Dubai, UAE — UNESCO has inscribed Wadi Wurayah in the emirate of Fujairah on its World Heritage List, marking the United Arab Emirates’ first listing for outstanding natural value and its third World Heritage Site overall.
The announcement was made during the 48th session of UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee in Busan, South Korea.
The designation recognises Wadi Wurayah as one of the world’s significant natural heritage sites and highlights its environmental, geological and scientific importance.
UAE hails international recognition
Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah and ambassador for the site’s UNESCO nomination, described the inscription as a milestone for both Fujairah and the UAE.
He said the listing reflected the country’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage in line with international standards and highlighted the reserve’s environmental, scientific and cultural significance.
Sheikh Mohammed said the site represented a balanced ecosystem and demonstrated the long-standing relationship between people and the natural environment.
First UAE natural site on UNESCO list
Culture Minister Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi said the inscription strengthened the UAE’s position in protecting natural heritage and biodiversity.
He said Wadi Wurayah was the country’s third World Heritage Site and the first recognised specifically for its outstanding natural value.
Al Qassimi said the designation resulted from cooperation between the Ministry of Culture, the Fujairah Environment Authority, the UAE National Commission for Education, Culture and Science and UNESCO.
He added that the listing would support international scientific cooperation, knowledge exchange and conservation efforts.
Biodiversity and unique ecosystems
Officials said Wadi Wurayah is one of the few places in the UAE with permanent surface water and contains the country’s only permanent natural waterfall.
The reserve is home to rare and endangered plants, mammals, birds, reptiles and insects, and preserves ecosystems spanning terrestrial, freshwater, coastal and marine environments.
Asilah Abdullah Al Mualla, Director-General of the Fujairah Environment Authority, said the reserve was among the last intact ecosystems in the arid foothills of the Hajar Mountains on the Arabian Peninsula and played an important role in regional biodiversity conservation.
