Qatar’s natural life — from rare animals like the Arabian Oryx and Reem Gazelle to birds that travel thousands of kilometers to rest along Qatar’s shores.

This guide takes you on a journey through the main protected reserves in Qatar, showing the purpose of each area, the ecosystems it protects, and the wonderful species that live there.

Al Sheehaniya Reserve

 

Overview

• Established in 1979, the first natural reserve in the State of Qatar.
• Located in the Al Sheehaniya area, approximately 45 km west of Doha, in central Qatar.
• Covers an area of about 12 square kilometers.

Purpose & Conservation Role

• Designated as a special reserve for breeding the endangered Arabian Oryx.
• Includes an enclosure for housing ostriches and supports other desert wildlife conservation efforts.
• Serves as a model site for habitat restoration and protection of native fauna.

Notable Wildlife Species

• Arabian Oryx (Oryx leucoryx) — reintroduced and successfully breeding within the reserve.
• Ostrich (Struthio camelus camelus) — maintained in controlled enclosures.
• Gazelles — periodically released into the reserve as part of rewilding and biodiversity programs.

Management & Development

• Managed by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MECC).
• Plays a key role in expanding eco-tourism and promoting sustainable wildlife management.

Environmental Strategy Alignment

• Supports the Qatar National Environment and Climate Change Strategy (QNECCS).
• Contributes to national objectives for species preservation, biodiversity enhancement, and climate resilience.

 

 

Al Thakhira Reserve

                

                                                                              Photo by © Sameh Odeh

 

Overview

• Established under Decision No. (6) of 2006.
• Located in the northeastern region of Qatar, approximately 64 km from Doha.
• Recognized as Qatar’s largest mangrove forest, representing one of the most significant coastal wetland ecosystems in the country.

Environmental Features

• The area is dominated by evergreen mangrove trees (Avicennia marina) that thrive in saline seawater year-round.
• Encompasses a long coastline featuring mangroves, sabkha (coastal salt flats), mudflats, creeks, seagrass beds, and coral reefs.
• The reserve’s ecosystems include five major natural types:
• Sandy and rocky seashores with tidal pools
• Mangrove swamps
• Stony desert areas
• Coastal salt flats (sabkhas)
• Marine zones with coral and seagrass
• Serves as a model ecosystem representing all major habitat types found in Qatar.

Notable Wildlife Species

• Over 130 species of seabirds and coastal birds recorded.
• Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) — frequently seen nesting and foraging.
• Flamingos, herons, and egrets — seasonal and migratory species common in the wetlands.
• Marine mammals and amphibians inhabit the coastal shallows and tidal creeks.
• Fish species utilize mangrove roots as breeding and nursery areas.

Ecological Importance

• Acts as a critical regional habitat for breeding, foraging, and resting migratory birds.
• The mangrove ecosystems contribute to carbon sequestration, coastal protection, and biodiversity preservation.
• Provides a living example of a balanced wetland system supporting both marine and terrestrial life.

Scientific & Ecotourism Value

• A favorite destination for ornithologists and nature enthusiasts.
• Supports research and environmental education on coastal and marine biodiversity.
• Offers opportunities for eco-tourism activities such as kayaking, birdwatching, and guided nature tours.

Al Thakhira Reserve- Photo by © Sameh Odeh

 

Al Thakhira Reserve- Photo by © Sameh Odeh

 

 

Al Reem Reserve

 

Overview

• Established under Decision No. (7) of 2005 as a protected area of exceptional natural, historical, and cultural significance.
• Located in the northwestern region of Qatar, approximately 65 km west of Doha.
• Covers around 10 % of Qatar’s total land area, making it one of the largest protected zones in the country.
• Recognized both locally and internationally as one of Qatar’s most important reserves and is designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Purpose & Conservation Goals

• The main objective is to protect and conserve key ecosystems and the cultural values associated with Qatar’s natural heritage.
• Emphasizes a participatory management approach that:
• Enhances national ownership of conservation efforts.
• Establishes a framework for sustainable resource management.
• Promotes environmental awareness and education.
• Ensures the right of future generations to enjoy and benefit from Qatar’s natural and cultural heritage.

Environmental Features

• Characterized by limestone plateaus and rugged formations typical of Qatar’s western coast.
• Contains grassy plains (meadows) and extensive vegetation cover, including shrubs and seasonal plants.
• The landscape alternates between rocky outcrops, shallow depressions, and fertile lowlands that support both wildlife and grazing.
• Features ancient Bedouin sites and cultural landmarks, linking ecology with Qatar’s cultural identity.

