Glide over shallow, clear waters inside the lush green coastal mangrove forest of Umm Al Quwain lagoon in the United Arab Emirates. Surround yourself by the little islands of bright blue lagoon – perfect locations for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts. Then relax at the beach, make a bonfire, BBQ and watch the green bushes of mangroves deluging in the red and orange colors of sunset.
DESERT AND MANGROVES
You will not need 4×4 car to reach the recesses of Umm Al Quwain lagoon that still belong to main land. You can find the entrance point here: 25°31’28.3″N 55°35’10.2″E. Although the car will make its way through designated main roads(provided it did not rain recently) it is very important to watch out not to loose the track and get stuck. The ground may look deceiving in some places. It often may be muddy and slimy.
The land is covered by the desert-like sand, so if you have off-road car you certainly can have some fun here! Otherwise, proceed to this point: 25°32’17.3″N 55°37’46.7″E. The area is huge and you can find plenty of options where to set up the camp. From my experience, is is not very popular venue, especially during the week you will barely see anyone here. Note that it is forbidden to fish there.
GLIDE THROUGH MANGROVE LABYRINTH
The waters in this area are very shallow and calm. Therefore, Umm Al Quwain lagoon is perfect for stand-up paddleboarding, especially for beginners willing to learn to catch the balance. You can go a long way into the sea and still have a shallow ground underneath. Just in case you fall down from your paddleboard!
If you want to try another location for stand-up paddleboarding you can check following articles: HIDDEN OUTDOOR GEM – SHUWEIHAT ISLAND, EVERGREEN TAWYEEN LAKE, TURQUOISE WATERS OF SARAYA ISLAND
Some people might complain about smell as the bottom in the water is covered by thick layer of mud around mangroves. It does not disturb me. For the reason mentioned above it might not be the best place to swim close to the mangroves, but away from them the water is quite clean.
UMM AL QUWAIN LAGOON IN ANCIENT TIMES
The islands of the lagoon are accessible only by boat. Deserted today, more than 6500 years ago Umm al-Quwain lagoon – Akab Island particularly – was fishermen camp. Under its sand it’s burying the ancient history that we know so little about, nowadays. Worth mentioning is the fact that the oldest sanctuary of Arabia was discovered here, daring back to 3500-3200 before Christ, as well as the oldest known ceremonial site dedicated to a dugong.
You can read more about the ancient history here.
Another island of the lagoon – Al Sinniyah Island – used to be home to ruling tribe in Umm Al Quwain – Al Ali. However due to sweet water sources drying up subsequently the tribe moved their capital to its present location in the mid 18th century.
UAE OFF-ROADER GUIDE
If you are looking for more off-road trails to discover about United Arab Emirates, I can recommend this ultimate guide that is packed with many routes, giving very detailed information and answering all questions you could have.
You can get it from Amazon: https://amzn.to/2UrKZdo
