Al Maha
A world away from the bustling and ever-developing city of Dubai, Al Maha offers a tranquil retreat that still retains much of its traditional Bedouin values. It is located at the heart of the gleaming Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, which was established in 2004 as an initiative to reintroduce the lush fauna that is synonymous with exotic desert oases. Since then, the desert has been brought to life, transformed by an array of diverse animal species. A large number of these were donated to the reserve by Dubai's ruler, Sheikh Mohammed, and are an intriguing addition to these wild plains.
Al Maha is often described as "Dubai's Precious Green Jewel" due to the vivid green plants that surround it. The destination is the perfect hub to observe the rare desert dwellers as they come to graze and seek shade from the scorching sun. The sandy landscapes call for exploration, either on foot or on a sure-footed camel, enticing travelers to re-live the journeys of the ancient Bedouin people.
Experiences
A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.
Desert Drive
For an exhilarating and blood-pumping activity, travelers can opt for a desert drive in a 4X4. Racing up giant sand dunes and across vast open plains is a thrilling experience and unique way to explore the desert. It also offers the opportunity to spot the indigenous wildlife and also stop and relax in an unspoilt and natural setting.
Falconry
The majestic falcon has been ingrained in Arabian culture since the 13th century BC and falconry was an art used by the local Bedouin. Visitors can witness exciting falconry displays within the vast openness of the desert and watch as they soar effortlessly through the brilliant blue sky.
Horse Riding
Al Maha offers the opportunity to ride into the setting sun, over pleated sand dunes on beautiful Arabian horses. These horses originate from this part of the world and have been used transportation purposes, even carrying the Bedouin Nomads across the deserts. They are known for their elegant movements and will glide over the desert sands with extraordinary grace.
Trekking
A great way to explore the expansive desert environment is to cross its dusty surface on foot. Visitors can escape to an area of blissful solitude where the only sounds that can be heard are the warm wind and the steady footfall of four-footed creatures. Trekking within the desert is also a prime opportunity to catch glimpses of the array of different birds and animals that inhabit the reserve.
UAE Regions
Explore in-depth information, experiences and highlights by navigating to specific regions using the links below on the right.
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Why Remote Lands?
Exclusively Asia
With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, in the continent that our north American founders Catherine and Jay have adored and explored for decades, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
Travelogues
An Asia-focused magazine brought to you by Remote Lands - a platform for adventure, luxury, and authenticity from experts and explorers around the continent.
Sands of Time: In Search of the Old UAE
- Author
- Jay Tindall
After spending some time in the most infamous of UAE cities, Dubai and Abu Dhabi, I felt it time to take a better look at what lays outside these soaring modern landscapes and see if I could discover some worlds of old.
Dubai and Beyond: The UAE Opens to Travel
- Author
- Travelogues
With the exception of Abu Dhabi, the United Arab Emirates is open to travelers around the globe and this Middle Eastern treasure has more to offer than first meets the eye.
The Oryx of Arabia: Back from the Brink
- Author
- Travelogues
Lost in a maze of dunes and modernity is wildlife, creatures that live a life in search of an oasis –
animals like the majestic oryx.
What Others Say
Here is a small selection of the kind words our clients have said about us recently.
A couple from Quebec
We had a fabulous time in China. This was our second trip with Remote Lands...We received extraordinary service because of your introductions and behind-the-scenes monitoring.
