A visceral desert experience in the UAE’s Al Qudra conservation reserve
The alarm pierced through the quiet darkness of the early morning, a stark reminder that adventure waits for no one—not even the drowsy. By 5am, we were collected from our accommodation, barely awake but filled with anticipation. The journey ahead promised a day of discovery in the Al Qudra Desert, a place renowned for its stark beauty and wildlife surprises.
© Images by Hiatus.Design
An hour’s drive brought us to a meeting point where a convoy of white Toyota Land Cruiser 4x4 vehicles waited, their engines purring in readiness. After introductions and a quick safety briefing, we embarked on the first leg of the adventure: an off-road drive to catch the desert sunrise.
The rolling dunes stretched endlessly, bathed in muted hues of early morning light. Unfortunately, the haze of the day denied us the iconic sunrise we had hoped for. But standing there, coffee in hand and a handful of sweet dates to savour, we felt no disappointment. The quiet vastness of the desert had a charm all its own, the mist lending an ethereal quality to the scene.
Breakfast was a simple packed meal, yet the setting made it feel extraordinary. Sitting atop a dune, we took in the serenity of the desert while the group shared laughter and stories. The meal may have been modest, but it was fuel enough for the adrenaline that lay ahead.
What followed was a visceral, heart-pounding experience: dune bashing. Our driver, an expert at navigating the shifting sands, took us on a thrilling ride. The 4x4 climbed steep inclines, paused for a split second at the peak, and then plunged down the other side with a roar of the engine. My stomach lurched with every drop, my grip tightened with every sideways slide, and yet I couldn’t stop grinning. It was a mix of exhilaration and awe, the kind of ride that leaves your heart racing and your spirits soaring.
The excitement of dune bashing gave way to a more tranquil interlude as we arrived at Love Lake. I’d heard about this human-made oasis but wasn’t prepared for the sheer tranquillity it offered. Its interconnected, heart-shaped design was charming, but what truly caught us off guard was the wildlife. Flamingos waded gracefully along the edges of the lake, their pale pink plumage a striking contrast against the golden desert backdrop. Nearby, black swans glided serenely, their existence here a delightful surprise. I couldn’t believe such creatures thrived in this arid environment—it felt like stumbling upon a hidden treasure.
The tour ended with the drive back to my hotel, the hum of the 4x4 engine a soothing soundtrack after the day’s adventures. As the city skyline came into view, we found ourselves reflecting on the contrasts of the experience: the raw energy of the dunes, the tranquillity of the oasis, and the seamless blend of natural beauty with human ingenuity.
The Al Qudra Desert offers more than just an escape—it’s a journey that stirs the senses and leaves you in awe of the unexpected wonders that lie beyond the city. If you ever find yourself in Dubai, don’t miss the chance to explore this extraordinary landscape. It’s an experience that stays with you long after the sands have settled.
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