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.
- Country
- United Arab Emirates
- Type
- Reserve
- Approx. area
- 949 km²
- Best time
- December to February
- Suggested stay
- 1 days
- Main gateway airport
- Dubai International Airport (DXB)
- Malaria
- None
Why go to 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
Best time to visit Al Marmoom
Based on average weather and wildlife seasons, the best period to visit Al Marmoom is December to February.
Winter brings migratory birds to the Al Qudra lakes and comfortable weather for walking and cycling.
Summer heat is severe; outdoor time is best limited to early morning.
| Month | Temp (°C) | Rain | Experience | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 12–24 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | peak season |
| February | 14–26 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| March | 17–30 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| April | 21–36 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| May | 26–41 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| June | 28–43 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | very quiet |
| July | 30–43 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | very quiet |
| August | 30–43 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | very quiet |
| September | 27–41 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| October | 23–36 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| November | 18–30 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| December | 14–26 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | peak season |
What you can see
Wildlife you may see in Al Marmoom includes oryx, gazelles, flamingos, foxes and birdlife.
Things to do
Getting there
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.
Trips to Al Marmoom
No trips are listed for this destination yet. Send a request and we will check with providers.
Plan by travel style
- Al Marmoom for families
- Al Marmoom for a honeymoon
- Al Marmoom for photographers
- Al Marmoom for a first safari
- Al Marmoom on a budget
- Al Marmoom for luxury travel
Compare with
- Al Marmoom vs Dubai Desert
- Al Marmoom vs Ras Al Khaimah Desert
- Al Marmoom vs Hatta
- Al Marmoom vs Liwa
- Al Marmoom vs Mleiha
- Al Marmoom vs Sir Bani Yas Island
Travelling to Al Marmoom from
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Al Marmoom?
Generally December to February. Winter brings migratory birds to the Al Qudra lakes and comfortable weather for walking and cycling.
How many days do I need in Al Marmoom?
Most visitors spend 1 to 1 days there, not counting travel days.
How do I get to Al Marmoom?
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.
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.