| About Futaisi |
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Futaisi Island was recently in the
news for the discovery of 22 ancient water catchments by
archeologists. The islands history is likely to date
back hundreds of years judging by the existence of old
water wells, an ancient mosque and a grave yard. |
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It is speculated that
before the discovery of oil, Futaisi Island
probably supplied sweet water to the population
of Abu-Dhabi and all the stone required for
building the forts and houses of the rulers. The
geological past of the Island is certainly
unique and is an interest to both tourists and
scientists alike. |
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The well-kept stables
house purebred Arabian Horses that are
available for touring around the island.
Children and adults who have never
ridden before, but who would like to
discover the pleasure of riding an
Arabian horse or a camel can also be
taken for rides. |
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Covering an area of around 50
Sq Kilometers, only a small area has been
developed. The rest of the Island remains quiet
and undisturbed, creating a very effective
wildlife sanctuary.
Discover the Island on Bicycles or take a
mini-bus tour around the Island to see Gazelles
running free, Ospreys nesting on outbreaks of
rocks and Hidden Lagoons in the mangroves. As
you explore the Island you will soon start to
spot an abundance of Gazelles running and
jumping across the flats or in and out of the
mangrove clusters. This particular variety is
endemic to the Island and is left to breed in
peace. |
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Less obvious but there for
the keen eyed are Dhubs – Spiny Tailed Lizards.
The prehistoric looking creatures are
particularly large on the Island and due to the
lack of persecution are relatively approachable.
The Island is a bird spotters dream. Huge nests
have been built around the Island on outcrops of
rocks by Ospreys comfortable in the knowledge
that they won’t be disturbed and even the
endangered Sea Eagle has found sanctuary here.
The list of other winged creatures is extensive
including Socotora Cormorants, Terek Sandpipers
and Plovers. |
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The Island is also an important
transit point for migrating birds and flamingoes are
commonly seen on the shores of the Island. Sightings of
the endangered Green Sea turtle as well as dolphin’s
bear’s testament to the rich marine life in the waters
surrounding the Island.
A narrow bridge spanning one of the many lagoons takes
you to a hidden beautiful beach on the far side of the
Island. |
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Another major
attraction on the Island is an authentic
Arabian fort built out of traditional
materials such as mud bricks. The fort
provides a unique setting for banquets
and parties.
The true treasure of Futaisi Island is
its untouched nature. As the entire sea
area around the Island is very shallow,
boat access is difficult and this has
ensured that most of the Island remains
quiet and undisturbed, creating a very
effective wildlife sanctuary over the
greater part of the island. |
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The Island is a shelter for a rich and diverse variety
of flora and fauna, including a species of gazelle that
are endemic to the Island, the endangered Sea Eagle,
Ospreys, the famous Dhoub lizard, and Jack Rabbits. The
Island is also an important transit point for migrating
birds and flamingoes are commonly seen on the shores of
the Island. Sightings of the endangered Green Sea turtle
as well as dolphin’s bear’s testament to the rich marine
life in the waters surrounding the Island. |
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