Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve spans a vast section of Dubai’s southwest and protects a mosaic of dunes, wetlands, and desert habitats. Officially designated in 2018, the reserve showcases Dubai’s long-term commitment to conservation while remaining one of the city’s most accessible free outdoor experiences—ideal for families, cyclists, wildlife lovers, and sunset chasers.

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What & Where Is Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve?

Located around the Saih Al Salam area and stretching toward Al Qudra, Al Marmoom brings together man-made lakes, native desert flora, and abundant birdlife. It includes popular waypoints such as Al Qudra Lakes, Love Lake Dubai, the Al Qudra Cycling Track, and Al Marmoom Camel Race Track.

Why Visit Al Marmoom in 2026: Top Highlights

Al Qudra Lakes & Wildlife Spotting

A chain of lakes created to attract and sustain native wildlife. Expect to spot desert foxes (rare), Arabian oryx in nearby protected zones, and more than 300 bird species across seasons, including flamingos, ducks, herons, and migratory species in cooler months.
Tip: Bring binoculars and keep a respectful distance. Camping with elevated grills only is generally permitted in designated areas; no open fires on sand.

Al Qudra Cycling Track (Saih Al Salam)

A signature asphalt cycling loop (commonly ~50–86 km) weaving through dunes. You’ll see everything from beginners to serious cyclists. Start at dawn or late afternoon for gentler temperatures and magical light.
Rentals: Bike shops near Al Qudra (check availability; weekends in winter can sell out). Helmets are mandatory.

Al Marmoom Camel Race Track & Camel Experiences

One of the UAE’s iconic camel racing venues. Race mornings typically run early (around 7–9 AM) on select days in the season. Grandstands are free; binoculars help. Beyond race days, you can arrange camel rides, farm tours, and short treks with licensed operators.

Love Lake Dubai & Sunset Spots

The heart-shaped lakes framed by dunes are a favorite for sunsets, picnics, and photo ops. Stick to marked tracks, keep music low, and pack out all trash.

The Last Exit Al Qudra: Food Trucks & Facilities

A convenient stop for fuel, restrooms, basic groceries, and a rotating line-up of food trucks—perfect before or after your reserve visit.

Practical Info: Timings, Entry, Facilities & Rules

Entry, Parking & Facilities

Entry: Typically free across public areas of Al Marmoom and Al Qudra Lakes.
Parking: Sand and gravel parking bays near popular spots. Drive slowly and avoid soft sand if you’re not in a 4×4.
Facilities: Limited on-site; restrooms and food are best at Last Exit Al Qudra and selected lake hubs.

Essential Rules & Responsible Travel

No open campfires on sand; use elevated BBQs in permitted zones.
No littering—carry garbage bags and take everything back.
No off-track driving that damages vegetation or dunes.
No loud music near wildlife hot spots.
No feeding wildlife; it harms natural behavior.
Drones may require permits; check rules before flying.
Cyclists: Helmet and lights recommended; expect low lighting at night and occasional wildlife crossings.

Planning Your Visit: Best Time, How to Reach & Transport

Best Time to Visit

November to March (2026) offers the best conditions: cooler days, active birdlife, clearer skies for stargazing, and more community events.

How to Reach

By Car: Navigate toward Al Qudra Road (D63) → follow signs for Al Qudra Lakes / Love Lake. A 4×4 is useful if you plan to explore unpaved tracks, but many popular spots are reachable in standard vehicles—stick to firm surfaces.
By Taxi/Ride-Hailing: Available citywide; arrange return pickup due to limited transport back.
Public Transport: Not practical to the lakes themselves; combine metro/bus with a taxi for final approach.

Sample Itineraries

Half-Day Quick Escape

Sunrise at Al Qudra Cycling Track (short loop).
Breakfast at Last Exit Al Qudra.
Wildlife lookout at Al Qudra Lakes boardwalk areas.
Love Lake Dubai for photos before midday heat.

Full-Day Family Adventure

Morning: Camel Race Track (if race day) or a short camel ride with a licensed operator.
Midday: Picnic at shaded lake spot; quiet birdwatching.
Afternoon: Easy cycling along a short segment of the track.
Sunset: Love Lake / dune viewpoint; stargazing if skies are clear.

What to Pack for Al Marmoom (2026)

Water (plenty!) and electrolytes
Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, SPF 50+
Windbreaker (cool evenings), closed shoes
Binoculars / long lens, power bank, headlamp if staying late
Picnic setup: blanket, trash bags, elevated BBQ (if grilling)
Basic first-aid and any personal meds

Safety, Do’s & Don’ts

Tell someone your plan and share live location if exploring lesser-visited tracks.
Avoid deep sand; if stuck, do not spin tires—air down carefully if you know how, or call assistance.
Keep kids close near water edges.
Respect wildlife viewing distances.
Drive slowly; watch for cyclists and animals at dawn/dusk.

Accessibility & Family Tips

Families with strollers can use firm parking bays near main lakes.
Choose picnic spots close to paths.
There’s limited shade—bring your own canopy/umbrella.
Restrooms are mostly at Last Exit and select hubs—plan ahead.

Photography & Stargazing Tips

Golden hours (sunrise/sunset) deliver soft dune contours and reflections on the lakes.
For night skies, pick moonless evenings and turn off car lights—avoid disturbing wildlife.
Bring a tripod for low-light shots and a telephoto lens for birds.

Visa & Travel: Apply with Dubai Visa Center

Traveling from abroad? Ensure your Dubai Tourist Visa is approved before you plan your Al Marmoom day.
Apply with Dubai Visa Center for fast filing, secure processing, and end-to-end support—from documents to updates.

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Risks of DIY vs. Applying with a Trusted Service

Applying through unverified channels can lead to document errors, delays, refusals, or last-minute travel cancellations. With Dubai Visa Center, your application gets documentation review, compliance checks, and guided next steps, minimizing risk and saving time.

Disclaimer: Visa approval is solely at the discretion of UAE immigration authorities.

Final Word: Why Al Marmoom Should Be on Your Dubai List

From birdwatching at Al Qudra Lakes to dune-lined cycling and the thrill of camel racing, Al Marmoom is a rare blend of nature, culture, and family-friendly adventure—free to access and easy to plan.
Secure your visa with Dubai Visa Center, then start your 2026 desert escape.