WHAT IS THE AL MARMOOM DESERT CONSERVATION RESERVE?
Spanning 10% of Dubai’s total area is the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve project, the largest unfenced nature reserve in the UAE. Spread across 40 hectares of shrub land and fertile area, the reserve is home to over 204 species of native birds, 158 species of migratory birds, and over 10km of lakes, encompassing the Al Qudra Lakes.
This public reserve is known for its sustainability initiatives and is abundant with native wildlife. It is also home to the region’s largest renewable energy project, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Solar Park. The Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve is home to 26 species of reptiles, nine mammal species, and 39 species of plants. It is a sanctuary for 19 species of endangered animals and birds and home to around 300 to 500 flamingos.
WHAT IS THE AL MARMOOM INITIATIVE?
The Al Marmoom Initiative was launched by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai at the beginning of 2018 in the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve. This initiative reflects Dubai’s goal to preserve the local environment and provide a natural habitat for threatened wildlife.
The initiative will host more than 20 environmental, cultural and sports initiatives. Some of these include 10 animal and bird observation platforms, a yoga centre, an outdoor theatre powered by a 5,000 megawatt solar power complex and the Al Marmoom Bedouin Experience supported by the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Heritage Center. The Al Marmoom Bedouin Experience is part of the initiative to preserve Bedouin culture and heritage in Dubai.