Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve is a protected desert area in southern Dubai, established to conserve the emirate's remaining inland habitat. It is one of the largest unfenced reserves in the region, which allows wildlife to move naturally across it.
Habitat and wildlife
The reserve covers sand desert, gravel plain and sabkha, with the native ghaf tree, acacia and desert shrubs. It supports Arabian oryx, gazelle, foxes and hares, and a range of resident and migratory birds including raptors; a lake system within the reserve attracts waterbirds. The reserve is used for research and for the reintroduction of native species.
Camel racing and recreation
The Al Marmoom camel-racing track is within the reserve, and the sport is practised there alongside the conservation programme — an arrangement that reflects the sport's heritage status. Cycling tracks, a cycling track network and a lake area provide public recreation, and there are night-time and early-morning events on the cycling and running routes.
Access and rules
Parts of the reserve are open to the public while others are closed to protect sensitive habitat. Off-road driving is restricted to defined routes, and the rules are enforced; littering and the disturbance of wildlife are prohibited, and visitors are expected to take their waste away.