Top 15 Types Of Birds In Uae (With Pictures)

Observe the diverse avian world of the UAE, from babblers to bulbuls, in stunning detail—discover what makes each species unique.

birds in the uae

The United Arab Emirates is home to a fascinating variety of bird species. Among them, the Arabian Babbler is known for its complex social behaviors and adapts well to various environments. The Laughing Dove, with its gentle cooing and distinctive pinkish hue, enhances local biodiversity. The Crested Lark, recognizable by its head crest, thrives in open landscapes, while the Eurasian Collared Dove features a notable black neck stripe and is a common sight in urban areas. The White-Eared Bulbul, often found in gardens, plays a significant role in seed dispersal. Each bird species contributes uniquely to the UAE's ecological tapestry, promising intriguing insights for nature enthusiasts. Beautiful birds of Pakistan, such as the Indian Peafowl and the Himalayan Monal, also share some similarities with the bird species of the United Arab Emirates. The diverse range of birdlife in both countries reflects the rich natural heritage of the region. Observing and studying these beautiful creatures can provide valuable information about the local ecosystems and the conservation efforts needed to protect them.

Arabian Babbler

social bird of israel

The Arabian Babbler is a sociable and highly interactive bird species prevalent in the UAE, known for its complex social behaviors and diverse diet. Characterized by dusty gray plumage with brown speckles, these birds feature long tails and pointed wings.

Their presence in the United Arab Emirates highlights their adaptability and significant ecological roles, thriving in various environments while maintaining intricate social structures.

Laughing Dove

coos softly in trees

Renowned for their serene presence, Laughing Doves are a common yet distinctive avian species across the UAE. Measuring about 25 cm, they feature a pinkish bottom, a lilac-colored head, and rufous dots on their chest.

Known for their gentle cooing, these doves contribute to local biodiversity by dispersing seeds. Their yellow eyes and notable markings make them easily recognizable in both urban and rural settings.

Crested Lark

small bird with crest

Crested Larks, easily identified by their distinctive head crest, thrive in the UAE's open landscapes such as deserts and agricultural fields.

This native species features a long, melodious song and unique secondary feathers that aid in their agility.

Measuring about 17 cm, they forage on the ground, feeding on seeds and insects, and nest on the soil, blending seamlessly with their arid environment.

Eurasian Collared Dove

a common urban bird

Eurasian Collared Doves, recognized by their gray plumage and distinctive black neck stripe, have become a familiar sight across various habitats in the UAE.

Originating from the Old World, these doves exhibit a unique water drinking method, sucking it up like a vacuum.

Their gentle cooing is often heard in urban areas, indicating their successful adaptation to local environments.

White-Eared Bulbul

melancholy bird with plumage

Moving from the familiar cooing of the Eurasian Collared Dove, we now explore the White-Eared Bulbul, a bird equally adapted to the urban settings of the UAE.

This species, measuring 17.5-19 cm, features a gray body, black head, and distinctive white ear patches.

Commonly found in gardens and parks, they are noted for melodious calls and play an essential role in seed dispersal.

Eurasian Kestrel

eurasian kestrel bird species

Often observed hovering above open fields, the Eurasian Kestrel is a master of aerial hunting, utilizing its sharp vision to spot unsuspecting prey below. This bird targets voles, mice, and shrews, greatly aiding in pest control.

Recognizable by its chit-chit-chit call during flight, its remarkable hovering ability and keen eyesight make it an efficient predator in the UAE's diverse habitats.

White Spectacled Bulbul

distinctive white spectacled bird

The White Spectacled Bulbul, easily identified by its distinctive white ear patches and light brown mottling, thrives across various habitats in the UAE.

This species is often spotted in trees and shrubs, actively seeking insects and fruits.

Their role is vital in ecosystems, aiding in seed dispersal and insect population control, which underscores their significance in maintaining ecological balance.

Mallard

duckling spring freedom death

Mallards, with their vibrant green heads and distinctive quacking calls, are a familiar sight in UAE's lakes, ponds, and wetlands.

These dabbling ducks showcase sexual dimorphism; drakes flaunt a glossy green head and chestnut-brown chest, while hens possess mottled brown plumage, aiding camouflage during nesting.

Known for their migratory behaviors, Mallards often traverse long distances following seasonal patterns.

Little Egret

elegant white wading bird

Gracefully wading through UAE's marshes and coastal regions, the Little Egret is a small, white heron characterized by its slender black bill and long black legs.

It is commonly found in wetlands, where it skillfully hunts fish, insects, and amphibians, showcasing an elegant feeding behavior that captivates observers.

Barn Swallow

bird with forked tail

Barn Swallows, with their long, deeply forked tails and vibrant colors, are a familiar sight across the UAE's open landscapes. Their steel-blue upperparts and cinnamon-colored underparts contrast strikingly. These agile flyers are adept at catching insects mid-flight.

They migrate long distances and construct cup-shaped mud nests in open fields and near water, adapting well to agricultural environments.

Common Hoopoe

distinctive bird with crown

Sporting a distinctive crown of feathers, the Common Hoopoe is a medium-sized bird that is a mesmerizing sight in the UAE.

It thrives on a diet of insects, small reptiles, and plant matter.

Recognizable by its repeating 'oop-oop-oop' calls, the hoopoe uses its long beak to skillfully probe for food and performs intricate courtship dances to attract mates.

House Sparrow

small urban songbird species

While the Common Hoopoe captivates with its unique appearance, the House Sparrow, a smaller bird with brown and gray plumage, thrives alongside human development throughout the UAE.

These adaptable birds forage for seeds, grains, and scraps, often seen in bustling urban areas. They form large social flocks and build nests in cavities using twigs and grass, with males distinguishing themselves with a black throat patch.

Rock Pigeon

urban bird with iridescent feathers

Rock pigeons, commonly observed in the urban landscapes of the UAE, exhibit a striking gray-blue plumage and iridescent feathers that catch the eye. Known for their cooing sounds and aerial maneuvers, these birds adapt well to various environments, including cityscapes and cliffs.

Their remarkable homing instinct also makes them valuable for activities like pigeon racing and messaging.

White Wagtail

black white bird species

Moving from the urban-adapted Rock Pigeon, the White Wagtail presents a contrasting spectacle with its striking black and white plumage and lively tail movements.

A member of the Motacillidae family, this small passerine bird thrives across various UAE habitats. It is an agile insectivore, recognized by its wagging tail.

Nesting in crevices, their melodious song and dynamic foraging are sights to behold.

Are the Types of Birds in Lebanon Similar to the Types of Birds in the UAE?

Yes, the types of birds in Lebanon are quite similar to the types of birds in the UAE. Both countries have a wide variety of bird species, including migratory birds that pass through during different seasons. The diverse habitats in both countries provide a home for many of the same types of birds.

Common Myna

invasive bird species australia

The Common Myna, known for its adaptability and vocal prowess, is a prominent bird species in the UAE. It boasts an array of sounds from growls to mimicking human speech, and aids agriculture by consuming pests.

However, its aggressive nature and territorial tendencies contribute to its status as an invasive species, disrupting local ecosystems and competing with native birds for resources.