Dubai Creek Harbour and Ras Al Khor Flamingos: A Guide
Dubai Creek runs from the old souks of Bur Dubai and Deira inland to Dubai Creek Harbour, a new waterfront district. Right next to it is Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, where thousands of flamingos spend the winter. Here is how to plan a calm half-day away from the malls.
What is Dubai Creek Harbour?
Dubai Creek Harbour is a waterfront district by Emaar, covering about 6 square kilometres near Ras Al Khor. Parts of it are open, with homes, a promenade, cafés and restaurants. Other parts are still being built.
The planned Dubai Creek Tower has been redesigned, and its construction tender has been delayed. It is not open to visitors.
What to do there
- Walk the promenade along the water, especially around sunset.
- See the skyline: the view across the water takes in Downtown Dubai and Burj Khalifa.
- Eat by the water at the cafés and restaurants on the waterfront.
- Bring the children to the open spaces and play areas.
Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary: the flamingos
Ras Al Khor is a protected wetland at the end of the Creek. Visitors watch the birds from free bird hides, including the Flamingo Hide.
- Best time: November to March, when flamingos and other birds arrive for the winter.
- Hours change by season, and individual hides sometimes close for maintenance. Check Dubai Municipality’s website before you go.
- Bring binoculars if you have them, and keep noise down near the hides.
Getting there
There’s no metro station next to Creek Harbour or the sanctuary, so most visitors take a taxi or drive. The sanctuary hides have their own car parks. Plan the sanctuary in daylight, then move on to Creek Harbour for sunset and dinner.
Combine it with old Dubai
The Creek links the old and the new. Spend the morning in the souks and Al Fahidi, then head inland in the afternoon. Read our guide to Dubai’s historical landmarks in Bur Dubai to plan the morning.
Stay by the old Creek: Rose Garden Hotel Apartments Bur Dubai
Rose Garden Hotel Apartments Bur Dubai is behind BurJuman Mall and its metro station, in the old part of the city near the Creek. Choose a 41 m² studio, an 88 m² one-bedroom or a 114 m² two-bedroom apartment. See the apartments.
Book on our official site for the best available rate.
Check rates at Rose Garden Bur Dubai →
FAQ
When can you see flamingos in Dubai?
From about November to March, at Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary.
Is Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary free?
Yes. The bird hides are free to visit. Check opening hours with Dubai Municipality first.
Is there a metro to Dubai Creek Harbour?
No station is right next to it. Most visitors take a taxi or drive.
Is Dubai Creek Tower open?
No. The tower has been redesigned and is not built yet.