Notable Wildlife Species

• Arabian Oryx (Oryx leucoryx) — successfully reintroduced and thriving in the reserve.
• Sand Gazelle (Gazella subgutturosa marica) — commonly found in open plains.
• Arabian Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes arabica) — adapted to rocky and arid terrains.
• Lappet-faced Vulture, Brown-necked Raven, and Desert Lark among key avian species.
• Reptiles such as Uromastyx (Spiny-tailed Agama) also inhabit the limestone hills.

Ecological and Cultural Significance

• Represents an integrated model of biodiversity and cultural heritage conservation.
• Serves as a living laboratory for sustainable development in arid environments.
• Plays a pivotal role in education, eco-tourism, and research through collaboration with local and international partners.
• The coexistence of human traditions and natural ecosystems demonstrates Qatar’s balance between conservation and cultural continuity.

 

Khor Al Adaid (Inland Sea) Reserve

 

Overview

• Located in the southeastern region of Qatar, covering approximately 1,833 km².
• Recognized for its stunning natural landscapes, representing one of the most spectacular desert–marine interfaces in the world.
• Famous for the unique juxtaposition of large shifting sand dunes meeting the sea, combined with strong tidal activity within a harsh tropical arid environment — a phenomenon unparalleled in the Middle East and possibly unique worldwide.
• Designated under Decision No. (1) of 2007 as a national protected area of exceptional geological and ecological value.

Environmental Features

• Characterized by a dynamic landscape of:
• Shifting sand dunes reaching up to 60 meters in height.
• Tidal zones, internal and coastal sabkhas (salt flats), and rocky deserts.
• Bays, valleys, small hills, and scattered islands forming intricate land and marine ecosystems.
• The region exhibits ongoing geological processes shaping its landforms — a rare example of continuous dune–sea interaction.
• Unique salt flat formation process:
• Unlike conventional calcium carbonate sabkhas, Khor Al Adaid’s salt flats are formed by quartz sands carried by northern winds.
• These dunes migrate toward the sea, pushing the salt flats seaward — a phenomenon rarely observed globally.
• Geological evidence suggests that some sabkhas may represent ancient sea-level surfaces or fluctuations during the late Holocene, making the area of significant scientific interest.
• The region also shows signs of gradual lake filling, where tidal movements keep certain basins open, though natural processes may lead to eventual closure.

Marine and Coastal Ecosystems

• The coastline features a narrow, deep-water channel opening into a large, shallow northern basin — forming a natural inland sea system unique in the Arabian Gulf.
• Diverse marine habitats include:
• Coral reef communities
• Rocky bottoms with algae
• Sandy bottoms with seagrass meadows
• Mussel beds and muddy sand flats
• These marine lakes serve as vital feeding and breeding grounds for fish, invertebrates, and birds.
• The combination of marine salinity gradients, sediment diversity, and water depth variations creates a mosaic of aquatic and semi-aquatic habitats.

Adaptation and Climate Resilience

• Marine life in Khor Al Adaid demonstrates exceptional adaptation to fluctuating climatic and environmental conditions.
• The region experiences extreme seasonal variation in water and air temperature, coupled with high salinity.
• Despite these harsh conditions, coral communities have shown resilience to elevated temperatures, serving as models for studying climate adaptation.
• Coral reefs, however, face periodic turbidity and sedimentation from nearby sabkhas, affecting coral growth and light penetration.
• The contrast between the deep channel estuary and shallow enclosed basin illustrates an ecological transition between marine and lacustrine environments.

Notable Wildlife Species

• Fish and Invertebrates: Numerous species utilize the area’s seagrass beds and coral reefs as nurseries.
• Birds: Migratory and resident seabirds depend on the site for feeding and nesting — including ospreys, terns, gulls, and herons.
• Marine Mammals: Occasional sightings of dugongs and dolphins.
• Coral Communities: Resilient coral species adapted to temperature fluctuations.
• Benthic Fauna: Mussel beds, algal assemblages, and soft-bottom communities rich in marine biodiversity.

Ecological and Scientific Significance

• Represents one of the most complete natural laboratories in Qatar for studying coastal geomorphology, tidal processes, and climate adaptation.
• Provides critical ecological functions such as:
• Coastal protection
• Carbon sequestration
• Nursery and feeding habitats for wildlife
• Serves as a UNESCO-recognized candidate for international heritage value due to its geological rarity and ecological importance.
• Offers a unique opportunity for eco-tourism, environmental education, and sustainable recreation, attracting geologists, biologists, and photographers alike.

