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Al Dosari Zoo and Game Reserve

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Al Dosari Zoo and Game Reserve (Qatar)

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The Al Dosari Zoo and Game Reserve in Al Shahaniya is the result of one man's lifelong passion, Abdullah Al Dosari, who made his private collection of animals accessible to the public. What started as a small hobby has grown into one of the most well-known private zoos in Qatar. The zoo covers a considerable area and is divided into different sections dedicated to animals from various parts of the world. Visitors can admire an impressive variety of species, including Arabian oryx (Qatar's national animal), zebras, giraffes, ostriches, and a variety of bird species in large aviaries. A special attraction is the reptile house. The zoo emphasizes creating a near-natural environment for the animals. In addition to animal viewing, the park also features other recreational opportunities such as camel riding and a playground for children. There is also a small museum that exhibits traditional Qatari artifacts and stuffed animals. The Al Dosari Zoo is a popular destination for families and school groups, offering an insight into the animal world as well as local heritage.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C181922273235363634302520
Rain mm6545000002109

📋 Practical info

📅
Best season
The cooler winter months between November and March are generally the most comfortable time for a visit, allowing you to walk outdoors without facing the extreme summer heat of Qatar.
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Best time of day
Late afternoons provide much-needed shade and lower temperatures, which typically encourages both the African animals and exotic birds to become more active and visible in their enclosures.
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Etiquette
Visitors should adhere to the reserve's guidelines regarding animal interactions. Do not offer unapproved food to the animals and ensure all trash is properly disposed of in marked bins.
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What to bring
Lightweight, breathable clothing and sun protection are highly recommended even in cooler months. A camera with a decent zoom is useful for capturing close-up shots of the colorful exotic birds.
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Getting there
Located a reasonable driving distance from Doha, the reserve is best reached by private car or taxi. Ensure you have clear directions or GPS setup, as public transport options may be limited.
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What to expect
Animal activity can vary widely depending on the heat of the day. Spend time near the shaded areas of the enclosures and patiently wait for the diverse African wildlife to make an appearance.

Geography

Coordinates
25.37890, 51.27890

Facts

  • Founded in 1980, but opened to the public later.
  • It is home to over 1500 animals.
  • The owner, Mr. Dosari, lives on the zoo grounds.
  • Owns a large collection of dromedary camels.
  • The reserve is also a center for the conservation of local species.
  • Features a special area for traditional Bedouin tents.
  • Admission is deliberately kept low to be accessible to all.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Al ShahaniyaAl Shahaniya6 km · SExplore →
Al Wabra Wildlife PreservationAl Wabra Wildlife Preservation10 km · SWExplore →
Heenat Salma FarmHeenat Salma Farm10 km · SExplore →
Al Wajbah FortAl Wajbah Fort11 km · NWExplore →
Dahl Al Misfir CaveDahl Al Misfir Cave12 km · SWExplore →
Al Sulaiteen FarmAl Sulaiteen Farm14 km · NExplore →
Rawdat RashedRawdat Rashed14 km · SWExplore →
Umm Salal MohammedUmm Salal Mohammed14 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Al Dosari Zoo and Game Reserve (1)

Sheikh Faisal Museum🏛 museum

Housed in a traditional-style fort, this immense private collection showcases everything from Jurassic fossils and Islamic art to a massive fleet of vintage cars.

🕒 Mo-Sa 09:00-18:00, Fr off

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What animals can you see at Al-Dosari Zoo?
You can find a mix of exotic animals and native wildlife species.
Is the zoo family-friendly?
Yes, it is a popular destination for families with children.
Is there a petting zoo?
Yes, there are areas where children can experience animals up close.
Is the zoo suitable for picnics?
Yes, there are designated picnic areas for visitors.
When should you visit the zoo?
Best during the cooler hours of the morning.
Al Dosari Zoo and Game Reserve: where is it located?
Al Dosari Zoo and Game Reserve is located in Qatar.
Al Dosari Zoo and Game Reserve: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Dec.
Al Dosari Zoo and Game Reserve: why is it worth visiting?
The Al Dosari Zoo and Game Reserve in Al Shahaniya is the result of one man's lifelong passion, Abdullah Al Dosari, who made his private collection of animals accessible to the public.
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