Birdlife
Several lakes and varied birdlife make this a strong birdwatching and photography spot, especially in winter.
Al Marmoom Conservation Reserve
Mugatrah
In Mugatrah, Al Marmoom Conservation Reserve brings together desert, scrub and lakeside habitats for quiet walks, birdwatching and wildlife spotting. Reviews also describe bookable desert safaris with dune bashing, camel rides and traditional camp activities.
Reputation Score
4.5
★★★★★
197 ratings
Source: Google Maps
The Good Stuff
Wildlife
Visitors have reported spotting Arabian oryx, gazelles, a desert fox and even MacQueen's Bustard.
Desert Safari
The safari can include calm, traditional activities such as camel rides, falcon photos, Arabian coffee and dune drives.
Stargazing
A safari stay included stargazing where guests said they saw Saturn and Jupiter.
Cycling Tracks
The reserve has reported cycling tracks stretching about 80km, useful for riders wanting a longer outing.
Picnic Spot
Reviews describe plenty of space for picnics, hiking, reading and brewing coffee away from the city.
Horse Activities
The onsite horse experience can include feeding and riding horses alongside coffee and dessert.
Tips for a Better Visit
Arrive Early. Reach before sunrise for the best chance of seeing the sunrise and flamingoes in flight.
Check Opening. Confirm cafe opening hours and availability before the drive; one visitor found it opened at 4pm and was fully booked.
Use Gas Station. If your map points elsewhere, follow the route towards the gas station, which reviewers identify as the right way.
Pack Supplies. Bring picnic gear if you plan to stay, and take firewood for overnight camping; clean up afterwards.
Choose Winter. Winter is the most consistently recommended season for comfortable visits and bird sightings.
Check Vehicle. Ask about the route and vehicle needed before heading to the dunes, as one review says an off-roader is needed.
Plan the visit
Practical details
Mugatrah - Dubai
Mugatrah, Dubai
Popular Mentions
Dune bashing
Dune bashing is described as exciting while still feeling safe during a guided safari.
Camel riding
Camel riding is one of the hands-on activities reviewers enjoyed during the desert experience.
Glamping domes with private pool and yard
The glamping domes were praised for their private pool and yard, with dinner arranged outside.
Common Concerns
Loud Music
Picnic and camping areas have been disrupted by people playing loud music late into the night.
Unclear Access
One visitor drove for an hour each way, then found the cafe fully booked and opening only at 4pm.
Wrong GPS
The mapped location has reportedly led visitors the wrong way; the gas-station direction is described as correct.
Litter
Reviews mention litter left around the reserve, along with concerns about careless driving and off-leash dogs.
Crowding
The area can become lively and crowded during winter, weekends and holidays.
Customer-reported prices
These are customer-reported mentions, not a current price list. Prices may have changed.
75aed per person
visit the coffeeshop
“If you want to visit the coffeeshop , you have to pay 75aed per person which will include coffee and some desert”Google review · April 2025
DXB
LOCAL
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The Bottom Line
Al Marmoom Conservation Reserve in Mugatrah is a large desert-and-lakes setting for birdwatching, wildlife spotting, picnics and quieter time outdoors. Reviews mention Arabian oryx, gazelles, a desert fox and MacQueen's Bustard, while the lakes attract bird photographers and visitors looking for sunrise views. Winter is the strongest season in the feedback, though the area can become crowded on weekends and holidays.
There is more here than self-guided nature time. Booked desert safari experiences can include dune bashing, camel riding, falcon photographs, traditional attire, Arabian coffee, camp performances and Emirati luqaimat. One premium safari also included dinner and stargazing, with guests reporting views of Saturn and Jupiter.
Other reviews mention glamping domes with private pools and yards, a horse stable and a coffee shop. Plan the logistics carefully. Google Maps has reportedly shown the wrong location; reviewers say to head towards the gas station.
Check cafe hours and booking before making the long drive, since one guest arrived to find it fully booked and opening at 4pm. A coffee-shop visit was reported at 75 AED per person, including coffee and dessert. Loud music, litter and careless camping have spoiled the peace for some visitors, so this is not always the silent nature escape you might expect.