 

Sunai Reserve

 

Overview

• Located in the northwestern region of Qatar, approximately northwest of Doha.
• Designated as a natural reserve due to its rich biodiversity and unique desert ecosystem.
• Established to preserve wildlife habitats and support the reintroduction of native desert species.

Environmental Features

• Characterized by arid desert plains with sparse vegetation, including shrubs, grasses, and small acacia trees that thrive in dry conditions.
• The landscape provides a suitable environment for grazing herbivores and offers natural shelter for small desert fauna.
• The reserve’s open terrain allows free movement of animals and serves as an ideal location for wildlife monitoring and ecological research.

Notable Wildlife Species

• Arabian Oryx (Oryx leucoryx) — reintroduced and monitored as part of national conservation programs.
• Reem Gazelle (Gazella subgutturosa marica) — adapted to the desert ecosystem and released for population recovery.
• Desert Reptiles — including various species of lizards and geckos typical of Qatar’s sandy habitats.
• Wild Mammals — occasional sightings of Arabian Red Fox and desert hare.
• The area also attracts raptors and passerine birds that utilize open plains for hunting and nesting.

Conservation and Management

• Managed under the supervision of the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MECC).
• Functions as a protected zone for breeding and repopulating endangered species within their natural habitat.
• The reserve plays a strategic role in Qatar’s national biodiversity plan and supports long-term wildlife monitoring.

Ecological and Educational Importance

• Serves as an example of successful species reintroduction and ecosystem rehabilitation in arid environments.
• Offers opportunities for environmental education, ecological research, and controlled eco-tourism focused on Qatar’s desert heritage.
• Contributes to public awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation and habitat preservation.

 

 

 

Um Qarn Reserve

 

About 25 km from Doha in the northeast; known for verdant spots and dense vegetation.

Al Mashabiya Reserve

 

                                                                                            Photo by © Sameh Odeh

Overview

• Established under Decision No. (1) of 2006, which designated both Al-Eraiq and Al-Mashabiya as protected natural reserves.
• Officially inaugurated in 1997.
• Located in the southwestern region of Qatar, within the Al-Eraiq area, approximately 120 km southwest of Doha and southeast of the Abu Samra border.
• Covers an area of about 54 square kilometers.
• Created to support the reintroduction and protection of endangered wildlife species native to Qatar’s desert ecosystem.

Environmental Features

• The landscape is predominantly flat, sandy desert interspersed with low hills, valleys, and rocky outcrops.
• The region’s geological diversity creates micro-habitats suitable for wildlife and native plants.
• Seasonal rains allow the growth of grasses, wild herbs, and desert shrubs between the dunes.
• The terrain provides ideal grazing and breeding grounds for herbivores such as gazelles and oryx.

Notable Wildlife Species

• Arabian Oryx (Oryx leucoryx) — endangered species successfully reintroduced for population recovery.
• Al Reem Gazelle (Gazella subgutturosa marica) — desert-adapted gazelle thriving in open plains.
• Ostrich (Struthio camelus camelus) — present within controlled habitats, contributing to ecological diversity.
• Spiny-Tailed Lizard (Dhub, Uromastyx aegyptia), Jerboa (Jaculus orientalis), and Desert Hare (Lepus capensis) — typical desert fauna.
• Rich native plant species including seasonal herbs, wild grasses, and drought-tolerant shrubs.

Conservation and Management

• Managed by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MECC) as part of the national network of protected areas.
• Serves as a breeding and rehabilitation center for endangered desert species.
• Regular monitoring ensures species survival, habitat preservation, and control of overgrazing.
• Supports Qatar’s National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan, promoting ecological balance and wildlife protection.

Ecological and Educational Importance

• Functions as a living model of desert ecosystem restoration and sustainable wildlife management.
• Provides valuable opportunities for scientific research, field education, and environmental awareness.
• Offers potential for controlled eco-tourism and public engagement in Qatar’s conservation efforts.
• Demonstrates Qatar’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage and maintaining biodiversity in arid environments.

 

Al Eraiq Reserve

                                                                                                           Photo by © Sameh Odeh

Overview

• Located in the southwestern region of Qatar, approximately 80 kilometers from Doha.
• Established under Decision No. (1) of 2006 alongside Al-Mashabiya as part of Qatar’s protected natural areas network.
• Recognized for its diverse desert ecosystems and its role in conserving native flora and fauna in arid environments.

