Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

Transforming a local jewel into an eco-tourism destination

Imagination partnered with Dubai Municipality and AE7 to develop the edutainment experience for the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary Visitor Centre. Our team designed a customer journey that celebrates the site’s unique ecology across three distinct masterplan zones.

Dubai Municipality needed to create a memorable experience for the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, a globally important bird area located at the end of the Upper Dubai Creek. They asked us to define programmable spaces and translate highly technical ecological data into an educational journey that would appeal to a wide audience and foster repeat local and regional visits.

Connecting physical architecture with the natural landscape

We developed an experience layout that spans the Visitor Centre, the Lagoon Platform, and the Wetlands. The design connects the physical architecture with the natural landscape to encourage exploration across the entire site.

Translating complex ecological data into an accessible story

We collaborated with the client’s ecologist team to turn complex scientific information into an accessible story. Our customer journey unpacks the sanctuary’s ecosystem by taking visitors through specific chapters focused on water, land, and wildlife.

Tailoring physical and digital touchpoints for diverse age groups

We created a detailed design proposal to bring the physical space to life. The team integrated tactile activities, digital interactives, and physical displays tailored to engage everyone from young children to expert conservationists.

For the audience

The development is now underway, visitors will soon learn about 270 animal species and 47 plant species through tactile activities and digital interactives spread across three distinct ecological zones.

For the brand

Dubai Municipality established a comprehensive experience strategy and design proposal during a condensed six-week sprint, providing a clear roadmap to elevate the sanctuary into an international eco-tourism destination.