His Highness Dr Shaikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah has inaugurated the UAE's latest eco-tourism site the 4.5-sqkm Wasit Wetland Centre (WWC) located in the Wasit Natural Reserve (WNR).

The WWC is the first of its kind site for wetland environment in the GCC.

Dr Shaikh Sultan toured the WWC which has many modern buildings equipped with innovative technologies that allow visitors to learn more about the birds at the wetland. The WWC contains 60 species of birds.

The WWC has classrooms platforms and towers that have equipment to observe birds in its natural habitat.

Hana Al Suwaidi Director-General of the Sharjah Environment and Protected Areas Authority highlighted the importance of the site in enhancing tourism and conserving the environment.

"The WWC (is) ... like a breathing lung for the emirate of Sharjah in terms of its natural beauty charming landscape and diverse organisms. It includes scientific bird care facilities that protect existing birds from extinction.

"The WWC is an important centre for learning and showcasing a number of birds. It includes world-class service facilities for its visitors ... It contains eight bird hides each providing detailed information and signboards about birds and their species" she said.

The WWC also has a souvenir store and interactive games for children that provide information about birds their species reproduction and migration in an interesting way.

The centre also has environment-friendly electric vehicles that transport visitors to see its key features and the different species of birds trees lakes and salt flats (sabkhas).

Al Suwaidi said the WWC is a haven for resident and migratory birds and an ideal destination for nature lovers.

Afkar Abdullah