The Dubai Desert Reserve is a protected area designated to preserve the natural desert ecosystem in Dubai, and extends over about 4.7% of the total area of the Emirate of Dubai, and includes 225 square kilometers of sand dunes interspersed with plains of gravel, and this reserve is a member of the International Union for Conservation of Nature. It has received international recognition from the United Nations Environment Program and is home to 57 species of plants, more than 120 birds and 43 mammals and reptiles, including the famous Arabian Oryx.