The urban area rapidly expands, with many luxurious hotels, massive scenery, tall buildings, and attractive malls. Animal lovers in the city have volunteered to work in environmental conservation. These all personalities play a big role in promoting wildlife conservation programs. One big achievement is the creation of Dubai National Park, which helps to keep the environment safe.
What is Actually a National Park?
A national park is a government-managed protected area of land. National parks are usually much larger than wildlife sanctuaries and offer a wide range of recreational activities in addition to conservation. A national park is designed to protect both plants and animals. National parks are also typically larger than sanctuaries.
Dubai National Park (A Nature Reserve)
Dubai National Park, also called Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (DDCR), is a protected area in Dubai, UAE. It has unique desert sceneries like as dunes and is home to a variety of plants and animals such as the Arabian oryx, houbara bustard, and sand cat.
In 1997, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum purchased around 87 square miles of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. He got inspiration from the South African Game Reserves. The reserve was previously used to tame camels but now it is a sanctuary for native species.
Flora Species
The park contains over 6,000 different tree Species as well as stunning fields and Grasses. vast expansion like this is an advanced step toward maintaining an ecologically pleasant environment.
| Common Name | Scientific Name |
| Acacia tree | Vachellia nilotica |
| Camel thorn | Vachellia erioloba |
| Desert hyacinth | Cistanche tubulosa |
| Ghada tree | Haloxylon persicum |
| Ghaf tree | Prosopis cineraria |
| Prickly pear | Opuntia spp. |
| Saltbush | Atriplex halimus L. |
| Samr tree | Acacia tortilis |
| Oregon Semaphore grass | Pleuropogon oregonus |
| Sidr tree | Ziziphus spina-christi |
| Wormwood | Artemisia absinthium |
Dubai National Park has unique flora many of which are found only in this region. These plant species are adapted to the harsh climate of the desert of Dubai. It means these plants have Deep and tap Root System to reach water and leaves that can endure drought.
Some Benefits of Flora in Dubai National Park
Local people use some of these Flora Species to make Herbal medicines. For Example, the ghaf tree’s leaves are eaten by goats and camels, and its fruit is used for traditional medicine. Sidr fruit is edible and used in making various foods like jams.
Some flora categories are also crucial for wildlife here. Many animals rely on these plants for food and shelter. The Arabian oryx and houbara bustard make Commensalism relation with these plants. it means these animals got nourishment from them through their diet and nesting. Dubai National Park’s unique flora is essential for supporting its wildlife and maintaining the park’s ecosystem.
Fauna Species
Dubai National Park is an initiative to protect the ecosystem. You will find several animals including, the Sand Gazelle, the Statuesque Arabian Gazelle, and the Plethora. Other species include the Side-Winding Vipers, the Rueppell’s Fox, the Ethiopian hedgehog & the Curious Sand Cats. Many other animals have been added to make the park more attractive. They take special measures to protect the endangered species.
Here are the categories of Fauna present in Dubai National Park:
Mammals
Arabian oryx, Arabian gazelle, sand cat, Rueppell’s fox, Arabian red fox, Ethiopian hedgehog, Indian gerbil, golden mouse.
Birds
Houbara bustard, Egyptian vulture, lesser kestrel, Lanner falcon, peregrine falcon, flamingo, pelican, cormorant, grey heron.
Reptiles
Indian spiny-tailed lizard, desert monitor, Arabian sand boa, horned desert viper, side-winding viper, Arabian cobra.
Along with the above Species, Dubai National Park is also home to a variety of invertebrates such as spiders, scorpions, beetles, and butterflies. Here is the table of Animal Species that are commonly available in Dubai:
| Fauna | Scientific Name |
| Arabian oryx | Oryx leucoryx |
| Houbara bustard | Chlamydotis undulata |
| Sand cat | Felis margarita |
| Rueppell’s fox | Vulpes rueppelli |
| Arabian gazelle | Gazella arabica |
| Sand fox | Vulpes rueppelli |
| Ethiopian hedgehog | Paraechinus aethiopicus |
| Indian spiny-tailed lizard | Uromastyx hardwickii |
| Side-winding viper | Crotalus cerastes |
| Arabian cobra | Naja arabica |
| Horned desert viper | Cerastes cerastes |
Importance of Fauna in National Park
Fauna in Dubai National Park serves vital roles:
Balance
Seed Spread
Pest Control
Ecotourism
The park has been a source of pride for the UAE. Many creatures and species have been added to increase its appeal. Furthermore, the park’s keepers take special care of endangered animals particularly the Arabian Oryx, which was on the edge of extinction before the creation of the National Park. Plan an overnight stay at the lovely Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa to experience the feeling of an adventurous Arabian night.
You can also read: Best Water Parks in Dubai
Things To Do in Dubai National Park (For Tourists)
You may have the opportunity to see native or migratory animals and birds. Along with wildlife viewing you can also do the following things in Dubai National Park.
- Enjoy a Picnic Party
DNP provides picnic areas and facilities, making it a great place for a family outing or a peaceful lunch surrounded by nature. So, you can pack a picnic basket and enjoy a meal surrounded by natural beauty and fresh air.
- Personal and Natural Photography
National parks usually offer fantastic photo opportunities with stunning landscapes, wildlife, and natural features. If you are passionate about photography, some guided tours and workshops may be available to help you capture the park’s beauty through your camera lens.
- Participating in Educational Programs
Parks often have visitor centers or educational programs to learn about the local ecosystem, conservation efforts, and cultural heritage. It’s a great way to deepen your understanding of the natural world.
Prohibited things in Dubai National Park
Starting a fire, cooking, smoking, camping, and staying overnight in Dubai National Park is prohibited. In Dubai National Park, certain activities are strictly prohibited to ensure the safety of the environment and visitors. These prohibited activities may include starting a fire, cooking, smoking, camping, and staying overnight within the park boundaries. These rules are placed by the Dubai government to preserve the natural ecosystem and protect the park from potential hazards. Ensure you follow all park rules and regulations to protect the environment.
Tips for tourists before visiting DNP
Hiring a guide to prevent confusion on the way to the reserve is recommended. The Dubai National Park must be visited to compare moving sand dunes and the reserve’s uncommon flora.
| Entrance Fee | Timings |
|---|---|
| – Approx 3 AED for Adults – Free for Children below 5 years | 06:00 A.M – 06:00 P.M daily |
