The Gulf’s Surprising Wildlife: Whale Sharks, Dugongs and Flamingos in the Arabian Waters

Published

10 hours ago

November 14, 2026

Shorya

Whilst most people will think of glass skyscrapers, shopping malls and sandy beaches when thinking about the Gulf, very few would expect to see a giant fish swimming below an oil platform or pink flock of birds hovering above the creeks of a city. However, the Gulf’s surprising wildlife. Due to the warm and shallow nature of the Persian Gulf there are many animals that cannot be found anywhere else and the list starts with.

Marine Giants of the Warm Waters

•whale shark – These giants are the largest fish in the world, however their diet consists of small plankton and pose no threat to humans. Every year in large numbers they come to the area surrounding Qatar to feed on plankton blooms near the gas and oil fields. Scientists attach tracking devices to them using satellite technology so they can track where they travel. If you’re lucky enough to see one it is a real treat for divers and crew members.

•Dugongs – Even more shy than the whale sharks are the dugong. These sea mammals are similar to manatees and the Gulf is home to some of the largest populations outside of Australia. There are lots around Abu Dhabi and the Hawar Islands in Bahrain. They feed on seagrass so protecting this underwater meadow will protect them. The main danger to them is collisions with boats and getting caught in fishing nets so many areas have speed restrictions.

Pink Skies Over Wetlands and Creeks

•Flamingos – During the winter months thousands of flamingos come to roost in the mudflats and lagoons of the Gulf. In Dubai you can visit the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary to see them up close in free public hides, with the city skyline as a backdrop. Al Wathba Wetland Reserve in Abu Dhabi is another peaceful place to view them. In Bahrain and Qatar they love to flock to the mangroves and tidal flats.

Watching Wildlife Responsibly

A little planning goes a long way:

•Use licensed tour companies approved by local environment authorities.

•Give them space and never touch or follow them.

Use binoculars.

•Avoid using one-off plastics which can affect marine life.

•Visit early in the morning for cooler temperatures and calmer wildlife.

All of these animals rely on clean water and undisturbed habitats so a little consideration from visitors and locals will help to keep the wild side of the Gulf alive.