Environmental Features

• The landscape is characterized by gravel plains, sandy flats, and shallow valleys interspersed with small hills.
• The varied topography provides multiple micro-habitats that support different species of plants and animals.
• The area maintains rich vegetation cover, including shrubs, wild grasses, and seasonal herbs, which flourish after rainfall.
• Its semi-arid conditions and mixed terrain make it a suitable environment for wildlife breeding and plant regeneration.

Notable Wildlife Species

• Desert Hare (Lepus capensis) — commonly found and known to breed within the reserve.
• Reptiles — including spiny-tailed lizards (Dhub), geckos, and sand vipers, reflecting the region’s reptilian diversity.
• Birds — various desert-dwelling and migratory bird species, such as larks, wheatears, and shrikes, utilize the reserve for foraging and nesting.
• Small Mammals — occasional sightings of jerboas and desert rodents.
• Native Plants — drought-resistant species that play a vital role in preventing soil erosion and sustaining desert life.

Conservation and Management

• Managed under the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MECC).
• Established primarily to preserve vegetation and prevent overgrazing, ensuring habitat recovery and stability.
• Forms part of Qatar’s National Biodiversity Strategy, contributing to the rehabilitation of natural habitats.
• Supports ongoing wildlife monitoring programs focused on population trends and ecosystem health.

Ecological and Educational Importance

• Serves as a critical habitat for small desert species and as a breeding ground for hares and reptiles.
• Provides valuable opportunities for environmental research on desert adaptation and species resilience.
• Enhances public understanding of Qatar’s desert ecology and the importance of sustainable land management.
• Contributes to national goals of ecosystem conservation, biodiversity preservation, and climate resilience.

 

   Al Eraiq Reserve  - Photo by © Sameh Odeh

Al Eraiq Reserve -  Photo by © Sameh Odeh

 

Al Wusil Reserve

Overview

• Classified as a natural reserve under Law No. (7) of 2005.
• Located in the northeastern region of Qatar, approximately northeast of Doha.
• Covers an area of about 36 square kilometers, representing roughly 0.3% of Qatar’s total land area.
• Established in line with Qatar’s national biodiversity and environmental conservation strategy.

Environmental Features

• Characterized by diverse landscapes, including:
• Coastal systems and tidal flats (sabkhas)
• Meadows and grassy plains that support vegetation and wildlife
• Distinctive geological formations, making the site scientifically and aesthetically significant
• The reserve includes rehabilitated habitats where native species and vegetation have been restored.
• Seasonal vegetation growth contributes to soil stabilization and habitat enrichment for wildlife.

Notable Wildlife Species

• Desert Hare (Lepus capensis) — reintroduced into the reserve as part of habitat restoration programs.
• Native Wild Plants — numerous species of grasses, herbs, and shrubs planted to restore natural balance.
• Birds — various desert and coastal birds, including larks, wheatears, and plovers, inhabit the reserve’s meadows and sabkhas.
• Reptiles and Small Mammals — typical of Qatar’s northeastern ecosystems, contributing to local biodiversity.

Conservation and Management

• Managed by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MECC).
• Designed to protect key ecosystems and biodiversity, ensuring the sustainability of both plant and animal species.
• Includes active rehabilitation programs, such as:
• Planting native wild flora to prevent habitat degradation.
• Releasing wild hares to restore natural food chains.
• The reserve also plays a role in preserving cultural and historical landmarks, reflecting the connection between natural and cultural heritage in Qatar.

Ecological and Cultural Importance

• Serves as a model for integrated ecosystem management and heritage preservation.
• Supports scientific studies and educational activities on sustainable biodiversity conservation.
• Enhances Qatar’s environmental resilience by maintaining diverse habitats within a small but ecologically significant area.
• Preserves historical sites within the reserve to strengthen public awareness of Qatar’s natural and cultural legacy.

 

Al Rafa Reserve

 

Overview

• Designated as a natural reserve under Ministerial Decision No. (132) of 2020.
• Located near the Al Rayyan and Al Wajba areas, west of Doha.
• Covers an area of approximately 53 square kilometers, consisting of a group of meadows and wild plant habitats.
• Positioned on elevated terrain compared to the surrounding landscape, offering scenic natural views and ecological diversity.
• Recognized as one of Qatar’s most recently established and unique reserves, emphasizing natural beauty and biodiversity conservation.

