Desert lakes in the UAE are exceedingly popular, garnering social media fame at a rate of knots that would make Captain Jack Sparrow jealous.
They are pearls of the dunes, and while not black like Jack’s famous vessel, they do come in all manner of hue – including crystal clear blue, green and even hot pink.
New bodies of water are being discovered all the time, and we’ve put together a list of our faves.
Here are the coolest desert lakes in the UAE. Savvy?
Expo Lake
It’s the biggest event the UAE will ever witness (probably) so it was inevitable that Expo 2020 Dubai would get its own desert lake. Spelling out Expo 2020, this carefully crafted oasis is a mega feat of engineering, and helped underline organisers’ desire for the World Fair to make a lasting impression. The best way of getting there is heading along the D63 route, past Last Exit and by turning right on the road that also leads to Al Qudra Lakes.
Love Lakes
Two interlinking hearts, running with water and cutting through the orange sand. There’s certainly something poignant about this photogenic spot in Al Qudra. A perfect spot for a romantic stroll (and an Insta snap). To find it, head along Al Qudra Road, heading right past Last Exit Al Qudra by Meraas.
Moon Lake
Stumbled upon earlier this year at the time Ramadan was announced in the UAE, Moon Lake is dubbed so for its crescent shape. Carved out just around the corner from the more established Love Lake in Al Qudra, the body of water is frequented by Arabian oryx gulping down a refreshing drink. Find it at co-ordinates 24.7874218, 55.3065662.
Pink Lake
It must have been quite a moment for the student who unearthed Ras Al Khaimah’s Pink Lake in January this year. The flushed stretch of H20 has an inimitable vibrancy to it, and is an absolute must for those who are fans of all Mother Nature’s whimsy. The pink waters can be found by just off the coast at Saraya Islands, and stretch over a 10m by 40m, so there’s room for plenty of visitors.
Plant Lake
The newest addition to this list can be found on the edge of Al Jubail Island, across from Khor Laffan in Abu Dhabi. Named for the stem-like shape is cuts through the earth, the lake shimmers in an emerald hue, likely caused by algal bloom. You’ll need a drone to get a good birds-eye-view picture, but we think it’s more than worth it.
Salt Lake
Distinct rock formations make this area of natural beauty a real hotpot for Insta fiends, but it certainly warrants the attention. Found alongside the Al Ain highway, close to Al Bihouth, the Al Wathba Long Salt Lake is characterised by mushroom-esque pillars strong enough to stand on and delicate flakes of salt that give the illusion of snow. Magical. Find it at co-ordinates. 24.1589, 54.5025.
Love nature? Check out the UAE’s most inspiring natural beauty spots by clicking here.
