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Emirates Park Zoo
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kid-friendly
Emirates Park Zoo is located in Al Bahyah, approximately 35 kilometers northeast of Abu Dhabi city, and opened in 2008 as the first private zoo in the United Arab Emirates. The facility was designed with a focus on providing an interactive and educational environment for families. The zoo is home to more than 1,700 animals, including white tigers, Siberian bears, giraffes, and elephants. A unique feature of the park is the level of interaction allowed; visitors can participate in supervised animal feedings, which is particularly popular with the giraffes and elephants. Attached to the zoo is the Emirates Park Resort, offering guests the chance to stay in chalets overlooking the animal enclosures. The institution places a strong emphasis on educational programs for students to raise awareness about animal welfare and biodiversity. Through continuous expansion, the park has evolved from a small petting zoo into a comprehensive zoological facility.
- Location: United Arab Emirates
- Top sights: Al Bahia Open Beach · Wonderland Paintball · Ladies Beach
- Nearby: Saadiyat Island (26 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 20 | 21 | 23 | 27 | 31 | 33 | 35 | 35 | 34 | 31 | 27 | 23 |
| Rain mm | 12 | 5 | 13 | 6 | 3 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 5 | 1 | 6 | 9 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The zoo features a mix of air-conditioned indoor areas and spacious outdoor enclosures, making it good for families. Visitors particularly appreciate the many interactive zones where animals can be fed and touched.
Typical hours
The park is typically open daily throughout the year, including weekends and public holidays. Opening hours are often extended on weekends and during special holiday periods or local festivals.
Photography
Cameras and smartphones are more than welcome to capture the memories of your animal encounters. When taking close-up shots through glass windows, be sure to disable your flash to avoid startling the animals.
Time needed
You should set aside about three to four hours for a comprehensive visit with children. This allows plenty of time to watch all the animal shows and comfortably try out the numerous feeding opportunities.
Combine with
Thanks to its convenient location, the zoo trip can easily be combined with a visit to Yas Island and Ferrari World. A relaxing afternoon spent on the beaches of Abu Dhabi is also a great subsequent option.
Getting there
The zoo is located in the Al Bahia neighborhood, just outside the bustling city center of Abu Dhabi. It is most comfortably reached by private car or taxi via the main highway heading towards Dubai.
Insider tip
Purchase small bundles of grass or special leaves from the stalls to feed the giraffes and elephants yourself. Interacting directly with the animals is a truly unforgettable experience, especially for young children.
Geography
Facts
- The zoo opened in 2008 as the first privately owned zoo in the UAE.
- It houses over 1,700 animals from a diverse range of global habitats.
- The collection includes rare white tigers and massive Siberian bears.
- The Emirates Park Resort features 27 chalets that overlook the animal zones.
- Interactive experiences include giraffe feeding and elephant encounters.
- The zoo is situated in Al Bahyah, conveniently off the Dubai-Abu Dhabi highway.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Emirates Park Zoo (5)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What animals can be seen at Emirates Park Zoo?
You can find a variety of animals including white tigers, giraffes, and many local species.
Does the zoo offer accommodation?
Yes, there is an attached resort offering unique experiences right next to the zoo.
Is the visit safe for toddlers?
Yes, the zoo is very family-friendly with secured areas for direct animal contact.
How much is the entrance fee?
Prices vary by age and package; current rates can be found at the entrance or online.
Is there parking on site?
Yes, plenty of free parking is available right in front of the entrance.
Emirates Park Zoo: where is it located?
Emirates Park Zoo is located in United Arab Emirates.
Emirates Park Zoo: what is there to see?
Highlights include Al Bahia Open Beach, Wonderland Paintball, Ladies Beach.
Emirates Park Zoo: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Emirates Park Zoo: why is it worth visiting?
Emirates Park Zoo is located in Al Bahyah, approximately 35 kilometers northeast of Abu Dhabi city, and opened in 2008 as the first private zoo in the United Arab Emirates.
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