Ajban Farms, located northeast of Abu Dhabi, is one of the UAE’s lesser-known birding gems. The mix of irrigated fields, open desert edges, and scattered trees creates an ideal stopover for migratory species and a surprising refuge for resident birds. During my visits, I’ve encountered an impressive range of birds — from wheatears, pipits, shrikes, and warblers to swallows and terns. It’s a hotspot during migration seasons, with notable species like the Egyptian Nightjar even breeding in the area. One particularly memorable sighting for me was the Collared Pratincole, a graceful and rarely seen bird in the region. The area also hosts herons, egrets, kingfishers, and raptors like Marsh Harriers. Ajban’s quiet setting and habitat diversity make it a productive location for bird photography, offering both environmental context and close-up opportunities in the field.

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