Houbara bustard habitat
Houbara bustard habitat

Alluvial plains & sabkha

Plains are a common feature in many parts of the UAE. Around the Hajar Mountains, they occur as wide, flat expanses, covered in coarse rocks and gravels. In other parts of the country, plains are intimately associated with dune systems, forming loosely connected networks of interdunes.

Sabkha, an Arabic term referring to flat, salt-encrusted desert, usually devoid of any significant plant cover, frequently develops on alluvial plains, with groundwater occurring close to the surface. Coastal sabkha also occurs, dominating the coastline from the area of Abu Dhabi Island westward.

Learn about UAE habitats & species

Species found in alluvial plains and sabkha

Species 1 - 50 of 304 [ next ]Sort all by common name   |   Sort all by scientific name

Species 1 - 50 of 304 [ next ]

Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi

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EAD is committed to protecting and conserving Abu Dhabi's biodiversity. More

Arabian oryx

Arabian Oryx

Watch the tale of one of conservation's greatest success stories, how the Arabian oryx was brought back from extinction. View

Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital

Falcon hospital

Did you know EAD helped set up the world's largest falcon hospital? More

Coastal Atlas

Coastal Atlas

Want to know about the species that inhabit Abu Dhabi's coast? Explore EAD's award-winning online Coastal Atlas. More

Related teaching resources:

Teaching resources for 7-11 year olds:

What is an Endangered Species? »

Teaching resources for 11-14 year olds:

Adaptations For Movement »

See more education resources »

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