Wadi Wurayah National Park in Fujairah has officially been named a UNESCO World Heritage site, marking a historic achievement for the UAE. Recognized during the 48th session of the World Heritage Committee in Busan, South Korea, this 225-square-kilometre sanctuary is the nation’s first site honored for its “Outstanding Universal Natural Value.” The announcement was celebrated by the UAE’s Minister of Culture, Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, who highlighted the milestone as a testament to the country’s ongoing dedication to preserving its unique natural landscapes and ecological treasures.

The park is a remarkable biodiversity hotspot, defined by a rare, permanent freshwater ecosystem that sustains over 1,000 distinct species, including the endangered Arabian tahr and the recently rediscovered Arabian caracal. Beyond its wildlife, the area is geologically significant for its ancient ophiolite rocks, which date back 90 million years. Following rigorous conservation efforts—which included a strategic closure to allow the ecosystem to recover—the park reopened to controlled tourism in 2026. With this new global recognition, local authorities are now focused on long-term research and monitoring to ensure that Wadi Wurayah remains a protected, world-class environmental landmark for future generations.