When one thinks of the UAE or Dubai, we imagine gold plated Mercedes, gold bar vending machines and cheetahs in Porsches and on leashes. Yes, there is the over-the-top towering skyscrapers (where the poop is trucked out), opulent malls, and indoor skiing that make climate change activist cringe. Don’t be distracted by the nonsense: from rugged mountains to tranquil oases, the UAE is home to a diverse array of ecosystems that showcase the country’s rich biodiversity and offer a sanctuary for both wildlife and weary urbanites seeking solace in nature.