Zakher Lake is a man-made lake in Al Ain that’s become a favourite outdoor spot for both residents and visitors. It’s known for its quiet setting, wide-open views of the desert, mountains and relaxed atmosphere. Whether you’re planning a picnic, taking photos or just looking for a peaceful spot not far from the city, it’s a great place to visit. Let’s learn more about Zakher Lake and the activities you can enjoy here.
Overview
Zakher Lake is a man-made lake created from treated water, now surrounded by desert and dunes. It’s a quiet, undeveloped spot that draws families, off-roaders, campers and anyone looking for a peaceful break outdoors.
Some people call it Zakher Pools, Tilapia Lake, Quad Lake or even Sand Dune Lake. These names reflect the diverse group of people who enjoy the place, ranging from bird watchers and families to campers and off-road enthusiasts.
It’s also a convenient stop for those travelling between Al Ain and Abu Dhabi, with easy access from the truck road. The cooler months are the best time to visit, especially if you’re planning a picnic or an overnight camp.
Location
Zakher Lake is in the Zakher area of Al Ain, roughly a 30-minute drive from the city centre. You’ll need to take the Abu Dhabi–Al Ain Truck Road (E30), then follow the signboards toward Zakher. The lake is near the edge of the desert, not far from Jebel Hafeet.
How to Get There
There are three main ways to reach Zakher Lake. Here, you can find out which route works best for you and whether it’s better to go by Abu Dhabi public transport or by car.
By Car
The most convenient and affordable way to reach Zakher Lake is by car. It takes only about 25 minutes from Al Ain city, making it the quickest option compared to taxis or public transport.
By Taxi
Travelling by taxi is also a good option if you don’t have the convenience of your car. You can book one through the Abu Dhabi Taxi app or use services like Arabia Taxi LLC. The distance from Al Ain city to Zakher Lake is around 23 km and takes about 25 minutes, so the fare is usually quite reasonable.
By Bus
Travelling by bus may not be the most straightforward option, as Zakher Lake is located outside residential areas. Still, there are a couple of ways to get there. One option is Bus 990, which runs between Souq Al Maqam West and Ain Al Faydah.
While it doesn’t stop directly at the lake, you can get off at Ain Al Faydah and take a taxi, it’s around an 11-minute drive. If you’re coming from Dubai, take the E303 or E306 intercity bus to Al Ain Central Bus Station. From there, you’ll need to take a local bus or a taxi to reach Zakher Lake.
Things to Do
There are plenty of things you can plan for a fun and peaceful day at Zakher Lake. You can choose what suits you best, depending on your interests or whether you’re visiting with family or just hanging out with friends.
1. Bird-Watching
You can spot a wide variety of native and migratory birds here, which makes it a popular spot for visitors, especially families with children. Ducks, waders, herons, flamingos, and stilts are among the most commonly seen. If you enjoy nature and bird-spotting, it’s a great place to bring binoculars and take in the peaceful surroundings.
2. Plan a Picnic
There’s plenty of space around the lake to enjoy a simple meal outdoors. Whether you’re with family or friends, it’s a nice change from the usual city parks—quiet, open and surrounded by nature. Just choose your spot carefully and try to avoid the sandy patches or uneven ground, as they can be a bit tricky to settle on.
3. Enjoy BBQ
Bring your grill and supplies for a casual barbecue by the lake. It’s a popular weekend activity, especially in winter, when the weather is cool and perfect for cooking outdoors.
4. Camping
Zakher Lake is a favourite for light camping. You can pitch a tent near the water or in one of the sandy areas nearby. It’s peaceful at night and ideal for stargazing, as there’s little light around.
5. Capture the Perfect Sunrise
Charge your camera, shine your lens and then head to Zakher Lake. Whether you want to capture the sunrise, the perfect golden hour glow, or just some fun and memorable moments with your loved ones, the views at Zakher are well worth shooting.
6. Dune Bashing
This one’s a bit of a thrill. The area around Zakher Lake is open desert, making it a popular spot for off-roaders looking to enjoy a quick drive over the dunes. If you have a 4×4 and some experience, you can explore the sandy patches nearby before settling down at the lake. Just make sure to drive safely and avoid going too close to the water or soft ground.
Facilities
Zakher Lake offers only basic facilities, so it’s best to come prepared. There are a few shaded areas and picnic tables where you can sit and enjoy a meal, along with some open spots suitable for setting up a barbecue.
The area around the lake is mostly natural, so there are no cafes, shops or restaurants nearby. You’ll also need to bring your essentials and other supplies. Most of the road is paved, but if you’re planning to camp or get closer to the water, a 4×4 might be useful as parts of the terrain are sandy. There are no lifeguards or swimming facilities as it is prohibited. The lake is better suited for relaxing and other outdoor activities rather than getting in the water.
Nearby Attractions
If you’re planning a longer day out, there are plenty of places to explore near Zakher Lake. From mountain views and heritage sites to family-friendly parks and cultural spots, there are many things to do in Al Ain.
Most attractions are within a half-hour drive or less, making it easy to combine your lake visit with a few other stops in the city.
- Al Ain Oasis: 28-minute drive
- Al Jahili Fort: 29-minute drive
- Al Ain Zoo: 30-minute drive
- Jebel Hafeet and Beehive Tombs: 31-minute drive
FAQs
Zakher Lake is a man-made lake not too far from Al Ain, around 12 km west of Jebel Hafeet. It’s easy to get to if you’re driving along the Abu Dhabi–Al Ain Truck Road.
There’s actually a lot to enjoy at Zakher Lake. For instance, you can watch birds, have a picnic, fire up a BBQ, go camping, take photos, enjoy a walk, or just relax by the water and look at the stars. It’s a great place for a peaceful day out.
You’ll find some basic things like shaded picnic tables and parking. But there aren’t any restrooms, shops, or cafes nearby, so it’s best to bring whatever you need with you.
If you’re looking for a peaceful outdoor spot with a bit of adventure, Zakher Lake is worth checking out. It’s quiet and offers great views of the desert and mountains. You can enjoy a picnic, spot birds, take photos, or even camp overnight. Whether you’re living in Al Ain or visiting the area, Zakher Lake is a great place to take a break and enjoy the outdoors.
Check out more exciting places to visit in Al Ain and plan your next day out.
