The UAE is well known for its luxury, high-rise buildings, and shopping experiences. But behind this modern look is a world full of ancient natural beauty the Arabian desert. For many tourists and adventure lovers, exploring the desert is more than just dune bashing and camel rides. It’s also about discovering the fascinating desert animals of UAE that survive in one of the harshest environments on Earth.
This guide will take you through the wildlife in the UAE desert, where to find these animals, and how you can make the most of your desert safari experience by spotting them.
Why Desert Animals Are So Special in the UAE
The UAE desert might look empty at first, but it’s filled with life. From small lizards to large mammals, every creature has learned to survive in the heat, wind, and dryness of the desert.
What Makes Desert Animals Unique?
- They are highly adapted to extreme heat and lack of water.
- Many are nocturnal, meaning they are active at night when it’s cooler.
- Some have special bodies that store water or reflect sunlight.
What You’ll Love on a Safari
- Seeing rare animals in their natural homes.
- Learning about how animals survive in such tough conditions.
- Getting amazing photos and videos of wildlife in the desert.
List of Popular Desert Animals in UAE
Let’s look at the most famous animals you might spot during your safari tour.
1. Arabian Oryx
- Appearance: White body, long straight horns.
- Fun Fact: It’s the national animal of the UAE.
- Habitat: Gravel and sandy deserts.
- Why It’s Special: Once extinct in the wild, it was brought back through conservation efforts.
2. Arabian Sand Gazelle (Reem)
- Appearance: Light brown coat, slender legs.
- Behavior: Fast runners; often seen in herds.
- Habitat: Sand dunes and open deserts.
- Sight Tip: Often seen early morning or sunset.
3. Arabian Red Fox
- Appearance: Reddish fur with a white underbelly.
- Behavior: Shy and usually comes out at night.
- Habitat: Rocky and sandy areas.
- What to Know: Eats insects, small mammals, and even dates!
4. Sand Cat
- Appearance: Small wild cat with sandy-colored fur.
- Behavior: Rare and hard to spot. Nocturnal.
- Habitat: Remote desert areas.
- Interesting Note: Has fur on its feet to walk on hot sand.
5. Spiny-tailed Lizard (Dhubb)
- Appearance: Thick body, spiny tail.
- Diet: Eats desert plants.
- Habitat: Lives in burrows in rocky desert.
- Local Importance: Often seen during desert drives.
6. Camel
- Nickname: “Ship of the desert.”
- Why You’ll See It: Central to Emirati culture and part of every desert safari.
- Use: Transport, food (milk and meat), and desert tours.
7. Falcons and Other Birds of Prey
- Species: Falcons, owls, and eagles.
- Cultural Significance: Falconry is a traditional sport in the UAE.
- Best Time to Spot: During falcon shows on safaris.
Best Places to See Desert Wildlife in UAE
If you want to enjoy wildlife while on a desert adventure, these are the top places to go.
1. Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
- Details: First national park in UAE.
- Wildlife: Arabian Oryx, gazelles, foxes.
- Activities: Wildlife drives, nature walks, eco-tours.
2. Al Marmoom Desert Reserve
- Location: Dubai.
- What’s Special: Largest unfenced nature reserve in the UAE.
- Spotting Tip: Ideal for birdwatching and early morning safaris.
3. Sir Bani Yas Island (Abu Dhabi)
- Overview: A nature reserve filled with wild animals.
- Animals You Can See: Cheetahs, giraffes, hyenas, and antelopes.
- Perfect For: Families and nature lovers.
4. Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
- Location: Near Dubai Creek.
- Best For: Seeing flamingos and other migratory birds.
- Timing Tip: Visit during winter months for best birdwatching.
How to Book a Wildlife-Focused Desert Safari
When booking your desert safari in UAE, look for packages that include:
What to Look for:
- Professional guides who understand wildlife.
- Morning or evening tours, when animals are more active.
- Eco-friendly safaris that protect the environment.
Types of Safaris:
- Private desert tours for more personalized experiences.
- Overnight safaris to see nocturnal animals.
- Camel trekking tours to explore deeper into the desert.
Safari Tips: How to Spot Desert Animals
Seeing wildlife during your safari isn’t just about luck. Here are tips to improve your chances:
- Go Early or Late
Animals avoid the heat, so they are more active at sunrise or sunset. - Stay Quiet
Loud noises scare animals away. Silence is key. - Use Binoculars
Great for watching animals from a safe distance. - Wear Neutral Colors
Helps you blend into the desert surroundings. - Be Patient
Wildlife watching takes time. Enjoy the peaceful wait.
Wildlife Safety and Responsibility
Respecting the desert and its animals is important. Here’s what to remember:
- Don’t Feed Animals: It changes their behavior and can make them sick.
- Don’t Litter: Trash harms animals and ruins the environment.
- Follow Your Guide: They know how to keep you safe and not disturb nature.
- Choose Ethical Tours: Support operators that protect desert life.
Family-Friendly Desert Wildlife Adventures
Families with kids can enjoy desert safaris too! Many desert animals are safe to watch and learn about.
What Families Can Expect:
- Interactive learning: Kids can learn about animal tracks and desert survival.
- Photo-friendly moments: Great opportunities for family pictures.
- Cultural activities: Falconry shows, camel rides, and traditional meals.
Make Your Safari Experience Unforgettable
Add more meaning to your desert safari with wildlife viewing.
Why Wildlife Watching Makes Safaris Better:
- Adds a peaceful, educational aspect to your adventure.
- Perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
- Makes your trip feel more real and connected to the land.
Ready to See Desert Animals in the UAE?
If you’re ready to go beyond city life and explore the wild heart of the desert, book your desert safari today.
Start your journey with Maverick Safari UAE and see the desert like never before.
Explore our packages at mavericksafariuae.com
Final Thoughts
Desert animals in the UAE are more than just part of the landscape they are a symbol of survival, beauty, and nature’s balance. Whether it’s the strong Arabian oryx or the shy sand cat, each creature has its role in the desert ecosystem.
By booking a desert safari with a focus on wildlife, you get to experience both thrill and nature in one amazing trip. Don’t miss out on this side of the UAE it’s just as exciting as its cities, and perhaps even more magical.