Teacher : Mrs Mononita Chatterjee

Pre-read for master class

Volume 3- Lesson 5

Economic Geography of UAE

Learning Intention
To understand the impact of artificial geographical and topographical
features on the economy of the UAE.

Success Criteria

• Understand the location and importance of Al Qudra Lake

• Evaluate the impact of artificial geography.
• Assess the challenges faced by artificial geography and its impact on
climate.
 Topography and ecosystems

• The UAE is largely an arid

land with vast sand deserts, but
is also characterised by sand
dunes, oases, rock mountains,
valleys, marshes and
mangroves and salt plains.
• The oases are mostly of date
palms; most oases are located
in the emirate of Abu Dhabi.
• Along the eastern borders
are the Hajjar Mountains that
run north-south. These
mountains are complemented
by valleys (called wadis in Arabic). The wadis are usually dry. However,
in cooler months when it rains, they flourish with brooks and pools.
• Mangroves (called qurms in Arabic) form an integral part of the marine
ecosystem.
• Salt plains (called sabkhas in Arabic) are also a common feature. The
present-day sabkha started to form some 4000 years ago.

UAE’S NATURAL WONDERS

In July 2018, Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE)

launched a three-phase national project titled ‘The UAE’s Natural Wonders’.
The project aims to promote ecotourism across the seven emirates and to
position the UAE as a leading ecotourism hub.

The first phase of the project raises awareness about the UAE’s 43 nature
reserves, which make up 14 per cent of the UAE’s territory.
To compile the material, MoCCAE teams travelled across 2,700 km and shot
380 hours of footage on the ground, as well as 350 hours using drones.

The ministry intends to collaborate with travel agencies and airlines to

include these sites in their promotional packages for the UAE.

The next phase of the project will include the UAE's mountains and sea.
Natural and Artificial Geography?

Geographic features are features of the Earth,

natural or not. Natural geographical features
consist of landforms and ecosystems. For
example, terrain types (physical factors of
the environment) are natural geographical
features. Conversely, human settlements or
other engineered forms are considered types
of artificial geographical features.

Natural Geographic feature Artificial Geographic feature

UAE- MAN MADE TOPOGRAPHY

• The United Arab Emirates became a pioneer in human made

topography. Dubai is well-known as the unparalleled architect of
nature.
• Numerous artificial geographic features were built as authentic parts
of the land, islands, lagoons and conservations create a robust
ecosystem for better living.
• Palm Jumeirah is the world's largest artificial archipelago. Dubai uses
desalination plants to make freshwater for irrigation, and because of
this the city has many trees, gardens, and even golf courses.
• The World" is an archipelago of 300 islands which are arranged to
resemble a map of the Earth's continents. The idea is that each of
these islands will be themed to correspond to a different country or
region.
AL QUDRA LAKE- THE MAN -MADE DESERT OASIS

Whether its a long weekend or just a routine getaway from the city, Al
Qudra Lake has become a favourite recreation spot for the residents of
Dubai. This desert oasis offers a convenient escape from the city along
with a variety of fun activities that ensures you get the time to unwind
and enjoy yourself. If you’re a fan of the outdoors, Al Qudra Lake is a
destination you shouldn’t miss out on.

ABOUT AL QUDRA LAKE

Al Qudra Lake is a man-made desert oasis that was built to promote eco-
tourism in Dubai. It comprises of multiple artificial lakes, surrounded by
sand dunes and fauna. The attraction gained popularity in 2015 for its
authentic desert vibe and seclusion.

It is also called LOVE LAKE and the design of the Love Lake resembles
intrerlacing hearts. The word “love” in the Love Lake is made out of
trees.

Initially, just a camping spot, this part of Al Qudra Desert has expanded
to include a range of activities that offer visitors the chance to explore
the wilderness and all that it offers. Al Qudra Lake also remains popular
among campers and ranks among the best BBQ spots in Dubai. We
wouldn’t be surprised if you want to pack up your barbeque gear and
head out to this man-made desert oasis for the upcoming weekend –
there is plenty that awaits you!

AL QUDRA LAKE LOCATION

Al Qudra is located right on along the Al Qudra Road (D63), less than an
hour’s drive away from Dubai. Al Qudra Road can be easily accessed via
Dubai Al Ain Road (E66) or Emirates Road (E611), depending on which
way you are coming from.

Al Qudra Lake’s location is quite easy to find . Each of the Al Qudra

attractions is clearly marked on Google Maps, which makes it easy to
find. Do keep in mind, there will be a bit of off-roading involved so it’s
better take a 4-wheel drive just to be on the safe side.

THINGS TO DO AT AL QUDRA LAKE

If you have a day or the weekend to spare, here are some of

the activities at Al Qudra that you can enjoy while the weather is still
pleasant.

ADMIRE THE WILD LIFE

There are over 180 native bird species and animals in Al Qudra Desert.
Although this is a man-made attraction, the Al Qudra lakes act as a
natural habitat for the wildlife.

More than 300 Shovelers and 400 Cormorants migrated to Al Qudra lake
from Central Asia and Northern Europe.

The lakes are a safe habitat either for migratory birds or resident ones.

The popular Indian Moorhen made the lakes its new home.

Other common bird species live there as well, such as bulbuls, doves,
plovers, sand-pipers, bee-eaters, lapwings and herons.
 Love Lake -Al Qudra

This man-made desert oasis is definitely a must-visit place if you are

someone who loves outdoor activities in Dubai. Even though there are
certain camping and barbequing restrictions, there is so much more to
do at Al Qudra. So head over to the Al Qudra Lakes with friends or
family and enjoy a fun day at Dubai’s most iconic desert attraction.

Eco tourism in Dubai is still a relatively new concept. However, the

initiative has resulted in some spectacular nature-rich destinations for
people to explore