Environmental Features

• Comprises meadow ecosystems rich in native vegetation, forming a distinctive green landscape in central Qatar.
• The reserve’s fertile soil and higher elevation create favorable conditions for seasonal plants and grasses.
• The meadows serve as vital natural feeding and nesting sites for wildlife, especially birds.
• Displays Qatar’s characteristic desert-meadow transition, showcasing a mosaic of grassy plains, low shrubs, and small valleys.

Notable Wildlife Species

• Resident and Migratory Birds — the reserve is considered an important bird habitat, attracting species such as:
• Larks, pipits, shrikes, and wheatears
• Raptors including kestrels and harriers
• Small Mammals — including desert hares and rodents, which benefit from the meadow vegetation.
• Reptiles — species of lizards and geckos adapted to semi-arid conditions.
• Native Flora — abundant wild plants, seasonal herbs, and grasses that support pollinators and contribute to soil health.

Conservation and Management

• Managed by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MECC) in alignment with Qatar’s national conservation strategy.
• Established to protect local biodiversity and serve as a living example of meadow ecosystem preservation.
• Ongoing initiatives include:
• Protection of native plant species and restoration of natural vegetation cover.
• Monitoring of bird populations and migratory species patterns.
• Functions as a natural refuge for wildlife near the urban periphery of Doha, helping balance development with ecological sustainability.

Ecological and Educational Importance

• Plays a key role as a biodiversity hotspot within central Qatar’s semi-arid region.
• Serves as a natural classroom for studying meadow ecosystems, bird ecology, and native flora conservation.
• Enhances eco-tourism potential, offering birdwatching and nature photography opportunities in a controlled environment.
• Symbolizes Qatar’s dedication to protecting its natural heritage and integrating conservation with cultural identity.

 

 

Um Al Amad Reserve

Umm Al-Amad Reserve is located about 25 kilometers from Doha, in the northeastern region of the country. It is home to reptiles, terrestrial rodents, and some bird species. The reserve contains many meadows that are characterized by dense vegetation.

Irkaya

 

Overview

• Located off the Abu Samra Road, approximately 50 km west of Doha, in the south-central plains of Qatar.
• Commonly referred to as “Irkaya Farm” or “Irkaya Green Oasis”, it is one of the most ecologically diverse sites in the country.
• Recognized as a natural green haven within the desert landscape, known for its resident wildlife and strategic position on major bird migration flyways.
• Considered one of the most critical sites for birds and wildlife in Qatar.

Environmental Features

• The reserve’s terrain consists of sandy and loamy fields scattered with water-worn pebbles, forming an ideal environment for plant and insect life.
• Surrounded by rocky limestone uplands with sparse but resilient desert vegetation.
• Seasonal rainfall transforms parts of the area into temporary wetlands and grassy patches, enhancing biodiversity.
• Its combination of plains, rocky outcrops, and vegetation supports multiple interconnected ecosystems that thrive in arid conditions.

Notable Wildlife Species

• Birds — one of Qatar’s most important birdwatching locations, serving as a refuge for both resident and migratory species, including:
• Larks, pipits, wheatears, shrikes, and various raptors during migration seasons.
• Reptiles — notably the Spiny-Tailed Agama (Dhub, Uromastyx aegyptia) and other small lizard species adapted to desert life.
• Mammals — such as the Desert Hedgehog (Paraechinus aethiopicus), Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes arabica), and desert rodents.
• Insects — numerous butterfly, beetle, and pollinator species, benefiting from the diverse vegetation.
• Plants — a variety of native grasses, herbs, and shrubs that contribute to soil stabilization and ecological balance.

Conservation and Management

• Managed under the supervision of the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MECC).
• Plays a central role in wildlife monitoring and biodiversity conservation, particularly for migratory bird species.
• Efforts focus on:
• Preserving natural vegetation to maintain ecological equilibrium.
• Monitoring avian migration patterns and species diversity.
• Promoting habitat protection against land degradation and unsustainable activities.

Ecological and Scientific Importance

• Serves as a natural laboratory for studying avian migration, desert ecology, and biodiversity adaptation.
• Considered one of Qatar’s key biodiversity hotspots, providing vital habitats for multiple species across trophic levels.
• Offers opportunities for environmental research, birdwatching, and nature education.
• Stands as a symbol of Qatar’s commitment to preserving ecological corridors that sustain regional and international wildlife movement.