Al Marmoom on a budget

Al Marmoom is one of the best choices on a budget.

Suitability: ★★★★★

Al Marmoom covers almost 23% of the Emirate of Dubai and is described by Dubai Municipality as its largest protected area. It has 258 recorded bird species plus Arabian oryx, sand gazelle and Arabian gazelle, and is known for the Al Qudra lakes.

Why Al Marmoom on a budget?

• Shared tours and mid-range lodging are available.
• Travelling by road instead of flying in keeps costs down.

What awaits you in Al Marmoom

• Largest protected area in the Emirate of Dubai, about 949 km²
• Al Qudra lakes and their waterbirds, including flamingos
• Eight bird hides built by Dubai Municipality
• Arabian oryx and sand gazelle in an unfenced setting
• The long Al Qudra desert cycle track

Wildlife you may encounter: oryx, gazelles, flamingos, foxes and birdlife.

Suggested time on the ground: 1 to 1 days. Reached only by car from Dubai in about an hour, as no bus or metro serves it, and some spots need a short sand drive. The reserve is unfenced and open to visitors year-round.

Activities that fit

birdwatching.

When to go

The best period overall is December to February.

Winter brings migratory birds to the Al Qudra lakes and comfortable weather for walking and cycling.

Other destinations on a budget

• Al Areen Bahrain
• Dubai Desert United Arab Emirates
• Sharqiya Sands Oman
• Hatta United Arab Emirates
• Mleiha United Arab Emirates
• Edge of the World Saudi Arabia

Full Al Marmoom guideBest safaris on a budget

No trips are listed for this destination yet. Send a request and we will check with providers.

Sources: Visit Dubai – Al Marmoom Reserve · Dubai Municipality – Dubai protected areas · Weather Spark – Al Ain climate (inland UAE reference) · Weather Spark – Dubai climate
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.