All Travel Guides

Provided by: Dubai Economy and Tourism

Our travel guides are free to read and explore online. If you want to get your own copy, the full travel guide for this destination is available to you offline* to bring along anywhere or print for your trip.

*this will be downloaded as a PDF.

Price

€4,95

Purchase

Asia United Arab Emirates Dubai Nature Desert Wildlife

Overview

Desert Wildlife

The guide was updated: 2024-04-25

The Dubai desert is rich with hundreds of species of wildlife, particularly in the dedicated conservation areas. Keep an eye out for desert dwellers including Arabian oryx, gazelle and hundreds of bird species when you venture outdoors. The oryx's white body and long straight horns make a regal statement against the sand. Keep your eyes peeled for Dubai's other native wildlife including desert foxes, geckos and lizards.

Useful Information

Website: www.visitdubai.com/en/articles/guide-to-desert-wildlife

Our travel guides are free to read and explore online. If you want to get your own copy, the full travel guide for this destination is available to you offline* to bring along anywhere or print for your trip.

*this will be downloaded as a PDF.

Price

€4,95

Purchase

Parks

Parks

Dubai has an abundance of picturesque parks with cosy spots to spend the day. Zabeel Park, which occupies more than 47 hectares, is equipped with entertaining and educational exhibits and the spectacular Dubai Frame. Safa Park, where people can relax under lush trees or jog along the track, now brings waterfront views thanks to the Dubai Water Canal. If you're up for a drive, make your way to Hatta Hill Park for a picnic with mountain views.

Ecotourism

Ecotourism

Thanks to responsible tourism practices, you can get up-close-and-personal with Dubai's local flora and fauna without putting the environment under stress. Head to the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve to enjoy guided tours and unobstructed views of the majestic landscape and stay overnight at Al Maha Desert Resort, an award-winning and eco-friendly hotel located within the reserve. Closer to town, you can visit the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary where the flamingos steal the show.

Animal Experiences

Animal Experiences

From marine experiences to winter wonderlands, Dubai offers many opportunities to meet wildlife. Dolphin Bay at Atlantis, The Palm is one of the most sophisticated dolphin habitats in the world. Say hello to more sea creatures at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, or enjoy an afternoon with penguins at Ski Dubai. You can also watch local animals in their natural habitat at Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, participate in the turtle rehabilitation project at Burj Al Arab or visit rainforest animals at The Green Planet in City Walk.

Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

Dubai is not just a desirable hotspot for millions of tourists each year — it's the destination of choice for tens of thousands of migrating birds. In the wetlands, just metres away from the busy city, you'll find the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary. Translated as ‘Cape of the Creek’, Ras Al Khor sits at the mouth of Dubai's Creek and is among the few protected urban areas in the world. Don't miss the flamingos; they steal the show.

Desert Wildlife

Desert Wildlife

The Dubai desert is rich with hundreds of species of wildlife, particularly in the dedicated conservation areas. Keep an eye out for desert dwellers including Arabian oryx, gazelle and hundreds of bird species when you venture outdoors. The oryx's white body and long straight horns make a regal statement against the sand. Keep your eyes peeled for Dubai's other native wildlife including desert foxes, geckos and lizards.

Horse Riding

Horse Riding

Arabian horses, exciting races and dreamy desert landscapes make Dubai perfect for equestrian pursuits. Watch one of the world’s richest races at the Dubai World Cup, learn the intricacies of dressage at the Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club, or simply ride across the open desert with fellow enthusiasts from the Emirates Equestrian Centre. With these experiences, you're sure to leave with a deep sense of appreciation for these magnificent creatures.

Birds

Birds

Birdwatching and falconry are Dubai's pastimes of old; the Al Qudra lakes are home to more than 170 types of bird species, including flamingos and swans. Don't miss the opportunity to experience Dubai's heritage of falconry, where these majestic birds soar through the sky and swoop down at tremendous speeds to catch game in what is one of the most exciting sports in the region. Visit Bab Al Shams and Al Maha resorts to admire the skill and speed of both falcon and falconer.

Marine Life

Marine Life

Whether you're spending a day at the beach, on the water, or under the sea with one of Dubai's dive centres, don't miss your chance to have an underwater adventure in the Arabian Gulf. Off the coast of Dubai, you'll find a rich array of marine life, including dugongs, dolphins, turtles, sharks and 500 species of fish. In Dubai's warmer summer months, diving is a favourite pastime among locals.

Next section

Next Section