Five Animals You Can See in Dubai – The magnificent creatures of Dubai

You cannot visit Dubai and not see a camel, or two! Camels are most likely the first animal that springs to mind while thinking about a vacation to Dubai. Referred to as "Ships of the Desert”, you will notice that camels are widely valued in the UAE and are tamed rather than wild animals. In fact, Emiratis are proud as camels have historically been utilised not only as a mode of transportation but also as a source of sustenance for their flesh and milk. Another fascinating fact is that their hair may be braided for cover and is considered a kind of status and cash symbol. Exploring desert safaris stands out as a key experience in Dubai, offering you the opportunity to partake in camel rides, a quintessential activity of the region!

Another animal that is hugely respected in Dubai would be the falcon. Falconry was an important element of Bedouin life, and to this day, the culture lives on. Falconry is largely still regarded as a valuable talent, even among the younger generation. There are several options for having a Falcon encounter around Dubai. Many desert camps also offer falcon experiences!

A member of the Bovidae family of antelopes, this animal is the national animal of the UAE. Its long and straight horns form a distinguishing shoulder hump, which is how this animal is recognised. Their white coat is comprised of glossy hairs that extend to their legs and turn brown. As a herbivore, the Arabian Oryx diet consists of buds, roots, fruits and tiny plants. During your stay at a property such as Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort, sign up for an early morning safari to see these amazing creatures!

This species is widespread in the Arabian and Syrian deserts. The two varieties of gazelles found in the Dubai desert are the Mountain Gazelle and the Arabian Sand Gazelle. Interestingly, the former likes mountain slopes, whereas the latter prefers lowlands. After the Oryx, the other animal to dominate the lands would be the famous Arabian Sand Gazelles. Unfortunately, the Arabian Sand Gazelle population has recently declined to just a few hundred, although they may still be found in parts of Oman, Turkey, and a few other countries.

The Spiny-tailed Lizards will no doubt capture the attention of the kids that love their reptiles. Mainly found in the desert, the Spiny Tailed Lizard, also known as ‘dhub’ locally, is the most common desert reptile. These critters gained their name and notoriety from their spiky tails, which also serve as their primary defence mechanism against predators in the wild! Their vibrant colours and unique behaviours make them a fascinating subject for both nature enthusiasts and curious minds alike. Observing the Spiny-tailed Lizards' intricate interactions with their harsh environment provides a valuable lesson in adaptation and survival.