The United Arab Emirates (UAE) not only boasts stunning skyscrapers and ultra-modern cities, but also a surprising array of wildlife. From the rugged mountains of Ras Al Khaimah to the vast expanses of the Arabian Desert and the warm coastal waters of the Persian Gulf, the UAE hosts diverse ecosystems supporting a variety of fascinating species. In this journey through the UAE's wildlife wonders, let's explore three remarkable animals: the elegant Arabian oryx, the resilient spiny-tailed lizard and the gentle dugong.
Arabian oryx: The majestic desert wanderer
The Arabian oryx is a true symbol of survival and elegance in harsh deserts. Distinguished by its white coat, slender legs and long, graceful horns, the Arabian oryx is perfectly adapted to the extreme temperatures and dry conditions of the UAE. Once declared extinct in the wild, this beautiful animal has made an extraordinary comeback due to successful conservation programs in the region. Today, they roam freely in areas like the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve and Sir Bani Yas Island.
Arabian oryx live in small herds and are well-adapted to find food in an environment with limited resources. They feed on grasses, herbs and roots, surviving on minimal water intake by deriving moisture from their diet. The Arabian oryx's ability to withstand the arid conditions of the desert makes it an emblem of resilience and strength. In June 2011, the Arabian oryx was relisted as vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. This is the first time the IUCN has reclassified a species as vulnerable after it had been listed as extinct in the wild.
Two Arabian oryxes lock horns. /CFP
Spiny-tailed lizard: The master of survival
The spiny-tailed lizard is one of the most distinctive reptiles found in the UAE. Known for its thick, spiky tail and squat body, this lizard is a true desert survivor. These lizards are typically found in rocky or sandy habitats, where they dig extensive burrows to escape the intense heat of the desert sun. These burrows also protect them from predators, helping them thrive in challenging conditions.
Spiny-tailed lizards feed mainly on grasses and plants that grow in the desert. They are uniquely adapted to conserve water, absorbing moisture from their food and minimizing loss through their skin. The spiky tail, which gives them their name, serves as a defense mechanism, warding off predators with sharp, whipping movements. Despite their fierce-looking appearance, spiny-tailed lizards are shy and prefer to flee rather than fight.
A spiny-tailed lizard arches its back and raises head under the sun in the United Arab Emirates. /CFP
Dugong: The peaceful grazer of the gulf
While much of the UAE's wildlife can be found in its deserts and rocky mountains, its coastal waters also teem with fascinating marine creatures. One of the most iconic marine animals found here is the dugong, a gentle herbivorous mammal that lives in the shallow waters of the Persian Gulf. Dugongs are sometimes referred to as "sea cows" due to their grazing habits, as they feed on the underwater seagrasses that grow in the warm coastal waters. They are thought to have inspired myths of mermaids and fairytales.
The dugong population in the UAE is one of the largest in the world, and they are often spotted in Abu Dhabi's coastal areas, such as the Marawah Marine Biosphere Reserve. Dugongs are vulnerable to threats such as habitat degradation, boat strikes and entanglement in fishing nets. Conservation efforts, including protected marine areas and awareness campaigns, aim to preserve these gentle grazers and ensure that the UAE's waters remain a haven for marine life.
A male dugong feeds on seagrass with fish around. /CFP
BRICS' wildlife wonders
The BRICS nations span vast and diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to arid deserts. Within these ecosystems lies a treasure trove of wildlife, much of which is unique to these regions. Join us on a journey to explore the extraordinary biodiversity of the BRICS countries.
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BRICS' Wildlife Wonders: Brazil
BRICS' Wildlife Wonders: India
BRICS' Wildlife Wonders: Republic of South Africa
BRICS' Wildlife Wonders: Saudi Arabia
(Cover designed by CGTN's Li Wenyi and Yu Peng)