Desert popups in AI Marmoom a big hit among residents

The AI Marmoom area near Qudra lakes has become very popular and busy with pop-up eateries, camping locations and even a film festival. For many residents, it offers an escape from the busy bustle of the city with its calm and peaceful environment.

- Nasreen Abdulla

Dubai-resident Sadia Anwar headed to the area after seeing videos of the place on Instagram. "Some of my friends had gone and the way they described it, I knew I would like it," she said. "So I took my 10-year-old daughter and we had a little mother-daughter evening out. It was my first time in the area and I loved it."

She said what she enjoyed the most was the peace and quiet. "We spent about two hours there, just chatting with each other and enjoying the nature," she said. "We walked along the lake and then then went to have a coffee and snacks at the Limited café. Usually cafes get noisy but this was calm and very relaxing. I know there are some other pop ups there as well."