The Al Wathba Wetland Reserve, located in Abu Dhabi, aims to enhance ecological preservation while offering an engaging experience for visitors. The design concept highlights a balance between built structures and the surrounding natural landscape. It is intended to educate visitors about the diverse wildlife in the wetlands, creating a space that fosters both learning and appreciation.

Flamingo Tower

At the center of the reserve is the Flamingo Tower, which functions as both an observation platform and an educational hub. The first floor of the tower features an interactive museum, allowing visitors to learn more about local species. Engaging digital technologies, including interactive screens and a dome theater, provide informative content. This approach is particularly appealing to younger visitors, encouraging them to connect with the environment.

Boardwalk System

Raised boardwalks replace existing trails, enabling visitors to explore the wetlands with minimal impact on the ecosystem. These modular pathways wind through the reeds, preserving the natural landscape and offering educational points of interest. Augmented reality features along the boardwalks add an interactive element, enhancing the visitor experience by providing information about the environment in an accessible way.

Visitor Amenities

Sheltered benches are placed at intervals along the boardwalks, offering spaces for visitors to rest and enjoy the scenery. These lookouts maximize views of the wetlands, fostering a deeper connection with nature. A notable aspect is a section of the boardwalk that extends over water, allowing for close observation of the wetland habitat and providing a tranquil space.

Material Use

The design incorporates specific materials that serve functional and practical purposes. Smoked glass blocks are used in the Flamingo Tower to create controlled visibility from the outside while providing shelter beneath the cantilevered upper section. This choice enhances thermal comfort and aligns with the overall design philosophy of integrating the structure with the surrounding environment.

The Al Wathba Wetland Reserve successfully balances visitor engagement with the need to protect its unique ecosystem, reinforcing the importance of conservation while providing educational opportunities within a thoughtfully designed landscape.