Al Marmoom Conservation Reserve, Dubai

Nestled in the Al Qudra region, Al Marmoom is home to an incredible diversity of wildlife. Al Marmoom Conservation Reserve is home to over 200 species of birds, including both resident and migratory species such as flamingos, herons, swans, and raptors. It also hosts the highest concentration of large flamingos in any desert environment in the UAE.  Being created as a part of the Dubai effort to conserve nature, Al Marmoom Conservation Reserve occupies almost ten per cent of the total size of the emirate.

The reserve hosts an array of ecological environments, which include desert dunes, oases, lakes, and wetlands, all designed to secure the wildlife and natural habitat. The reserve includes the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, the world’s largest single-site solar park, which supports Dubai’s clean energy goals and is planned to reach 5,000 MW capacity by 2030. Al Qudra Lakes attract flamingos, herons, ducks, and other waterbirds, with occasional sightings of swans. The adjacent Love Lake has turned into a symbol of ideal romance with intermingled heart shapes, walking paths and shaded picnic areas.

Fun Fact: Arabian oryx can be spotted within the reserve, a conservation success story for a species once extinct in the wild.

1. Al Qudra Lakes: A picturesque collection of lakes surrounded by dunes, perfect for birdwatching, cycling, and relaxing picnics.

2. Love Lake Dubai: A romantic destination shaped like two hearts, ideal for sunset walks, drone photography, and peaceful moments in nature.

3. Wildlife Spotting: Spot Arabian gazelles, desert foxes, oryx, and more than 200 bird species, including flamingos and eagles.

4. Camel Racing: Experience the thrill at the Dubai Camel Race Track, located at the Al Marmoom Heritage Village within the reserve’s eastern boundary. 

Note that races primarily take place on weekend mornings from October to April.

5. Stargazing: Enjoy breathtaking night skies. Al Marmoom is one of Dubai’s best spots for stargazing, away from city lights.

6. Eco-Friendly Cycling: Ride along the Al Qudra Cycling Track, which stretches over 80 kilometres through desert landscapes.

7. Saruq Al-Hadid Archaeological Site: Discover a 3,000-year-old Iron Age metallurgical centre located within the reserve. It was discovered by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and provided the inspiration for the Expo 2020 logo.

Each corner of Al Marmoom captures the true spirit of the Arabian wilderness: calm, vast, and beautifully alive.

• Location: Al Qudra area, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
• Operating Hours: Open daily, 24 hours (public access, best visited during daylight)
• Entry Fee: Free (no ticket required)
• Best Visiting Duration: Half-day to full-day trip

Nearby Attractions:

• Al Qudra Lakes: Ideal for picnics, cycling, and birdwatching.
• Love Lake Dubai: Love Lake features walking paths, viewing platforms, and landscaped areas suitable for light picnics, though facilities remain minimal to protect the environment.
• Al Marmoom Camel Race Track: cultural attraction featuring traditional camel races.
• Expo City Dubai: About 30 minutes away, perfect for a combined cultural visit.
• The Last Exit Al Qudra: A themed food truck stop offering refreshments and local bites.

Day-Trip Tip: Combine Al Marmoom Reserve with Al Qudra Lakes and Love Lake for a complete eco-desert experience.

• Ideal Season: November – April (cool and dry months)
• Avoid: May – September (extreme desert heat)
• Best Hours: Early morning (6:00–9:00 AM) and late afternoon (4:00–6:30 PM) for wildlife activity and photography.
• Photography Tip: Sunrise over the dunes and sunset by the lakes offer the most magical light conditions for landscape shots.

Season: Birds are most active from November to April when the weather is cooler. The best time to take up photography and to view wildlife is during sunrise and sunset.

• By Car: The reserve is located about 45 minutes from Downtown Dubai. Take the E77 (Al Qudra Road) and follow signs for Al Qudra Lakes. The reserve is accessible via regular vehicles, though SUVs are recommended for deeper desert access.
• By Taxi or Ride Service: Taxis from Dubai are available, but may have limited return options. Arrange a round-trip or driver wait time in advance.
• By Tour Package: Join a guided eco-tour or photography safari for curated experiences, including transportation, birdwatching, and guided nature walks.

Pro Tip: Start your trip early morning to catch sunrise wildlife movement and avoid the afternoon heat

• Bring binoculars for bird and animal viewing.
• Carry water, snacks, and sunscreen; no shops inside the reserve.
• Respect wildlife; keep a safe distance from all animals.
• Use designated picnic and viewing areas.
• Avoid littering, as Al Marmoom is a protected ecosystem.
• For cyclists, rent gear near the Al Qudra Cycling Track.

Nearby Dining Options: While there are no restaurants inside the reserve, nearby stops include:

• The Last Exit Al Qudra: A desert-themed food truck park serving international dishes and coffee.
• Al Qudra Café: Cosy spot for quick refreshments before or after your desert visit.
• Bab Al Shams Desert Resort: Just 20 minutes away, ideal for luxurious dining or an authentic desert-style meal.

Local Experiences: Explore the local experiences that include:

• Attend camel races at the Al Marmoom Camel Racetrack.
• Join a guided nature photography workshop or birdwatching tour.
• Try stargazing events hosted by Dubai Astronomy Group.

• Depart from Dubai early (around 6:00 AM).
• Visit Al Qudra Lakes for sunrise and birdwatching.
• Cycle along the Al Qudra track or explore Love Lake.

• Enjoy a picnic by the lakes.
• Spot gazelles or oryx in the dunes.
• Visit the Al Marmoom Camel Race Track if races are scheduled.

• Stay for sunset photography or stargazing.
• Dine at Bab Al Shams or The Last Exit Al Qudra.

• Dubai’s largest unfenced conservation reserve and one of its most significant protected desert ecosystems.
• Free and easily accessible from the city
• Rich wildlife and bird diversity
• Stunning desert scenery and eco-friendly attractions
• Ideal for photography, nature walks, and peaceful getaways

Al Marmoom blends Dubai’s ancient desert charm with modern conservation values, creating a destination that inspires both awe and awareness.

1. Watch the sunrise at Al Qudra Lakes.
2. Cycle through the Al Qudra desert track.
3. Spot Arabian oryx, gazelles, and native birds.
4. Visit Love Lake for scenic walks and photography.
5. Experience a traditional camel race at the racetrack.

Al Marmoom Conservation Reserve is the natural haven of Dubai as the city becomes a global innovation capital, which will be a token of the emirate's sustainability and legacy. It is a home to three elements, namely nature, culture, and conservation, providing the travellers with a true sense of belonging to the eternal beauty of the desert. Whether it is the flamingos flying in the air, cycling through gold dunes, or just having a chance to enjoy the silence of wild nature, Al Marmoom offers you a different side of Dubai that few people ever see, which is pure, peaceful, and extremely beautiful. While you book your Dubai tour package, make sure you ask your agent to add Al Maroom to your itinerary!