Discover Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve: A Hub for Wildlife, Scenic Lakes, and Thrilling Camel Races in Dubai

Dubai’s Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve stands as a premier destination for those seeking an authentic desert experience. Covering approximately 10% of the emirate, this expansive reserve is celebrated for its commitment to sustainability, diverse wildlife, cycling paths, camel racing, and rich Emirati heritage.

What is Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve?

As the largest unfenced nature reserve in the UAE, Al Marmoom is home to an impressive array of native wildlife. The reserve boasts one of the largest populations of Arabian oryx in Dubai and is recognized for having the highest concentration of large flamingos in the UAE. Visitors can also spot sand gazelles and various bird and reptile species.

The reserve features an Oryx Platform, providing an excellent vantage point for observing Arabian oryx. Additionally, multiple feeding stations are strategically placed throughout the area, allowing for closer encounters with desert wildlife.

Spanning 40 hectares of fertile land, Al Marmoom is a sanctuary for over 158 species of migratory birds and 204 species of native birds, including endangered species such as the steppe eagle and the Asian houbara. The Dubai Municipality has constructed eight bird hides for birdwatching, enhancing the visitor experience. The reserve is accessible to the public, free of charge, and is managed by the UAE’s Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE).

How to Get There

Due to its vast size, Al Marmoom does not have a single address. It is advisable to visit specific locations within the reserve, such as Al Qudra Lakes or the Al Qudra Cycling Track.

Unique Features of Al Marmoom

In addition to its wildlife, Al Marmoom hosts several notable sites:

Mohammed Bin Rashid Solar Park

Situated in the northwest corner of the reserve, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Solar Park is the region’s largest renewable energy project. With a planned production capacity of 5,000 MW by 2030 and investments totaling Dh50 billion, the park aims to reduce carbon emissions by over 6.5 million tonnes annually.

The Solar Park is open to the public, offering an auditorium where visitors can view a presentation on its mission. Following this, guests can explore the Dubai Exhibit Area, which features interactive zones focused on the properties of light and the future of energy, including a hologram show and a unique Metaverse experience.

How to Get There

To reach the Solar Park, input the coordinates Q989+52G into Google Maps. It is located in the Saih Al Dahal region, approximately 50 km south of Dubai.

Visiting Hours

The Solar Park welcomes visitors from Saturday to Wednesday, 9 AM to 4 PM, and on Thursdays from 9 AM to 12 PM. It remains closed on Fridays and public holidays.

Entry Fee

Admission is Dh50 for adults and Dh30 for students and children over three years old. Entry is free for individuals with disabilities.

Saruq Al Hadid

The 3,000-year-old Saruq Al Hadid archaeological site, one of the oldest in the UAE, is also located within the reserve. Excavations have uncovered artifacts dating back to the Iron Age, including bronze, pottery, and weapons.

While Saruq Al Hadid is not open to the public, artifacts can be viewed at the Saruq Al Hadid Archaeology Museum in Dubai.

How to Get There

The Saruq Al Hadid Archaeology Museum is located at 136 49th Street in the Al Fahidi district of Dubai.

Visiting Hours

The museum operates from 7:30 AM to 7 PM from Monday to Thursday, and from 9 AM to 5 PM on Fridays and Sundays. It is closed on Saturdays.

Entry Fee

Tickets are priced at Dh50 for adults and Dh20 for children aged 5 to 24. Reservations can be made through the Al Shindagha Museum’s website.

Al Qudra Lakes and Others

Al Marmoom encompasses over 10 square kilometers of lakes, including the popular Al Qudra Lakes. Visitors can enjoy stunning sunrises and sunsets, as well as picnics and barbecues, provided they bring their own equipment and clean up afterward.

Other lakes in the reserve include:

• Love Lake
• Expo Lake
• Crescent Moon Lake
• Flamingo Lake

How to Get There

The D63 Al Qudra Road leads directly to Al Qudra Lakes. Accessing the other lakes may require off-roading, so ensure your vehicle is suitable for desert conditions.

Visiting Hours

The lakes are open to the public 24/7.

Entry Fee

Access to the lakes is free.

Al Qudra Cycle Track

The Al Qudra Cycle Track, recognized by Guinness World Records as the longest continuous cycling path in the world, offers a scenic ride for cyclists of all levels. The main loop spans 50 km, with a bypass route reducing the distance to 35 km. The total length, including extensions and the roadside ‘horseshoe’ route, is approximately 180 km.

While the track is open 24/7, daytime use is recommended as some sections lack nighttime illumination. Emergency phone booths are available at over 30 points along the route, which also features washrooms, rest stops, and Last Exit – Al Qudra, a vibrant area filled with food trucks and restaurants.

How to Get There

Follow Al Awir Road to access the Al Qudra Cycle Track.

Visiting Hours

The track is open 24/7.

Entry Fee

Use of the cycling track is free.

Al Marmoom Heritage Village

Al Marmoom Heritage Village is the site of the Al Marmoom Camel Race Festival and the Al Marmoom Heritage Festival. These events showcase the culture and traditions of the UAE. The Heritage Festival, held every spring from March to April, features handicrafts, local cuisine, wedding setups, and live music, highlighting Emirati lifestyle.

How to Get There

The Heritage Village is located along the Dubai-Al Ain Road (E66).

Visiting Hours

The village operates only during the spring, coinciding with events like the Al Marmoom Camel Race Festival.

Entry Fee

Entry to the Heritage Village is free, though individual attractions may charge a fee.

Al Marmoom Camel Racing Track

To experience the traditional sport of camel racing, visitors can head to the Al Marmoom Camel Racing Track on weekend mornings. Approximately 60 camels race along the dirt track, reaching speeds of 40 km/h, with their owners following in four-wheel drives. Spectators can watch from the grandstand, bringing binoculars for a closer view.

In spring, the venue also hosts the camel racing component of the Al Marmoom Heritage Festival, attracting competitors from across the region.

How to Get There

The race track is located at the Dubai Camel Racing Club, adjacent to Al Marmoom Heritage Village, accessible via the Dubai-Al Ain Road (E66).

Visiting Hours

The camel racing season runs from October to April, with races typically held from 6 AM to 9 AM on weekends.

Entry Fee

General admission is free, although fees may apply during major cultural festivals or specialized racing series.

For more information, visit www.emirates247.com.

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Published on 2026-05-30 10:42:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk