Dubai is not just a place of luxury and vibrant nightlife, it also offers some amazing zoos and wildlife parks that provide unique experiences for animal lovers and families. For those looking to connect with nature and observe a variety of animals, Dubai's zoos and wildlife parks has some best opportunities. Here's a comprehensive guide to the best zoos in Dubai that you should not miss.
Dubai Safari Park
Overview: When we think of wildlife, Dubai Safari Park is the first place that comes to mind. This sprawling wildlife park covers 119 hectares and is home to over 3,000 animals. It’s divided into several themed sections, each offering a unique experience.
Highlights:
- African Village: Explore the African savannah with giraffes, lions, and zebras.
- Asian Village: Discover tigers, gibbons, and Komodo dragons in this section.
- Arabian Desert Safari: You can see the native species of the Arabian Peninsula.
- Explorer Village: Enjoy a safari ride that takes you through various habitats.
What to Expect: Visitors can expect interactive exhibits, educational programs, and the opportunity to see animals in environments that closely resemble their natural habitats. The park also offers tram rides, kids' play areas, and dining options.
Accessibility: The park is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and special facilities for visitors with disabilities.
Additional Information:
- Location: Al Warqa'a 5, Dubai
- Opening Hours: Daily from 9 AM to 5 PM
- Ticket Price: AED 50 for adults, AED 20 for children (3-12 years)
BOOK DUBAI SAFARI PARK TICKETS
The Green Planet
Overview: The Green Planet is an indoor tropical rainforest that recreates the breathtaking world of the Amazon. Offering a beautiful experience into the ecosystem, it houses over 3,000 plants and animals – the best place to have a forest-like experience!
Highlights:
- Canopy: The uppermost layer of the rainforest, home to colorful birds and exotic plants.
- Midstory: A dense layer with reptiles, sloths, and fascinating insects.
- Forest Floor: Discover ground-dwelling creatures like tarantulas and lizards.
What to Expect: Visitors can walk through the different layers of the rainforest, enjoy interactive sessions with the animals, and learn about the importance of conservation.
Accessibility: The Green Planet is designed to be accessible to all visitors, including those with mobility impairments.
Additional Information:
- Location: City Walk, Dubai
- Opening Hours: Daily from 10 AM to 6 PM
- Ticket Price: AED 110 for adults, AED 99 for children (3-12 years)
Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
Overview: Located in The Dubai Mall, the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is a major attraction featuring one of the largest suspended aquariums in the world. It has thousands of aquatic animals, including sharks and rays.
Highlights:
- Aquarium Tunnel: Walk through a 48-meter-long tunnel with 270-degree views of the aquarium.
- Underwater Zoo: Explore three ecological zones - Rainforest, Rocky Shore, and Living Ocean.
- Penguin Cove: Meet the adorable colony of Gentoo Penguins.
What to Expect: Visitors can enjoy close encounters with marine life, participate in feeding sessions, and even go cage snorkeling or shark diving for an extra thrill.
Accessibility: The facility is fully accessible, with elevators and ramps available.
Additional Information:
- Location: The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai
- Opening Hours: Daily from 10 AM to 12 AM
- Ticket Price: AED 120 for adults, AED 100 for children (3-12 years)
BOOK DUBAI AQUARIUM AND UNDERWATER ZOO TICKETS
Al Ain Zoo
Overview: Though technically located in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, Al Ain Zoo is a popular day trip from Dubai. It spans 400 hectares and is renowned for its commitment to wildlife conservation.
Highlights:
- Big Cat House: Home to lions, tigers, and pumas.
- Reptile House: Discover a variety of reptiles and amphibians.
- Bird House: See a variety of exotic birds, including parrots and peacocks.
- Safari Adventure: Enjoy a guided safari experience to see animals in expansive enclosures.
What to Expect: Al Ain Zoo offers educational tours, animal feeding experiences, and plenty of shaded areas for picnics and relaxation.
Accessibility: The zoo is wheelchair accessible, with special facilities and services for disabled visitors.
Additional Information:
- Location: Al Ain, Abu Dhabi (Approx. 1.5-hour drive from Dubai)
- Opening Hours: Daily from 9 AM to 8 PM
- Ticket Price: AED 30 for adults, AED 10 for children (3-12 years)
Emirates Park Zoo
Overview: Located in Abu Dhabi, Emirates Park Zoo is another excellent option for a day trip from Dubai. It offers a blend of education and entertainment, with a wide variety of animals and interactive exhibits.
Highlights:
- Giraffe Park: Feed and interact with friendly giraffes.
- Primate Parade: Watch playful monkeys and apes in action.
- Reptile House: Encounter snakes, lizards, and other reptiles.
- Bird Park: A walk-through aviary with colorful birds from around the world.
What to Expect: Visitors can participate in animal feeding sessions, enjoy live animal shows, and learn about wildlife conservation efforts.
Accessibility: The zoo provides facilities for visitors with disabilities, including wheelchair access and special assistance if needed.
Additional Information:
- Location: Al Bahia, Abu Dhabi (Approx. 1-hour drive from Dubai)
- Opening Hours: Daily from 9 AM to 8 PM
- Ticket Price: AED 35 for adults, AED 30 for children (3-12 years)
Conclusion
Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast or looking for a fun family outing, Dubai and its neighboring Emirates offer a lot of zoos and wildlife parks to explore. Each of these attractions provides unique experiences, from adrenaline-pumping safari rides to interactive animal encounters. Don't miss the chance to visit these incredible zoos and discover the rich biodiversity they have to offer.
