BEYOND THE SKYLINE

Unveiling Dubai's Natural Beauty.

- By Dr. Jyoti Sharma

Whenever we think of Dubai, the image that comes to mind is of a desert city transformed into a modern, bustling metropolis — where skyscrapers pierce the horizon, adventure sports thrill the daring, luxury cars glide through a maze of gleaming roads, gold is a common commodity, and opulence is the ultimate aspiration for the wealthy and the newly affluent. The city's glittering skyline and futuristic architecture have earned it a reputation as a hub of modern luxury and artificial marvels.

But is Dubai only full of artificial splendour, or is there a hidden natural gem often overlooked by the general tourist? During my recent trip to Dubai, I resolved to explore some of its natural marvels — and they turned out to be breathtakingly beautiful!

AI Qudra Lakes

We drove for about 30 minutes from the city center, crossing vast stretches of Dubai's desert landscape, to reach the man-made AI Qudra Lakes. Along the way, we were lucky to spot a few wild camels wandering through the sands. The impressive natural beauty immediately presented a striking contrast to the city's urban sprawl and architectural marvels. Located within the AI Marmoom area, we found it to be a haven for nature lovers, bird watchers, and anyone seeking a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Early mornings and late afternoons are particularly magical, as the sun casts a golden glow over the water and dunes, creating magnificent views.

We found that, despite its artificial origins, the area has blossomed into a thriving ecosystem, attracting numerous species of birds, including flamingos, swans, ducks, herons, and even some migratory species. The presence of these birds, along with native wildlife such as desert foxes and oryx, has turned Al Qudra into an important spot for biodiversity in the region.