Golden sand dunes, swirling dust, windy open landscapes, these are some of the words that come to one’s mind when we hear the word desert. But what about all the wildlife that stays hidden in this mysterious dwelling? Surprising as it may sound, the Arabian deserts are home to some of the most diverse animals. Abu Dhabi is no exception.
From the Arabian Oryx to the Hyrax, the creatures of the wild are many and indigenous to this arid land mass. The caracal is a desert wildcat, a tough predator that can jump up to three meters high to catch its prey, be it even birds in midflight. Dugong or the sea cow, a sole plant feeder is found in large numbers in the Bu Tinah Island. Roaming the desert in herds are the Arabian Oryx while ruling the skies is the Saker Falcon. The Arabian Tahr is another creature that is found only in these areas. Unfortunately these goat-like mammals have been greatly reduced in number because of illegal hunting.
Sand cats are another group of feline desert animals. Equipped with wide hairy paws they can walk nimbly even on the most burning hot sands. If you come across an animal that looks like a cat and yet like a fox, don’t be alarmed. It is the Blandford’s fox, an enigmatic animal of the Arabian mountains. Camouflaged well within the sands are the Dune Sand Geckos. Other bird species include the world’s largest flamingos, the Greater Flamingo, Socotra Cormorant and Pharaoh eagle-owl. Interestingly the Hawksbill turtle is also indigenous to UAE waters.
Just because you are on a safari in the desert does not mean that you have to camp out. While night tents under the open sky is available for those who desire it Abu Dhabi hotels situated amidst these deserts are a viable option. These are not mere lodging structures offering the most basic requirements; Abu Dhabi luxury hotels are in a class of their own. If you are looking for one of these sumptuous accommodations then drop in at the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara. Built in one of the world’s largest deserts, the Liwa desert, it’s an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
