Conservation efforts are extensive, ongoing and scientifically thorough. Set within the countries' first National Park, this very special project has brought about the preservation and protection of delicate desert ecosystems, and their uniquely adapted flora and fauna. The DDCR is mapped into different zones; human impact is monitored and controlled, minimizing impact, ensuring unimpaired plant re-growth and areas where indigenous wildlife, and the many native and migratory birds, shelter and breed, with no interference from human interaction.
Our Field Guides are highly trained in upholding best practices while providing the very best of desert experiences; direct, personal and enlightening first-hand encounters with this desert sanctuary and all it contains.
A full-time team of researchers, assisted by universities, constantly strives to monitor the reserve and its inhabitants, establishing effective projects which ensure the future of the many species in Arabia.
Al Maha is home to over 33 mammal and reptile species, all indigenous to the Arabian Peninsula; with over 100 resident and migratory bird species sited.
The figurehead of our conservation efforts is the Arabian Oryx, (Al Maha is Arabic for the Oryx). Hunted to the brink of extinction over the 1940's-1960's the Arabian Oryx was declared "endangered" by the 1970's. Saved only by the efforts of Dubai's then Ruler, the late Sheikh Rashid, the last remaining populations were captured and trans-located to the USA, where they were bred under secure conditions.
Then in 1997, with the planning of Al Maha progressing, the then Crown Prince, now Ruler of Dubai and Prime Minister of the UAE, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, funded the first reintroduction of this symbolic animal, with the return to the wild of Al Mahas first Oryx herd, bringing back over 100 of the decedents of that group which, decades before, had started the long road back to survival in America.
Today nearly 300 Arabian Oryx, the largest free-roaming herds in Arabia, are a testament to the knowledge and care shown by our team of conservation specialists.
Numerous other species, including both Arabian and Sand Gazelles can also be easily viewed at Al Maha; whilst timid, smaller predators such as Rueppell's Fox, Arabian Red Fox, and playful Sand Cats are seen; with hosts of other mammals, including hares, and even the Ethiopian Hedgehog being spotted. Delicate and tiny footprints in the sand indicate the presence of nocturnal Gerbils and Jirds, an amazing array of lizards, 'sand-fish' and Geckos, Side-winding Vipers and the tiny Arabian Toad-Headed Agama.
Stately birds of prey, such as Ospreys, Falcons, Owls and Eagles, in addition to doves, Warblers, colourful Parakeets and the crested Hoopoe, amongst others, fill the skies with their flight and song.
Our guides can advise you on the best times of day to view particular species and are happy to accompany you to find them.
Go to the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (DDCR) website
