Dubai

From marine experiences to winter wonderlands, Dubai offers many opportunities to meet wildlife. Dolphin Bay at Atlantis, The Palm is one of the most sophisticated dolphin habitats in the world. Spend more time with sea creatures at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, or enjoy an afternoon with penguins at Ski Dubai. You can also watch local animals in their natural habitat at Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, participate in the turtle rehabilitation project at Burj Al Arab or visit rainforest animals at The Green Planet in City Walk.

Dubai is not just a desirable hotspot for millions of tourists each year – it's the destination of choice for tens of thousands of migrating birds. In the wetlands, just metres away from the busy city, you'll find the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary. Translated as ‘Cape of the Creek,' Ras Al Khor sits at the mouth of Dubai's Creek and is among the few protected urban areas in the world. Don't miss the flamingos; they steal the show.

The Dubai desert is rich with hundreds of species of wildlife, particularly in the dedicated conservation areas. Keep an eye out for desert dwellers including Arabian oryx, gazelle and hundreds of bird species when you venture outdoors. The oryx's white body and long straight horns make a regal statement against the sand. Keep your eyes peeled for Dubai's other desert wildlife including desert foxes, geckos and lizards.

Bird-watching and falconry are Dubai's pastimes of old; the Al Qudra lakes are home to more than 170 types of bird species, including flamingos and swans. Don't miss the opportunity to experience Dubai's heritage of falconry, where these majestic birds soar through the sky and swoop down at tremendous speeds to catch game, in what is one of the most exciting sports in the region. Visit Bab Al Shams and Al Maha resorts to admire the skill and speed of both falcon and falconer.