Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
24.82, 55.65 The UAE's first national reserve — protected desert with oryx and gazelles, accessible only on licensed tours.
Description
Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (DDCR) is the UAE's first national reserve, covering about 5% of the emirate's territory. It was created to preserve the fragile desert ecosystem and its inhabitants: the Arabian oryx, sand gazelles and dozens of bird species.
Access to the reserve is strictly regulated: visits are possible only as part of tours run by accredited operators — safaris, horse riding, falconry and desert dinners. This is the most respectful and 'premium' way to experience the desert near Dubai.
Tip: You can only enter with an accredited operator — independent access is closed.
Фото
Фото: Unsplash
Planning your visit
Best time
Cool season; tours at sunrise or sunset.
How much time to allow
A tour usually takes from 3–4 hours to a whole evening.
Tickets & prices
Prices are approximate and depend on the slot and conditions — check when buying.
On the map
Interactive satellite map — zoom and pan to explore the place and its surroundings.
Good to know
How to get there
Frequently asked questions about Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
What is Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve?+
The UAE's first national reserve — a protected desert with oryx and gazelles, covering about 5% of the emirate's area.
Can I enter the reserve on my own?+
No, entry is only possible as part of tours run by accredited operators — independent access is closed to preserve the environment.
What is there to do in the reserve?+
Premium safaris, horse riding, falconry and desert dinners with wildlife watching.
What's nearby
Nearby spots — easy to combine into one route.
Nature Al Lahbab Dunes (Big Red)
Big Red (Al Lahbab Dunes)The famous red Al Lahbab dunes by the road towards Hatta — the prime spot for jeep safaris, sandboarding and quad bikes.
Tip: Take a tour with a transfer from the city — there is no public transport here, and it is about an hour's drive.
Nature Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve
Al Marmoom Desert Conservation ReserveThe largest desert reserve in the UAE — dunes, lakes, wildlife and eco-friendly recreation not far from Dubai.
Tip: The focus here is eco-friendly recreation: photo safaris, wildlife and starry skies instead of noisy quad bikes.
Entertainment Global Village
Global VillageA seasonal fair-park with pavilions of countries from around the world, cuisines, crafts and rides.
Tip: The season runs from October to April. Best to arrive towards evening.
Similar places
Nature Dubai Miracle Garden
Dubai Miracle GardenThe world's largest flower garden, with millions of plants formed into arches, hearts and figures.
Tip: Open only in the cool season — from November to May.
Nature Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
Ras Al Khor Wildlife SanctuaryA wetland sanctuary within the city, where thousands of pink flamingos spend the winter.
Tip: Entry is free, and there are three observation hides with binoculars.
Nature The Green Planet
The Green PlanetКрытый биокупол с воссозданным тропическим лесом, где на нескольких уровнях живут более трёх тысяч растений и животных.
Tip: Идите снизу вверх по уровням — маршрут продуман от лесной подстилки к кронам деревьев.