Al Ghada

Al Ghada Protected Area is an Al Dhafra desert reserve of 1,088 km2 protecting the Ghada shrub (Haloxylon persicum), set among white sand dunes^[1].

Sand collecting at the base of the shrub forms hummocks that serve as burrows for small rodents, snakes and scorpions^[1].

The Ghada or white saxaul is a small tree with succulent-like branches that keeps its leaves year-round; its fine branches capture water droplets from the air. Habitat loss and overgrazing are key threats^[1].

The reserve is set among white sand dunes.

The climate is hot and arid, with very hot summers, mild winters and very little rain.

The wood of the Ghada was traditionally used as firewood^[1].

The protected area was established to promote and protect the species^[1].

The reserve is a restricted conservation area rather than a visitor destination.

It lies about 50 km from Madinat Zayed in Abu Dhabi's Western Region.

Baynounah Nursery, run by the Environment Agency, produces 300,000 seedlings per year and stores seeds of 58 native wild plant species including white saxaul^[1].