For those that are fairly unfamiliar with the landscape of Dubai, it might seem like a desert wasteland with little to no flora/fauna. If you’ve done your fair share of exploring around the city, then you know that couldn’t be further from the truth.
The Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (DDCR) is an initiative by the UAE government to preserve and rehabilitate the desert’s natural wildlife. With attention usually focused on the thriving urban jungle, the unique outdoor environment and precious species can sometimes be forgotten. This is why so much importance has been placed on the DDCR and its essential role in the future of the desert.
The values at the heart of the conservation are; to protect the area and any habitats that can be found within (natural resources included), to allow the community to enjoy the reserve in the most sustainable and environmentally conscious way possible, to maintain the traditional activities/practices of the Emirati culture and lastly (arguably most important) to gain international recognition from the UN.
Activities include: horse riding, camel treks, archery, falconry, wildlife drives, dune smashing, sand boarding, camping, quad biking and hot air ballooning. Find out more here.
Have a look at the video below to have a peak at some of the gorgeous animals you’ll be able to see at the conservation: