As we were only three of us we did not have to make any pre-booking. But I was told at the entrance that with groups of people exceeding 10, there is need to take permission from Environment Department of Dubai Municipality. The free entry also seemed to attract a lot of visitors. To top it our cab driver seemed happy that he got a parking in a shelter which was manned.
Curious to know what the name of the sanctuary meant it was explained that it means “head of creek”, which I felt was very apt. Being an avid bird watcher, coming across the flamingo roost had me rooted to the spot trying hard to look at them clearly. I was helped on to the platform where sharp binoculars were trained, at special spots so that we could view them without disturbing them. My heart leapt in delight at the pink cascade of these birds.
At the end of the day we got into the car and turned to gaze wistfully at the beautiful green haven, marvelling how Dubai Municipality is doing a fabulous job of providing enlightening education facilities for visitors.