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See uromastyxin Dubai, United Arab Emirates

#72of 81 things to doin Dubai

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Walking through the desert Rub-al-Khali, try to find this reptile. You will recognize it by yellow color and a thick, spiked tail.
How to see uromastyx in Dubai
Near Dubai in the Rub 'al Khali Desert, in spite of the harsh climate and lack of water sources, it is full of reptiles such as geckos, snakes, toads and lizards. The most common inhabitant is an uromastyx - a 75-centimeter lizard with a small flattened head, massive legs and a short tail covered with thorns.

Uromastyx, Dubai
Photo: Uromastyx not far from Dubai, © Abdullah Al Amrou

Interesting facts


• Life expectancy is 80 years.
• Meat is considered to be a delicacy for many nations of the Persian Gulf.
• Perfectly adapted to live in the desert, satisfied with a minimum of food and months without water.

How to do?

1. To get to one of the largest deserts in the world from Dubai, rent a car and drive along the E11. Your road runs through Abu Dhabi. Take the E45 for Tarif Liwa Road on Abu Dhabi Tarif Road. You will pass through Madinat Zayed. At the circle turn onto Hamim Arada Road / E90 and drive to the Liwa oasis. It is located on the very outskirts of the desert.

2. Of course, an uromastix won`t come out to meet you, knowing that you have come, so be all eyes. Take binoculars with you - most likely, you will notice the uromastix at a distance, looking out from behind bushes or stones. In any case, if you want to watch it, try not to make noise.

Where to do?

#1Rub' al Khali desert in DubaiRub' al Khali desert

Dangerous, unbearably hot climate, constant lack of water and endless tons of sand, stretching for hundreds of kilometers.

Tips and hints

In summer, in the desert the temperature reaches 50°, and in winter - "just" 30°.

Be sure to put on a hat or tie an Arab headscarf on your head and do not forget about the water.

Reviews

Guest19 March 2025

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Photo credit © Michael R. Reilly